Saturday 30 April 2016

FAITHFUL STEWARDS: Devotion for Sunday May 1, 2016

FAITHFUL STEWARDS: Devotion for Sunday May 1, 2016

Text: 1 Corinthians 4:1 – 6    Memory verse: v 2

Happy workers day to all workers of different categories! Our text came as a response to the revaluation of humans by the Corinthians. Although the term ‘servants’ (4:1) denotes subordination, “stewards” (4:2) emphasizes privilege and responsibility. Leadership is a call to a pure and trustworthy character (4:2). The Corinthians acted as if they were the judges at the last day, but that was too early (4:5, “before the Lord returns”). Their judgments of Christians were not for edification, but to put a final tag of good or bad, in or out, on the ones they judged. It was a non-ministry judgment that had its source in pride. This is very common even among us Christians of today. According to Family Bible Notes, “Fidelity to God and to the souls of men, in rightly dispensing the truths of the gospel, and in enforcing them by a uniformly holy and consistent example, is required of all ministers of Christ.” This is the emphasis of Paul in 4:2.

“If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets as Michelangelo painted or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare, poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, ‘Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well” so says Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr. As we celebrate workers day today, it is appropriate to evaluate our calls as servants of whatever category we may be. How faithful are you in your job? Do you do it so well, as Martin Luther King Jnr. suggested? We should remember that our call is to be faithful first to God and then to our employer. May God, grant us that grace in Jesus name.

Food for Thought: The supreme quality required in a steward is fidelity to his trust.

Prayer: Lord God, help me never to betray the trust you have reposed on me.  

DON’T DOUBT GOD’S WORD: Devotion for Friday April 29, 2016

DON’T DOUBT GOD’S WORD: Devotion for Friday April 29, 2016

Text: Luke 1:5 – 25       Memory verse: v 20

Doubting God’s word is a way of blatantly saying that God is unable to perform what He said and a way of undermining His sovereignty, and supremacy. It is a way of saying that God is a liar. People God used, as we have in the scriptures never doubted Him. Rather they keyed into God’s promises and kept believing until those promises came to pass. Think of Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, Peter, Paul, Mary, etc, none of them and many other Bible personalities were punished before their promises came to pass except Zachariah. Do you doubt God’s ability to give you that which He promised; His ability to set you free from bondage of sin and death? Our God is able and ever willing to do more than we ask. May that God, remember you in this season in Jesus name.

Our bible reading reveals how God sent Angel Gabriel to announce the birth of John the Baptist. Zachariah doubted the fulfillment of the message. The case of Zachariah attracted punishment because God expected him as a priest to believe the faith he preaches. He was slow to believe the strange message and he demanded a sign from the angel as assurance that the message will be fulfilled. Note that the word of God in the mouth of His messengers is God's own word, and as such should be received and believed. Disbelief of God’s word exposes us to His righteous displeasure, and deprives us of rich blessings which we might otherwise enjoy.             

Food for Thought: Doubting God’s word, belittles His power and sovereignty.

Prayer: Remove every doubt of your word from my heart O Lord, so I will not be denied the rich benefits in your blessings in Jesus name.   

BE SUBMISSIVE TO GOD’S WILL: Devotion for Saturday April 30, 2016

BE SUBMISSIVE TO GOD’S WILL     Saturday April 30, 2016

Text: Luke 1:26 – 38                  Memory verse: v 38

There are many reasons why Mary would have rejected the message from Angel Gabriel. The shame as a result of being pregnant out of wedlock, consequences it will have on her faith, her family and her fiancĂ©. To some people they will choose to avoid such honour rather than bear such shame like most of us who deny our faith in the face of adversities. Mary knew she will be ridiculed but like Moses, she chose to suffer affliction of shame, reproach, etc, instead of going against the will of God. When Mary said the words of 1:38, she didn’t know about the tremendous opportunity she would have. She only knew that God was asking her to serve Him, and she willingly obeyed. Don’t wait to see the bottom line before offering your life to God. Offer yourself willingly, even when the outcome seems disastrous.

There is someone reading this devotion today that is battling with God on the need to submit to His will. You cannot battle with your Maker. God is saying submit now before it will be too late. I knew how I battled with God to resign from teaching and to start fulltime church work. It was a real battle in 1995 that lasted months. I thank God I took the right decision. If not I wouldn’t be alive today. Beloved, submit to God’s will and you will never regret doing so.

Food for Thought: Resignation to the will of God and of faith in His promise is essential in gaining God’s approval and blessings.    

Prayer: Lord, strengthen my faith in you so that I will always resign to your will for me in all situations in Jesus name.



Wednesday 27 April 2016

REWARD FOR BLASPHEMY: Devotion for Thursday April 28, 2016

REWARD FOR BLASPHEMY: Devotion for Thursday April 28, 2016                                             

Text: 2 Kings 19:35 – 37    Memory verse: v 37

This was the just judgment of God for Sennacherib’s blasphemy, that he would be slain before the idol that he preferred to the living God, and by those who should by nature have needed his defence; a reward for blasphemy against God of Israel. According to Adam Clarke, there was a story that “He consulted his wise men how it was that such miracles should be wrought for the Israelites; who told him that it was because of the merit of Abraham who had offered his only son to God: he then said, I will offer to him my two sons; which when they heard, they rose up and slew him.” What a tragedy for a man who had boasted and blasphemed that God of Israel cannot save His people from his hands. God is no respecter of man because whatever position you hold today, He gave to you. Remember how He humbled Nebuchadnezzar.

From our bible text, it is obvious that no one contends with his Maker (Isa. 45:9). God is not a man. He deserves our reverence. We should hold Him in awe because He is a consuming fire. Whatever He says, He performs. One lesson we should learn here is that what God has said about dying in sin will surely come to pass. We shouldn’t discard them with wave of hand. God has reward for every sin. Repent of your sin today before it will be too late.

Food for Thought: "And whoever falls on this stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder" – Matthew 21:44

Prayer: May I never contend with you, O Lord, my God, because it will mean death.  

Tuesday 26 April 2016

IT IS I, THE LORD: Devotion for Wednesday April 27, 2016

 

IT IS I, THE LORD: Devotion for Wednesday April 27, 2016

Text: 2 Kings 19:20 – 34      Memory verse: v 22

Prov. 14:31 and 17:5 are similar. These two passages speak about making mockery of the poor and helpless which is indirectly reproaching God their Maker. God said here “It is I, the Lord” – (Living Bible) you have reproached. This is foolishness of unbelievers. After Hezekiah had prayed, God sent words to him through Isaiah, the son of Amoz with the words in 19:21ff. God made it clear that Sennacherib king of Assyria, through his messengers has reproached Him and therefore will face the consequences. God replied to Sennacherib’s taunting words (18:19–25), indicting him for arrogance. Sennacherib believed his kingdom had grown because of his own efforts and strength. In reality, he succeeded only because of what He had allowed and caused. Then God decreed what will happen between Hezekiah and Sennacherib (19:30 – 34).

There are so many ways we ridicule God in our arrogance and ignorance. When we despise fellow human being just because we are better off, we reproach God. Can you mention other ways we ridicule God? What the King of Assyria and his men did were done out of ignorance and arrogance. Most of us do so thinking that what we are today is a result of hard work. It is God who makes us. Therefore we shouldn’t use our positions to intimidate others. Rather, in humility, we should be appreciative of what God has made us.

Food for Thoughts: Do you reproach God by ridiculing or reproaching fellow human being?

Prayer: Deliver me, O Lord, from every form of arrogance and ignorance in my life in Jesus name.         

YOU ALONE ARE GOD: Devotion for Tuesday April 26, 2016

YOU ALONE ARE GOD: Devotion for Tuesday April 26, 2016

Text: 2 Kings 19:14 – 19       Memory verse: v 15

There is no controversy as to who is God. No matter the idea people may express about what they feel, God of Israel remains the only God who should be worshipped and feared. Despite all conspiracies against the present day Israel, there is no nation that can be compared with her in terms of excellence, fruitfulness, breakthrough in science and agriculture. This is the reason they have won Noble Peace Price on Science more than other nations. Our God is God of war and He is able to do anything He purposes. Hezekiah knew this too well and in this prayer, acknowledged that He alone is God who protects His name and His people. He noted that the nations Assyrians destroyed do not have Him and that was why they succeeded. He called on God to arise and save Israel; so the world will know that He alone is God.

Proper understanding of our God can help us to appropriate to ourselves the benefits in the New Covenant we have with Him. Even in the Old Covenant days, Hezekiah knew what God of Israel can do hence he didn’t hesitate in going to Him. Beloved, we should know the God we serve. Unlike man, He is Omnipotent. He has full control over the whole earth and can turn situations into our favour. What are the challenges of life you are going through at this moment? God alone has control over those challenges and He will bring you out of them as you call on Him today.

Food for Thought: Isaiah 44:6

Prayer: Grant me the understanding, O God, that you alone are God beside you there is no other god.                     

Sunday 24 April 2016

IGNORANCE BIRTHS ARROGANCE: Devotion for Monday April 25, 2016

IGNORANCE BIRTHS ARROGANCE: Devotion for Monday April 25, 2016

Text: 2 Kings 19:8 – 13       Memory verse: v 10

It was the Psalmist that said in Ps 2:1, “Why do the nations rage and the people plot a vain thing?” He mentioned in that Psalm about a gang up against the Lord and His anointed. However, Ps 2:4, states that “He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; The Lord shall hold them in derision.” This description fits into our Bible reading for the day. How can Sennacherib and his men compare a CREATOR to a creature? How can they boast that they made successes without acknowledging the source of their strength? How can they be so blinded as to say that the God of Israel can’t save His people? Didn’t they hear what He did in Egypt? Didn’t they hear of what He did to give them the Promised Land? Maybe they were not told. Such ignorance gave rise to this unprecedented display of arrogance.

A song writer says, “Who can battle with the Lord? (3x), I say nobody.” The best thing you can do for yourself is to know that there is a living God. Pharaoh asked Moses, “Who is the Lord that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, nor will I let Israel go." A man who is ignorant about God can say such. Do you know God or you are still acting in ignorance? If you know God, you can’t meddle with sin. You can’t live a compromising life if actually you know God. Have you known Him? If not repent and accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour today, and you will begin to know Him and what He can do.

Food for Thought: The way we display arrogance reveals the level of our ignorance.

Prayer: Lord God, may I not be ignorant to the extent of not recognizing your supremacy and Almightiness in Jesus name.  

           

Saturday 23 April 2016

RIGHT APPROACH TO PROBLEMS: Devotion for Sunday April 24. 2016

RIGHT APPROACH TO PROBLEMS: Devotion for Sunday April 24. 2016

Text: 2 Kings 19:1 – 7                    Memory verse: v 1

Hezekiah had deep concern at the dishonour done to God by Rabshakeh's blasphemy, pride and arrogance. Instead of sending words back in retaliation or to fight for God, he chose to report to the person who was ridiculed and blasphemed. This is the best way to deal with the ignorance of unbelievers. Returning words for words is childish and uncivilized manner in dealing with unbelief and blasphemy of the enemies of the gospel. God is our unfailing resource in all situations. In times of trouble we should always go to Him, and certainly we will find Him to be a very present and All-sufficient helper.

When people ridicule your faith or the God you serve, how do you take it? The Muslims will take up arms to fight for their god but that should not be the way Christians should act. Our God is alive. He can fight for Himself. He doesn’t need us in all situations to start defending ourselves. When the battle line was drawn between Elijah and the prophets of Baal, Elijah only prayed and God intervened. Are people attacking or ridiculing you because of your faith? Are you being persecuted for your faith in your neighbourhood or your office? Always resort to telling your God. God will fight for you. Let the example of Jesus be our guide (1 Pet 2:21 – 23).

Food for Thought: Be silent and safe because silence never betrays you.

Prayer: Lord, grant me the wisdom to handle people who ridicule my faith.


Thursday 21 April 2016

GOD RESCUES US: Devotion for Friday April 22, 2016

GOD RESCUES US: Devotion for Friday April 22, 2016

Text: Psalm 107:10 – 16    Memory verse: v 13

Never undermine what God can do. Sin has so much consequences and the bible says that the soul that sins shall die. Our text started with the level of affliction meted out on the Israelites (107:10, 12) because they sinned against God (107:11). In most cases sin is the major cause of troubles and problems of life we pass through. Most times God allows some of these afflictions to come upon us so we can redress our steps and seek His face in repentance. This was the case as they sought the Lord in their trouble and he heard them and delivered them out of their troubles.

Most times we don’t turn to God when we run into trouble. We try so many avenues for solution before we remember that God is there for us. God speedily answered His people when they repent. It took a long time before the Israelites cried to God, but He was not long before He saved. They had sought for help everywhere else before they came to Him, but when they did address themselves to Him, they were welcomed at once. This is the God we serve. Remember the story of the Prodigal Son. Beloved, are you in trouble? Call upon God. Let not your sin pose as a barrier because He is ever willing to forgive you. Call upon Him today and don’t delay.       

Food for Thought: Psalm 50:15

Prayer: Lord, deliver me from all troubles of life I am passing through in Jesus name.  

Wednesday 20 April 2016

HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL: Devotion for Thursday April 21, 2016

HE SATISFIES THE LONGING SOUL: Devotion for Thursday April 21, 2016

Text: Psalm 107:1 – 9            Memory verse: v 9

Has the Lord redeemed you? Have you benefited from God’s benevolence? Then speak out (107:1, 2)! Indeed, God has done so much for us, and we have so much for which to thank Him (Ps 103:1 – 5). He wants us to tell everyone all that He has done. These verses are not so much a mandate to witness but as act of appreciation to God. 

There is no affliction, no matter how grievous that our God cannot deliver us from. Thus the Psalmist exhorts us who are delivered to be mindful of so great a benefit (107:5, 6). Lost, hungry, thirsty, and exhausted as used in our text, are for wanderers; an example of Israelites in exile. They also typify anyone who has not found the satisfaction that comes from knowing God. Anyone who recognizes he or she is lost can receive the offer of Jesus to satisfy these needs. Jesus is the way (Jn. 14:6), the bread from heaven (Jn. 6:33, 35), the living water (Jn. 4:10-14), and the giver of rest (Matt 11:28-30).

Beloved, Jesus made us to understand what God desires us to thirst after (Matt 5:6). He then warned us in Matthew 6:33 and 34 to seek righteousness and all other things will be added unto us. What are the things you hunger and thirst after? God will satisfy your hunger and thirst especially if it is that which focuses on the spiritual, for that is what God delights in doing for us.

Food for Thought: Psalm 34:10

Prayer: God, satisfy my longing soul for righteousness in Jesus name.


Tuesday 19 April 2016

OBEY EVEN WHEN IT HURTS: Devotion for Wednesday April 20, 2016

OBEY EVEN WHEN IT HURTS: Devotion for Wednesday April 20, 2016              

Text: Genesis 22:1 – 14    Memory verse: v 9                   

Abraham, through the years, learned many tough lessons about the importance of obeying God. These were when he was called out of Ur, when he went to Egypt, and when he had to wait for Isaac’s birth. Initially, Abraham did not always show that he trusted or believed God; but through each test, he saw God’s willingness and ability to keep His promises. That is why God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac (Gen 22:1-2) at an altar as a burnt sacrifice. That is the greatest gift one can offer. God did not want Isaac to die, but He wanted Abraham to sacrifice Isaac in his heart so that he could learn to trust God completely (Heb 11:19). Imagine what Abraham must have felt as he walked with Isaac up the mountain, each step being torturous and leading him painfully closer to unspeakable grief. However Abraham obeyed, even at his own hurt and God honoured his faith.

Obeying God may often be a struggle because it may mean giving up something that we truly want. We should not expect our obedience to God to be easy or to come naturally. Just as fire refines ore to extract precious metals, God refines us through difficult circumstances. When tested, we can complain or we can obey, trusting God as we try to see what He teaches us. Trust and Obey is the best way to be happy. In what ways might God be testing your faith?

Action: As you go out today, be determined to obey God even when it hurts. 

Prayer: God, grant me the grant me the grace to obey you in everything even when it hurts because there is a reward at the end.


Monday 18 April 2016

WAYS TEMPTATIONS COME d: Devotion for Tuesday April 19, 2016

WAYS TEMPTATIONS COME: Devotion for Tuesday April 19, 2016

Text: James 1:13 – 15     Memory verse: v 14

According to Matthew Henry, “Those who lay the blame of sin, either upon their constitution, or upon their condition in the world, or pretend they cannot keep from sinning, wrong God as if He were the author of sin.” Whenever God brings trials on our way, His aim is always to draw out the graces He has bestowed on us. James shows us here that the origin of evil and temptation is in our own hearts. Thus we can stop sin from onset by resisting the things that lead to sin (1:14) or we will be charged with all the evils that follow. If the bible says that the consequences of sin is death (Rom 6:23a) and God is not pleased with the death of sinners (Lam 3:33; Ezek 18:23; 33:11), how can He tempt us into sinning which will lead to our death?

Most times we easily blame the devil for every sin we commit but Jas 1:14 underscores the opposite of our usual claim that devil is author of our sins. We are therefore to look for the cause of every sin, inside us, not out of ourselves. Even the enticements of the devil cannot hurt except we yield to them. Everyone has desires arising from his own constitution, tempers, habits, and ways of life. Do your ways of life entice you into sin? Remember any Christian without self control is not a true child of God.   

Food for Thought: Proverbs 4:23

Prayer: My God and my Father, grant me the grace to moderate my desires never to be enticed by things that will lead me into sin in Jesus name.

Sunday 17 April 2016

ESSENCE OF TRIALS: Devotion for Monday April 18, 2016

ESSENCE OF TRIALS: Devotion for Monday April 18, 2016      

Text: James 1:12      Memory verse: v 12

Here, James shows the reasons and reward of passing through trials faithfully. As athletes persevere in training in order to improve their abilities and endurance for competition, so Christians persevere in spiritual training as they patiently endure testing that will bring maturity and completeness. Most times, today’s trials are training when we face tomorrow’s challenges. The way to get into God’s winner’s circle is to love Him and stay faithful even under pressure. James noted that there is always an ample reward for us. The reward is crown of life. James asserts that a Christian, who is patient and endures trials and afflictions in this life, shall certainly be rewarded with a crown of life.

We should note that it is not every man who suffers, that is blessed; but he who with patience and constancy endures all difficulties that comes his way. Afflictions cannot make us miserable, if they don’t come as a result of our fault. A tried Christian shall be crowned if he endures till the end. Every soul that truly loves God shall have its trials in this world fully recompensed in that world above, where love is made perfect. What are you currently suffering because of your faith? Are you in prison now because of the crime you didn’t commit? God is not asleep. Your vindication and reward will surely come. Note that “God has one Son without sin, but he never had a son without trial” according to Charles Spurgeon.

Food for Thought: “A trial is an experiment or search made upon a man, by some affliction, to prove the value and strength of his faith” – Henry.

Prayer: Almighty God, strengthen me never to lose my faith in time of trials for there is always a blessing when one endures trials.     

WARNING NOT HEEDED: Devotion for Sunday April 17, 2016

WARNING NOT HEEDED: Devotion for Sunday April 17, 2016            

Text: Genesis 6:13 – 22      Memory verse: 22

There are many ways God warns us. It could be through spoken word, through dreams, through natural events or through signs and wonders. The essence is to quicken us in order to avoid an impending danger. Each week we hear or read about numerous alarms from environmental and nutritional activists or religious and political zealots. Of recent is the alarm on impending flood on riverine. Most people don’t care to listen to the warnings of these ‘extremists,’ as they are labeled. That was probably how people responded to Noah. Our text tells the story of how Noah and his family built an ark in obedience to God, in response to His warning that the earth would be destroyed. Noah was the only righteous person living. The Bible doesn’t state that people mocked Noah, but it certainly shows that no one listened to him or to God.

Noah got right to work as God commanded (Gen 6:22). It seems that other people had been warned about the coming disaster (1 Pet 3:20) but, apparently, did not expect it to happen. This is how people today often react to warnings, even warnings from God. Daily, thousands are told of God’s inevitable judgment, yet most don’t really believe it will occur. We shouldn’t expect people to welcome or accept our message of God’s coming judgment on sin. Those who don’t believe in God will scoff at His judgment and try to get you to deny God as well. Let us not neglect the warning about the second coming of Christ as Noah’s generation did.

Food for Thought: How do you take God’s commandment?

Prayer: Grant me, O Lord, an obedient heart to do as you command me.

Friday 15 April 2016

EVER FAITHFUL TO HIS WORD: Devotion for Saturday April 16, 2016

EVER FAITHFUL TO HIS WORD: Devotion for Saturday April 16, 2016

Text: Luke 2:25 – 35    Memory verse: v 29, 30  

Any prayer we make according to the will of God especially those that will bring glory to His name receives answers from Him. This man Simeon was “Just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him” (2:25). Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he will see the salvation of Israel before death. What a privilege! By the leading of the Spirit, he came into the temple at the dedication of the child, Jesus. Here is the confession of Simeon’s faith, that this Child in his arms was the Saviour, the salvation itself, the salvation God has appointed for the world. God was faithful in keeping him to see that salvation promised (2:29ff).           

There are some lessons for us in this story. 1) Simeon had a good standing with God; a just and devout man, which made God to reveal mysteries to him. What is your standing with God? What testimony can people share about you? Let the life of Simeon challenge you. 2) Another lesson is that God is faithful to His word. He spoke to Simeon about seeing the salvation and consolation of Israel. He kept His word and Simeon saw the consolation of Israel. This shows that God cannot deny us and His word. Whatever He has said about you, He will perform. 3) Thirdly, when we wait patiently on God, He will answer us. Simeon waited for consolation of Israel and he got it. Are you waiting on God for something, be sure that you will not be disappointed.

Food for Thought: God fulfills all his word, keeps all his promises, and NEVER disappoints those who trust in him.

Prayer: As I keep on trusting your word, O Lord, may you fulfill them in Jesus name.    

   

MAKING WRONG CHOICE IN MARRIAGE: Devotion for Friday April 15, 2016

MAKING WRONG CHOICE IN MARRIAGE: Devotion for Friday April 15, 2016

Text: 1 Kings 11:1 – 8     Memory verse: v 4

Many of us spend so much time in prayer asking for God’s blessings upon our lives but I wonder if we actually ask God for wisdom in managing these blessings when He releases them on us. This story of Solomon marrying 700 wives is an instance of depravity recorded in the Bible. The choice you make in life matters so much in what you finally become. Solomon made wrong choice in marriage simply because he felt he has fame and money therefore he can use them without discretion. According to Family Bible Notes, “The union for life of one man with one woman, according to the appointment of God, is essential to the highest excellence, usefulness, and happiness in life; and the neglect or violation of the original institution of marriage is a source of many of the most direful evils to which men on the earth are exposed.”

Solomon was wrong by going for more than one wife; going to marry from other nations which God prohibited the Israelites from taking wives and adding 300 concubines. This is how some people made wrong choices in marriage by going for the hand of the women God didn’t keep for them. The strange women succeeded in introducing Solomon to their gods. These turned his heart from God. Wrong choices in marriage can mar our relationship with God. Therefore, for those who are single, they should be careful on the decisions they make. Don’t go against God’s standard or else you will pay dearly for it.

Food for Thought: No man is wise enough by himself.

Prayer: Lord, grant unto the singles the wisdom to make right choices concerning their marriages in Jesus name.          

Wednesday 13 April 2016

CHRISTIANS' UTTERMOST TASK: Devotion for Thursday April 14, 2016

CHRISTIANS’ UTTERMOST TASK: Devotion for Thursday April 14, 2016

Text: Act 1:6 – 11     Memory verse: v 8

One of the basic teachings Jesus gave His disciples was on the Kingdom of God or Kingdom of heaven as some gospels present it. When Jesus was crucified, their hope of ruling with Him as He promised seemed to be dashed. However, when He resurrected, that hope came alive. On the day of His ascension, they came up with the question as we have in Acts 1:6. The disciples, like every other Jew, expected the Messiah's kingdom to be partly secular at least. This had been their understanding. However, Jesus in answering their question in 1:6 redirected their minds to what would be their uttermost task as disciples. Jesus turned away their thoughts from their worldly inquiries to the spiritual office and work for which they are about to be furnished from on high with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

As present day disciples, we also have this task. The heart of God is soul winning and anyone who has that passion always receives the backing of God. Most times we lose this vision and begin to seek and crave for earthly things. This made Peter to remind us in 1 Pet 2:9, 10 of what we are, here on earth. Desire for earthly possessions led the disciples into making the enquiry. Today many of us are so consumed by our quest for worldly possessions like cars, food, job, money, etc, that we have lost focus of why we are Christians. Are you fulfilling your task as a Christian? Act today.

Action: As you go out today, ensure you preach to someone you will meet.          

Prayer: God, redirect my mind into what you have called me to do for you as a Christian in Jesus name.

Tuesday 12 April 2016

AIDING AND ABETTING: Devotion for Tuesday April 12, 2016

AIDING AND ABETTING: Devotion for Tuesday April 12, 2016

Text: Genesis 27:6 – 29     Memory verse: v 6 & 7

Rebecca knew that the blessing God wanted to give through Isaac was intended for Jacob, and expected he would have it. But she acted wrongly against Isaac by cheating on him; she also wronged Jacob by leading him into wickedness of defrauding his brother. By her action she placed a stumbling-block in Esau's way, and gave him a cause for hatred towards Jacob and at last to Christianity. The aiding and abetting of Rebecca is one of those crooked measures often adopted to further the Divine promises; as if the end would justify, or excuse wrong means. Thus many have acted wrongly, under the idea of being useful in promoting the cause of Christ. No one can be wiser than God. If Rebecca had not lead Jacob to supplant his brother, wouldn’t God have fulfilled his promises concerning Jacob?

This is one area we Christians make mistake too often. We try in so many ways to aid and abet ourselves and others in accessing favour from God and men. We can’t help God to be God. In all His wisdom, He is able to bring His decrees to fruition. By aiding and abetting, most of us have encouraged or involved ourselves in all manner of crimes. One of my daughters once told me how the parents gave her money to pay for examination malpractices. She refused and at last she failed. She refused because she has accepted Christ as her Saviour. She saw it as sin which some would have easily complied with. If you have ever aided and abetted or you are planning one now, repent before the anger of God will descend on you.

Food for Thought: Are there ways you aid and abet yourself or someone else to do evil or gain favour?

Prayer: Forgive me, O Lord, in any way I have helped someone in aiding and abetting, and help me not to indulge in it any longer.       

Sunday 10 April 2016

A MOMENT OF WEAKNESS: Devotion for Monday April 11, 2016

A MOMENT OF WEAKNESS: Devotion for Monday April 11, 2016

Text: Genesis 25:29 – 34      Memory verse: v 32   

Beloved, have you ever given away a valuable possession and later regretted it? If you have, you will probably recall that you took that decision under pressure. At that time, resistance seemed impossible. A birthright was a special honour given to the firstborn son (Gen 25:31). It included a double portion of the family inheritance along with the honour of, one day becoming the family’s leader. Birthrights were priceless. In Isaac’s family, the birthright belonged to Esau. But because of Esau’s narrow view, he did not hold on to it.

Esau was hungry and Jacob had some food, but He could not see beyond his exaggerated sense of need. His words in 25:32 were probably not true; it merely reflected how he felt. Esau acted on impulse, satisfying his immediate desires without pausing to consider the long-range consequences of what he was about to do. Esau did not need to eat the meal he so desperately wanted, but the pressure of the moment distorted his perspective and made his decision seem urgent.

People often experience similar pressures and  make similar decisions. For example, under sexual temptation, a marriage vow may seem unimportant. A person might feel such great pressure in one area that nothing else seems to matter and the person loses his or her perspective. What pressures do you face? You can avoid making Esau’s mistake by comparing an action’s short-term satisfaction with its long-range consequences before you act. Getting through that short, pressure–filled moment is often the most difficult and most important part of overcoming a temptation.

Food for Thought: Do you act on impulse to satisfying your immediate desires without pausing to consider the long-range consequences?

Prayer: Lord, may I not sell my Christian rights for any material gain in Jesus name.

 

Saturday 9 April 2016

WHEN GOD SEEMS INCONSIDERATE: Devotion for Sunday April 10, 2016

WHEN GOD SEEMS INCONSIDERATE: Devotion for Sunday April 10, 2016         

Text: Isaiah 59:1 – 8    Memory verse: v 2

Matthew Henry Concise Commentary states that, “If our prayers are not answered, and the salvation we wait for is not wrought for us, it is not because God is weary of hearing prayer, but because we are weary of praying.” This is one reason why we can say that God seem to be inconsiderate to us and our needs. Another thing is sin. Here the prophet highlighted it consequences especially in our relationship with God. It separates us from God and makes His ears to be heavy towards our prayers. Its consequences are exceedingly hurtful, separating us from God, and all good God has in plan for us. The prophet went further to enumerate the consequences of sin in 59:9ff.

Many a time, we accuse God of being inconsiderate to our needs and prayers even when we are living in sin. God cannot change His standard because of you. He hates sins and it can turn His ears away from our prayers. How can God answer you when you are living in bitterness? How can He answer when you are hoarding anger and grudges? It cannot work. It is not only when we have killed or committed adultery/fornication that we have sinned. Little foxes like bitterness, anger, hatred, malice, lies will ever continue to make God inconsiderate to our needs until we repent of them. Kill the little foxes now before it will be too late.

Food for Thought: God is never inconsiderate to us. We are the ones who sent Him away by accommodating sins in our lives.

Prayer: God, grant me the grace not to accommodate sins in my life that will make your ears heavy towards my prayers.                

BROTHERLY HATE OR BROTHER’S KEEPER: Devotion for Saturday April 9, 2016

BROTHERLY HATE OR BROTHER’S KEEPER: Devotion for Saturday April 9, 2016

Text: Genesis 4:3 – 12    Memory verse: v 9

Cain’s failures hinged on his reaction to God’s rebuke (Gen. 4:6–7). This deteriorated into brotherly hate instead of brother’s keeper. We don’t know why God rejected Cain’s sacrifice. But instead of listening to God, learning, and changing his ways, he reacted impulsively. Cain was wrong, yet he would not accept responsibility for or deal with it. He countered God’s correction with anger and denial. After Cain’s sacrifice was rejected, God gave him the chance to right his wrong and try again. God even encouraged him to do so, but Cain proudly refused.

The rest of Cain’s life is a startling example of what happens to those who refuse to admit their mistakes. It also shows what happens when we blame others for our problems and allow anger to build. It is important we learn from Cain’s mistakes. We should not be too proud to analyse our actions and utterances especially when people point out faults in what we say or do. Beloved, anytime someone suggests you are wrong, especially God, take an honest look at yourself, and make the necessary changes. It will save you crying, had I known.

Food for Thought: Pride and grace do not dwell together.

Prayer: Lord, help me to always accept my mistakes and make changes whenever it is necessary in Jesus name.

Thursday 7 April 2016

AN ELDER INDEED: Devotion for Friday April 8, 2016

AN ELDER INDEED: Devotion for Friday April 8, 2016        

Text: 2 Peter 1:12 – 18    Memory verse: v 12

Our society (African context) is one that loves titles and human recognition. This is very common in the church of today. Some Pastors have even gone to acquire awards from fake institutions so as to be addressed Rev Dr. or Bishop (Dr) … Presently people are made Elders in the church so as to have a Christian title without having necessary requirements for that position. An elder lives by example. He cares for the flock of Christ. He constantly reminds the flock about the expectations of God from them. He is very careful to take care of the flock and to bring them to Christ at the end. This was the concern of Peter in our bible passage for the day. He kept reminding Christians as an Elder, about what they saw and heard from Jesus Christ (1:16–18). The reason for this was to build their faith on solid foundation and guide them jealously against false teachers and teachings.

Elders in the present day church are not only people with the title Elders but as many as are in leadership position in the church and all her organizations. How much do we care about the flock? Many of them are prone to attacks of the enemies and are also vulnerable to false teachings of our time especially in social media and internet. What are you doing to safeguard them? Be a true elder who should guide his flock jealously.

Food for Thought: Words of our elders are words of wisdom

Prayer: Help me to always take to heart all the counsels and wisdom from the bible.  

             

Friday 1 April 2016

LEAVING ALL TO FOLLOW JESUS: Devotion for Saturday April 2, 2016

LEAVING ALL TO FOLLOW JESUS: Devotion for Saturday April 2, 2016

Text: Luke 14:25 – 35                     Memory verse: 26

Following Christ means total submission to Him above all other things of great value or intimacy to us and it has its consequences and costs. One of the costs of being a disciple is not placing your intimacy to your immediate family above that one you have for God. Lk. 14:26 is not a contradiction to the fifth commandment rather Jesus meant that we are to love them less than we love Him; we are to obey Christ rather than them; we should be willing to forsake them if He calls us to go and preach His gospel; and we are to submit, without a murmur, to Him when He takes them away from us. Have you forsaken all to follow Christ or you still have them as attachments to your body as you run this heavenly race?

Jesus emphasized on the need for feasibility study even in Christian race. He explained this by two similitudes; the former showing that we must consider the expenses of our religion; the latter, that we must consider the perils of it. We should count the cost of being a disciple; including the mortifying of sin, even the most beloved lusts. We as Christians should understand what Christianity is all about to enable us practice it to the letter. Jesus summed up His teaching here by telling the disciples what they ought to be in the society. He likened them to salt which is very expedient seasoning in any food. This means that we should also act as seasoning to our generation. Are you a seasoning?

Food for Thought: Have you really forsaken all for Christ?   

Prayer: My father in heaven, help me to remove whatever will endanger my relationship with you so I will be a faithful disciple in Jesus.        

Awake From Sleep: Devotion for Friday October 9, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL Devotion for Friday October 9, 2020 Topic: Awake From Sleep                                Text...