A New Thing

Devotion for Tuesday August 1, 2017

Topic: A New Thing

Text: Isaiah 43:16 – 21

The Lord has promised to do a new thing for you. The new thing will not be delayed because it shall ‘spring forth now.’ You may ask how do I know. 2 Peter 3:9 say that the Lord is not slack concerning His promises and Isaiah 40:8 confirms that God’s word will stand forever. A new thing from God goes with a new song; new title, new office, new privileges, new blessings, new joy, new victory and many more. When you are promoted, your level changes. However, a new thing from God can be positive or negative depending on which divide you belong.

In Exodus 14:21 -28, when God parted the Red Sea, it was a new thing. The Israelites experienced this as a way of freedom. But to Pharaoh and his men, it was a way of total destruction. When God says to His children that He will do a new thing, it means that He will move them to a level of freedom they have never known before. It also means that God is about to surprise their enemies beyond recovery. Get ready; it is your season for a new thing that will lead to a new song (Psalm 40:3) in your life, family, business and ministry.

Beloved in Christ, before you hold on to a promise, you should first get to know who made the promise with the terms and conditions. The one who is making this promise to His own is the one called Jehovah El-Shaddai – the God that is more than enough, the Almighty (Genesis 17:1). Have you known and accepted Him as your Lord and Saviour? If not, do something now so you could enjoy the new thing packaged for you this season and beyond. Happy new month!

Food for Thought: 2 Corinthians 5:17

Memory verse: Isaiah 43:19

Prayer: Lord God, do a new thing in my life that will lead to a new song this month and always in Jesus name. 
Amen.

Workers Of Iniquity

 Devotion for Monday July 31, 2017

Topic: Workers Of Iniquity

Text: Micah 2:1 – 5

Evil has consequences that go with it. When Cain killed Abel and thought that all had ended, he never knew that it was the beginning of his woes as his brother’s blood started crying out.

Out text say there is woe for those who device iniquity. These workers of iniquity in their craftiness work up in morning to execute the wickedness they had devised at night. According to Family Bible Notes, “The plans that occupy men’s mind at night upon their beds are a good test of their character. They who perform a wicked act because it is in the power of their hand have neither fear of God nor love for justice; and will commit any crime when opportunity offers.” Workers of iniquity work out iniquities because they don’t have the fear of God.

What occupies your mind at night or when you are alone? If what occupies your mind is evil, you will always wake up to carry them out. If it is righteousness, you will wake up to practice it. The Psalmist says he meditate on God’s word day and night (Psalm 1:2; 43:8; 119:55 and 149:5). Paul admonished us in 2 Timothy 2:19 saying, “Nevertheless, the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: The Lord knows those who are His and let everyone who names the name of the Lord depart from iniquity. Have you actually departed from iniquity or you are still cuddling sin? Remember that God hates sin and there are consequences for every sin we commit. Don’t think you have all the days ahead for yourself. Depart and run from iniquity today before you will be caught up with it.  

Food for Thought: How can someone depart from iniquity?

Memory verse: Psalm 36:4

Prayer: God, grant me the grace to remove myself from all works of iniquities in Jesus name. Amen.

The Unchangeable God

Devotion for Sunday July 30, 2017

Topic: The Unchangeable God

Text: Malachi 3:1 – 6

What led God to say He us unchanging (Malachi 3:6)? It was the impending judgement which He had vowed to bring upon the Israel (Malachi 3:5). Malachi proved that God is just. He discussed the fact that the people of Israel were unjust in the way they robbed God of what rightly belong to Him. That was the reason for these social abuses in Malachi 3:5.

The people who committed them had no fear of the Lord. They thought that God was like themselves, that He would close His eyes to their sins and wouldn’t judge them for breaking His laws (see Psalm 50:21). God was not happy the way His people, Israel had cynically twisted His truth. He would punish those who insisted that because God was silent, He approved of their actions or at least would never punish them. God would also punish those who professed a counterfeit faith while acting sinfully (Malachi 3:5). When God says a thing, He performs it to the letter. He told His people that He will not change His decision to punish them for their crimes.

There are some ways we undermine the basic truth about our Christian faith and commit all manner of sins. Some of us feel that God understands and would forgive if they repent after committing those sins. It doesn’t work like that. The grace of God may not be sufficient for you. On the other hand, because our God is unchangeable, He can still meet you at the point of your need no matter how long it has persisted. Trust Him to do it for you as you wholehearted trust and believe Him.

Food for thought: Lamentation 3:22

Memory Verse: Malachi 3:6

Prayer: May I not undermine you, O Lord my God because what you have determined to do, no one can stop you.

Simple Requirements

Devotion for Saturday July 29, 2017

Topic: Simple Requirements

Text: Deuteronomy 10:12 – 18

God repeatedly told the Israelites the necessity of love that comes from the heart in their relationship with Him (Deuteronomy 4:29 and 6:5). He did not want His people to substitute their heartfelt love for Him with mere outward religious forms. Outward obedience and correct religious practices have validity and significance only if they are based on knowing Jesus Christ. It was necessary that they always obey God from a heart of sincere love and honour for Him. To the New Testament believers, faith and love from the heart are also essential in our relationship with God (John 21:15 and Colossians 3:4).

Here in our bible reading for the day, Moses gave a summary of what God expects from the Israelites. They are simple in form and easy to remember. The basics are;

1) That they should fear God (have reverence for Him)

2) That they should live according to His will

3) That they should love Him

4) That they should worship Him with all their hearts and souls.

5) That they should obey His commands.

These essential commands from God do not require money that they cannot afford. These same requirements are what God expects from us too. They are unchanging patterns of life that we should adapt to. The fear of God brings satisfaction, perfection and gives wisdom. To love God is to obey His commands (John 14:15). For all repentance and deliverance from sin ad transgression, God requires nothing but to turn to Him and begin to obey Him. If you are still living in sin, do that now and have your peace.

Food For Thought: Deuteronomy 6:5

Memory verse: Deuteronomy 10:12

Prayer: Lord, may I know what is required of me in my Christian race so that I may run according to your standard and rule and at the end win the prize in Jesus name.

God’s Chastening, Our Benefit

Devotion for Wednesday July 25, 2017

Topic: God’s Chastening, Our Benefit

Text: Job 5:17 – Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects; therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty.

The Greek word ‘paidedeia’ was translated chastening meaning disciplinary correction. There are blessings in God’s chastening us. This sentence looks paradoxical but that is the truth some may not accept but there are benefits from God’s chastening. God turns His heart towards us when He corrects us but His heart turns from the wicked when He punishes them. His corrections are not sent to take away our comforts but to take away our corruptions. Again, corrections are not manifestations of wrath, but an evidence of His love. If God reproves a person and same responds rightly, then God will deliver that individual from all adversity and trouble. The chastening of God is a sign that we are God’s children and an assurance of God’s love and concern for us (Hebrews 12:6 – 8). Our happiness as Christians does not consist in our outward comforts; in riches, in health, in honour, in civil liberty or human relationship. Rather, our happiness consists in our relationship with God and in union with Jesus Christ. God chastises us so that we might not be finally condemned with the world (1 Corinthians 11:31 – 32) and that we might share His Holiness, living sanctified lives without which we will never see the Lord (Hebrews 12:10 – 11, 14). How do you respond to God’s chastening?

Food for Thought: Absolute trust in God sustains us in trials and in due time, it secures certain, full and eternal deliverance.

Memory verse: Hebrews 12:6 - For whom the Lord loves He chastens and scourges every son whom He receives.

Prayer: Almighty God, grant me the grace to look out for the benefits in chastening me and not minding its pain, discomfort and inconveniences.

God Frustrates The Devices Of The Crafty

Topic: God Frustrates The Devices Of The Crafty

Text: Job 5:6 – 16

Crafty means using or involving cunning or trickery to deceive other people. What our topic for the day connotes is that no matter how much art and subtlety wicked men may lay their plots and ill designs, God does disappoints and baffles them, making them vain and of no effect. He exposes their designs in various ways and shows that He is the friend of the sincere and the honest; showing that He is worthy confidant of the His people. The hands of the enemy around your life will not carry out their plans because God will show up with His finger on your behalf (Exodus 8:19).

Eliphaz, Job’s friend had seen instances where the plans of the crafty, designing and artful people had been defeated, and where the straightforward had prospered and honoured. Thus he asserts it here in our text. Such cases led him to believe that God is the friend of virtuous and worthy to confide in. God works for the good of those who trust and obey Him and counter working the plots of the wicked.

You may have been asking when God will frustrate the plans of the enemies against your life. God is not asleep. He waits for His appointed time to act. The devices of the wicked men shall luckily meet with disappointment, just at the very time when they are ripe and ready for execution. It is not appropriate to ask God how He will frustrate the enemies; He knows best when to do it. Rather, we should trust Him to do it at His own time. It is my prayer that God will frustrate the plans of your enemies in Jesus name.

Food for Thought: Isaiah 8:10

Memory verse: Job 5:12

Prayer: Lord, frustrate every plan of the enemies against my life, my family and your church, in Jesus name.

We are Accountable

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Sunday July 23, 2017

Topic: We are Accountable

Text: Romans 14:12

Many a time, I wonder if Christians know that they will account for all they do and say. How can a Christian act without consideration? Paul tells us in our bible reading for the day that we will certainly give account of our actions and words to God on the last day. The account Christian will give is of our character and conduct, our word and actions, our plans and purposes.

On the day of accountability, all the words, works and purposes shall be brought forth, and tried by the unerring standard of God’s justice. Albert Barnes admonished that “as we shall be called to so fearful account with God, we should not be engaged in condemning our brethren, but should examine whether we are prepared to give our account with joy and not with grief.” How will you give your account – with joy or with grief and regrets? Think about it.

Beloved, Christ will be our final judge and we will give our account to Him. We will either be accepted or condemned according to His decision. As He will be the judge, we should live under His inspection and guidance so He will say to us on that day, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord (Matthew 25:21).

Food for Thought: On the day of accountability, we shall not be examined on what we have read in the bible but what we have done, not how well we have spoken, but how religiously we have lived.  

Memory verse: 1 Peter 4:5

Prayer: Lord, help me to live with consciousness that judgment and accountability await me in Jesus name.

The Divine Pleasure

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Friday July 21, 2017

Topic: The Divine Pleasure

Text: Luke 12:27 – 32

In the earlier part of this discourse (Luke 12:4), Jesus had called his disciples “my friends.” He had told them of the troubles of life which awaits them, but at the same time wished to show them how dear they were to Him. Jesus told them to endure trials, lack of necessities and temptations that might come their way for His sake and for the glorious future that awaits them.

Again, He assured them that God will meet their needs (Luke 12:22 – 31). God’s ability to provide does not exempt His people from the common calamities of life. In some respects, they are more exposed to calamities than other people. They have reason therefore to fear, no wonder His words in John 14:1.

The underling fact in our text is that God has provided for them a Kingdom. The glory of it cannot be expressed or conceived, nor will the duration of it ever end (Hebrews 12:28). He has given them this kingdom as their inheritance. The Kingdom is worth making a priority (Luke 12:31) because God will give it to those who faithfully follow Him.

The Kingdom is a certain reality, so God’s people need not to be afraid. Jesus went to prepare a Kingdom for us; a place of blessedness, where evil is fully overcome and where those who live there know only happiness, peace and joy. God’s desire and divine pleasure is for you to be part of His Kingdom. How are you preparing to be part of it?     

Food for thought: If God could give up His Son to die for us, will it be a hard thing for Him to give us His Kingdom?

Memory verse: Luke 12:32

Prayer: Lord God, grant me the grace to be part of your Kingdom in Jesus name Amen.

A Compassionate God

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Thursday July 20, 2017

Topic: A Compassionate God

Text: Luke 7:11 – 17

The city of Nain was about twenty five miles from Capernaum and Jesus travelled that long distance to bring comfort to sorrowing widow. Distance is not a barrier to Jesus in terms of solving problems. Jesus and the crowd following Him met the widow and her crowd as she was going to bury her only child. The Author of life (Acts 3:15) will meet with your dead situation in Jesus name.

Jesus’ compassion for the widow shows His soft spot and care for widows, the needy, the down trodden and people who are hurt. God is the father of the fatherless and the defender of widows who trust in Him. They are under His special care and protection (Exodus 22:22 – 23; Deuteronomy 10:18 and Psalm 149:9). When Jesus saw the widow following her dead son to the grave site, He had compassion on her and restored the dead son back to life.

Christ has concern for the mourners and the miserable that put their trust in Him and often provides them with the blessings of His goodness. Love made Him to undertake the work of our redemption (Isa 63:9). What a pleasing idea it gives us of the compassion of the Lord Jesus and His tender mercies. That is His nature. Adam and Eve sinned and went for leaves of fig tree but in His nature, He made clothes with Goat skin for them. They didn’t request for it. He knew what they needed and the ones that were best for them. So He knows what the best things for you. By virtue of His compassion He will remember and provide for you. Just be patient with God.

Food for Thought: God’s bosom is filled with pity and He pours it into a wounded spirit to console it, causing it to sing for joy.

Memory verse: Luke 7:13

Prayer: Lord, meet me at the point of my need with your comfort and mercies.   

How To Be Privy To God’s Secret

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Wednesday July 19, 2017

Topic: How To Be Privy To God’s Secret

Text: Genesis 18:17

Friends and loved ones share secrets. It takes people who have given themselves to each other to know the deep things about one another. You cannot meet someone for the first time and start telling the person about your life and some secrets about yourself. The intimacy would have grown or developed before you open up.

David and Jonathan son of Saul were two great friends (1 Samuel 18:1). Jonathan revealed his father’s plan to kill David to him (1 Samuel 19:2) because they were true friends.

Abraham found favour in the eyes of God and their friendship grew in lips and bounds. God spoke with him and always direct him on what to do. God didn’t want to hide anything from Abraham because he had endeared himself to Him for some reasons.

(1) Abraham had a covenant with God (Genesis 17:2)

(2) Abraham obeyed God and kept to the terms of the covenant (Hebrews 11:8)

(3) God saw the faithfulness of his heart

(4) God saw that Abraham would certainly pass on to his generations unborn the mysteries of God (Genesis 18:17)

God charged us in Jeremiah 33:3 to call to Him and He will reveal thing we do not know. God can reveal His secrets to s when we are in right relationship with Him. What is your relationship with God? Do you obey His words and faithfully walk with Him? To be privy of heaven’s decision and plans, you should befriend God, having constant fellowship with Him.

Food For Thought: Those who live in communion with God will always have insight into the present and future.

Memory verse: Genesis 18:17

Prayer: Lord God, draw me closer and closer to yourself daily and always reveal to me your will for my life in Jesus name.

Have The Mindset of Christ

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Tuesday July 18, 2017

Topic: Have The Mindset of Christ

Text: Philippians 3:15 – 16

The word mature as used in our text was translated perfect in King James Version. It implies full grown, as opposed to babes or children. Full grown here is used for me and women who are grounded in the word of God (1 Corinthians 14:20 compare Hebrews 5:12 - 14).

The mature in this context means striving for perfection and not perfection. Our mindset determines our perspective of issues, the way we react and respond to issues. The mind factor here had to do with maturity; showing perfect love and manifesting itself in perfect humility through Christ.

Paul exhorts the full grown Christians to imitate His perseverance, urging them to forsake any claim to legal righteousness. He charged them to seek that righteousness which is through faith of Christ so as to know Christ; to win Christ and to press ever forward to obtain the prize. For us the present day Christians, the mindset Paul expects us to develop is having deep personal desire for a daily experience with God and the pursuit to be like Christ. It should be an experience that can give vitality and meaning to life.

To attain maturity expected of us in this Christian race, we should focus on knowing Christ the more (Philippians 3:8), having righteousness of Christ (Philippians 3:9) and desiring moral transformation which leads to encounter with the resurrection power (Philippians 3:10). This should be our concern as we race towards heaven.

Food for Thought: Christians must live like Christ or nothing else

Memory verse: Philippians 3:15

Prayer: Lord God, help me to have the mind of Christ which is love, obedience and humility

The Severity and Goodness of God

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Monday July 17, 2017

Topic: The Severity and Goodness of God

Text: Romans 11:22

Severity in this context means strictness or sternness. God in His powers and wisdom decided to put Israel aside for a time and offer salvation through faith to the world. This was a severe act but it was done in judgement to those that disobeyed (Romans 9:32 – 33). He has shown kindness to the Gentiles believers but Gentile believers must continue to trust in His kindness.

Trusting in His kindness refers to steadfast perseverance in faith. They should continually and penitently depend on Christ. Steadfastness is a proof of the reality of faith. If Gentile believers do not continue in perseverance in faith, they will be cut off, just as the natural branches (Israel) were cut off because of unbelief. God’s sternness (severity) was demonstrated to show us that faith was not automatic for the chosen people and His kindness was demonstrated in providing Gentiles with the opportunity for faith. This goes to show that we shouldn’t undermine what God can do.

As we are presently enjoying His grace, let us bear in mind that He is severe and can punish any act of disobedience and disloyalty. God is no respecter of any person. He is a consuming fire. When we fall on Him, we will be crushed and when He falls on us, there will be no remedy as we will grinded. Therefore, we should hold God in awe and obey His commands. That He is good does not mean that He can tolerate our disobedience and misconduct.

Food for Thought: Justice and mercy, goodness and severity are attributes or qualities eminently found in God

Memory verse: Romans 11:22

Prayer: God, grant me and all Christians the understanding that you are severe against disobedience and sin in Jesus name.

Obeying God Courageously

Synopsis of My Sermon at Cathedral Church of St. Peter Asaba today 16th July, 2017

Topic: Obeying God Courageously           

Text: Act 5: 26 – 29

Food for Thought: A true disciple of Christ, in all things denies his own will, however pleasing, and does the will of God, however painful.

Introduction: Obedience is doing what God says not counting the cost or implications. It was Emmons in PowerBible Online that said, “Obedience to God is the most infallible evidence of sincere and supreme love for him.” We have so many passages in the scriptures of men and women that were courageous in obeying God. Abraham (Genesis 22:1 – 3), Daniel and 3 Hebrew friends, Mary, mother of Jesus and the Apostles as we have in Acts 5:17 – 32 as examples.

Development: In our text is a challenging story for Christians of today. Since I became a Christian, I have never seen Christians as fearful as what we have in this decade. I always wonder where we have kept Christ our Saviour. The Apostles were remanded in prison for preaching and doing miracles in the name of Jesus. But an angel of God opened the prison and brought them out with the command to go back and continue preaching. They obeyed God’s instruction through the angel and went back to preach. If it were you and I of this generation, we will not go back again. These Apostles knew there was danger in facing the Chief priest and Sadducees that crucified Jesus Christ. If they could arrest and crucified Jesus, their case would have been a small one but that didn’t deter them. We know how the story ended.

Ø  It takes faith to obey God courageously as we have in the case of these Apostles, Abraham, Daniel, etc. This implies that courageous obedience is the fruit of faith. If your faith is not strong you cannot obey God fully and courageously. An example of this is in payment of tithe. If you don’t have faith, you won’t believe that your salary will be enough for you and your family for the month.  

Ø  Courageous obedience goes with conflicts, trials and temptations. We know the case of Job that it was his resolve to obey God that made Satan to afflict him with sickness. We know what the resolve of Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego led to. What of Daniel, Jeremiah and others? That we have conflicts, temptations and trials going with courageous obedience doesn’t mean that we should be scare of obeying God.

Ø  Courageous obedience attracts God’s intervention and blessings. We saw it in the case of Abraham, Jeremiah, Daniel, Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego, and the Apostles. In the case of Abraham, God said, "By myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son - blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies. In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.” Note also the aftermath of the deliverance of Daniel from Lion’s den, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego from the burning furnace. God does not only intervene, He also blesses us when we obey Him courageously.    

Application: Beloved, obedience to God is a command. Seneca Snr says, “We are born subjects and to obey God is perfect liberty. He that does this shall be free, safe and happy.” You can only find peace and be at liberty when you courageously obey and serve God. It is also a way to reach our desired goals in life. Today, many people are living in fear and can notice that in their prayers which are targeted against the enemies instead of asking for the blessings of God. Look at the example of the apostles! They didn’t begin to bind the powers of Chief Priest and Sadducees rather they asked for more boldness to preach the gospel.

Conclusion: Fear is evidence of love for the things of the world while courageous obedience is an evidence of a crucified life. Have you been crucified with Christ? If yes, continue to live for him without counting the cost or implications. If not, know that you are in danger and needs repentance. Today, as you accept Jesus into your life as Lord and Saviour, He will grant you the courage to live for Him and to obey Him.  

Let us pray: Thank God for His word. If you are here and you haven’t made Jesus your Lord and Saviour, pray and ask God to forgive you, accept Him into your life and ask Him to grant you the grace to live for and obey Him courageously henceforth. If you have been obeying God, ask for grace to continue to obey Him.

NB: DEAR READER, IF YOU HAVE NOT GIVEN YOUR LIFE TO CHRIST AND YOU ARE TOUCHED TO DO SO NOW, SAY THIS PRAYER:

Lord God, I come to you this day. I have been living in sin but your word has touched my heart. I repent of my sin. I acknowledge that I am responsible for my sinfulness. Have mercy upon me and forgive all my sins. Today, I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. Lord Jesus Christ, forgive my sins and blot out my name from the book of death and write my name in the life. Grant me the grace I need to live for you especially the grace to obey courageously. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour. Amen.

You can reach me for counseling and prayers on this place or write to me on morgantabu@yahoo.co.uk and I will arrange a chat with you. God bless you and have a great week.

With God, No Favouritism

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Sunday July 16, 2017

Topic: With God, No Favouritism

Text: Romans 11:16 – 21

God is no respecter of man. You may be His favourite today but if tomorrow you sin, He punishes you without looking at your face or blinking an eye. David’s case with Bathsheba and her husband, Uriah was a clear demonstration that God punishes even His favourite. Paul tells us that the reason why the Jews were broken off (Romans 11:20) was their unbelief. Again the only reason we (the Gentile) are still in place is because of our trust in God of the Jews. He thus warns us not to go the ways of the Jews God rejected or else He will not spare us. If God did not refrain from rejecting the Jews who became unbelievers assuredly He will not refrain from rejecting us in the same circumstance. Therefore, Paul advises us not to take God’s goodness and severity for granted (Romans 11:22 compare John 15:2; 1 Corinthians 15:2 and Hebrews 3:6, 14).

Beloved, with God there is no favouritism. God’s standard is the same whether you are a Jew or a Gentile, male or female, of black race or white, etc. As children of God, we should not be partial too. As Personnel Manager in your office, do you consider tribe, religion or relationship in offering employment to people? In the church, do you give your people certain position because they are your people? If we are called children of God, we must behave like God in all ramifications. God looks at the heart, no wonder He chose David instead of Eliab. Lastly, we should not think that as Christians today, we have made it to heaven. We should be mindful of what we do because any little slip or compromise can cause us our salvation. We must continue to take heed lest we fall off. God, help us to remain steadfast in Jesus name.

Food for Thought: It was possible that God could break off the Jews on the account of their unbelief. Certainly, He will not spare us if we follow suit.

Memory verse: Romans 11: 21

Prayer: Lord, grant me the grace to remain steadfast in faith and not to be partial in my dealing with people.

Enemies Of The Cross

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Saturday July 15, 2017

Topic: Enemies Of The Cross

Text: Philippians 3:17 – 19

In our bible reading for the day, Paul speaks of nominal Christians who used their liberty as a clock for licentiousness. They are enemies of the Cross according to Paul. Their evil lives bring shame upon the religion of the Cross. Paul criticized self-indulgent Christians, people who claimed to be Christians but couldn’t live up to Christ’s model of servanthood and self-sacrifice.

These enemies were professed believers who were corrupting the gospel by their immoral lives and false teachings (Galatians 1:7, 6:12 and Philippians 1:15 – 16). They were not opened and avowed enemies of the Cross nor did they deny that Jesus Christ didn’t die on the Cross to make atonement for our sins rather; they were living in a manner inimical to pure gospel. An immoral life is an enemy of the Cross of Christ who died to make us holy.

Someone becomes an enemy of the Cross when there is no evidence that the heart is renewed. Similar people are found in the churches today. Some are even in the altars. How are you living your life as a Christian? Are you among those that commit all forms of sins because they are no longer under the law (Romans 6:14 and 15)? Are you in the church keeping malice, committing fornication, practicing masturbation, you are still involved in corrupt practices, etc? You are an enemy of the Cross Repent before it would be too late

Food for Thought: Freedom in Christ doesn’t mean freedom to be selfish but taking every opportunity to serve and to become the best person you can be.

Memory verse: Philippians 3 verse 18

Prayer: Lord God, help me to avoid any sin that will make me an enemy of the Cross.

Yes My Redeemer Lives

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Friday July 14, 2017

Topic: Yes My Redeemer Lives

Text: Job 19:25

If we ever hope to reap from God’s goodness and mercies, we must have a good knowledge of Him. Here in our text is Job’s creed or confession of faith - his belief in God the Father Almighty, the Maker of heaven and earth, and the principles of natural religion, had often professed. Job believed in a living Redeemer and looked for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Job made his confession of faith in steadfastness of his belief in God.

What do you confess in times of trouble? Do not forget that what you confess matters a lot because life and death are in the power of tongue (Proverbs 18:21). Even when you are questioned about what you confess, don’t stop saying it. It will produce result for you, so long as it is the promise of God.

Jesus Christ our near kinsman has redeemed us after our heavenly inheritance was mortgaged by sin. He has paid our debt, satisfied God’s justice for sin, and so has taken off the mortgage and made a new settlement of our inheritance. Jesus Christ is our living Redeemer. Though He died on the Cross, He rose again. Although Job had lost all his wealth and friends, he was not separated from Christ. He trusted God and spoke prophetically about the Redeemer and resurrection.

In that your sickbed, that problem or trouble, what is your relationship with Christ? Do you still see Him as your Redeemer? Do you serve God only when things are good and you back out on Him when trouble comes your way? What is your take about Jesus? Is He your Redeemer?

Food for Thought: Strong confidence in God supports the soul in the deepest afflictions and causes it to rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Memory verse: Job 19:25

Prayer: Lord, even when the world turns against me, help me to understand that you are there for me as my living Redeemer.       

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Thursday July 13, 2017

Topic: A Delightful Land

Text: Malachi 3:9 -12

In our text is one of the blessings God has promised us when we honour Him with our tithes and offering (Malachi 3:9 – 12). Read through the passage and find out other blessings that go with tithing and offering. He assured that when Israel obey His word and honour Him with their tithes and offering, He would do great things amongst them which people would see and call their land delightsome.

What God promised was a peculiar blessing upon His people which would make their land a resemblance of Paradise, the garden of the Lord, Eden. When people begin to do what is expected, they will become delightsome. The period Malachi wrote this prophecy was a period of decay in the life of the Jews. They were actually waiting for the coming of the Messiah but not ready to comply with God’s demands hence, Malachi 3:1 – 3, 5 stated so. Is it similar to what we have today? Do a comparison of Malachi’s period and our present day society (Christianity).  

Beloved, has God made you a delight for people around you? Are there evidences of God’s delight in your affairs? Probably, you have not cared to obey God and live out His commandments.  That could be the reason why there are no evidences that God delights in you.

These are some of the things that will make God and people to delight in you: having the fear of God, wisdom from God, blessings of God, when you love peace, righteousness and charity. God can make you a delight only when you delight in Him also (Psalm 1:2, 37:4 and 119:92). When we honour God, He reciprocates. Begin to do that today.

Food for Thought: Total obedience to God brings blessings and makes us a delight

Memory verse: Malachi 3:12

Prayer: Lord, may I delight in you always so that you will bless me and make me a delight in the eyes of the world.

Put Away Pride To Excel

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Tuesday July 10, 2017

Topic: Put Away Pride To Excel

Text: John 19:1 – 6

Nothing good comes so easy and if we must gain anything meaningful and good, we must make extra effort, deny ourselves some pleasures, inconvenience ourselves and do some other sorts of things that many even be termed degrading to achieve what we desire or to attain our goals in life.

Zaccahaeus was a chief tax collector and a very rich man. He wanted to see Jesus to know what He is like; probably he had heard so much about Him. Unfortunately, he was of small stature. Seeing Jesus is something very few men desire. Can we say that faith or fancy made Zaccahaeus to climb the Sycamore tree to see Jesus? Some believe it was not faith but fancy that made him climb the Sycamore tree, to see Jesus. If that is accepted, his curiosity gave occasion to the belief of his heart. It is good to come near the place where Christ is, no matter the principles that bring us there because He is the source of everything good we desire in this life.

Zaccahaeus shelved aside position, fame, pride, wealth and the result was salvation. What extra effort can you make to receive salvation, healing, deliverance, blessings, etc? Is it to pray more, remove pride, study the word of God the more, attend church programme regularly, fast the more, etc. Think about it. Basketball legend Larry Bird says, “Push yourself again and again. Don’t five an inch until the final buzzer sounds.” Beloved, make extra effort and put away pride because son that miracle will unfold for you.

Food for Thought: “There is no comparison between that which is lost by not succeeding and that which is lost by not trying” – Francis Ball

Memory verse: Luke 19 verse 3

Prayer: Grant me the grace, O lord my God to put aside pride in order to achieve my life’s dream in Jesus name.   

Bear Much Fruit

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Monday July 10, 2017

Topic: Bear Much Fruit

Text: John 15:1 – 8

Nothing gladdens the heart of any farmer that we he sees his efforts bearing fruits as expected. It makes him so happy and He will want to do more. In the same way, nothing pleases God more than when his children are doing His will and bearing fruits for His kingdom. In fact God expects us to bear fruits as He charged Adam in Genesis 1:28. God loves those that obey and glorify Him. This is the secret Jesus revealed in this our text, that those that obey God and do His will are glorifying Him.

The best way to glorify God is to bear fruits. This is what is expected of us as Paul charged that we should abound in good works (1 Corinthians 15:58). The Spirit of God stimulates good works in us as we have in John 15:5 and being fruitful is an evidence or demonstration of true discipleship.

What fruit are you bearing? We have the fruits of the flesh (Galatians 5:19 – 21) and also the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22 – 23). In your office, do your words and actions show that you are a Christian, and do you bear fruit for Him there? As a driver, do you connive with the Motor Mechanic to defraud your boss? Do you make unnecessary claims for the money of the work you didn’t do?

Our fruits should glorify God and edify man.  Jesus Christ said that we are the light of the world and He also charged us to let our light shine. Are you among those whose lights appear dim or those whose lights are shinning for others to see? Therefore, live as Jesus Christ charged us in Matthew 5:16

Food for Thought: Whatever that is worth doing at all is worth doing well – Lord Chesterfield

Memory verse: Matthew 5:16

Prayer: Help me O Lord to bear fruits that will glorify you through my words and deeds in Jesus name. 

Enemies of God

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Sunday July 9, 2017

Topic: Enemies of God

Text: Romans 8:1 – 9

Anyone who is not in good terms with God practically cannot enjoy the rights and privileges a son gets from the father. Enmity against God (Romans 8:7) means that the person is opposed to God’s law and demands. One of the consequences of being in enmity with God is eternal condemnation.

What makes one an enemy of God? It is when your mind has not been renewed and it relishes earthly and sinful things (Romans 8:5a). Such person lives in opposition to the laws of God and can’t please God (Romans 8:8). This is so because they do not have the mind of Christ in them as Paul suggested in Philippians 2:5. Jesus said “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:21).

What is the condition of your mind? With what do you fill your mind? Our minds are essentially important and must be guided (Proverbs 4:23). Guide what comes in and what goes out of it. If you allow the word of God to fill your heart and mind, you will not be an enemy of God but if you fill your heart and mind with earthly things you will become an enemy of God. Striving with God will not be in our best interest if we make ourselves enemies of God. When you make yourself an enemy of God, be absolutely sure He will crush you.

Food for Thought: James 4:4

Memory verse: Romans 8:7

Prayer: Lord God, remove from me every form of carnality that makes me your enemy in Jesus name.

Stop The Harassment Of The Enemies

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Friday July 7, 2017

Topic: Stop The Harassment Of The Enemies

Text: 1 Samuel 17:31 – 54

Satan and his agents know how to harass the children of God. They intimidate Christians with laws against their faith as in the time of Daniel and his 3 Hebrews friends. Goliath’s harassing and intimidation of the Israelites for 40 days was embarrassing. Unfortunately, for the 40 days, no Israelite stood up to his challenge until a minor who had not even qualified and enlisted into the Israel’s army came into the scene and stopped the harassment from Goliath.

Goliath’s taunting revealed the level of faithlessness in the people of Israel. One man blocked the entire army of Almighty God, an army that had seen entire nation run before it in fear. The Israelites viewed the situation only in human terms, much like their forefathers had viewed with fear and faithlessness the giants in the land (Numbers 13:26 – 14:20).

Goliath was 9 feet, 9 inches tall and wore a coat of armour weighing 125 pounds; his bronze javelin weighed 17 pounds (1 Samuel 17:4 – 5). David’s confession in 1 Samuel 17:45 – 47 reveals a teen who knew God and what He can do. He knew that outward physical appearance were nothing when compared with the power of the unseen God. Thus he was determined to stop the harassment of the enemy. He stepped out and God honoured him.

This is how Satan and his agents harass us in our neighbourhood, offices, schools, etc., with laws against our faith. How do we treat such? Do we go into our shells or speak out for God? Or do we take a stand for God as the Hebrew boys did in the book of Daniel. Our God has ways of putting Satan and his agents to shame. Let’s not belittle Him when the enemies come, embarrassing us and defying His name

Food for Thought: Stopping the harassment of the enemies is best done in the spirit (2 Corinthians 10:14)

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 17 verse 12

Prayer: Help me O Lord my God never to close my eyes and mouth to the embarrassment of the enemies of the cross in Jesus name.

Serve God Without Conditions

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

When I was praying in the Church early Wednesday morning before the Holy Communion Service, I said, “GOD, GRANT ME THE GRACE TO LIVE WELL SO THAT I WILL MAKE HEAVEN AT LAST.” Immediately God told me that “I AM SELFISH.” Before I could ask how, He said, “YOU SHOULD SERVE ME BECAUSE YOU LOVE AS I LOVE YOU AND DIED FOR YOU.” As I heard God speak to me, I didn’t argue. I changed my language of prayer asking God to forgive and help me to love Him as He loves me which should be my aim of serving Him.

I spent time to meditate on what God told me before I went to preach. How many of us actually serve God without attachment to our service? How many of us will be in the church today if God didn’t promise heaven? How many of us will serve God today if the assurance of protection is not there? How many of us will still serve God wish all these worldly distraction from the devil and his agents? How many of us will serve God just because He loves us and died for our sake before we even came to know Him? Just few people would have been in the church today if God didn’t promise us heaven!

Beloved in Christ, what is your aim of serving God? It will be sad to focus on what we stand to gain from serving God than serving Him because He loves us and died for us when we were yet sinners. God didn’t attach any condition to the love He has for us. He loves us unconditionally and still blesses us even when we still compromise and sin against Him. The love for God should be the first motivation factor in serving Him. Any other thing can follow later. When He chose to die for us, He didn’t have the doubt if people will accept His death or not. Today is enough history of what He did for us.

St Matthew warns us saying, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” When we serve God and live out His righteousness, He will give us that heaven at last. We should not be carried away by the promises of God forgetting He who made the promise. Love God freely without attachments or sentiments and certainly He will grant you your heart desires.  

Tabugbo Uzoma

(Servant of God & Humanity) 

Where You are Now is not Enough

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Thursday July 6, 2017

Topic: Where You are Now is not Enough

Text: Philippians 3:8 – 14

Being complacent because you have attained a level of success is dangerous. The day I wrote today’s devotion, I bought a book titled WHERE YOU ARE IS NOT ENOUGH written by Freshmann J. N. Esq. At the back cover is the story of how Google approached the CEO of Yahoo in 1997 to buy Google at the cost of One Million dollars because they were not making profit. He refused, stating that it would be a bad investment. To him what he was making in Yahoo was okay. Six years later (2002), Yahoo tried to buy it again at three billion dollars but the founder of Google refused to sell. As at 2004, Google is worth Three hundred and ninety five billion dollars. What would have happened if Yahoo had bought Google then? There were not foresighted. They thought they were okay and today, they are regretting. They were satisfied with what they dad achieved.

Paul told the Philippians in our scriptural reading for the day that where he was then was not enough for him. He saw himself as someone who is not yet perfect despite all the miracles and things God had used him to do. He didn’t believe that he had accomplished anything. He was very hungry to do more and achieve more. There was the burning desire in him to do more for God. His achievement did not enter his head. He was still humble despite all his exploits for God.

As church militants, we are not yet perfect and cannot be perfect until our race is done. We are still vulnerable to sin and can fall off the faith (1 Corinthians 10:12). That you can pray and speak in tongues should not make you complacent. Let your accomplishment humble you and make you desire to do more for God. This should be so in your business and chosen career. Aspire for more height because there is still more room for that.

Food for Thought: Never give up! Keep your thoughts and your mind always on the goal – Tom Bradley

Memory verse: Philippians 3:12

Prayer: God, help me never to be carried away by my achievement so that I will not lose focus on heavenly goal in Jesus name.