My Daily Covenant with God: February 2016

Monday 29 February 2016

FROM OUTCAST TO CELEBRITY: Devotion for Tuesday March 1, 2016

Text: Judges 11:1 – 11 Memory verse: v11

People shouldn’t be blamed for their parentage because they can through personal merits roll away and overcome any reproach from such parentage. There are many born legitimately but have no achievement whatsoever to show for it; while many termed ‘bastard’ have lived to become great and prosperous in the society. The story of Jephthah in our text is an example that confirms the fact that parentage has little to do with what we become in life. When his people in Gilead were faced with impending war from Ammon, they remembered Jephthah and went to him to lead them into the war. He gave them a condition which they agreed on, even with an oath. He that was despised became a sought after and celebrity among the people that despised and rejected him.

Beloved, have people despised you and called you outcast, never-do-well, etc, because of your past? Are you now a shadow of yourself because you are downcast and can’t raise your face in the public because of your past; your parentage, your sins, your failures in life, etc? Today I want to reassure you that God has hidden some talents in you that will lift out of that past, sin, failure, etc. God is waiting on you to take a step and your light will burst out for the world to acknowledge you in this new month and beyond. Those who hitherto had concluded that you can never succeed will come back to you for help. Congratulation as I am waiting for your testimony. Happy new month!

Food for Thought: Judges 11:8

Prayer: Lord God, grant that all who despised me will come back to celebrate me in Jesus name.

Sunday 28 February 2016

REWARD OF RIGHTEOUSNESS: Devotion for Monday February 29, 2016

Text: Proverbs 11:18 – 19 Memory verse: v 18

The wicked works a deceitful work. His wicked work is like building for himself a house upon the sand, which will deceive him when the storm comes. When the wicked is engaged in various acts of wickedness, it will seem as if it will ever remain same. Unfortunately, it is never so. At the end, that same wickedness will cut his throat when it smiles upon him. He will finally say that sin deceived me, and by it slew me. However, it is not so with the righteous. The rewards of the righteous are many. People who live in righteousness lay up the best securities for themselves. He who sows righteousness, which is good, and continues in it, looking forward to heavenly reward shall surely have them (Hosea 10:12; Galatians 6:8–9; James 3:18).

“As righteousness leads to life, so he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death – Proverbs11:19.” Righteousness can never disappoint us. Its rewards are numerous. Above all it leads to life eternal which is the desire of every Christian. Ps 1:1–6 gives us a clue into what the righteous man will gain here on earth and in the life to come. Do you desire these rewards? Then live righteously.

Food for Thought: Proverbs 10:6

Prayer: Lord, may I live my life in righteousness that I might receive its reward now and in eternity in Jesus name.

Saturday 27 February 2016

SECRET OF ABUNDANCE 4 (TITHING): Devotion for Sunday February 28, 2016

Text: Malachi 3:7 – 12 Memory verse: v 10

Many Christians go about these days in sorrow and poverty because they have refused to apply God‘s basic principle of living in abundance. For the past 3 days, we have seen some of the secret of abundance and today we have another secret. Abundance is never through anointing. It doesn’t come through fasting and prayer. It comes through practice. According to Family Bible Notes, “When God's people meet Him with all the tithes in their hands; He meets them with His abundant blessing. The reason why they so often walk mournfully before Him for a long time and receive no answer, is, that they have, like Ananias and Sapphira, kept back part of the price.” God threw a challenge to us to try Him by paying our tithe. Tithing should not be selective. When we do it whole heartedly, the reward will be outstanding. I have tried this and have seen the reward of it.

Many people are usually afraid they may not survive the month when they remove one tenth of their income. Expression of fear is a trick of the devil to deny you the blessings that goes with tithing. What God needs here is our obedience. This is the message in Leviticus 26. God doesn’t need our tithe to be God. He gave the command to test our obedience and love for Him. How much do you love God? Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandment.” Are you doing that?

Food for Thought: Love for God is seen in our obedience to His command

Prayer: My God and my Father, help me to be faithful in paying my tithe.

PROOF OF PATRIOTISM: Devotion for Wednesday February 24, 2016

Text: Nehemiah 1:5 – 11 Memory verse: v 7

The prayer of Nehemiah was nationalistic in nature which is a clear evidence of his patriotism. He started his prayer by recalling the attributes and promises of God (1:5 compare Ex. 20:6). He was specific about the deplorable condition of Jerusalem which he attributed to sin of the Israelis (1:6, 7. Compare Deut. 28:15). He didn’t exonerate himself and his family. He recalled the promise of God concerning repentance and restoration in Neh. 1:8–10 (see Lev. 26:33, 39; Deut 4:25-27, 29; 28:64). He prayed for favour in the eyes of the king he serves as cup bearer. We should note that the best way to obtain favour from men is to plead with God in whose hand lie the hearts of men.

Nehemiah’s approach to national problem of Israel is a challenge for us Christians of this generation. Do we see ourselves as one of the major contributors to the problem of corruption, insecurity, political violence and all manner of social vices that are affecting us today by our inability to pray and to do what is expected of us? How often do we even care to know what is happening in our nation? Nehemiah asked and that prompted him into prayer. When we hear of national issues, does it prompt us to pray or do we begin to analyse it, blaming people at leadership position. Our first duty is to pray for our nation. Let this be uppermost in our hearts.

Food for Thought: How often do you pray for your nation and problems confronting her?

Prayer: Lord, lay a great burden in my heart for my nation and cause me to pray for her always.

SECRET OF ABUNDANCE (ACTION) 1: Devotion for Thursday February 25, 2016

Text: Genesis 26:12 – 17 Memory verse: v 12

God instructed Isaac to stay in the land of the Philistines instead of going down to Egypt as his father Abraham did (26:2–4). Isaac obeyed and dwelt in Gerar (26:6). God told him to stay and he took action to ensure that he walks in line with all the promises God made to him. He sowed and the reward was outstanding (26:12). The description of the reward Isaac received is challenging (26:13) – “The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous.” It was the action taken by Isaac that God required to bless him. God indeed blessed him which made the Philistines to start envying him. May God in His mercies, do something in your life that will attract envy of people in Jesus name.

Beloved, if you desire to live in abundance, you need to take a step and action that God requires to bless you. God gave Israelis manna in the wilderness but He did not throw it into their tents. They went out for the manna. You need to take action today. Don’t fold your hands and keep waiting for the “wealth of the Gentiles” as some lazy Christians do or you stay at home believing and claiming all the promises of God without a corresponding action. The action you will take now will determine what you will become or the kind of abundance that will attend your way this year.

Food for Thought: “Great ideas means nothing without world-class willpower to get the big ideas done” – Robin Sharma.

Prayer: Lord, lead me into what I will do so that your promised blessing will begin to manifest in my life and family in Jesus name.

SECRET OF ABUNDANCE (OBEDIENCE) 2: Devotion for Friday February 26, 2016

Text: Deuteronomy 28:1 – 14 Memory verse: v 2

Moses took only 14 verses in this chapter to explain obedience which is one secret of abundance (blessing) and used the remaining 54 verses of this chapter to speak about disobedience and its consequences (curses). Why did he spend so much time talking about disobedience? He did that because human beings by nature are always inclined to sin and disobedience. Moses was emphatic that obedience is the very key (28:1, 2) to assessing the numerous blessing mentioned in 28:3–14. The blessing is promised, upon condition that they diligently hearken to the voice of God. God requires them live righteously in their families and nation at large, then the providence of God would prosper all their outward concerns.

Here is God’s assurance of blessing His people. Those blessings which others greedily follow after, and never overtake, shall follow after us, and shall be thrown into our laps by God’s special kindness because we are His people who obey His voice. Naturally, there is the tendency to bless those who obey us. This is same with God. How obedient are you to God’s commandments? Do you make light of them? Remember that just as the whole destiny of Israelis was laid before them, as it was to result from their obedience or the contrary, so it has been laid out for us. The choice is all yours.

Food for Thought: Only he who believes is obedient and only he, who is obedient, believes.

Prayer: God, I need your grace to obey your commandments which is a prerequisite for abundant blessing in Jesus name.

SECRET OF ABUNDANCE (GIVING) 3: Devotion for Saturday February 27, 2016

Text: Luke 6:38 Memory verse: v 38

Generosity in giving of material goods as well as love, compassion, and forgiveness of others will result in returned generosity from God and men to us. Jesus wants us to be merciful and loving, not selfish or spiteful. He is against retaliation and the concept of an eye-for-an-eye recompense for wrongdoing. The illustration here is of blessings being returned in a bushel basket, filled to the brim, pressed down and shaken together to make room for more, then running over. Jesus wants our measure of mercy to overflow. Those who give easily will find goodness coming back to them. Those who are stingy and reluctant givers will receive in the same way.

There is not one text of scripture that declares the bounty of God more fully in rewarding acts of charity and mercy than our text today. Jesus assures that the recompense will be in good measure, pressed down shaken together and running over to accommodate more. Being liberal is the way to riches; giving is the best and surest way of thriving. The woman of Zarephath gave her last and that opened doors of abundance for her. Beloved, if you want to live in abundance this year, plan and give; give to genuine needy people, widows, destitute, the Levites, etc. Surely, your reward will be great. Start today by giving what you have.

Food for Thought: God has given us two hands-one to receive with and the other to give with. We are not cisterns made for hoarding; we are channels made for sharing. – Billy Graham

Prayer: Lord, teach me how to give because it is a way to make me look like you, the giver of all things.

A PATRIOT INDEED: Devotion for Tuesday February 23, 2016

Text: Nehemiah 1:1 – 4 Memory verse: v

Nehemiah was the Persian king's cup-bearer. He lived at ease, and in honour, but didn’t forget that he was an Israelite, and that his brethren were in distress. He was ready to do them all the good he could through the position he was occupying; and that he might know how best to do them a kindness, he makes inquiries about them. Nehemiah was a man of true piety though he was in high position in civil office but his piety led him to take a deep interest in the welfare of his people and cause of God in the home of his ancestors and brethren. This distinguished him as a great patriot.

Today we have men and women who are in high positions but cannot do anything good for their people. They are so self centered that they don’t even care what happens in their villages/towns. Some Christians don’t pay contributions for development of their communities. Some don’t pay their taxes and rates. These acts are not Christ-like. Our Lord gave us example by paying tax (Matt 17:25–27). As Christians we should show the light first among our people and to others. We should have concern about the welfare of our communities and the nation at large. Nehemiah heard about the condition of Jerusalem and went into prayers (1:4). How much do we pray for our nation and communities? We desire change in our nation and communities but wait for someone else to bring it. Why not become the change?

Food for Thought: What can you do to improve the welfare of your community first and your nation at large?

Prayer: Grant me the burden to always pray for the good of my community and my country at large.

Monday 22 February 2016

HE WILL SUSTAIN IT: Devotion for Monday February 22, 2016

HE WILL SUSTAIN IT Monday February 22, 2016

Text: Psalm 55:16 – 23 Memory verse: v 22

David perseveres in his resolution to call upon God, being well assured that he should not seek him in vain (55:16). Being regular and constant in prayer are essentials to having peace of mind, and that joy in the Holy Ghost which is a safeguard and support in times of trouble. That is why David says his prayers morning, noon and evening. This is a challenge for us. How many times do we pray in a day? Having developed a relationship with God and having seen God’s faithfulness to His word, David encourages us saying, “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” Sustaining it as used in 55:22 means that God will bear us and our burden when we cast them upon Him. This is a glorious promise to anyone tempted and afflicted.

If God has assured us of bearing our burden (Matt. 11:28–30), then why give yourself unnecessary burden again? How can someone board a vehicle and still carry his luggage on his head? That is stupidity at the highest level. Unfortunately, most of us do same. We have entered into the New Covenant with God which guarantees salvation, peace, healing, deliverance, etc, but some of us can’t assess these blessings because we have refused to lay our problems at the foot of the Cross of Calvary where our salvation, peace and other things were bought with the blood of Jesus. Are you ready to cast your burden on Him today? Better do so for your own good.

Food for Thought: Psalm 37:5

Prayer: Lord God, I bring before you this day the burden in my heart (mention them by name). Sustain them O Lord according to your promises.

HE WILL SUSTAIN IT: Devotion for Monday February 22, 2016

HE WILL SUSTAIN IT Monday February 22, 2016

Text: Psalm 55:16 – 23 Memory verse: v 22

Food for Thought: Psalm 37:5

Prayer: Lord God, I bring before you this day the burden in my heart (mention them by name). Sustain them O Lord according to your promises.

Saturday 20 February 2016

NO LOSS IN REPENTANCE: Devotion for Sunday February 21, 2016

NO LOSS IN REPENTANCE Sunday February 21, 2016

Text: Luke 18:28 – 30 Memory verse: v 30

Most times, people assume that those who surrender their lives to Christ are at a loss because they will no longer ‘enjoin’ the things of the world. This is a wrong notion. There is no loss in repentance. It was this notion that led Peter to ask Jesus what becomes their fate as His followers (18:28). The response of Jesus is in 18:29 and 30. Jesus noted that those who had left all and followed Him, should be no losers; that is, in this world they shall receive manifold blessings; says an hundred-fold (Mk 10:30). Job lost all in order to prove his faithfulness in serving God unto Satan and at the end, God restored all he lost while he was still alive (Job 42:10) and I know that his faith will certainly take him to heaven. Is there any lesson for us here in this story of Job?

Beloved, our God is faithful. 1Thess. 5:24 says, “He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.” For this reason, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful” (Heb. 10:23). People may have been taunting you concerning your faith in Christ Jesus and calling you names. Don’t mind them. There is a reward for you. The greatest reward we look forward to is the eternal life in heavenly bliss. Are you looking forward to that city? Don’t allow the distractions of the world to keep you out of it.

Food for Thought: There is no loss for the sake of the gospel that is greater than the love God has for us.

Prayer: Lord God, as I have left all to follow you, may I not lose my reward in Jesus name.

Friday 19 February 2016

YOUR SALVATION IS POSSIBLE: Devotion for Saturday February 20, 2016

YOUR SALVATION IS POSSIBLE Saturday February 20, 2016

Text: Luke 18:18 – 27 Memory verse: v 27

This rich young man mentioned in our bible reading came to Jesus seeking eternal life. Jesus pointed out the significance of his use of the word “good” (18:19). He sought for reassurance from Jesus, a way to ascertain that he had eternal life. He wanted Jesus to measure and grade his qualifications, or to give him some task he could do to assure his own immortality. So Jesus gave him a task, the one thing the rich man knew he could not do. The rich man’s problem was that he would not obey Jesus’ final command (18:22). His riches were only the surface problem; the real problem lay in the love he had for his wealth. This shows that riches are not bad but love for it instead of God, the giver.

A bystander asked, “Then who in the world can be saved?” No one can be saved, by his or her own achievements, was Jesus’ answer. “What is impossible from a human perspective is possible with God.” Salvation cannot be earned; it is God’s gift (Eph 2:8-10). Have you doubted your salvation? Are you deep into sin and now you think your salvation is no more possible? God who offers us salvation is ever ready to save you. All you need do is to pertinently come to Him and He will forgive you. Are you ready to do that today?

Food for Thought: Salvation cannot be earned; it is God’s gift.

Prayer: Father, help me to sustain my salvation and not to lose it at last in Jesus name.

Thursday 18 February 2016

GOOD DEED AND RECOMPENSE Friday February 19, 2016

GOOD DEED AND RECOMPENSE Friday February 19, 2016

Text: 2 Samuel 9:1 – 8 Memory verse: v 1

Most times, we forget the gratitude we owe people due to some engagements. At times it is not because we don’t want to or it was oversight or we don’t have the means to do it but we are choked by some other things that we easily forget the good people do for us. True Christians will not have peace of mind until they return kindness that they received from others. My father bought exercise books for someone when he was a teacher. After over 50 years, the man came, renovated part of his house and installed a cable Television for him. Indeed, good deeds will never die. They will always receive recompense.

Here, David remembered the good things he received from Jonathan the son of Saul. This was a man who ought to become king after his father, Saul. When he knew that God’s hand was upon David, instead of joining the father to fight him, supported him to ascend the throne of Israel (1 Sam 18:3 and 20:14–17, 42. compare Prov. 27:10). This passage enjoins us not to forsake friends. Most people easily forsake friends when they ascend higher position like election into a political office, appointments, etc. This is not what a Christian should do. We owe our friends and their family members a great debt of love and kindness. We should not turn our backs on them especially when we have at one time or another received kindness from them too. Matthew Henry sums up our text by saying that “If Providence has raised us and our friends and their families are brought low, we must look upon that as giving us the fairer opportunity of being kind to them.” This should challenge us to act.

Food for Thought: God is faithful to us; let us not be unfaithful to one another.

Prayer: May I never be ungrateful O Lord, for the good deeds I have received from you and people in Jesus name.

Wednesday 17 February 2016

God's Chosen: Devotion for Thursday February 18, 2016

GOD’S CHOSEN Thursday February 18, 2016

Text: Ephesians 1:3 – 6 Memory verse: v 3

Spiritual and heavenly blessings are the best blessings; when we have them, our lives can’t be miserable, and when we don’t have them, we will be so miserable. Here, Paul tells the Ephesians that the consequence of their election in Christ is that they should be made holy by separation from sin, being set apart to God, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit, which was, the choice Christ made before the foundation of the world. Paul’s use of the phrase “God chose us” was to emphasize that salvation depends totally on God. We are not saved because we deserve it but because God is gracious and He freely saves us. We did not influence God’s decision to save us; He saved us according to His plan. Thus, there is no way to take credit for our salvation or to allow room for pride.

Beloved, God chose us, and when we belong to Him through Jesus Christ, God looks at us as if we had never sinned. All we can do about our salvation is to express our thanks for His wonderful love for us. Have you ever wondered why God chose you as a Christian despite your past and family background? Have you ever wondered why you are in that position where you are today? It is not out of sheer hard work but by His love and grace for you. Therefore, you have to be grateful that God chose you and favoured you just because He loves you. Our appropriate responses for His love towards us are love for Him, worship, and service in thankfulness for His wonderful grace. We must never take our privileged status as a license for sin or abuse it in any way.

Food for Thought: Why did God choose you to become a Christian?

Prayer: God, as you have chosen me, may I live a life of gratitude for this honour in Jesus name.

The Greatest Gift: Devotion for Wednesday February 17, 2016

THE GREATEST GIFT Wednesday February 17, 2016

Text: 1 Corinthians 13:11 – 13 Memory verse: v 13

Paul mentioned three virtues that distinguish us as true Christians. They are faith, hope and love but love is the greatest among them. Here He concludes his teaching that love is the greatest gift that distinguishes us a true Christians. Love is the greatest because it ceases not in the life to come as the rest do, but is perfected and accomplished. Seeing that faith and hope tend to things which are promised and are to come, when we have hold of those promises, to what purpose would we have faith and hope again? That was the argument of Paul.

Only a Christian experiences these three things; for without Christ we would have only unbelief, despair, and hatred. Faith is directed toward God; hope is for our benefit; and love flows first to God and then to our neighbors. Love is the greatest of these because it sums up or includes both faith and hope. Love is the greatest of all human qualities, and it is an attribute of God Himself (1 Jn. 4:8). Love involves unselfish service to others which shows that you care. Faith is the foundation and content of God’s message; hope is the attitude and focus; love is the action. Do you really love God and others?

Food for Thought: Most people don’t know what love really means. Do you know?

Prayer: Help me to love as you love, O Lord, my God in Jesus name.

Monday 15 February 2016

LOVE NEVER FAILS: Devotion for Tuesday February 16, 2016

LOVE NEVER FAILS Tuesday February 16, 2016

Text: 1 Corinthians 13:8 – 10 Memory verse: v 10

Paul expresses the value of love which he said can never be obsolete; it will always have its place. All the spiritual gifts will eventually disappear, but love will last forever. On this earth, everything is imperfect. No matter how much people may know, they know only a little. No matter how much prophecy is given; it still reveals little. Everything will be made perfect and complete at the arrival of God’s Kingdom (the end).

At that time, all the special gifts of the Spirit will disappear. Because gifts are given for the building up of the body of Christ, they will no longer be needed. Then the body will be complete. Yet love will continue (1 Corinthians 13:8), because love is the very essence of God Himself. “God is love” (1 John 4:8, 16). God’s love caused Him to reach out to undeserving humanity and send a Saviour. His love saved people and will bring them into his Kingdom to be with Him forever.

On the other hand, works of love never die too. They outlive us. Love is the gift and virtue that can accompany us to heaven because that is the essence of life of Christianity. The first fruit of the Spirit mentioned by Paul in Galatians 5:22 is love. It shows how important love is in our lives as Christians. Do you actually love God and man? Note that without genuine love for God and man, you are deficient in your character as a Christian.

Action: As you go out today, use every opportunity you have to show love to someone.

Prayer: Lord God, help me to love you and my neighbours as I ought to in Jesus name.

Sunday 14 February 2016

LOVE’S CREED: Devotion for Monday February 15, 2016

LOVE’S CREED Monday February 15, 2016

Text: 1 Corinthians 13:4 – 7 Memory verse: v 4

Creed here means set of principle. Because love is so important among the believers, Paul described love in detail. First of all, love is patient, the opposite of being short-tempered. Patience (sometimes translated “long-suffering” or “slow to anger”) is an attribute of God (see Exodus 34:6; Numbers 14:18; Romans 2:4; 1 Peter 3:20). In many places, we are called upon to be patient (Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:12; 1 Thessalonians. 5:14). Patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Such love bears with certain annoyances or inconveniences without complaint. It does not lose its temper when provoked. It steadily perseveres.

Love is also kind. Kindness takes the initiative in responding generously to others’ needs. Because we have received kindness, we ought to act with kindness toward others too. Real love is considerate and helpful to others. Kind love is gentle and mild; always ready to show compassion, especially to those in need. Love is not jealous. A jealous person desires what another person has and it leads to envy. Love is not boastful or proud. While some believers may have a problem with envy, those with the ‘greater’ gifts might have a problem with boasting or pride. While some pride can be positive, this kind of pride takes credit for an undeserved gift. Gifted believers who are caught up in pride and boasting over their gifts don’t serve well. Without love, they may feel that by using their gifts, they are doing someone a favour, that others should be grateful to them, and that they are far superior. Do you have this kind of love in your heart for God and your neighbour?

Food for Thought: 1 Peter 4:8

Prayer: God, sow genuine love for you and my neighbours in my heart.

Saturday 13 February 2016

LOVE IS THE ULTIMATE: Devotion for Sunday February 14, 2016

LOVE IS THE ULTIMATE Sunday February 14, 2016

Text: 1 Corinthians 13:1 – 3 Memory verse: v 2

Today is St. Valentine’s Day; a day popularly known as lover’s day. According to Wikipedia, there are 2 known prominent St. Valentine – Valentine of Rome and of Terni whose feasts were on February 14. However, at the revision of Roman Catholic Calendar of saints, St. Valentine was removed under Pope Paul VI and then there was no association of these saints to romantic love. But “Appropriate lore has been embroidered in modern times to portray Valentine as a priest who refused an unattested law attributed to Roman Emperor Claudius II, allegedly ordering that young men remain single. The Emperor supposedly did this to grow his army, believing that married men did not make for good soldiers. The priest Valentine, however, secretly performed marriage ceremonies for young men. When Claudius found out about this, he had Valentine arrested and thrown in jail and later executed” so says Wikipedia. If this lore is real, then Valentine used his gift in excellent way in helping people achieve their life’s dream.

The excellent way Paul referred to in the close of the former chapter, is not just what is meant by charity (almsgiving), but love in its fullest meaning; real, true and sincere love for God and man. Love in this aspect is not romantic love as people practice today. It involves commitment, dedication, trustworthiness, obedience, etc. As love to God and to men is the best gift which God bestows, all should most earnestly desire and cherish it in their lives and in others. Do you have that gift of love in you? How much do you love your neighbours? How do you use your gift of beauty, knowledge, money, strength, etc? See these passages; Lk. 10:30–37 and 1 Jn. 4:20

Food for Thought: Are you using your gifts in an excellent way?

Prayer: Lord, let love be the guiding principle of all my words and deeds.

Friday 12 February 2016

TURN FROM SIN AND TURN TO GOD: Devotion for Saturday February 13, 2016

TURN FROM SIN AND TURN TO GOD Saturday February 13, 2016

Text: Matthew 4:17 Memory verse: v 17

Living Bible translates this verse thus: “From then Jesus began to preach, ‘Turn from sin, and turn to God, for the Kingdom of heaven is near.’” Turn from sin and turn to God is simple explanation of the word repent. Repentance is very necessary if we hope to make the kingdom of God because another word for it is born again. This was the beginning of public ministry of Jesus. He started His ministry by first presenting the word of God, calling on people to turn away from their sins and turn back to God who made them in His image. Here is a model for us preachers of the gospel. The message of Jesus was same with that of John the Baptist (Matt 3:2).

Becoming a follower of Christ begins with repentance, turning away from our self-centeredness and self-control lives. The next step is to turn the right way, to Christ. Turning to Christ is one basic sign that we have repented and become His real followers. In this message of Christ, we can see that being part of God’s kingdom begins with repentance for past sins. Again, Jesus posited here that the reign of grace was at hand; and that nothing but an obstinate perseverance in sin and impenitence can keep any soul out of it; and that now is the accepted time to enter in. Have you turned from sin and to God? Note that without true repentance, you can’t enter into God’s kingdom. Now is the reign of grace. Don’t abuse it.

Food for Thought: Have you really turned from your sins to Christ?

Prayer: Lord, I repent of my sins. Keep me safe for your kingdom.

Thursday 11 February 2016

BE AN ILLUMINANT: Devotion for Friday February 12, 2016

BE AN ILLUMINANT Friday February 12, 2016

Text: Matthew 5:14 – 16 Memory verse: v 14

An illuminant is source of light – something that gives off or provides light. Jesus Christ told His disciples that they are light of the world and should shine as the light of a city on the mountain which could be seen from afar and it cannot be hidden. Jesus later explained this in Jn. 8:12. Without darkness, we can’t know the importance of light. The Fourfold Gospel says that “As light dispels darkness and enables a man to see his way, so the Christian, by his teaching and example, removes ignorance and prejudice, and discloses the way of life.” The church, reflecting the light of Christ, is necessary as conspicuous body, so that neither its blemishes nor its beauty can be concealed.

If we live for Christ, we will glow like lights, showing others what Christ looks like. We hide our light by (1) being quiet when we should speak, (2) going along with the crowd, (3) denying the light, (4) letting sin dim our light, (5) not explaining our light to others, or (6) ignoring the needs of others. Be a beacon of truth; don’t shut your light off from the rest of the world.

Beloved are you really light in your family, office, school, business and neighbourhood? What this passage implies is that we are expected to live a life of high moral standard to reflect our call as Christians. We should let the light of Christ we have received (as we have in our liturgy for baptism) be seen in us otherwise we are either being selfish or deceits.

Food for Thought: Is your light still shining?

Prayer: Give me oil in my lamp keep me burning. Give me oil in my lamp I pray, Give me oil in my lamp keep me burning. Keep me burning till that brighter day (Song). Use this song to pray.

Wednesday 10 February 2016

A Seasoning Agent: Devotion for Thursday February 11, 2016

A SEASONING AGENT Thursday February 11, 2016

Text: Matthew 5:13 Memory verse: v 13

Seasoning is a flavour added to make food tasty. Some seasonings common to us are salt, pepper, spices, herbs, maggi, knorr, onga, etc. A woman who goes to market and bought everything and forgot seasoning agent will cook a food that people can’t eat. The food will be rejected out-rightly despite the enormous amount of money and time spent in preparing it. This shows the importance of seasoning in foods and people who prepare it. Jesus used the importance of salt in preparing good and tasty foods to teach us the importance of Christians in any society. Salt has multi functions. It adds flavour to food and it is used as preservatives. By salt of the earth, Jesus posited that we are means of earth’s preservation; by our holy doctrine, prayers, and exemplary life style.

Jesus compared us to salt for two reasons. It is the nature of salt to preserve things from corruption and putrefaction (decaying with disgusting smell), and to render them savoury and pleasant. It is our duty to endeavour by the purity of our doctrine, to sweeten and purify sinners that they may become savoury to God and Man; and may be kept from being flyblown (contaminated) with errors and false doctrine. Again according to William Burkett, “Salt has a piercing power in it, which subdues the whole lump, and turns it into its own nature: such a piercing power is there in the ministry of the word, that it subdues the whole man to the obedience of itself.” Are you a seasoning agent like salt in your office, workplace, church, neighbourhood, etc? How much do people miss you when you are absent from meetings, your offices, business, etc?

Food for Thought: Are you salt in your family and the society?

Prayer: Lord, make me a seasoning agent in my family and the society.

Tuesday 9 February 2016

LORD, LIFT UP YOUR HAND: Devotion for Wednesday February 10, 2016

LORD, LIFT UP YOUR HAND Wednesday February 10, 2016

Text: Psalm 10:12 – 18 Memory verse: v 12

God is perfectly acquainted with the words and works; both of the righteous and the wicked, and in due time will appear and render to all according to their words and works. Here the Psalmist speaks with astonishment, at the wickedness of the wicked, and at the patience and forbearance of God. “Arise, O Lord! O God, lift up your hand (10:12)” is a call for vindication and deliverance. The Psalmist might have suffered so much wickedness from people and it seems his prayers/appeal for help didn’t come. The poor, afflicted, persecuted, or tempted believer should understand that Satan is the prince of this world, and that he is the father of all the ungodly. The children of God cannot expect kindness, truth, or justice from such a person.

The Psalmist prayed that God should punish the wicked for their wickedness (10:15) and then expressed his confidence in the abilities of God to hear the prayers of the humble and to do justice for the oppressed so that the oppressors will no longer oppress (10:16–18). Are you currently under oppression of the wicked? Call on God to arise so that your enemies will scatter. He may seem to be delaying but surely His hands will be lifted against them for His namesake and for your faith and confidence in Him. As you go out today, trust God to lift up His hands soon and very soon in your favour.

Food for Thought: Micah 5:9

Prayer: Lord, lift your hands up against my enemies and turn their hearts to know and fear you in Jesus name.

Monday 8 February 2016

Why Stand Aloof, O Lord? Devotion for Tuesday February 9, 2016

Why Stand Aloof, O Lord? Devotion for Tuesday February 9, 2016

Text: Psalm 10:1 – 11 Memory verse: v 1

When God withdraws His grace from us and trouble comes, it is usually very severe. Most times, we stand afar off from God by our unbelief, fear, etc and then complain that God stands afar from us. God is represented here as standing at some distance, seeing the oppression of His people, and yet apparently feels unconcerned about it. The Psalmist went further to complain about wicked people (10:2–11). The sinner proudly glories in his power and success. They do not call upon God nor seek His guidance (10:4).

As soon as affliction comes to us, we think God should help us, but it may not always His due time. Sometimes, when He has not acted, we, like the Psalmist here, will start querying God for being aloof and inconsiderate. It is not always so. God has His timing for everything. He does not respond to our call because our tears are much or the severity of our problem. Isa 59:1, 2 give us insight into why it will look as if God is standing aloof. However, God’s concern for us far outweighs all our worries and cares. We should not just assume that He is standing afar. We should go to Him and ask. He will certainly answer us. He was not complaining but simply asking God to hurry to His aid. It is during those times when we feel most alone or oppressed that we need to keep praying, telling God about our troubles.

Food for Thought: Are you sure that you are not the one standing afar from God with your unbelief?

Prayer: God, draw me closer to yourself so that I will not have reason to accuse you of being far from me.

Sunday 7 February 2016

A reward for doing what God wants: Devotion for Monday February 8, 2016

A REWARD FOR DOING WHAT GOD WANTS Monday February 8, 2016

Text: Psalm 1:1 – 3 Memory verse: v 3

Parents are always happy when their children carry out their instructions to the letter. They usually reward such obedience. In like manner God is always happy when we obey His commands and He blesses us. When He told Abraham to go and sacrifice his son Isaac and he obeyed, the response of God is in Gen 22:15–18 (read it). In this psalm is a reward for doing what God wants us to do. The theme of this psalm is the permanent prosperity and happiness of the righteous, and the certain destruction of the wicked. The reward for doing what God wants is blessing which the Psalmist likened to a tree planted by the riverside. Devotion to God is the way not only of duty, but of safety, prosperity, and happiness. For this reason, God blesses the righteous man.

The key to doing what God wants is through meditation on His word. If we so desire to be blessed by God, we must have constant regard to and for His word, as the rule of our actions, and the spring of our comforts; and have it in our thoughts night and day (Josh 1:8). How do you take the word of God? What amount of time do you give to read; study and meditate on word of God? That is the key to the breakthrough you desire always.

Food for Thought: The frequency and earnestness in meditating on God’s word is what ensures our growth and brings blessings upon us

Prayer: Help me, O Lord, to earnestly and frequently meditate on your word to guarantee my blessings in Jesus name.
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Saturday 6 February 2016

FOR A PROCESS OF CHANGE: Devotion for Sunday February 7, 2016

FOR A PROCESS OF CHANGE Sunday February 7, 2016

Text: Genesis 12:1 – 3 Memory verse: v 1

A process leads to change. This is true in all our lives endeavours. God has reasons for doing everything or issuing any instruction to us. This is so because He knows the future and will not want us to distort our relationship with Him again after we have repented. Our bible reading for the day has God’s call on Abram. He was instructed to leave his home, his kindred to an unknown place. The reason for this instruction was for a change in his life and faith. In 12:4, Abram did and the changes were his name from Abram (exalted father) to Abraham – father of multitude (Gen 17:5), Sera to Sarah (17:6). The promise of Canaan did come to fulfillment in time of Abraham but God use him to prepare the actualization of that promise. There was the need to move and it was not easy for him. He had many obstacles and oppositions. But God used all to bring change in his life and posterity.

Beloved, most things we pass through in life are meant to process us for change into better glory. Joseph went through slavery to become what God spoke to him at very tender age. David had to go on exile before he ascended the throne God anointed him earlier. Hannah went through a process before she got a special child; same way Zachariah and Elizabeth went. What are you going through now that seems to have taken a lot from you? It is a process of change. God wants to bring good out of you that is why He has allowed you to go through that process. Remember Job and what his end became. Yours will be more glorious in Jesus name.

Food for Thought: There is always a process to a change

Prayer: God grant that as you take me through the process of life, may it bring change that will bring me into your kingdom in Jesus name.

Friday 5 February 2016

MOVE ON: Devotion for Saturday February 6, 2016

MOVE ON Saturday February 6, 2016

Text: Deuteronomy 1:1 – 8 Memory verse: v 7

The first part of Moses' farewell sermon to Israel begins with this chapter, and continued to the latter end of the fourth chapter. In the first five verses of this chapter we have the place (1:1, 2) where Moses spoke to the Israelites and the time (1:3, 4). Moses began his admonition (1:5) by reminding them of God’s promises concerning Canaan (1:6 – 8). The people of Israel spent about a year on mount Horeb, the mountain that burned with fire (compare Heb 11:18). It was there God spoke to Moses that the people have stayed so much and should move on. They seem to be comfortable at that mountain but God told them to leave that comfort zone because the better place for them is still ahead.

No one can achieve anything when he/she is in the comfort zone. You need to move out of your comfort zone to improve yourself, take more challenges and attain a new height. Many of us are stagnant in our faith and spiritual lives. Some are comfortable being in the church without any commitment attached to it in terms of winning souls for Christ. Are you satisfied with what you are now? Are there no rooms for improvement in your life and career? If there are, then you should move on. Are you seated in a place because of troubles of life that seem to have brought you to a standstill? It is time to move on. Are you mourning loss of a friend, a spouse, a parent, a benefactor, a child, etc? It is time to move on. Dust yourself for there are better things ahead as there was Promised Land ahead of the Israelites.

Food for Thought: Much can never be achieved in a comfort zone

Prayer: Lord, strengthen me to move on in life not minding the troubles that have come my way in Jesus name.