TO HIM THAT BELIEVES

TO HIM THAT BELIEVES                              Wednesday April 1, 2015

Text: Mark 9:17 – 27                                          Memory verse: v 23

Christ never compels anyone to take gifts and blessings which he has to bestow. We usually complain of our sparse blessedness but we forget unbelief shuts off Christ’s hand from things that come as a result of His grace. Thus to him or her that believes it shall be done. God can use very weak and imperfect agents. He can do great things with poor instruments. However, there is one kind of person He will not use. He will not send blessing to the world through an unbelieving heart.

If you would be a vessel meet for the Master’s use, you must have faith. Believe in Christ that He is able and willing to do the ‘greater things’ which He has promised to do through His disciples. If you have faith, there is no limit to what Christ will do for you. Hear Helen Keller, a blind lady, “Dark as my path may seem to others, I carry a magic light in my heart. Faith, the spiritual strong searchlight illumines the way, and although sinister doubts lurk in the shadow, I walk unafraid toward the Enchanted Wood where the foliage is always green, where joy abides, where nightingales nest and sing, and where life and death are one in the presence of the Lord.” Any lesson/challenge for us in this quotation?

Food for Thought: What someone accomplishes depends on what he/she believes.

Prayer: Grant me a believing heart O Lord, so I can receive your blessings.

SATAN HINDERED US

SATAN HINDERED US                                     Tuesday March 31, 2015

Text: 1 Thessalonians 2:17 – 20                           Memory verse: v 18

Efforts to save a soul are hated and opposed, not only by wicked men, but by Satan; and often he succeeds in hindering good men from doing what they might otherwise accomplish. Devil opposes us in everything that will be good for us – in our studies, work, business, marriage, etc. The way Satan hindered Paul is unknown. He recognised the hand of Satan in frustrating his attempt to do good and preventing his strong desire to see his Christian friends at Thessalonica. In the same way, obstacles to the performance of our duty, and hindrances of our privileges in Christ could be traced to Satan. Spiritual warfare is real. Satan and God are constantly at war. Satan actively works to hinder people from accepting Christ and advancing God’s Kingdom.

Some of the difficulties or hindrances that prevent believers from accomplishing God’s work can be attributed to Satan (see Ephesians 6:12). Satan brings sexual temptation on those who lack self-control (1 Corinthians 7:5). He brings division among believers (2 Corinthians 2:11). He brings in false teaching to lead believers astray (2 Corinthians 11:3). Satan can even disguise himself as an angel of light (Galatians 1:8). Satan will also attempt to hurt the community of believers through persecution (1 Thessalonians 3:1-5). Therefore, Christians must be vigilant and be faithful to Christ.

Food for Thought: Hindrances and oppositions should be seen as tools to challenge us into coming closer and developing strong faith in God.    

Prayer: Lord, grant me the grace to persevere when Satan tries to hinder me from doing what is good for your kingdom in Jesus name.

THEY CROWDED HIM

THEY CROWDED HIM                                    Monday March 30, 2015

Text:  Luke 8:42                                                  Memory verse: v 42      

Out of compassion, Jesus went with Jairus to heal the daughter. On their way, people crowded Jesus which led to the miracle of healing the woman with the flow of blood (Luke 8:43). When Christ was going, the people thronged him, some out of curiosity to see him, others out of affection for Him. The crowd pressed together on Him; some to know Him, some to see what He will do, some to see if He can actually raise Jairus daughter. These were some of the reasons they crowded him. Those who came with faith were blessed.

Today, many people are crowding churches; some to see the Pastor, some because they were born into the church, some to see miracles and some because they want to hear God’s word and worship Him. Thronging churches because you need miracles is a wrong step towards knowing God. It is the word of God that brings miracle (Psalm 107:20). Beloved, what is your reason for attending that church programme? Is it because the Pastor performs miracle or you want to know God the more?

Food for thought: Do you come to Jesus out of curiosity or affection?

Prayer: God, grant that miracle will not be the reason that will make me run from church to church rather make my faith stronger in Jesus name.  

Are you washing your net?

ARE YOU WASHING YOUR NET?                   Sunday March 29, 2015

Text: Luke 5:1 – 11                                               Memory verse: v 2

When one has exhausted all available method or possible solution to a problem, he will give up believing that the solution has eluded human wisdom but in the realm of the spiritual, it is the beginning for God. Peter and his colleagues did all they know for years about fishing and caught nothing. They gave up as it was dawn which ordinarily was not time for fishing and started washing their nets apparently out of frustration and surrendered to the fact that there was no hope of catching fish again as it was day.      

Are you already washing your nets? Have you given up that all your efforts have ended fruitlessly and now thinking of quitting? God asked me to tell you that it is not over yet. The man at the Pool of Bethesda didn't give up even after 38 years. Abraham didn't give up even after Sarah had passed the age of bearing children. Why will you give up? God is in control of that matter and it will soon end in Jesus name. Just maintain a little more patience and Jesus will appear for you.

Food for Thought: Patient waiting is often the highest way of doing God's will because he that is patient, can have what he wills.

Prayer: Lord, grant me a little more patience as I wait on you so that I will not out of frustration give up when my miracle is already near.

WAITING FOR HIM

WAITING FOR HIM                                          Saturday March 28, 2015

Text: Luke 8:40 – 41                                                Memory verse: v 40

There is nothing comparable to waiting on the Lord. The man at the pool of Bethesda waited for over 38 years and he got what he wanted. The woman with the flow of blood waited for 12 years before her opportunity came. Jacob had to serve 14 years before he got his love, Rachel. Abraham and the wife Sarah waited for over 25 years before their promised child was born. Their case was over 25 years because they were married before Abram was called by God. Have you been waiting, God will remember you this season in Jesus name.

Jesus Christ was driven away by the people of Gadarenes. However, when He returned to the Galileans, they gladly received Him, as they were waiting for His return. Jairus was waiting to ask for Jesus’ favour (Luke 8:41). He went ahead to do good to those who desired Him. On our own part, we should know that when they reject us here, there are places they want us and our love, fellowship, and service. Again, when we wait patiently for God, it will never be in vain. Psalm 27:4; 37:4 all urge us to wait on the Lord. Beloved, are you waiting on the Lord, keep the faith and He will come back to meet, and honour your request.

Food for Thought: “Wait in quiet patience, not murmuring because you are under the affliction, but blessing God for it” – Charles Spurgeon.

Prayer: Lord, as I wait on you, may my expectations not be in vain.

Devotion for Friday March 27, 2015

A WITNESS FOR THE WORLD                   Friday March 27, 2015

Text: John 17:20 – 23                                            Memory verse: 23

Jesus’ work on earth was not only to speak and model the character of God but His ultimate purpose was to present both the splendor and character of God in such a way that God would become personally real to the disciples. We the present disciples, in turn, will have to pass on what we have received to others who would also believe. Those who, in fact, received the glory would become unified by their shared relationship with Christ. 

This is what Jesus desires of Christendom. He prayed about this (John 17:23). Complete and perfect unity between God and believers results in worldwide belief which is a witness for the world that Christianity is life. When we demonstrate this oneness, we will convince the world that God sent Jesus and that He loves us deeply and eternally, just as Jesus loves Him.

How united are you with other Christians? Do you love them as yourself? We cannot deceive the world when we are hoarding grudges pretending all is well. They know when we are united for it is always seen in the answer we receive while we pray. Let us not deceive ourselves thinking we are deceiving the world. There is no substitute to unity.

Food for Thought: Perfect unity between God and believers and between believers and themselves is the best sermon we can preach.

Prayer: Lord, make me an instrument of unity in your body (the church).

I CANNOT REJECT THEM

I CANNOT REJECT THEM                            Thursday March 26, 2015

Text: John 6:35 – 39                                          Memory verse: v 37              

Jesus having lamented the obstinate infidelity of the Jews from 6:28ff, in John 6:37 comforts Himself with the assured expectation, that there would be a number, which should certainly and infallibly come to Him. God the Father will bring them to Him and He will never reject them.

The Jews have wavered between belief and disbelief and settled in a proud disbelief expressed in murmuring and scorn. They were complacently self-satisfied, and felt that they had displayed great wisdom in arriving at this decision. However, Jesus struck at their pride by informing them that they were not His because God had rejected them. For Christians, He will not cast them out of His pity and compassion; out of His love and affection, out of His prayer and intercession, out of His care and protection, and He will not cast them out of His covenant and his kingdom. That is our confidence as Christians.

Are you among those who are so proud and unbelieving? You have opportunity to come to God now as you read these words or hear the preaching of servants of God. Just yield your hearts to Him. Those who will yield theirs will be saved: those who will not yield theirs will be lost. His desire is not to reject you. He has given you every opportunity you need. Why not come to him today?

Food for Thought: John 10:26 – 28    

Prayer: Lord, as I draw closer and closer to you don’t cast me away because you don’t reject people who come to you

He recalled and wept

HE RECALLED AND WEPT                         Wednesday March 25, 2015

Text: Mark 14:66 – 72                                      Memory verse: v 72

There are many kinds of sorrow but not all that leads to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10). We saw this in the case of Judas Iscariot. He had sorrow indeed but its result was not repentance as he went and took his life (Matthew 27:3 – 5). Jesus had foretold that Peter would deny him thrice (Mark 14:30). This warning was aimed at steering Peter into prayer. Unfortunately, he made light of the assertion, thinking his strength would carry him. He thought that by his understanding of and relationship with Christ, it will be absurd to think that he will deny his master. This is how most of us treat God’s warning with contempt. Peter recalled and wept. It shows the power in the word of God. Once it has been spoken, it remains a seed in the soil that will definitely germinate at the right time.

Someone who has true repentance is always pricked when he sins against God. The word Peter heard before led him to godly sorrow. He cannot bear the effect of the word of God in sin. When David sinned, words of God from Nathan humbled him. Do you harden your heart when the word of God reproves you of your sin or you recall that word and weep for your sins?

Food for Thought: God’s word we hear turns our heart back to him. Do you take God’s word to heart to recall them if the need arises?

Prayer: My God and Saviour do not let me harden my heart when I sin or deny you rather help me to always recall your word and repent.

WHO WENT ABOUT DOING GOOD

   

WHO WENT ABOUT DOING GOOD             Tuesday March 24, 2015

Text: Acts 10:38                                               Memory verse: v 38

Jesus was anointed to enable Him fulfill His call (Hebrews 1:9). He was not anointed just to answer names rather to use it for the service of God and humanity. God had asked Cornelius to send for Peter who will tell him more about Christianity. In the course of his explanation, Peter made the statement about Jesus’ character of going about doing good. This was predicted in Isaiah 35:5, 6. Matthew Henry says, “They knew what a benefactor He was to that nation, both to the souls and the bodies of men; how He made it His business to do good to all, and never did hurt to any. He was not idle, but still doing; not selfish, but doing good; did not confine Himself to one place, nor wait till people came to Him to seek His help, but went to them, went about from place to place, and wherever He came He was doing good.” What a challenge for us in this present generation of Christians.

Jesus has set an example of untiring industry in serving God and our generation; for we came into the world that we might do all the good we can in it; and therein, abide as Christ did. I read from Robin Sharma how his father taught him to show acts of kindness to someone every day. According to him, failure means punishment by doing some domestic work in the evening. Do you do good to others or known for doing good?  

Food for Thought: Every moment is the right one to be kind to others

Prayer: Lord, grant me the grace to do good always as much as I can.

God, Who Justifies

GOD, WHO JUSTIFIES                                  Monday March 23, 2015

Text: Romans 8:31 – 39                                    Memory verse: v 33

Verses 33 – 35 of our text contain a string of questions, tending to show the safety of the state of those who have believed the Gospel of the grace of God. This expression, “Who shall bring a charge against God's elect” (Romans 8:33) is a language of law, and it means, who shall accuse, or condemn, or so charge with crime before the tribunal of God as to cause their condemnation? The chosen of God are dear to him; and as he purposed to save them, he will do it in such a way that none can bring against them a charge that would condemn them. God, “Has pardoned them, and admitted them to his favour; and pronounced them just in his sight. It would be absurd to suppose that he would again condemn them. The fact that he has justified them is, therefore, a strong proof that they will be saved” as expressed by Albert Barnes.

God justifies us. Our own righteousness cannot even justify us. This should encourage us. Most of our actions and behaviours are criticized by people just because they feel that what we do is not justified. This shouldn’t make us to lose heart over critics of our lives and action. Are people critical about your faith and Christianity? Let not your heart be troubled. God has the final say.

Food for Thought: Isaiah 50:8, 9

Prayer: God, help me to live well so I will be justified on Judgment Day.

   

GREAT AND PRECIOUS PROMISES

GREAT AND PRECIOUS PROMISES: Devotion for Sunday March 22, 2015

Text: 2 Peter 1:1 – 4                                   Memory verse: v 4

The promises of God for us are great and precious treasure and they come at His discretion alone. It implies, (1) that it is in his power alone; (2) that he may bestow it or not, as he pleases; (3) that we cannot infer from any process of reasoning that it is his purpose to bestow it on us; (4) that it is a favour which we can obtain only from him, and not by any independent effort of our own. The promises are those which pertain to salvation. Peter called them "exceeding great and precious." By our salvation, God has given to us all things that are conducive for our present and future happiness; and they make us partakers of the divine nature. God made these promises so we can be like Him and to escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.

This world is full of corruption, sin, and temptation; by reason of our lust. The only way to escape the corruption, sin, and temptation of this world is by being made partakers of the divine nature, through the influence of the promises. Do these promises inspire and motivate you to partake of his divine nature? See 1 Corinthians 2:9 (compare Isaiah 64:4).

Food for Thought:  “The sacred promises, though in themselves most sure and precious, are of no avail for the comfort and sustenance of the soul unless you grasp them by faith, plead them in prayer, expect them by hope, and receive them with gratitude” – Charles Spurgeon.

Prayer: Stir up your spirit in me O Lord, through the knowledge of your promises so it will challenge me to be a partaker of your divine nature.

FLEE FOR YOUR LIFE

FLEE FOR YOUR LIFE: Devotion for Saturday March 21, 2015

Text: Genesis 39:7 – 12          Memory verse: v 12

If you desire to live righteously, definitely you will suffer, be tried, tempted and persecuted in various ways but your ability to resist, and remain firm will win for you the crown of righteousness. Joseph avoided Potiphar’s wife as much as possible. He refused her advances and finally ran from her.

Three things made Joseph to flee for his life. 1. He considered his covenant with God that he must keep. He saw himself as one who professed religion and relation with God. Therefore he didn’t want to break that covenant relationship with God even when he was in a foreign land.

2. He saw the sin he was being tempted as grievous against God. Some might look upon it as a small matter; but Joseph didn’t think of it that way. We should always call sin by its own name, and never lessen it or modify the name so as to suit our desire or passion for it. When we have this behind our minds, it will make us run from it.

3. He saw the sin as against God and not Potiphar or his wife. Sin is against God, against His nature and His dominion, against His love and His design. Those that love God, for this reason, hate sin.

Sometimes merely trying to avoid temptation is not enough. We must turn and run, especially when the temptations seem very strong, as in the case of sexual temptations. It was the grace of God that enabled Joseph to overcome the temptation, by avoiding the tempter. Fleeing from sin is the best way to avoid the tempter and his temptation. Remember, “No degree of temptation justifies any degree of sin – Willis”

Food for Thought: “God is better served in resisting a temptation to evil than in many formal prayers” – Penn.

Prayer: My God, grant me the grace to always flee from temptation.

Stand Still: Devotion for Friday 20th March, 2015

STAND STILL                                                Friday March 20, 2015

Text: Exodus 14:10 – 14                                   Memory verse: v 13

The Israelites were ungrateful and spoke harshly against God and Moses (Exodus 14:11, 12). They were too quick to react and pass judgment due to prejudice. Their assessment and judgment of God and Moses were totally wrong. Often times, this is how we act; very harshly without considerations. It will always lead to wrong judgment that we will regret at the end. Despite these wrong perceptions and ‘foul languages’, Moses didn't answer them according to their folly: instead of chiding, he comforts them. He was not disheartened either by the threatening of Egypt, or the trembling of Israel and their murmuring. He told them to standstill, and not to think they can save themselves either by fighting or flying; rather they should wait for God's orders, and observe them.

The people were hostile and despairing, but Moses encouraged them to watch the wonderful way God would rescue them. Moses had a positive attitude! Today, we may not be chased by an army, but we may still feel trapped by unforeseen, physical and spiritual enemies, commitments, debt, etc. We should avoid being desperate. Instead of giving in to despair, we should adopt Moses’ attitude to stand where we are and watch the Lord rescue us. Our God is still alive. He can do it for us.Believe Him as you go out today and certainly, He will lead and fight your battle. Happy weekend. 

Food for Thought: Exodus 14:14

Prayer: Lord God, as physical and spiritual enemies pursue after me, grant me the grace to always standstill as you fight for me in Jesus name.

WHY DO YOU GO ABOUT MOURNING?

WHY DO YOU GO ABOUT MOURNING?       Thursday March 19, 2015

Text: Psalm 42:6 – 11                                           Memory verse: v 9

There are times when God turns His back against us and all doors seem to close against us. Then it seems that our prayers are not answered. Though God may long delay to answer our prayers, or appear for our deliverance from trouble, we shouldn't despair, but continue to call upon Him, hoping in His mercy, and expect that in due time He will grant us complete and lasting relief. This is so because God alone is our help. Surely God does not have pleasure in seeing our faces stained and squalid with their tears neither is He contented in the harshness with which our foes assail us. Why then does He leave them to be mocked by His enemies and theirs? How can the strong God, who is as firm and abiding as a rock, be also as hard and unmoved as a rock towards those who trust in him?

Many a time, when we are stressed in life, we query God for not answering our prayers or coming to our rescue. We should understand that God does not mean evil when He keeps mum. He may do so to try our faith and patience.  He has not forgotten you. He still cares and will rescue you sooner than you expected for He does not take pleasure in seeing you go about mourning.

Food for Thought: God is never contented when we go about mourning.

Prayer: My God, change my case and cause my mourning to cease.

A Great Privilege: Devotion for Wednesday 18th March, 2015

A GREAT PRIVILEGE               Wednesday March 18, 2015

Text: Mark 16:9                        Memory verse: v 9        

It was from Mary Magdalene that Jesus casted out seven demons. If that was done in our own time, people will not give her any opportunity in the church because they will be suspecting that she hasn’t actually repented. Are people despising you because of your past? Never mind, it is not so with God.

Jesus appearing first to Mary Magdalene, not to the Virgin Mary shows that God has no favourites. He takes everybody that comes to Him equally. That Jesus, after His resurrection, first appeared to Mary Magdalene, a grievous sinner is a comfort for all true penitents. What a great privilege for a sinner like Mary Magdalene. So much was forgiven her, and so much was given her, and done for her, and she loved so much. She left her past and clung to Jesus who has given her hope. It was for this that Jesus did honour her, that she was the first that saw Him after His resurrection. Such honour was not given to Virgin Mary or any of His disciples.

For God to reveal himself to you, you must show a strong commitment to his course. You should have shown yourself as one who loves God without reservations. Seeing God does not come through a mere wish but through love for God, dedication to His course with unwavering commitment. How much do you love God?

Food for Thought: The story of Mary Magdalene is a proof that God doesn’t cast away those who are truly penitent no matter their past. 

Prayer: Help me to love you O Lord, so I will have a place in your heart.

      

KEEP THE FIRE, BURNING

KEEP THE FIRE, BURNING                       Tuesday March 17, 2015

Text: Leviticus 6:8 – 13                                  Memory verse: v 13

Fire is symbol of strength, purification and God’s presence. In Exodus 3:2, an angel of the Lord appeared to Moses in a fire. In Exodus 14:24, God appeared to lead the Israelites as cloud of fire by night. Fire of Lord can bring judgment (Leviticus 10:1, 2 compare Numbers 11:1 – 3). Fire is another way God gives approval to our offering (Leviticus 9:24; 1 Kings 18:38; 2 Chronicles 7:1). Here, fire means the presence of God. This was an instruction God gave the Israelites. It showed the people that only by God’s gracious favour could their sacrifices be acceptable and reminds them of God’s presence. When we are aware that God lives in us, we have confidence to come to Him for forgiveness and restoration.

The fire of God is still found in the life of Christians who are dedicated and committed. The fire is kept aglow as long as we are in good standing with God. Is your fire still burning or have you quenched the fire of God in you? There was a day I met a lady. As I wanted to exchange pleasantries she turned her face away. When I wanted to know why, she said, "There is fire on my forehead". This is similar in the lives of as many as are in good terms with God. Know that when your fire is not burning, you are exposed to evil and danger as it gives devil opportunity to come into your life. Therefore, keep your fire, burning through constant prayers and daily study of the word of God.

Food for Thought: God lights the fire in our lives when the Holy Spirit comes to live in us. Is the Holy Spirit living in your life?  

Prayer: Lord, as I live daily for you, keep my fire, burning always.

    

Devotion for Monday 16th March, 2015

ARE YOU RIGHT TO BE ANGRY?                    Monday March 16, 2015

Text: Jonah 4:5 – 11                                        Memory verse: v 9

Paul spoke about gift of love in 1 Corinthians chapter13. He particularly mentioned prophesying without love in 1 Corinthians 13:2. What he said there is an example of what we have here about Jonah. Many persons suppose that the gifts of prophecy and working miracles are the highest that can be conferred on man; but that is a general mistake, for the gifts change not the heart.

Jonah had the gift of prophecy, but had not received that grace which destroys the old man and creates the soul anew in Christ Jesus. Jonah was a prophet, and yet had all his old bad tempers about him shamefully dominating. Jonah was greatly afflicted at the loss of his gourd, but he had no pity for the mighty city of Nineveh. Are you like that? Do you perform miracles, speak in tongues and still do not love your neighbours?

This story of Jonah shows that God can give the gift of prophecy even to men who are not willing to be gracious. Are you angry when God does a miracle in the life of someone? Why should you be angry when God had shown you greater mercies? Beware, because such act of being angry over mercies God shows others can deny you heaven.

Food for Thought: Does the soul of a sinner mean anything to you?

Prayer: Lord, help me to always appreciate your mercies on worst sinners who repent and turn to you in Jesus name.

Why God preserves us

WHY HE PRESERVES US: Devotion for Sunday March 15, 2015

Text: 2 Timothy 4:16 – 18                                  Memory verse: v 18

In Psalm 121:7 we have the assurance that God will preserve us from all evil. There are reasons God delivers and preserves us even as we have in our text. Paul knows the promises of God about deliverance and protection and David too (Psalm 23:4). Here, Paul expressed confidently that God will deliver him from every evil work; not from persecution even to death, but from receiving any spiritual injury through the evil works of his enemies. He believed God to keep his faith steadfast amid all his trials, and grant him a perfect and everlasting victory over them. This is what Paul desires from God. God has a heavenly kingdom for all His saints. It is for the sake of this kingdom that God preserves as many as He has called (See Romans 8:30; Hebrews 9:15). 

Paul knew his standing with God and was so confident because he knew the promises of God for him. What about you my dear? Do you have such confidence that God will deliver, preserve and keep you unto eternity? That is the will of God for us. Therefore, be obedient and faithful to your call and surely He will take you to that kingdom in Jesus name.   

Food for Thought: Philippians 3:20

Prayer: God, grant that no evil design formed against me to make me unfaithful or unsteady in faith shall succeed in Jesus name.

SEPARATION OF LIGHT AND DARKNESS

SEPARATION OF LIGHT AND DARKNESS: Devotion for Saturday March 14, 2015

Text: Genesis 1:1 – 4                                              Memory verse: 4

In spiritual terms, light represents anything good, righteous and godly while darkness represents everything evil, bad, vices and ungodly. At creation, God separated light from darkness because two of them staying together will amount to confusion on earth. He had to separate them so that we can learn different life lessons from them. Light has its place as well as darkness in shaping us into what we will become in eternity.

What God did in separating light from darkness has some lessons of life to teach us. It teaches us that we have, as part of our lives, good and bad which confronts us on daily basis as we have light and darkness as part of our daily life. God separated light from darkness, because with them, he would daily remind us that this is a world of mixtures and changes. This separation is also a reminder for us that when we transit from this earth, those who did good and evil doers can never stay together. There will be a separation. Those who did well in this life will enter into the light of God and those who did evil will enter into the outer darkness where there will be gnashing of teeth (Matthew 22:13). Does the life you live represent light (Matthew 5:14 – 16) or darkness? Where do you belong? See 1 Peter 2:9.

Food for Thought: John 12:46

Prayer: Lord, help me to shine always as light and not darkness to my world. 

DON’T FORGET YOUR BENEFACTOR

DON’T FORGET YOUR BENEFACTOR           Friday March 13, 2015

Text: Psalm 103:1 – 5                                           Memory verse: v 2

A Benefactor is somebody who aids a cause, institution or a person, especially with a gift of money, but in this study, we will see benefactor as someone who aids us in every aspect of our daily living. The first gift God gave to us was His breath which made us a living being. Ever since then, He has been bestowing on us different gifts including His son who died for our sins on the Cross of Calvary. He gives us power to make wealth, blessings of all sorts; he heals, protects, provides, guards and guides us. It is for all the goods we have received from God that the Psalmist enjoined us not to forget. It is easy to forget the benefits we received from God and for this we have been warned (See Deuteronomy 6:12; 8:11, 14). The benefits which God bestows are renewed daily, and should be acknowledged with daily thanksgiving.

Beloved, it is proper to reflect on our lives since the beginning of this year to see if we have actually shown our gratitude to God for all he has done for us. You may claim that you have not received anything but what of life, protection and provisions? It is not your power or strength that brought them. Read Psalm 116:12. What will you render to the Lord for all his benefits towards you? Think about it?

Food for Thought: Psalm 116:12, 13.

Prayer: Help me O Lord, never to forget but to always remember and render thanks for all your benefits towards me in Jesus name.

WAYS TO BE SUCCESSFUL - DEVOTION FOR THURSDAY 12TH MARCH, 2015

SOURCE OF PROSPERITY                       Thursday March 12, 2015

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 9                                      Memory verse: v 8

Family Bible Notes sagely opined that “The grand means of inspiring and increasing true courage is daily attention to the principles and precepts of the Bible, for the purpose of understanding and obeying them.” This is true because the word of God gives assurance, courage and it inspires. Many people think that prosperity and success come from having power, influential personal contacts or network, and a relentless desire to get ahead. It is not necessarily so. The strategy for gaining prosperity that God taught Joshua goes against such criteria. According to God’s criteria, Joshua must (1) be strong and courageous because the task ahead would not be easy, (2) obey God’s law, and (3) constantly read and study the Book of the Law—God’s Word. If we desire success, we should follow God’s words to Joshua. You may not succeed by the world’s standards, but you will be a success in God’s eyes.

Diligent study of the word of God shows us what God's will are and our duties as Christians. Success stems from obedience and faithfulness to the word of God (Deuteronomy 28:1, 2). God grants us strength to make wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18) and we must follow His conditions if we intend to succeed. Anything achieved outside the will of God is bound to fade with time but that which comes from God will last till eternity.    

Food for Thought: All round prosperity in our endeavours depends on firm and constant obedience to all the laws of God.

Prayer:  God, grant me wisdom to apply your word in all I do.

Devotion for Wednesday 10th March, 2015

PRAY FOR US                                             Wednesday March 11, 2015

Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:25                           Memory verse: v 25  

Pray for us is a request that Paul made in his letters. He made the same request in the epistles to the Romans, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon, and in 2 Corinthians. Interestingly, he omitted such a request in 1 Corinthians and Galatians, the epistles of rebuke and censure. Paul had a burden to fulfill his call. He didn't want to take chances. It is for this reason his prayer requests centres on his missionary activities. According to Albert Barnes, “He (Paul) was a man of like passions as others; liable to the same temptations; engaged in an arduous work; often called to meet with opposition, and exposed to peril and want, and he peculiarly needed the prayers of the people of God. A minister, surrounded as he is by temptations, is in great danger if he has not the prayers of his people. Without those prayers, he will be unlikely to accomplish little in the cause of his Master.”

If you desire the blessings of God upon your life, your business, works, marriage, etc, always pray for your Pastors because God has made them conduit through which His blessings could reach His people. A preacher went for a revival where God mightily used him. After the revival, he started thanking God and in what seemed to be a trance, God showed him a gift. As it was coming to him, it divided into two unequal parts. God told him that the gift is the reward for that revival and asked him who owns the larger part. He said the larger part is his but God said no and opened his eyes to see a woman in his church who goes to anywhere he has a revival few days ahead to pray for him. So there is a reward when you pray for your Pastor. Start it today by praying for us at ‘My Daily Covenant with God’.

Food for Thought: Colossians 4:3

Prayer: God, grant me the enablement to always pray for my Pastor(s).

REMEMBER, DEATH WILL COME

REMEMBER, DEATH WILL COME                 Tuesday March 10, 2015

Text: Hebrew 9:27 – 28                                       Memory verse: v 27

The way most people live their lives calls for today’s topic - Remember, death will come. Many people especially Christians feel that this world is their home. They are at ease and comfortable here. The ease and comfort have made them to become complacent and lukewarm. Jesus clearly stated that we are not of this world though we are still here for now (John 17:14). Peter said that we are pilgrims here on earth (1 Pet 2:11; Hebrews 11:13). The knowledge that we are strangers here on earth with limited time should make us live well because, the hour of death or the time of rapture we don’t know. It is laid before man by a Divine decree that we will die someday Genesis 3:19.

The writer of this epistle cautions us on how we live our lives and to reminds us that we are sojourners and pilgrims here on earth. Again, it is to remind ourselves about the impending judgment after death. This should make us live within the ambit of the laws of God. How you live now will go a long way to determine the kind of judgment you will receive. Remember you don’t even know when you will die. Therefore put your house in order now that you have the time.

Food for Thought: “We are but tenants and . . . shortly the great Landlord will give us notice that our lease has expired” – Jefferson

Prayer: Lord God, grant me the grace to live my life with the view that there is judgment immediately after death.

CALLED TO BE SAINTS

  

CALLED TO BE SAINTS                              Monday March 9, 2015

Text: Romans 1:1 – 7                                      Memory verse: v 7

Jesus Christ called us to become Christians so that we will (1) belong to God’s family, and (2) be His very own people. What a wonderful expression of what it means to be a Christian! In being reborn into God’s family we have the greatest experience of love and the greatest inheritance. It is a call to be set apart for God in our commitments; through worship, prayer, study and love for our fellow human being. All that God has done for us should challenge us to strive to become His holy people (saints). Saints applies to anything that is set apart to the service of God, to the temple, to the sacrifices, to the utensils about the temple, to the garments, etc.

Our call as Christians is very unique in the sense that what is expected of Mr A is expected of Mr B. The standard God has for all of us is the same: faith, obedience, holiness, and love for Him, and for our neighbours, etc. How are you striving to attain these standards? We know that in the world there will be hindrances, trials and temptations, but Jesus and some Bible characters have set examples for us. We can’t fail. Our call is to become saints. Strive for it no matter the oppositions.

Food for Thought: 1 Thessalonians 4:7.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to live a holy life into which you have called me through the grace of Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour. Amen.     

Devotion for Sunday 8th March,2015

QUALIFICATION FOR ENTRY                        Sunday March 8, 2015

Text: Psalm 24:1 – 6                                             Memory verse: v 4

Entry into God’s presence and receiving from Him is a right we have in Christ Jesus. However, it depends on certain conditions because for every privilege, there is a corresponding responsibility. In Psalm 24:3 we have this question on who is qualified to enter and the answer is in Psalm 24:4. Purity of heart and of life is essential if we will enjoy the presence and favour of God. By clean hands and pure heart, the Psalmist meant someone whose actions and conversation are holy and devoid of blames. Such person orders his thoughts and affections according to God's word. God values honesty. How honest are you in your office with your fellow workers; with your spouse, with your business partners, with your neighbours, etc?

If we are not honest and lie to others, we are deceiving ourselves. God can’t hear us or speak to us if we are building a wall of self-deception. That is why we need these qualifications that will grant us pass into the presence of God. These are pure heart, void of idolatry and one who is honest in all his actions; abiding to his oath and vows. Do you have these virtues in you? Think about these.

Food for Thought: “His religion is in vain, whose profession brings not letters of testimonial from a holy life” so says William Gurnall.

Prayer: God, grant me the grace to develop a pure heart and live honestly.

  

Sanctify Them

SANCTIFY THEM                                           Saturday March 7, 2015

Text: John 17:17 – 19                                        Memory verse: v 17

Word of God is the source of truth. John 8:32 says that knowing the truth will set us free from the bondage of sin. Have you known the truth? A follower of Christ becomes pure and holy through believing and obeying the Word of God (compare Hebrews 4:12). Daily application of God’s Word has a purifying effect on our minds and hearts. Scripture points out our sins, motivates us to confess, renews our relationship with Christ, and guides us back to the right path. Albert Barnes says that “Sanctification in the heart of a Christian is progressive. It consists in his becoming more like God and less attached to the world; in his getting the ascendancy over evil thoughts, and passions, and impure desires; and in his becoming more and more weaned from earthly objects, and attached to those things which are unseen and eternal.” 

The truth of the word of God gives us right views and leads us to obey it. As divine truth is the great means of sanctification, the more clearly it is understood, the more faithfully it is obeyed. Many people are deceived when they don't understand the scripture or when they apply personal wisdom to interpret it to suit their denies. When we obey the word of God, it will make us holier and helps us to develop lovely character. The word of God sanctifies us and that was the prayer of Jerusalem here. How serious do you take the word of God? Do you often read and meditate on it?  That is the way to be sanctified and meet for God’s glory.

Food for Thought: John 17:19.

Prayer: God, help me to understand your word and sanctify me with us in Jesus name.

TO REIGN WITH CHRIST: DEVOTION FOR FRIDAY 6TH MARCH, 2015

           

TO REIGN WITH CHRIST                             Friday March 6, 2015

Text: 2 Timothy 2:12                                     Memory verse: 12

We gain many things when we become born again and live our lives for God. One of them is that we will reign with Christ but there are conditions for it. One of the conditions is that we have to suffer with Him and endure till the end. This is what Paul tells us here. ‘If’ as he used it here is a word of certainty and assurance. We should understand that a state of suffering and affliction for righteousness sake (Matthew 5:10, 11) on earth is one condition of obtaining our glorious inheritance in heaven. As we suffer, God is glorified, our graces improved, our love to the world mortified, our longings for heaven increased.

Do you want to reign with Christ? Then note that glory shall certainly follow sufferings (Matthew 10:33; Mark 8:38; Luke 12:9); “If we suffer with him, we shall be also glorified together” (Romans 8:17; 1 Peter 4:13). It is only when we suffer and endure that we can conform to Christ, our glorified Head in glory. Is that your desire? Then you have to endure all the abuses, neglects, insults, wants, etc, just to make it. The Lord is your strength.

Food for Thought: Matthew 24:13.

Prayer: God, grant me the grace to suffer and endure till the end.

DON'T BE SILENT: Devotion for Thursday March 5 2015

DON’T BE SILENT                                        Thursday March 5, 2015

Text: Psalm 28:1 – 5                                         Memory verse: v 1

The Psalmist cried to God for an answer because God’s refusal will be terrible or even death for him. He knows that his life depends on God alone and that when He withdraws His support, it will be fatal. It is not and never in the nature of God to keep silent over our request. His will is to give us that which will be useful for us and help us make heaven at last. However there are times God will remain silent and will not answer us when we are going through is His will (Mark 15:34; Psalm 21:1). However, when God keeps quiet when we are suffering according to His will, a glorious blessing follows. It happened to Jesus, to Job and many others. God can remain silent when our lives are not pleasing to Him (Prov. 1:28, 29; Isaiah 1:15; Jer. 11:11; James 4:3).       

Have you ever cried as the Psalmist did? Are you suffering in the hands of your spouse, your boss or have people turned against you? If God didn’t answer you or has delayed, it may be for a reason. However, let it not be that your sins have separated Him from answering (Isaiah 59:1, 2). He is not like Baal that you need to shout and carouse yourself before He will answer. Our God will not be silent for long, Wait a little.

Food for Thought: Our God is never silent forever. When he is silent, it may be for a reason.

Prayer: O Lord, answer me so the world will know that it pays to serve you

BECAUSE WE TRUST HIS NAME

BECAUSE WE TRUST HIS NAME: Devotion for Wednesday March 4, 2015

Text: Psalm 33:18 – 22 Memory verse: v 21

Trusting in the name of the Lord means so much and there are so much that could be gained from doing so. David trusted in the name of the Lord and was victorious against Goliath. This victory alone changed everything about him; the perception the nation had about him, his ranking in the social strata also changed. When we trust God, He grants us victory. Trusting God also gives us a sense of assurance or confidence that we can surmount all oppositions on our way. The Psalmist says our heart will rejoice because we have trusted the name of our God (v21). Why? God never disappoints. His name is a strong tower (Proverbs 18:10) and refuge for us (Psalm 46:1). He is ever faithful to his words (1 Corinthians 1:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:3).

When challenges of life come to you, what do you do? Knowledge of God and what He can do will make you not be perturbed when challenges come your way. Those who trusted God were never disappointed. It will not start with you. Trust in God and you will feed on His faithfulness (Psalm 37:3, 5; 62:8). Then you will be immovable (Psalm 125:1). You may trust the Lord too little, but you can never trust Him too much. Keep trusting.

Food for Thought: Beware of becoming hopeless; you are commanded to put your trust in God, and not in yourself.

Memory verse: v 21

Prayer: God, inspire me to trust you always no matter the challenges I face.

WHY RUN?

WHY RUN? Devotion for Tuesday March 3, 2015

Text: Genesis 3:6 – 8        Memory verse: v 8

A sinner runs when no one pursues because his conscience will always condemn him. Anyone who goes against the law always, runs or panics on hearing the voice of God. Such person is never at ease and will find the company of others uncomfortable. Therefore, Christians should endeavour to free their minds from all forms of evil and sin so that they can easily associate and worship freely with others without being uncomfortable. If you are uncomfortable in the midst of fellow Christians, then look inwards for there may be something wrong in your life.

Adam and Eve were used to fellowshipping with God and usually looked forward to that special time in the presence of their Father. Unfortunately, when they sinned, they went into hiding. The joy of coming into God’s presence disappeared. They hid as if anyone can hide from the All-seeing and All-knowing God. We do the same, acting as though God doesn’t know what we’re doing. Are you running from God who created you, gave you life and preserves you? Are you hiding from Him who made you what you are? Hiding from God is humorous. Have the courage to share all you do and think with Him. This will help us to be honest with God for honesty will strengthen our relationship with Him.

Food for Thought: Are you honest? It strengthens our relationship with God

Prayer: God, forgive my sins so I can enjoy your fellowship with me always.

THE SUPERIOR POWER

THE SUPERIOR POWER Monday March 2, 2015

Text: Exodus 7:8 – 13 Memory verse: v 12

At times it is better to allow someone to act out his foolishness to the full so that his folly will be made clear to him. When you try to stop him at the onset, he might think he has something to offer. Egypt was remarkably addicted to magic, sorcery, etc and it was necessary that God should permit Pharaoh's ‘wise’ men to act to the utmost of their skill in imitating His work, that His superiority might be clearly seen, and His powerful working, unquestionably established. This was fully done when Aaron's rod swallowed up their rods. Paul gave the names of two of the chief of these magicians as Jannes and Jambres (2 Timothy 3:8)

Our world of today has been deceived with sorceries and not miracles. Many people have been carried away by the sight of these deceits. This is very unfortunate. In John 20:29, Jesus said that blessing belongs to those who have not seen and yet have believed. Know that there are powers that are inferior manifesting today. Don’t be deceived and don’t rely on miracle alone. ‘Miracle’ can deceive because Satan can appear as angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Let the word of God be your guide always.

Food for Thought: 2 Timothy 3:8, 9

Prayer: Help me O Lord to believe your word so I will not be deceived.

LOOK UNTO JESUS

LOOK UNTO JESUS: Devotion for Sunday March 1, 2015

Text: Hebrew 12:1 – 3 Memory verse: v 2

If we must reach the point at which we will receive any prize from God for our calling, we must conform to certain standards. We should take a clue from those that ran before us and were successful; how they persevered, enduring all forms of trials to reach the end. Again, we should look unto Him who called us because He alone grants the grace to run this Christian race successfully. Christian life requires us to give up whatever endangers our bond with God, to run patiently, and to struggle against sin with the power of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus, our example, perfectly finished His race. Jesus obeyed God perfectly and thus began the New Covenant (Hebrews 2:10). He set the course of faith, ran the race first (Hebrews 6:20), and now waits for us to join Him at the end, encouraging us all the way. He died a shameful death on the cross. Yet Jesus endured all this suffering on account of the joy He knew would be His afterward. He kept His eyes focused on the goal of His course and didn’t allow earthly discomforts to distract Him. To live effectively this new month and beyond, we must keep our eyes on Jesus. We’ll stumble if we look away from Him to stare at ourselves or at circumstances surrounding us. Run this race for Christ, not yourself, and always keep Him in sight. Have a lovely New Month.

Food for Thought: Focusing on Jesus is a guarantee to successful life.

Prayer: Keep my eyes focused on you alone, Lord Jesus, as I run this race.