Sunday 31 December 2017

Prepare For Your 2018

Devotion for Monday January 1, 2018
Topic: Prepare For Your 2018
Text: Luke 3:1 – 6
Welcome to the year 2018. Do you know that most people usually start
their year unprepared? For this reason our devotions for the first two weeks are on what we can do to have a rewarding year. In our bible reading, John the Baptist as the forerunner of Jesus Christ called on the people of Judea to prepare the way for the Lord to manifest Himself for them. This implies that people who are expecting the Messiah should do something so that the Messiah will fulfill His promises. They were expected to remove every hindrance to His manifestation.
At the beginning of the year like this, we should take a stock of how we lived in the previous year, observing where we failed and where we did well. Those areas we didn’t do well should be worked on. Again, there are things that hinder the manifestation of Christ in our lives and families. We might have indulged in one sin or another thus distorting our relationship with God. We should amend our ways and live rightly so that our relationship with God will be smooth. 
What are those valleys to be filled and those mountains and hills that we ought to bring low; the crooked places to be made straight and the rough ways to be made smooth so that we can see the salvation, deliverance and blessings of God in our lives this year? Think about them as you Sing SS&S 363
Food for Thought: What do you think will hinder the manifestation of God’s salvation and blessings in your life this year?
Memory verse: Isaiah 40:3
Prayer: God, grant me the grace to prepare my heart for you to dwell in this year and always in Jesus name. 



Monday 11 December 2017

Babel – A Place Of Confusion

Devotion for Tuesday December 12, 2017
Topic: Babel – A Place Of Confusion
Text: Genesis 11:1 – 9
Babel simply means confusion; the name of a lofty tower, begun to be built by the descendants of Noah among who was Nimrod their leader, about 120 years after the flood.
At creation, God told man to fill the earth (Genesis 1:28). Instead of obeying God’s instructions, they chose to live together. Going against God’s instruction attracts punishment. Sometimes, God allows us to wallow in our ignorance when we are at not complying with His instructions but other times, He will insist that His bidding should be carried out to the letter. He confused the language of the people and the work stopped (Genesis 11:7 – 9). Unable to communicate with one another, they scattered abroad to comply with God’s directives at creation. They wanted to evade dispersion by building a tower to accommodate all of them.
Many a time, what we fear will always come to us (Job 3:25). Are you afraid? See Isaiah 44:2. Things we do that are not in consonant with the will and purposes of God cannot prosper in our hands. We should be mindful of what we do as the motives as the motives behind our actions are well known to God and He will judge our motives on the Judgement Day. What is your motive for that plan you are making; that style of dress you have made for Christmas, that job you are pursuing, that marriage, journey, etc? If it is not of God, it will end in confusion.
Food for Thought: Are the motives behind your actions pleasing to God?
Memory verse: Genesis 11:7
Prayer:  Grant me the wisdom, O Lord, so as to make right decision that will not go against your will for my life in Jesus name.



Friday 8 December 2017

Money Cannot Save

Devotion for Saturday December 9, 2017
Topic: Money Cannot Save
Text: Zephaniah 1:18
Jesus Christ is the only source of salvation (Acts 4:11 – 12). His salvation is all encompassing as Paul asserted. The salvation from God is not just salvation from sin unto eternal life alone but also from poverty, sickness, bondage, curse and spell, etc.
God spoke through Zephaniah to the Israelites that their wealth cannot save them from the impending judgement. God posited that neither their silver nor their gold in which they trusted, and from which they expected happiness shall profit them on that awful day. This warning was to challenge them not to be asleep because they were enjoying the patience of God. When men’s iniquity is full, certainly, His justice will overtake and overcome them.
Many wealthy people have engaged all forms of security outfits. They have the police, all kinds of security dogs, well fenced and electrified walls, personal guards, bullet proof vests and cars, etc. Unfortunately, all these cannot save especially when it comes to God’s judgement and verdict. “Riches do not profit in the day or wrath, but righteousness delivers from death (Proverbs 11:14).” On the Day of Judgement, wealth will no longer count as it will not save neither can we place value on them (see Ezekiel 7:19). Again, some donate money to the church to secure salvation. You can’t bribe God to have salvation. It is not so! Salvation is of God alone and He is the one that grants it to us.
Food for Thought: Acts 4:12
Memory verse: Proverbs 11:14
Prayer: My Father in heaven, help me never to put my trust in my wealth for there is no salvation in them.



Monday 4 December 2017

There Is Nothing Hidden From God

Devotion for Tuesday December 4, 2017
Topic: There Is Nothing Hidden From God
Text: Acts 15:18
The context of our bible reading today is from Jerusalem Council Meeting presided over by James, the half-brother of our Lord Jesus Christ over the issues of Gentiles becoming Christians, and what they need to do to be accepted. He stated that whatever was happening (Repentance among Gentiles) is known to God because it has been the plan of God from time immemorial (Genesis 3:15; 12:3). The argument of James according to Family Bible Note is that “The calling of the Gentiles into the church is in accordance with God’s purpose from the beginning. Why then throw hindrance in their way.”
Nothing comes to pass by chance, but only by God’s appointment. God knows all you are passing through now. There is nothing that comes to pass by chance without His knowledge. Many cry daily saying that God has forsaken them. Many cry asking if God is not aware of the trials and attacks of the enemies. All these are well known to God. The one that may come tomorrow is also known to Him (Luke 22:33). We should not fret when the enemies come around. They can only succeed when God gives approval. Remember the case of Job. As Jesus prayed for Peter when the devil came to ask for permission to sieve him, so He is praying and working in your favour
Food for Thought: Nothing happens to us except God permits it.
Memory verse: Acts 15:12

Prayer: Lord, you know everything about me. Work out your will concerning all the problems that confront me to you own glory in Jesus name. Amen

Sunday 3 December 2017

Stand Out From The Crowd

Devotion for Monday December 4, 2017
Topic: Stand Out From The Crowd
Text: Revelation 1:1 – 6
In this message God sent to the church at Sardis, He noted that despite the depraved nature of the city, there were still some who did not defile their garments. They stood out from the crowd. Ephesians 5:27 speak about the spotlessness of the Church when she shall be presented to Christ; while Revelation 19:18 also say that the “fine linen, clean and white are the righteousness of the saints,” in which it shall be arrayed for the “marriage supper.” The garment of Christian profession is white. At baptism, candidates are arrayed in white, the symbol of holiness and righteousness.
It gladdens the heart to know that even in a place so depraved and where religion had so much declined, there were few persons who had kept themselves free from the general contamination. In most cases, where error and sin prevail, there may be found a few who are worthy of the Divine commendation; a few who show that true religion may exist even when the mass are evil. Can such be said about you? They will be rewarded with a walk with Jesus. 
Do you compromise your faith and allow corruption just because it is in vogue or that is what people want? Are you standing for righteousness and people are making mockery of you as old fashion or old school? Don’t be disheartened; stand out from the crowd for God knows His people.
Food for Thought: There is always danger in mixed multitude
Memory verse: Revelation 1:4
Prayer: God, grant me the grace to stand out from the crowd and never to compromise my faith in this present generation in Jesus name. 


Saturday 2 December 2017

Pay Attention To Him

Devotion for Sunday December 3, 2017
Topic: Pay Attention To Him
Text: Matthew 17:1 – 8
It is imperative to emphasis some things for our proper understanding. God emphasizes some things to clear our doubts or to re-affirm what we already know. At transfiguration of our Lord Jesus Christ, God the Father said, “This is my beloved Son in who I am well pleased …,” highlighting
1) The dignity of Jesus Christ (He is a beloved Son because of His likeness and conformity to Him.
2) The Excellency of his meditation (In whom He is well pleased. Christ is most pleasing to God the Father and through Him, He is well pleased with us).
3) The Authority of His doctrine (Hear Him, not Moses and Elijah but Christ, commissioned to be the Great Prophet and Teacher). God commanded the Apostles to hear Christ; attend to His instructions and follow Him, an indication that there is authority in His words.
Do you listen to the words of Jesus and do you take instructions from Him? Do you follow Him both in words and deeds? There are lots of benefits we can derive from paying attention to Jesus Christ. His words direct us on the right path; illumine our ways and set us free. His words are spiritual foods for us. It heals us; shows us the best way to serve God and how to make heaven at last. How much do you desire to hear from Him? We should regularly hear from God the Son for our good.
Food for Thought: How much do you desire to hear from God?
Memory verse: Matthew 17:5 - While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is my Beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!"
Prayer: Almighty God, grant me a listening ear to hear from you always.



Thursday 30 November 2017

Look Ahead And Be Optimistic

Devotion for Friday December 1, 2017
Topic: Look Ahead And Be Optimistic 
Text: Hebrew 6:11 – 15
People who lived godly lives faced temptations, persecutions and trials of different types and degrees. From Noah to the Apostles and disciples, all had terrible experiences. This is the reason for the exhortation in Hebrews 10:36. When we begin to consider the trials and temptations of this life, we cannot make progress in our endeavours. This led the author of Hebrews to challenge us in Hebrews 6:12. He cautioned us not to be sluggish or faint-hearted or timid or negligent. Rather, he advised that we should strongly and constantly imitate them in their manner of life; their faith and patience. The challenges for us in our text are;
1) Heaven is not ours by purchase but by promise
2) Heaven is a promised inheritance which saints by faith and patience, have possessed and will possess.
3) Being followers of imitators of their faith and patience, we may also joint them to inherit the promises.
Heaven is what lies ahead of us as Christians. Whatever we do here on earth is transitory. A day will come when we shall leave everything here on earth and go to either heaven as true Christians or hell as deceivers. Where you will go is determined here on earth. People have endured all manner of trials, confrontations and temptations for the sake of heaven. You can still endure and overcome (Philippians 4:13). Cheer up my beloved in Christ because better days and better things await us in heaven. That want, need, sickness, temptation, trial and persecution are temporal. You will leave them here on earth. Therefore do not let it determine your final destination after live on earth. Look ahead and be optimistic even as we enter into the new month.
Remember that he who endures to the end shall be saved (Matthew 24:13; Mark 13:13). With this in mind, I welcome you to the last month of the year 2018. Have a glorious month of December 2018.
Food for Thought: What lies ahead matters most more than the ones we have left behind us.
Memory Verse: Hebrew 6:12 – “That you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”
Prayer: God, rekindle your spirit in me and remove any spirit of sluggishness or faint-heart from me as I live for you in Jesus name.


Wednesday 29 November 2017

He Comforts The Downcast

Devotion for Thursday November 30, 2017
Topic: He Comforts The Downcast
Text: 2 Corinthians 7:5 – 11
Paul was beset by fear and concern for Titus and the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 2:13). But God had encouraged him at the right time with the arrival of Titus. Being reunited with a fellow labourer in Christ brought him joy. But more than that, the news Titus brought from Corinth was enough cause for joy too. God gives us consolation when we are anxious and depressed. The consolations Paul enjoyed were from God, no matter the instrument used. Paul acknowledged God who was the author of the consolation he received. Titus brought him a most satisfactory report of the success of his epistle, and the good state of the Corinthian Church; a boost for his missionary work.
Many a time, we are often discouraged. We look for consolation and comfort as we labour for God and none seem to come. People we work amongst them even frustrate us. The devil and his agents are also on one side fighting against the work we do and we seem very discouraged. At other times, it seems too that God has withdrawn his grace from us. However, in whatever situation we find ourselves, God has ways of comforting us. When Gideon was so discouraged and frustrated, an angel of God brought comfort and encouragement. Are you down and discouraged? God will definitely bring comfort and consolation for you. He will cause your fears to go and your tears to dry in Jesus name. Amen
Food for Thought: 2 Corinthians 1:5
Memory verse: 2 Corinthians 7:6
Prayer: Comfort me O God, in all areas I am discouraged and in need in Jesus name Amen.


Monday 27 November 2017

God Is Not Partial

Devotion for Tuesday November 28, 2017
Topic: God Is Not Partial
Text: Acts 10:34
Christ came into the world and died for humanity. His death is not for a specific tribe, nationality or sex and His love for humanity is universal (John 3:16). His love is not for the Jews alone but also for the Gentiles. This is what Peter meant by God not having favourite or being partial. God had told Cornelius to send for Peter from the house of Simon the Tarner in Joppa (Acts 10:3 – 6). He heeded God’s word and sent for some of his men to Joppa. God also spoke to Peter in a dream that he should not call anything He created unclean. God is never the author of confusion. He spoke to Cornelius and Peter on the same issue. Are you confused about the assignment God gave you and you are not sure of what God actually wants you to do? Are you confused about the choice to make concerning marriage, admission, etc? Ask God and He will speak to you and clear your doubts in Jesus name.
Our text for the day is part of Peter’s speech when he got to Cornelius’ house. God looks at man individually with no regard for national distinctions, physical characteristics or religious heritage (Deuteronomy 10:17; Romans 2:11, Ephesians 6:9 and Colossians 3:25). This means that in every nation, He accepts those who fear Him which expresses Peter’s clear understanding of the universal application of Christ’s work on the Cross. God doesn’t discriminate on basis of race, economics or sex neither should any believer do so. What He does for Peter, He will do for Paul. What He expects from us is obedience. When we do that, He will meet us at the point of our needs. Have a great and fruitful day!
Food for Thought: For there is no partiality with God (Romans 2:11).
Memory verse: Romans 2:11
Prayer: Lord God, you have accepted me because you don’t discriminate. Help me to live my life so I will continue to enjoy your blessings in Jesus name.

Sunday 26 November 2017

A Man Who Fears God

Devotion for Monday November 27, 2017
Topic: A Man Who Fears God
Text: Acts 10:1 – 2
The fear of God and living a righteous life are substances of true Christianity. Fear of God and works of righteousness are not the cause of a man’s acceptance before God, yet where these are found, whatever is lacking, God who started this act in man will in due time give to the person to actualize His work of grace. This is the truth about the man Cornelius (Acts 10:3 – 6). He was introduced here by his character; a devout man who fears God (Acts 10:1 – 2, 22), prayerful and compassionate (Acts 10:3 – 6), and obedient (Acts 10:7 – 8).
Cornelius was a centurion who commanded around one hundred (a century) soldiers. A regiment was a military unit of six hundred men. Cornelius was not a Jewish proselyte but he accepted the Jewish religion and revered their God (Acts 10:2). He was a devout man who fear God, a philanthropist and prayerful. This is very uncommon among leaders but he was very different. This prompted God to bring him to salvation.
What is your testimony and character? How can people describe you; a devout and sincere person or a fraud, a prostitute, a cheat, a betrayal, etc? What can be said about you in your office, neighbourhood, in your business, etc? Acts of charity, devout life in sincerity will always attract God’s favour and kindness towards us. Be more sincere in your walk with God and He will grant you all the salvation you need.
Food for Thought: How can people describe you?
Memory verse: Acts 10:2
Prayer: Lord, grant me the grace to live well and leave a good testimony for posterity in Jesus name.

Saturday 25 November 2017

Judgement Awaits Us

Devotion for Sunday November 26, 2017
Topic: Judgement Awaits Us
Text: Ecclesiastics 12:13 – 14
What we do here on earth is going on record and we will account for them on the Judgement Day. This judgement will be on every work and secret thing we did. God shall bring every secret thing into judgement, not just outward and visible actions, but even inward and secret thoughts. We can do this (give account of our lives) with joy if we have done well. For us to give our account before God with joy, we must have these behind our minds that
1)  A day of judgement awaits us
2) Every soul of man shall stand before God
3) God the infinitely wise, heart-searching will be the judge.
4) He will bring to light every secret thing that has been done since the creation, by all men; whether forgotten or registered; whether done in the secret or in the public.
5) All the works of the godly and the wicked shall be judged. This Day of Judgement is very important because it will determine where we will spend our eternity. Jesus confirmed that to those who did well, theirs will be in the bliss of the kingdom of God while sinners and all who refused to repent will have their portion of everlasting punishment in the Lake of fire (Matthew 25:46). However, to those who repent and believe in Christ, His blood will be a covering and this covering is all we need. Do you have that covering on you for the judgement day?
Food for Thought: What type of account will you give to God about your life here on earth? Will it be enough to take you to heaven?
Memory verse: Romans 14:12
Prayer: God, grant that I will be conscious of the impending judgement and thus apply my heart unto righteousness in Jesus name.


Friday 24 November 2017

The Alpha And Omega

Devotion for Saturday November 25, 2017
Topic: The Alpha And Omega
Text: Revelation 1:8
Alpha and Omega are the first and the last letters of Greek alphabets. By applying them to Himself, Christ had shown us that He is the cause and end of all things. In Revelation 1:11, similar application was made to God the Father, thus confirming the Trinity and what Jesus said that by Him everything that is made was made. This saying of Jesus has some inspirations for us as Christians. Jesus being the Alpha and Omega which is the beginning and the end means that He is aware of everything about us. He made us and everything about us is known to Him. As the Alpha and Omega, God is in control of the affairs of this world and this is the greatest assurance we have. He also knows what our end will be. This is a kind of reassurance for us that God knows when the problems confronting us will end. The second part of our text is a description of Christ as Jehovah; self-existing, unchangeable, and eternal. The truth here is that as God who called us is self-existing, He is also able to meet our needs. No matter the kind of boasting of our enemies and the rage they vent on God’s people, even in the interim, God remains the Author and Creator of all things. Whatsoever He proposes, declares, and promises surely must stand. As He is the end, He shall bring all the things which are revealed to a complete and glorious conclusion. What has God revealed to you? Just believe Him because in due time, it will come to a glorious conclusion (Philippians 1:6).
Food for Thought: As the Alpha and Omega, God is in control of the affairs of this world and this is the greatest assurance we have.
Memory verse: Isaiah 44:6                                                                    
Prayer: Lord Jesus, you know everything about me as the Alpha and Omega, bring every promise concerning me to a glorious conclusion in Jesus name. Amen.

Thursday 23 November 2017

Our Righteousness Guards Us

Devotion for Friday November 24, 2017
Topic: Our Righteousness Guards Us
Text: Proverbs 13:6
There is no virtue without reward and there is no vice without punishment. Anything we do has its recompense whether good or bad. Righteousness is a sure guide as it helped Joseph in times of trials. It leads the soul unto blessedness but sin flatters men only to reward them with disappointment and ruin. There are two facts to note in our bible passage for the day.
1) God secures people who are righteous from ruin. Those who are righteous in their ways, honest in all their actions, adhering faithfully to the sacred rules of equity, and deal sincerely both with God and man, will be kept from the temptations of Satan by their integrity. Temptations shall not prevail over them neither will the reproaches of evil men, come upon them, to do them any real mischief (Psalm 25:21). Are you in this group who are living righteous and blameless life before God and man?
2) Sinners secure for themselves ruin. Those that are wicked, even their wickedness will overthrow them at last, as they are held in the cords of their wickedness in the meantime. They will be corrected and destroyed by their own wickedness. They shall bear the consequences of their wickedness (Proverbs 11:3, 5 – 6).
Piety benefits while sin injures. Are you living the life of evil and wickedness, dubious in your character? Repent now! There are consequences ahead of such life. It may seem good to you now but the end is what counts. It is better to avoid evil now than suffer the consequences later.
Food for Thought: Will the life you are living now secure you against evil?
Memory verse: Proverbs 13:6
Prayer: Help me O Lord my God, to live a righteous and blameless life that will secure me against ruin and evil in Jesus name.


Wednesday 22 November 2017

A Great Understanding

Devotion for Thursday November 23, 2017
Topic: A Great Understanding
Text: Proverbs 14:29
The greatest gift to ask from God is discretion or wisdom. With wisdom, one can achieve so many things in life; it can make you rich, save you from danger; it gives you understanding, protects you against the enemies, guide you in path of righteousness, etc. There are principally two things we should note in this text.
1) Meekness is part of wisdom. Someone who is meek rightly understands and controls himself; his duties and interests, the infirmities of human nature, and the society. Someone who is patient is really to be counted as intelligent; one that learns of Christ in everything, who is Himself (Christ) wisdom.
2) Unbridled passion is proclamation of foolishness. He that has hasty of spirit, whose heart is tinder to every spark of provocation, always thinks to magnify himself and make those around stand in awe of him, whereas really he exalts his own folly. He makes his folly known to all through his foolish and hasty acts and words. Such person lacks understanding.
This exhortation of James in James 1:19 should be our yardstick for measuring one who is wise and truly a child of God. How wise are you? How do you control your anger? An understanding fellow shows wisdom and one who lacks wisdom acts foolishly.
Food for Thought: James 1:19 – 20
Memory verse: James 1:19
Prayer: God, grant me the grace to moderate what I see with my eyes and how I react to them.


Tuesday 21 November 2017

Don’t Copy World’s Standard

Devotion for Wednesday November 22, 2017
Topic: Don’t Copy World’s Standard
Text: Roman 12:1 – 2
Our world of today lacks genius. What we have today are pirated works. People are no longer genuine in production of anything especially in this part of the world. Everyone toes the same way of doing thing even in the church. No one wants to be original. These have robbed us of growth and self-actualization. When we find ourselves in the midst of other people, there is always the tendency to copy what they do and we easily forget that “Evil company corrupts good habits” – 1 Corinthians 15:33. On the other hand, good company also model good habits. This informs Paul’s words in our bible reading for today. He urged the Roman Christians no to conform to the standard of this world; to its sinful spirit, maxims, principles and practices of this world.
On the contrary, Christians should walk singularly and not after the world’s guise. Do you copy unnecessary behaviour, dressings, character, speech, etc., because it is in vogue? Who brought it in vogue – God, man or Satan? Think of the present day style of fashion and dressing. Most of them are ungodly. We should be led by the Spirit as Christians and not by what is in vogue. We should also learn to do things according to the will of God and not the propelling of self. This is a challenge if we hope to make heaven.
Food for Thought: Ephesians 5:17
Memory verse: 1 John 2:15
Prayer: Lord God, help me not to conform to the word’s standard as you renew me through your word.


Monday 20 November 2017

They Are Gifts From God

Devotion for Tuesday November 21, 2017
Topic: They Are Gifts From God
Text: John 3:26 – 33
There is nothing we have that is not from God. He is the one that appoints our work and gives us all that we have. Some Jews steered up envy in the mind of the disciples of John the Baptist by telling them that Jesus was baptizing. They came to John, who was wise enough to correct this erroneous perception that no other person can baptize except him and also the envy and jealousy of his disciples. John the Baptist made effort to root out all prejudice against Christ out of their minds, which made him to show them a five-fold difference between Christ and himself (John 3:29 – 33).
There is no ministry we have today that God has not entrusted to us. He gives to all, their places and work as He sees best for us. John cautioned them not to be dissatisfied that a greater than himself has come, for this is what he foretold.
From the above, we should note that it is important every gospel minister should endeavour to magnify Jesus Christ; to display His Glorious Excellency and perfections before the people and not themselves. They should also revere His person, respect His authority and laws. This is the duty we owe God as Christians. That we are being used today doesn’t mean we are to arrogate the praise to ourselves and we start answering big names like Demon Bulldozer, Apostle of Fire, Miracle Worker, etc. We should be humble in whatever way God uses us and never to be envious of the way He uses others too.
Food for Thought: Envy and prejudice kill our gifts and make us unproductive.
Memory verse: James 1:17
Prayer: Almighty God, grant me the understanding that you appoint our work for us and help me not to envy another person or arrogate praise to myself for what you are using me to do in Jesus name.




WHY DISILLUSIONED? WHY TROUBLED?

WHY DISILLUSIONED? WHY TROUBLED? YOU HAVE THE MAN, JESUS CHRIST
The case of the man at the Pool of Bethesda who said, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me" was the centre of discussion at the just concluded 7th edition of Divine Commonwealth Conference (DIVCCON) held in National Christian Centre Abuja from 13th – 16th November. This man was sick for 38 years. Though it was not stated if he had spent all the 38 years at the Pool but from the story and the man’s submission, it was obvious that he had spent so many years there. The sickness had affected this man so severely that he couldn’t answer simple question.
Looking at the man, according to Bishop Sunday Adewole, “He was an old man, 38 years of living with infirmity clearly shows that he was not a young man. He totally depended on others for everything. This was made obvious by his statement ‘I have no man …’ He had submitted all his dependency on another human. The sickness had affected his mentality to the extent that he finds it difficult to answer the question Jesus asked him correctly, he rather complained. He was a blame shifter, a sinner, disloyal and ingrate.”
Despite all these weaknesses in that man, who didn’t deserve what he received Jesus chose him for healing. It was the work of grace which God has offered to humanity through Jesus Christ. He demonstrated this grace towards this man. That grace is sufficient for you if only you can come to the full knowledge of God and believe that He is the Saviour.
Today, many of us, despite our long years in the church are still disillusioned, troubled and living in anxiety because of the challenges of life. Some people find it hard to believe that in Christianity, we can stay without food, with sickness, jobless, childless, no prospective spouse coming to ask for your hand in marriage at over 40 years and many more. The present economic stress in the country has worsened the matter. These problems and challenges have so much affected the spiritual life of some people that today, they can hardly pray. A young lady of about 37 years came to me and said, “Daddy, I am tired. I can no longer pray because I have prayed and nothing seems to happen.” When I asked why, she said, “I am now 37 years and no man is asking for my hand in marriage.” This is a sister that is committed and dedicated but things are not working out well for her. This is one in million cases we have today.
However, I bring you the assurance that you have the man Jesus. There is no situation beyond his ability. If you have Jesus, the following are available for you. a) He can give you hope (1 Peter 1:13; Hebrews 10:23). b) He can give you joy amidst all the challenges of life (John 16:24). c) He can provide for you (Matthew 6:25 – 27). d) He can give you salvation (Luke 19:10; 1 Thess. 5:9). e) He can forgive you (Ephesians 1:7 – 8). f) He can comfort you (2 Corinthians 1:3 – 4). g) He can take away your worries, care and anxiety (Psalm 55:22; Matt. 11:28). h) He can give you eternal life (John 10:27 – 28; John 3:16, 36). i) He can help you (Hebrews 4:15 – 16) j) He can heal you (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24).
Beloved, you should understand the God you serve; His abilities and all He can do. If you know and have Jesus, you will never be troubled or disillusioned by situations and circumstances. Cheer up because you are not like that man at the Pool of Bethesda (House of Mercy) who claimed that he had no man but you have the man Jesus Christ who is abundantly able to save, heal, deliver and help. Hallelujah!

Tabugbo Morgan Uzoma

Assisting Priest
St. Philip's Anglican Church
AGGS Compound
West End, Asaba


Sunday 19 November 2017

Do As It Pleases You But ...

Devotion for Monday November 20, 2017
Topic: Do As It Pleases You But …
Text: Ecclesiastics 11:7 – 10
Youths are usually vigorous, energetic, lively, enthusiastic and adventurous. These make them restive because they love to pursue their heart desires. They do not accept a ‘no’ for anything they have made up their minds on. When they desire something, they are purposeful about it and they will vigorously pursue it till they acquire or attain that height.
It is on this premise that Solomon admonished youths to use their youthful exuberance with the mind that a day of reckoning will come. This should make them have a deep sense of God’s presence, reverencing His authority as that will be a great security against pursuit of sinful desires. Because God will bring youthful activities into judgement, they should let their pursuit of happiness and all their youthful enjoyments be in the fear of God.
This warning is not for the youths only. It is a warning for whosoever will not be found wanting on the day of Judgement. Those who fear God, and make Him their portion, will enjoy all that this world is capable of giving, and be prepared for the higher enjoyments of eternity because they will always apply discretion and fear of God in pursuit of enjoyment and happiness. This should be our guide in our walk with God.
Food for Thought: Aspiration after God is the only aspiration with the assurance that it will never meet with disappointment.
Memory verse: Ecclesiastics 11:9
Prayer: God, grant that I will always be mindful of what I do with the mind that there is Judgement waiting for me. 


Saturday 18 November 2017

So He Did As Instructed

Devotion for Sunday November 19, 2017
Topic: So He Did As Instructed
Text: Genesis 6:22
Noah was a man of faith who obeyed God. His faith and obedience singled him out in his generation as a righteous man. What God demands from us is obedience. God revealed to Noah His plans to end the world through deluge because he was very obedient. He gave him the instruction to build the ark. He did what God instructed him to do with care and diligence which could be attributed to his faith in the word of God. He believed God’s word about drowning the world and he prepared the ark according to specification.
We should not doubt God’s word about impending wrath against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men. People doubted Noah but at last God’s word came to pass and so shall the reality of hell fire come to pass too. Noah did as God instructed him. His obedience was ready and resolute. Having begun to build, he did not leave off till he had finished. Such dedication to our call is required of us.
Just as Noah was warned, so we have a more solemn warning for us, to flee from the wrath to come. How prepared are you? Are you doing as God instructed you so as to flee the second death in hell fire? Noah did as God said and we must do as God said if only we hope to escape the wrath of God on the Last Day.
Food for Thought: Are you living your Christian life according to God’s instructions?
Memory verse: Genesis 6:22
Prayer: Lord God, I need your grace to live according to your instructions so that I can avoid the wrath that is to come upon all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men in Jesus name. Amen.


When Amazing God Acts Amazingly

Devotion for Saturday November 14, 2017
Topic: When The Amazing God Acts Amazingly
Text: Act 12:1 – 17
When God intervenes in some precarious cases, it leaves us speechless, amazed, astonished and perplexed. Our text for the day speaks of amazing act of God in delivering Peter from the prison despite the guards and the gates. God sent his angel who came and struck him amidst soldiers and the chain with which they chained him to two soldiers fell off. The angel led him through first and second posts (gates) through the iron post heavily manned by armed soldiers but the gates all opened on their own accord (Acts 12:7 – 17). It was after they had passed through all the gates that Peter came to himself and realised that it was not a dream.
Meanwhile, prayers were being offered for him (Acts 12:5). When Peter arrived at the gate of the house of Mary, mother of John Mark, Rhoda didn’t open the gate out of joy when she saw that it was Peter knocking at the gate. Rather, she ran in to announce what she saw and she was accused of not being herself. They had regarded his rescue as so difficult and where hopeless. Yet they were praying for his release. This is how some of us behave. We keep praying without believing that God can give us what we are praying for.
Sometimes, it is difficult for us to believe the answer to our prayers, even when God said He is more ready to answer us. Yet when He does that which we had asked for, we will be astonished. This made the people praying to say that Rhoda was mad. We shouldn’t be overwhelmed and astonished when our petitions are granted, and when God manifests His power in His own way and time. That is a sign of little faith or faithlessness. We should grow to the level of believing God for His word. With God all things are possible. As we do not know what time God will act for us, we should be what we pray for because He will surely answer our sincere prayers (James 1:6 – 8).
Food for Thought: Matthew 11:24
Memory verse: Acts 12:15
Prayer: Lord God, strengthen my faith so that I will not doubt your ability to do what I ask for in prayer.


Sunday 12 November 2017

In The Multitude Of Words

Devotion for Monday November 13, 2017
Topic: In The Multitude Of Words
Text: Proverbs 10:19
Job 6:24 says, “Teach me and I will hold my tongue; cause me to understand wherein I have erred.” The greatest virtue someone can develop in life is the ability to tame his or her tongue. James gave reason for this in James 3:5 – 12.
Our text admonishes us on the importance of governing our tongue which should be our duty for these reasons.
1) It is good to say little, because in the multitude of words, sin doesn’t cease. Usually, those that speak much, speak much idle words which they must shortly give account of (Mathew 12:36).
2). It is therefore good to keep our mouth as with a bridle. See Amos 5:13 and James 1:19. Do you have control over your tongue? James 1:26 says, “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.”
The way you talk in the public goes a long way to show the kind of Christian you are. Peter sagely said, “For he who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit” – 1 Peter 3:10. This is a challenge for us. Many people ridicule their faith by what they say with their mouth. A true Christian chooses his or her words before speaking and not the opposite. Be wise as your faith demands. Have a great day!
Food for Thought: James 1:26
Memory verse: Proverbs 10:19
Prayer: Almighty God, grant me the grace to bridle my tongue and to choose my words before I speak so that I will not say idle words.


To Their Hurt

Devotion for Sunday November 12, 2017
Topic: To Their Hurt
Text: Ecclesiastics 5:13
Money is good but not everything. There are some things money cannot buy; it cannot buy freedom from sin, peace, secure the future, stop death from coming to them, etc. Many rich people think that they will secure their future and that of their children with their wealth. Unfortunately, it is not so. Solomon sees riches as source of hurt to its owner. This may be the source of hurt to the owner because
1. He may make an improper use of them or lose his health by them
2. He may join in an unfortunate partnership and lose all
3. His riches may excite the desire of robbers and he may spoil him of his goods and even take away his life.
4. He may leave them to his son, who turns profligate, spends the whole and ruins both his body and soul.
For riches to hurt the owner is one vanity of wealth that after a life of toil and care in accumulating it, it will either be lost or become source of the owner’s death. The rich oppressor’s wealth provokes enemies and robbers. The antidote to this hurt is contentment.. Many people hurt themselves in pursuant of wealth at all cost. This is very unfortunate as it is even seen among Christians who have been admonished to set their minds on the things that are above and not below (Colossians 3:1 – 2). When we understand this, it will help our orientation and perception about wealth. Think about this and take a good stand now before you will hurt yourself so badly.
Food for Thought: Wealth, heaped up out of covetousness will always result clashes of interest among heirs.
Memory verse: Ecclesiastics 5:13
Prayer: God help me to reorder my priorities in life so that I will not pursue wealth at the detriment of my salvation and hurt in Jesus name. Amen.

Friday 10 November 2017

Where Am I Wrong?

Devotion for Saturday November 11, 2017
Topic: Where Am I Wrong?
Text: Jeremiah 2:5
God lamented His efforts to make Israel good and productive (Isaiah 5:1 – 7) which never materialized. Rather He got the opposite which brought His anger on them. He laments again in our text about unfaithfulness of the Israelites. He had called Abram out of Chaldea or a purpose (Genesis 12:1 – 3) as He wanted to make a nation of people who will faithfully and obediently walk with Him. He chased out the people of Canaan from their land because of their idolatry life and gave the land to the Israelites. He had bestowed upon them abundant labour and grace, and had expected from them an abundant harvest of righteousness. Thus He asked to know if they have ever discovered anything cruelty, unjust, oppressiveness, unkind laws or tyrannical in His government. Why then have they become idolaters?
In the same manner, God has bestowed so much grace on us and has done all that is needed for our salvation. We can’t charge God of neglecting us as the reason for our barrenness or sinning. He has done so much for us.
How do you reciprocate God’s love and grace upon you? Do not make God to regret the grace and mercies He shows you on daily basis. When we backslide, it dishonours God as it is a virtual declaration before the world that we have tried His service and found it unreasonable or hard. Are you in this group? God can only endure your faltering between two opinions for now (1 Kings 18:21) for His anger awaits sinner later.
Food for Thought: Isaiah 5:4
Memory verse: Jeremiah 2:5

Prayer: Lord God, grant me the grace never to make you regret the grace and mercies you have shown me in Jesus name. Amen. 

Thursday 9 November 2017

Why Fiery Serpent?

Devotion for Friday November 10, 2017
Topic: Why Fiery Serpent?
Text: Numbers 21:4 – 9
God chose this method of healing to cure the snakebite on the Israelites for some reasons. God prescribed this method to show that it was God’s own work, and not the effect of nature or art. Again, that it might be an eminent type of our salvation by Christ. The Fiery Serpent here signified Christ, who was in the likeness of sinful flesh, though without sin, as this brazen serpent had the outward shape, but not the inward poison of the other serpents.
The pole resembled the cross upon which Christ was lifted up for our salvation and looking up to the fiery serpent is similar to our belief in the work Christ did at the Cross. It took some time to make the fiery serpent because God would not speedily take off the judgement, until He saw that they were thoroughly humbled. God chose the fiery serpent to show us what He intended to for us through Christ.
Many still died without looking at the fiery serpent. In the same manner, people are dying today without looking at Jesus’ work on Calvary. Jesus went to the Cross of Calvary for a purpose. You should look at Him on the Cross now that you are alive before it will be too late. Those who refused to look at the fiery serpent died even when there was an opportunity to being healed. Act now and look at Jesus who died for you on the Cross of Calvary and you will not need to die again.
Food for Thought: Jesus went to the Cross of Calvary for your sake. Are you aware of this and have you actually believed in what He did for you there?
Memory verse: John 3:14
Prayer: God, may I look at Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary of the poisonous effect of sin in my life in the name of the same Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour. Amen

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...