Lord, Save Us

Devotion for Thursday February 1, 2018

Topic: Lord, Save Us

Text: Matthew 8:23 – 27

Sometimes, it may seem as if God neglects us when we are in danger but it is not always so as God is always there with us when we are in danger at the right time to save us especially when we call upon Him. No wonder His words say, “Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me." (Psalm 50:15). Jesus entered a boat and His disciples followed Him. While they were inside the boat, the tempest arose “but He was asleep.” Some of the disciples were used to such tempest as fishermen but unfortunately, they were also frightened that they called on Jesus to come to their rescue and save them. Of course Jesus arose and rebuked the wind and the sea and there was a great calm. The disciples were marveled at that act. These passages Psalm 65:7; 89:9 and 107:29 talk about God ruling over the raging sea, and calming the storm. These are Old Testament scriptures and our text is in the New Testament showing that such acts were either prophesied or known to people of the Old Covenant as attributes of God. For the disciples to become that fearful means they have not actually come to believe that Jesus was the Messiah despite the fact that they have been with Him. For men to be fearful when following the directions of Christ, shows that they lack confidence in Him but He rebuked the storm and saved them. Do not make room for fear in your heart as a Christian. Sing SS&S 661; Abu 327

Food for Thought: One advantage of trials is to make us know our weakness, so as to oblige us to have recourse to God by faith in Christ.

Memory verse: Matthew 8:25

Prayer: God may I always recourse to you for salvation in time of trouble for you alone are my Saviour.

The Example From Matthew

Devotion for Wednesday January 31, 2018

Topic: The Example From Matthew

Text: Matthew 9:9 – 13

Yesterday, we read about the terms and conditions Jesus Christ gave to those who would be His disciples. Today, we have an example from Matthew who became one of the Apostles of Jesus Christ. Matthew was in a tax office when Jesus met him. He requested that Matthew should follow Him and immediately he left everything and followed Jesus. He didn’t wait to write a resignation letter. He didn’t wait to hand over, he left everything immediately as Peter and his fishermen colleagues did and followed Jesus. 

In the previous chapter of this gospel, Matthew 8:18 - 22, we have the story of a man desiring to follow Jesus. When Jesus mentioned the terms and conditions, he withdrew. Jesus told the second one to follow him and he gave excuses of going to bury his father. The two men were opposite of what we saw in Matthew. His action shows his love for God is far greater than his love for his job, family or any other worldly possessions. This is what God expects from us. Our love for Him must be greater that our love for our jobs, families or any other worldly possessions. 

Are you willing to follow Jesus Christ the way Peter, Matthew and other Apostles followed Him? What are the things hindering your commitments to God? The example Matthew gave to us is a challenging one. Take up that challenge and prove your love for God. Sing A&M 331; Abu 109

Food for Thought: Have you left all to follow Jesus?

Memory verse: Matthew 9:9

Prayer: Grant me the grace, O Lord my God, to follow the example of Matthew in forsaking all to follow you in Jesus name. Amen. 

The Cost Of Following Jesus

Devotion for Tuesday January 30, 2018

Topic: The Cost Of Following Jesus

Text: Matthew 16:24 – 28

There are always terms and conditions which apply to any contract or agreement. In terms of our relationship with God, there are terms and conditions attached to it. Jesus came to establish the New Covenant. Our Catechism has it that Jesus commands us in the New Covenant to believe in Him and to keep His commandments with the promise to bring us into the Kingdom of God and give us life in its fullness. In our bible passage for the day, He states one of the conditions expected of would be disciples which is self- denial, taking up one’s cross and following Him. 

The words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 16:24 show us the 4 principles of the Christian life. 

1) He must have a sincere desire to belong to Christ - If any man desires to be my disciple. 

2) He should renounce self-dependence, and selfish pursuits – Let him deny himself. 

3) He should embrace the condition which God has appointed, and bear the troubles and difficulties he may meet with in walking the Christian road - Let him take up his cross. 

4) He should imitate Jesus by following Him even in suffering – Let him follow me. 

Everything in life has a cost attached to it. You cannot claim to be a disciple of Jesus without fulfilling these principles and conditions or else you will not be sincere in being His disciple. Have you met the terms and conditions of being a disciple? If not, there is still time for you to key into the conditions so as to benefit from His promises in the New Covenant. 

Sing SS&S 597; Abu 110

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.

Memory verse: Matthew 10:38

Prayer: Lord God, help me to deny myself, take up my cross and follow you all the days of my life in Jesus name. Amen

I Will Go With You

Devotion for Monday January 29, 2018

Topic: I Will Go With You    

Text: Genesis 46:4

Life we live goes with different challenges. The challenges of life come to our ways in order to make us fearful and unwilling to attempt things that will make us great in life. Some of the challenges bring so much fear that we may be forced to abandon our lives’ dreams. Despite these challenges of life, we should always have behind our minds that with the blessing of God upon our lives, we need not fear to undertake any service, make any sacrifice, or endure any trial that comes our way.

God saw how apprehensive Jacob was and decided to allay his fears with the words in Genesis 46:3 and 4. Again, those that go where God sends them shall certainly have God with them. Though Jacob never returned to Canaan, but God promised that his descendants would return. That Jacob would die in Egypt with Joseph at his side was God’s promise to Jacob that he would never know the bitterness of being lonely again.
What is that dream, proposal or journey God has placed in your heart to start or undergo? Are you apprehensive and skeptical about it? God is saying that He will go into it and you will be prosperous. Trust and believe God to go with you as He has promised.  He never fails.

Sing the song here in the food for thought

Food for Thought: He has promised, He will never fail, I will follow Him, I will follow Him, He has promised He will never fail; His faithfulness is forever more, His faithfulness, is forever more (Song).   

Memory verse: Genesis 46:4    

Prayer: God, go down with me into my business and work this year.

Do Not Fear To Go To Egypt

Devotion for Sunday January 28, 2018

Topic: Do Not Fear To Go To Egypt     

Text: Genesis 46:1 – 3                                       

There are places God has chosen to open His promises to us and bless us. The promise of making Jacob great was made by God in Genesis 28:13 – 15. God saw that the promise could only be fulfilled when he leaves Beersheba thus He encouraged him to leave for Egypt to also fulfill His word to Abraham (Genesis 15:3). God told Jacob to leave his home and travel to a strange and faraway land.

At about 130 years old; it was a long journey, and he was unfit to travel that far. However, God reassured him by promising to go with him and take care of him. He fulfilled it by making Israel a great nation in Egypt. They were 75 persons that left for Egypt and came out in millions. What a mighty God we serve!

When new situations or surroundings frighten us, we should recognize that experiencing fear is normal. However, to be paralyzed by fear is an indication that we are questioning God’s ability to take care of us. There is a place God has made chosen to bless and prosper you this year. At His command, move on to that place. All you need to do is ask for divine wisdom from God to get to that place of recognition and blessing. We should trust God to help us as we undertake various ventures this year. He will see us through. Don’t be afraid. Move on and He will make you great. 

Sing SS&S 561; Abu 188  

Food for Thought: Where has God promised to make you great?

Memory verse: Genesis 46:3

Prayer: Lord, lead me to the place you have promised to make me great.

Giving Is Source Of Abundance

Devotion for Saturday January 27, 2018

Topic: Giving Is Source Of Abundance

Text: Luke 6:30 – 38

Generosity in giving of material goods as well as love, compassion, and forgiveness of others will result in returned generosity from God and men to us in the same measure. Jesus wants us to be merciful and loving, not selfish or spiteful. He is against retaliation and the concept of an eye-for-an-eye recompense for wrongdoing. The illustration here is of blessings being returned in a bushel basket, filled to the brim, pressed down and shaken together to make room for more, then running over.

Jesus wants our measure of mercy and kindness to overflow. Those who give easily will find goodness coming back to them. Those who are stingy and reluctant givers will receive in the same way. Jesus assures that the recompense will be in good measure, pressed down shaken together and running over to accommodate more. Being liberal is the way to riches; giving is the best and surest way of thriving.

The woman of Zarephath gave her last and that opened doors of abundance for her. Beloved, if you want to live in abundance this year, plan and give; give to genuine needy people, widows, destitute, the Levites and others who will not return or recompense your good deeds. Surely, your reward will be great. Start today by giving what you have to that person that will ask for it.

Sing A&M 361; Abu 128

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

Memory verse: Luke 6:38

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

From Outcast To Celebrity

Devotion for Friday January 26, 2018

Topic: From Outcast To Celebrity

Text: Judges 11:1 – 11                                

Jephthah was known as outcast. He was rejected by his people because he was not “born in a legitimate way.” There are many born legitimately but have no achievement whatsoever to show for it, while many people termed ‘bastard’ have lived to become great and prosperous in the society. The story of Jephthah as we have in our text is an example that confirms the fact that noble parentage has little to do with what we become in life.

When his people in Gilead were face with impending war from Ammon, they remembered Jephthah as a man of valour and went to him to lead them to the war. He gave them a condition which they agreed on even with an oath. He that was despised became sought after and celebrity among the people that despised and rejected him.

Beloved, have people despised you and called you outcast, never-do-well and all sorts of names because of your past? Are you now a shadow of yourself because you are downcast and can’t raise your face in the public because of your past, parentage, your sins and failures you have experienced in life?  I reassure you that God has hidden some talents in you that will lift out of that past, sin or failure. God is waiting on you to take a step and your light will begin to shine for the world to acknowledge you. Those who hitherto had concluded that you can never succeed will come back to you for help. Sing A&M 181

Food for Thought: Judges 11:8             

Memory verse: Judges 11:11

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

I Will Not Leave You As Orphans

Devotion for Thursday January 25, 2018

Topic: I Will Not Leave You As Orphans 

Text: John 14:18 – 21                                        

When someone dear to you is leaving or parting from you, even temporarily, it is always emotional and it is even more disheartening when it is at the point where you have just started knowing each other, and have started enjoying the relationship. I still remember my last service as a Catechist at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Adonte. It was an emotional service. Tears flowed like a river. Even the Lay Reader who handled the church before I came did not hide his emotions as he wept openly during the service. I was the first Catechist and I served only 6 months. I left when they were beginning to enjoy my ministry.

Jesus had just been with the disciples for three years and now He was leaving. What do you think will be the feelings of His disciples who left everything to follow Him? Jesus knew what will be in their minds and thus He promises that He would continue to take care of them saying, “I will not leave you orphans.”

God’s care for us is continuous. Just as Jesus did not end His care for them but continued even after His death and resurrection, so His care for us will continue. We know that every year, people try to improve on what they were the previous year and so God will also improve on what He did for you last year. However, it depends on our love for Him and His word. The evidence of our love for Christ is obedience to His laws. Where sincere love to Christ is in the heart, there will be obedience. Love will be a commanding, constraining principle; and where love is, duty follows from a principle of gratitude. Sing A&M 399 with emphasis on Stanza 2

Food for Thought: God is able to keep and care for all those who entrust their lives to His care and protection.

Memory verse: John 14:18

Prayer: God, I rededicate myself and family to your care and protection this year. Grant us the grace to love and keep your commandments.

For The Benefit Of Others

Devotion for Wednesday January 24, 2018

Topic: For The Benefit Of Others

Text: 1 Corinthians 12:1 – 11

Every one of us created by God is endowed with gifts which should be used for the benefit of others and to the glory of God. We shouldn’t pride ourselves on what was given to us. Among those gifts are spiritual talents (1 Corinthians 12:1) as Paul mentioned in our text. He stated that the Spirit manifesting in us diverse gifts are meant to benefit all (1 Corinthians 12:7). All Christian gifts and graces come from the Holy Spirit. He bestows different measures of grace and means of influence upon different individuals, but always for the wisest reasons. Wisest reason here is for God to be glorified at the manifestation of the gifts. Paul admonished us to use them well (Romans 12:6 – 8). Anything that is short of this is not of God. 

What are the spiritual and physical gifts God has bestowed on you? How do you use them? We should not discriminate with our spiritual gifts; when to use it or not. Freely we received; freely we should give in whatever we have be it spiritual or physical. We should also understand that we will give account of how we used our gifts here on earth. Therefore, use them for the benefit of others whether they are your family members, relations, fellow Christians or unbelievers. The way we use our gifts will tell the world about our faith. Sing A&M 304; Abu 233

Food for Thought: How many people are benefiting from the gifts of God upon you?

Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 12:7

Prayer: May I use my gifts, O Lord, for the benefit of all without discrimination in Jesus name.

Every Gift And Blessing From God Has A Price Tag

Devotion for Tuesday January 23, 2018

Topic: Every Gift And Blessing From God Has A Price Tag

Text: Genesis 39:7 – 19

It is never a mistake that God made some people beautiful or handsome. The way some people abuse these blessings and gifts, gives me cause for concern. God has never made mistake in blessing us. If we abuse our gifts, we will pay dearly for it. Our beauty, blessings and gifts are snare to us because they will either make or mar us. It forbids pride in it, and requires constant watchfulness against the temptation that attends it. 

On the other hand, we should have full control over our eyes, lest they infect our hearts. Potiphar’s wife couldn’t set off her eyes from Joseph in her husband’s house, lusting after him (Genesis 39:7). She became a snare for Joseph because he was handsome and a young man of honesty and integrity. When Joseph refused to consent to her request, she framed-up Joseph and he was subsequently imprisoned. The frame up and imprisonment was the price Joseph paid for the gift God gave to him. 

Many people have paid similar prices. Some fell into the hands of the devil and his agents. Some after the fall could not even summon courage to rise again. There is nobody gifted by God in terms of beauty, handsomeness, intelligence or talent that hasn’t been tempted or that will not be tempted. What matters is your reaction when temptations come. Will you yield to their temptation because you want to avoid going to prison or being punished? If you have framed up or betrayed someone, God requires you to go and make necessary restitution. Despite the price Joseph paid, God was with him and he was loved and privileged above all others in the prison. Sing SS&S 235; Abu 183

Food for Thought: Every gift and blessings from God has a price tag.

Memory verse: Genesis 39:19

Prayer: Grant me the grace I need O God, never to abuse your gift upon my life or a stumbling block to other people because of their gifts.

In A Moment Of Weakness

Devotion for Monday January 22, 2018

Topic: In A Moment Of Weakness

Text: Genesis 25:29 – 34  

If you have ever given away a valuable possession and later regretted it, you will probably recall that you made that decision of giving out that valuable possession under pressure or in a moment of weakness. At that time, resistance seemed impossible. A birthright was a special honour given to the firstborn son (Genesis 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, Esau could not see beyond his exaggerated sense of need. His words in Genesis 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 face similar decisions. For example, under sexual temptation, a marriage vow may seem unimportant. What pressures do you face at the moment? 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. May God help us in such times in Jesus name, Amen! Sing A&M 184

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

Memory verse: Genesis 25:32

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

Prove Your Patriotism

Devotion for Sunday January 21, 2018

Topic: Prove Your Patriotism        

Text: Nehemiah 1:5 – 11              

Nehemiah’s prayer was nationalistic in nature which is a clear evidence of his patriotism. He started his prayer by recalling the attributes and promises of God (see Exodus 20:6). He was specific about the deplorable condition of Jerusalem which he attributed to sin of the Israelites (Nehemiah 1: 6 & 7 see Deuteronomy 28:15). He didn’t exonerate himself and his family. He remembered the promise of God concerning repentance and restoration (Nehemiah 1:8 – 10 see Leviticus 26:33, 39; Deuteronomy 4:25-27, 29; 28:64). He prayed for favour in the eyes of the king he serves. We should note that the best way to obtain favour from men is to plead with God in whose hand lie the hearts of men. His approach to national problem of Israel is a challenge for us Christians of this generation. 

We are the major contributors to the problem of corruption, insecurity, political violence and all manner of social vices that are affecting us today by our inability to pray and to do what is expected of us. How often do we even care to know what is happening in our nation? Nehemiah asked and that prompted him into prayer. When we hear of national issues, does it prompt us to pray or do we begin to analyze it, blaming people at leadership position and exonerating ourselves? It is our duty to pray for our nation. Let this be uppermost in our hearts. Sing SS&S 1138; Abu 240

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

Memory verse: Nehemiah 1:7

Prayer: Lord, lay a great burden in my heart and hearts of other Christians in this nation to pray for her always in Jesus name. Amen

Be A True Patriot

Devotion for Saturday January 20, 2018

Topic: Be A True Patriot

Text: Nehemiah 1:1 – 4                         

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

Today we have men and women who are in high positions but cannot do anything good for their people. They are so self-centered that they don’t even care what happens in their villages/towns. Some Christians don’t pay contributions for development of their communities. Some don’t pay their taxes and rates to government. Yet they criticize the government. These acts are not Christ-like. Jesus gave us example in Matthew 17:25 – 27.

As Christians we should show the light first among our people and to others. We should have concern about the welfare of our communities and the nation at large. Nehemiah heard about the condition of Jerusalem and went into prayers (Nehemiah 1:4). How much do we pray for our nation and communities? We desired change in our nation and communities but wait for someone else to bring it. Why not become the change by being a true patriot? Sing SS&S 798; Abu 29

Food for Thought: What can you do to improve the welfare of your community?

Memory verse: Nehemiah 1:4

Prayer: Grant me the burden to always pray and work for the good of my community and my country at large in Jesus name. Amen.

Wisdom For Godly Living

Devotion for Friday January 19, 2018

Topic: Wisdom For Godly Living

Topic: Psalm 39:1 – 4

The best virtue we can develop is the virtue of taming our mouths or observing the oath of silence. Words we speak are very sensitive and can be used against us. James emphasized on the use of mouth when he said, “But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison” – James 3:8. In our bible reading, David meditates on human frailty and prays for wisdom to live Godly life. He asserts that he must be cautious because of his enemies; he must be patient because of his afflictions; he must be watchful over his tongue, lest he offends God, or give his enemies any reason to speak evil of him. These resolutions David made is what every Christian who wants to live a Godly life should undertake. We run into problem most times when we fail to tame our tongue especially when we are in the public or surrounded by enemies. Just like James noted, the tongue is an unruly evil and full of deadly poison. The ability to tame our tongue will definitely help us to avoid troubles and problems of life. David had shown his desire to live a godly life in this prayer he said here. How do you desire to live your life especially in our world of today where love is confessed but scare? You should adopt the example David gave here so that you will live with wisdom; not falling into problems with people around you. 

Sing A&M 356; Abu 186

Action: Write and paste in a conspicuous position how best you will want to live a godly life this year.     

Memory verse: James 3:2

Prayer: O Lord, my God help me to tame my tongue and to apply wisdom in the life I live in Jesus name. Amen

Be Courageous In A Time Like This

Devotion for Thursday January 18, 2018

Topic: Be Courageous In A Time Like This           

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 7                                            

Living a righteous life in a society that has so many challenges demand courage and implicit trust in God. Our society today is faced with challenges of poor economy, the issue of herdsmen killing people, corruption, and armed robbery, Boko Haram, Badoo, Insurgency and many others. To live amidst these challenges need courage and grace of God.

Joshua had assumed the leadership of Israel and now has the mandate to lead them into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:1, 2). God gave him all the assurances he needed and some strategies to lead well and prosper.

Here are some of them. He said that to succeed Joshua must (1) be strong and courageous because the task ahead would not be easy, (2) obey God’s law, and (3) constantly read and study the Book of the Law – The Bible.

If we intend to be successful in our endeavours and live well despite the challenges confronting our nation, we should follow God’s instruction to Joshua. We need to be strong in faith and be courageous in following God. Do not despair. You can live well amidst these challenges if you trust God. He is the one that can make all things possible. As you live for Him, He will surely protect, provide and make you a success in your endeavours.

Sing Hymn: COURAGE, BROTHER! DO NOT STUMBLE (Tune Stuggart) Abu 215

1) Courage, brother! do not stumble    2) Though the road be rough and dreary,

Though thy path be dark as night;               And its end far out of sight;

There’s a star to guide the humble:            Foot it bravely; strong or weary, 

“Trust in God, and do the right.”                 “Trust in God, and do the right.” 

3) Perish policy and cunning,            4) Some will hate thee, some will love thee,  

Perish all that fears the light!                Some will flatter, some will slight;

Whether losing, whether winning,       Cease from man, and look above thee:

“Trust in God, and do the right.”          “Trust in God, and do the right.”

5) Simple rule, and safest guiding,         6) Courage, brother! do not stumble,

Inward peace and inward might,                Though thy path be dark as night;

Star upon our path abiding,                         There’s a star to guide the humble:

“Trust in God, and do the right.”                 “Trust in God, and do the right.”

Food for Thought: Despairing about challenges doesn’t remove them. It takes courage to face them and to overcome.

Memory verse: Joshua 1:7  

Prayer: Lord God, make me strong and grant me the courage to faithfully follow you courageously in a time like this in Jesus name. Amen.

Extravagant Grace

Devotion for Wednesday January 17, 2018

Topic: Extravagant Grace                             

Text: John 8:1 – 11                                             

When Jesus called on someone without sin to throw the first stone on this woman caught in the very act, the leaders slipped away one by one, from oldest to youngest. As Life Application Commentary noted, “Evidently the older men were more aware of their sins than the younger. Age and experience often temper youthful self-righteousness.”

Every human being has a sinful nature and is desperately in need of forgiveness and transformation. If we are invited today to throw a stone on that woman, I know we wouldn’t have thrown the first stone because we cannot claim that we have not sinned. We would have also walked away.

Actually no one could claim he or she is sinless so as to throw a stone this woman. Jesus had exposed their hypocrisy and embarrassed them. They went back in shame to think of some other ways to trap Jesus. No one had accused the woman, and Jesus kindly said that He would not condemn her either. Thus she was released through extravagant grace God shows sinners.

Jesus secured her freedom from the Pharisees and to free her from her sins said, “Go and sin no more.” Jesus didn’t condemn her, but neither did he ignore or condone her behaviour. Jesus told the woman to leave her life of sin.

As we have been graciously brought to this new day, we should not abuse the grace of God. He expects to see righteousness in us. Don’t think you deserve to be alive; it is by God’s grace. Live in gratitude like this woman having received God’s grace. Sing A&M 352; SS&S 581; Abu 195

Food for Thought: How grateful are you to God for the grace He showers on you?

Memory verse: John 8:11

Prayer: Lord, I am alive by your grace. Help me to live my life in gratitude for this singular honour in Jesus name. Amen.

Ask Me And I Will Tell You

Devotion for Tuesday January 16, 2018

Topic: Ask Me And I Will Tell You

Text: Jeremiah 33:1 – 5

God is so loving and merciful. He knows how best we can live and serve Him better. He doesn’t want to wander aimlessly in the dark. He is the light and wants us to be and walk in the light too. Whatever will bring doubt in us and make us afraid, He will want to eliminate such. Hence, His words form the topic for the day. Life is full of uncertainties. Even this day, we are not sure of what will happen in the next hour. Because of such uncertainties, God calls on us in our bible reading for the day to ask and He will tell us what lies ahead, how best to handle issues, the ways to attain success and the best way to serve Him and humanity. Jesus Christ also gave same assurance in Matthew 7:7. Beloved, do you know what lies ahead of you this year? What do you think will bring success and progress for you? How best do you think you can serve God? How do you want to handle that troublesome

neighbour? If really you don’t have answers to these and many more questions agitating your mind, then you should ask God to tell you. Nothing takes God unawares. He knows your tomorrow and what it holds for you. He is in the right position to advice you. Remember that he who asks for direction never misses his way. Ask God for direction on ways to go, how to do things today and all the days of your life, and you will always meet with progress and success. Sing SS&S 319; Abu 249

Food for Thought: Someone who asks questions never misses his way

Memory verse: Jeremiah 33:3

Prayer: Grant, O God that I will always seek your counsel whenever I am confused or in doubt in Jesus name. Amen.

Good Influence of Godly Citizens

Devotion for Monday January 15, 2018

Topic: Good influence Of Godly Citizens

Text: Proverbs 11:11 (The Living Bible)

This passage of the scripture has a very important message for today’s Christians in our country. Many Christians of our time are not what they actually confess to be. I have continued to wonder whether we have the understanding of what our social responsibilities are. Our text speaks about the goodly influence expected of us as citizens of this country. The Living Bible translates this verse thus: “The good influence of godly citizens causes a city to prosper but the moral decay of the wicked drives it downhill.” The good influence of godly citizen comes in form of praying for the city, living by example and speaking against evil. Before 1980s, when neighbour sees your child misbehave in the public, he will punish the child and immediately and comes back to report to you. You will even commend him for such kindness toward your family. However, it is no longer obtainable in our society. When you try such, the kind of abuse and condemnation you will receive will drive cold into your marrow. Today, our society has become worse because there is no influence of the godly citizens. There are so many ills ravaging the society and check the names of people involved, you will see Christians among them. Who are the people that cheat; throw their bins into gutters, hide people’s files in offices, give and take bribes and many other evils of our time? Where is your influence as a Christian? What kind of words comes out of your mouth about this country? Do you spread hates and bitterness instead of love, peace and unity? Sing A&M 349; Abu 170

Food for Thought: What influence has your Christianity on your neighbours and neighbourhood?

Memory verse: Proverbs 11:11

Prayer: God make my Christianity influential on my neighbourhood in Jesus name. Amen.

Don’t Shut Your Hands

Devotion for Sunday January 14, 2018

Topic: Don’t Shut Your Hands

Text: Deuteronomy 15:7 – 8

This passage is similar to Leviticus 25:35 – 37. Due to the foregoing laws in the previous verses, Moses admonished the Israelites not to shut their hands against the poor. He exhorts them not to be mean and selfish but to develop a liberal spirit of charity and kindness which will secure for them the divine blessings (Romans 12:8 & 2 Corinthians 9:7). Also in Leviticus 25:35 – 37, Moses charged them to relieve the poor; by not taking interest or increase, for what was needful for the poor man's support (Leviticus 25:36–37). This is what Christianity demands from us. The Psalmist added his voice on this matter and stated that there are promises attached to the command of taking care of the poor in Psalm 41:1 and 112: 9. Just as stated earlier, if we desire to secure divine blessings from God, we should be ready and ever willing to open our hands to the poor and the needy. If God has blessed you enough, you should make a regular provision for some of the poor people in your neighbourhood. Securing all the worldly goods for yourself and your children alone while people around you are living in abject poverty is the highest level of wickedness. Plan and put someone poor you know into your budget and God will bless you the more. Sing A&M 361; Abu 128        

Food for Thought: Leviticus 25:35 – 37          

Memory verse: 1 John 3:17

Prayer: O Lord, may I not shut my hands against the needy when I have what they need from me in Jesus name. Amen.'

Utilize Your Talents/Gifts – The Example of Mary

Devotion for Saturday January 13, 2018

Topic: Utilize Your Talents/Gifts – The Example of Mary

Text: Matthew 26:6 – 13

Matthew and Mark didn’t mention the name of this woman that anointed Jesus. It was John that mentioned her name as Mary the sister of Martha and Lazarus of Bethany (John 11:1 – 2). She had a precious oil of great value at home and decided to anoint Jesus with it before His crucifixion and death. Many people who witnessed it including his disciples were indignant about it. They queried the rationale behind such a ‘waste.’ Even if the oil was sold and money given to the poor, what would have the buyer used the oil for? However, Jesus Christ was quick to rebuke them saying that what Mary did was good for the reasons he advanced in Matthew 26:10 – 12. He also quickly added that Mary’s act will become a memorial of her and her name will be mentioned wherever the gospel would be preached. 

Beloved in Christ, what would have made Mary to become a household name if not for utilizing her gift to serve God? Your story and destiny can still change if you can use what you have to serve God this year. Yours may be your time, strength/power, money, wealth or any other thing with which God has blessed you. As you use any of your gifts or talents in the service of God and humanity, you will certainly be making a memorial for yourself. It will change your destiny and bring you before men. Sing A&M 357; Abu 193

Food for Thought: Using our gifts/talents for the service of God and humanity is the best way to appreciate the giver of the gifts/talents.

Memory verse: Matthew 26:7

Prayer: Lord God, help me to appreciate you, the source of my gifts through serving you and humanity in Jesus name. Amen.

Utilize Your Talents/Gifts – The Example of Peter

Devotion for Friday January 12, 2018

Topic: Utilize Your Talents/Gifts – The Example of Peter

Text: Luke 5:1 – 11

Peter and his colleagues had toiled all night without anything to show for their efforts. Apparently, they were set to go home and rest because they were already washing their nets when Jesus appeared and requested to use their boat. Some people would have seen the request as adding to their frustration because it means they would stay longer. But Peter gave out his boat. He didn’t take time to consider the request. He acted promptly. 

Beloved, God is requesting to use that your property for the sake of the gospel. Will you oblige him? After using Peter’s boat, Jesus commanded them to go for a catch. Though Peter, as a professional fisherman tried to bring reason into the command, acted as commanded. The result was amazing and outstanding. It contradicted the laws and principles of fishing. For allowing Jesus use what he has, brought Peter into one on one with Jesus Christ the Saviour of mankind. That turned the story of Peter. 

Dear child of God, do you know that making what you have available for the Master’s use can change your life and destiny? Had Peter and his colleagues gone ahead to sell the fish, they would have made fortune out of the catch but they saw a far greater blessing in following Jesus Christ and thus they abandoned all and followed Him. That singular act and decision of Peter changed his life, story and also immortalized his name. Yours can be so if you will give your talent/gift for the Master’s use. Sing SS&S 798; Abu 239

Food for Thought: All we can hold in our cold dead hands is what we have given away. -Sanskrit Proverb

Memory verse: Luke 5:3

Prayer: Lord, as I give in charity and for the gospel what you have used in blessing me, may your blessings come upon me the more in Jesus name. Amen.

Utilize Your Talents/Gifts – The Example of David

Devotion for Thursday January 11, 2018

Topic: Utilize Your Talents/Gifts – The Example of David

Text: 1 Samuel 16:14 – 23

In our clime, a musician was seen as never do well until recently. Most musicians of 1980s back ended up poorly. Then, nobody wants his child to be a musician but it was music that distinguished David and brought him to limelight in Bible days. No talent from God is too small or unworthy to be despised. I once read about a Yoruba woman without a degree that lectures in Harvard on fine art. The gift of that woman made way for her. This was the case of David to as we have in our bible reading for the day. He was skilled in playing musical instrument and when the spirit of God departed from Saul, one of his aides suggested David as one who was skilled in playing music that can calm his melancholy. It was in that service, he rose to prominence in the land of Israel that Saul became envy of him and sought for ways to kill him. The story of David and Saul teaches us that no amount of envy against you and your talent/gifts can stop what God has ordained to be in your life. Are you talented and people are against you in your office, neighbourhood, and school or church that people are now plotting your downfall or how to eliminate you? Their plan cannot work. If Saul didn’t succeed in killing David, they will not succeed in your case. Keep using your gifts and touching lives. God will perfect his words in your life.  Sing A&M 361; Abu 128

Food for Thought: No talent/gift is inconsequential. Therefore use your talent to make name for yourself.

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 16:18

Prayer: Almighty God, grant that I will not undermine the gift in me.

Utilize Your Talent/Gifts – The Example of Joseph

Devotion for Wednesday January 10, 2018

Topic: Utilize Your Talent/Gifts – The Example of Joseph

Text: Genesis 40:5 – 23

Joseph’s gift/talent was to dream and interpret the dreams. He was not stingy with that gift. He dreamt about his brothers bowing to him as a king and another time his parents bowing to him. His dreams elicited hatred from his brothers who sold him into slavery. But being a slave didn’t stop him from using his talents even while in prison, he interpreted the dream of Pharaoh’s servant. Some people would have ignored those servants but not Joseph. He showed concern towards their sadness and inability to understand their dreams. When they told him about their dreams, he gave the right interpretation. His appeal that chief butler should remember him was ignored but he continued his life until another opportunity came when Pharaoh dreamt and there was no interpreter. Then he was remembered. His gift sorted him out and he came out from prison to become a Prime Minister in a foreign land. The way you use your gift matters to God and humanity. God who gave you that gift expects you to use it to serve Him and humanity, and until you begin to use them it cannot manifest the more and bring you before men. If Joseph had shown indifference to the fellow prisoners, when the need arose for an interpreter, he wouldn’t have been remembered. Therefore put your gift into use and it will sort you out. Sing SS&S 1138, Abu 240

Food for Thought: Talent without tact is only half talent – Horace Greeley.

Memory verse: Genesis 41:13

Prayer: God, help me to utilize the gift you gave me just as Joseph did and let it bring me before great men in Jesus name. Amen.