Lay Your Trophies at His Feet: Devotion for Saturday September 19, 2020

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Devotion for Saturday September 19, 2020

Topic: Lay Your Trophies at His Feet    

Text: 1 Samuel 17:54                           

There are many reasons David won the heart of God. One of them is what he did in our text. He surrendered insignia of his exploit in that battle to God. A youth like that was so humble that he didn’t want a show off rather, he laid that “trophy” at God’s feet. Great exploits God uses us to perform or miracles God did for us can be a source of temptation to arrogate the glory to ourselves, making our heads swell.

If some of us were David, we would have erected a 20m by 15m sign post showing us and Goliath requesting that people should come and see the man who killed the giant. Our houses would have turn into tourist centres and we will request that people should pay money before they can see David and shake his hand. In this our clime, everything is now money.

However, it was not so with David. He took the sword to God’s house and went home. He did not allow that exploit to enter his head. He laid the trophy at God‘s feet. He dedicated the sword of Goliath as a votive offering to the Lord. 1 Samuel 21:9 confirms that David kept Goliath’s sword at the tent that houses the Ark of the Covenant. A lesson and challenge for us.

When God uses us to perform miracles or to do exploits, how do we react? Does it enter our heads as if there is none like us? In Acts 14:8ff, Paul healed a crippled man who hasn’t walked since birth in Lystra. They termed him Hermes and Barnabas was called Zeus. The priest in charge of that temple of Zeus in Lystra brought oxen and garlands to the gates, intending to sacrifice with the multitudes (Acts 14:13). But Paul resisted them (Acts 14:14).

We shouldn’t take the glory that belongs to God. When we are used by God, we should appreciate Him in humility and return all the glory to Him.

Food for Thought: Humble disposition is the best way to honour God for what He has made us.

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 17 v 54

Prayer: Lord, grant me the grace never to take the glory that belongs to you.

God Honours Our Faith: Devotion for Friday September 18, 2020

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Devotion for Friday September 18, 2020

Topic: God Honours Our Faith                      

Text: 1 Samuel 17:48 – 53                           

Who would have believed that David will kill Goliath the way he went into the encounter with him? He went against every military device and tactics. He didn’t go with sword, no spear, no shield, no gun though there was none then, etc. Rather he went with a catapult and five stones.

Going with mere catapult was a slight in the eyes of Goliath and he never bothered about David’s style. Unfortunately for him, he never knew that his coming was not just ordinary. See how frail and uncertain life is, even when a man thinks himself best fortified; how quickly, how easily, and by how small a matter, the passage may be opened for life to go out, and death to enter! No wonder the assertion Paul gave in 2 Corinthians 10:4 – 6. David prevailed with a sling (catapult) and a stone. God honoured his faith. Of recent Archeologists found the skull of Goliath to confirm what this biblical story.

Let not the strong man glory in his strength, nor the armed man in his armour. God resists the proud, and pours contempt on those who defy him and his people. No one ever hardened his heart against God and prospered. The strongest as well as the weakest are dependent upon God, and that expectation which rests on creatures is liable at any time to be disappointed.

One lesson for us here is that when we rely on God in times of challenges, He will always glorify Himself but when we go on our own wisdom and strength, we will definitely fail. Therefore, beware when you think you stand because you will fall if care is not taken.

Food for Thought: No one defies God and goes scot free.

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 17 v 50

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, may I not glory in my strength rather humble me to depend on you in anything I need strength to perform in Jesus name.

Faith: Key For Victory: Devotion for Thursday September 17, 2020

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Devotion for Thursday September 17, 2020

Topic: Faith: Key For Victory                         

Text: 1 Samuel 17:40 – 47                        

David approached the Goliath with faith in Jesus and not sword which signifies the five stones he took. JESUS and FAITH are five letters each.

When David appeared, Goliath looked at him with disdain and these were his word: "Am I a dog that you come to me with sticks?" And the Philistine cursed David by his gods.” Matthew Henry summed up our text thus: “The security and presumption of fools destroy them. Nothing can excel the humility, faith, and piety which appear in David's words. He expressed his assured expectation of success; he gloried in his mean appearance and arms, that the victory might be ascribed to the Lord alone.” How foolish Goliath acted because, he thought all his victories were of his gods but God brought him to Israel to humiliate him since he failed to acknowledge God as source of his victories.

The size and stature of Goliath could have deterred anyone but not David. He was optimistic that God will see him through even as God promised in Deuteronomy 20:1 – 4. His words were filled with humility, faith and confidence of success because he knows His God. “All the strength and force of man comes from his faith in things unseen. He who believes is strong; he who doubts is weak. Strong convictions precede great actions” as Adam Clarke posited. This was true of David.

We also need faith to be strong as we face life’s challenges daily. Keep focused and trust Him to see you through your day’s appointments and schedules; trust Him to fight your battles and trust him to provide for your needs.

Food for Thought: “Faith, mighty faith the promise sees and rests on that alone; laughs at impossibilities, and says it shall be done” – Wesley

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 17 v 45

Prayer: Lord, as I meditate daily on your word, build my faith so that I will laugh at impossibilities, and say it shall be done in Jesus name.

Just Mere Intimidation: Devotion for Saturday September 5, 2020

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Devotion for Saturday September 5, 2020

Topic: Just Mere Intimidation      

Text: 1 Samuel 17:1 – 11                                

I once read a story of a young Christian in the United States of American army who was always preaching the word of God to fellow soldiers. He never hid his faith. This did not go down with his captain in the military who always challenge him that there is no God.

One day, this captain wanting to make mockery of this young Christian gave him key to a car without engine and asked him to go and start the car. Initially, he protested that he can’t drive. Unknown to the young man that there was no engine, he prayed fixed the key into the ignition and started the car. From that day, the Captain came to acknowledge that indeed there is God. If the young soldier had taken to heart the intimidation of his Captain.

Philistines used their giant Goliath to intimidate Israelites. Not only did he intimidate the people, he also defied the God of Israel. This was insult on the God we serve. Unfortunately, Saul and his soldiers did not see it as intimidation and defilement of their God. It took David a boy to see it so. Thank God for David who rebuked him and killed him in disgraceful way.

There are many ways the enemies intimidate us; by instilling fear in us, making mockery of our faith as the Captain we mentioned earlier, demanding that we do some things that are beyond reasoning, by proclaiming sanctions and fines against us, etc. We have a clear example in Daniel 3:8 – 12 and 6:4, 5. These young Jews held on to their faith and God honoured them.

Are you being intimidated in your school, office, neighbourhood, home, etc., because of your faith? Never mind their intimidation. Hold on to God. He will not disappoint you. He did not disappoint Daniel and his compatriots and He will not disappoint you. 

Food for Thought: Intimidation is devil’s weapon to weaken our faith.

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 17 v 10

Prayer: My Father in heaven, make my faith stronger amidst all forms of intimidation of the enemies in Jesus name.

David’s Sincere Love for Saul: Devotion for Thursday July 16, 2020

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Devotion for Thursday July 16, 2020

Topic: David’s Sincere Love for Saul       

Text: 2 Samuel 1:17 – 27                 

When the news of Saul’s death came to David, he was still in exile in the land of the Philistines occasioned by Saul’s treat to kill him. Here in our text, he mourned the death of who we can see as his avowed enemy. He was touched by the way the anointed of God died.

There are many characters of David that are worthy of emulation. Some of them are in our text for the day. David was sincere about this. An evidence of his sincerity was the fact that he did not immediately take over from Saul. He consulted to gain the people’s approval. Some people would have amplified the news of Saul’s death among the people that harboured him but not David.

In 2 Samuel 1:20, he said, “Tell it not in Gath, Proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon, lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.” He urged the daughters to Israel weep over Saul (2 Samuel 1:24). This shows he had no grudges over Saul and his hatred for him.

What David did is a challenge for us today. How many Christians of present generation can demonstrate such love for one who has openly declared that he is your enemy? Some of us would have taken the opportunity to speak evil about Saul to gain favour from the Philistines and other Israelites. David is a type of Christ indeed. No wonder he is a man after God’s heart. Those of us who wish our enemies to die would have gone to Church for a thanksgiving that Saul their worst enemy is dead. If you have such mind, repent because of words of God in Matthew 5:44; Romans 12:20.

Food for Thought: “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you” Luke 6:27, 28.

Memory verse: 2 Samuel 1:20

Prayer: I need your grace O Lord, to love my enemies. Help me to sincerely do this, I pray in Jesus name.

End of Favour Seekers: Devotion for Wednesday July 15, 2020

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Devotion for Wednesday July 15, 2020

Topic: End of Favour Seekers     

Text: 2 Samuel 1:11 – 16           

The story of this young Amalekite and David has some lessons for us. He had come to give David the message about the death of Saul, with the mind of getting a reward or a pat at the back. Unfortunately for him, David was not a man tolerates such acts of favour seeking and sycophancy. He used the words of his mouth to judge him. David had to put to death, the man who brought the tidings because he confessed that he murdered the king.

In ordering the execution of the Amalekite, David did not do unjustly; the Amalekite confessed to the crime. If he did as he said, he deserved to die for treason; and if he was lying to David, if indeed it were a lie, he proved that he is not reliable and should face the consequences of telling lies. Thus, David showed himself zealous for public justice, without regard to his own private interest.

Beloved, there are dangers in telling lies or running down others in a bid to gain favour. We have just seen how this young Amalekite ended. Are you a favour seeker in your office, telling stories and lies against other members of your office simply because you want to be in good books of your boss? Repent of it. There are consequences of such act. If actually you need favour from your boss, why not do it without telling lies against people. Remember, we shall be judged for every idle word that comes out of our mouth.

Food for Thought: Matthew 12:36 - But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the Day of Judgment.

Memory verse: 2 Samuel 1:16

Prayer: God, make me to be conscious of the consequences of favour seeking so I will always distance myself from it in Jesus name. 

Favour Seekers: Devotion for Tuesday July 14, 2020

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Devotion for Tuesday July 14, 2020

Topic: Favour Seekers             

Text: 2 Samuel 1:1 – 10                       

The true account of Saul’s death is in 1 Samuel 31:3 and 4. The young man from Amalek was evidently lying. Probably he had come upon Saul dead and thought David would reward the person who had killed his rival. This was enough evidence to show that he was a favour seeker. The man pretended to be the one who had killed Saul and he brought along Saul’s insignia of royalty for proof.

This messenger presents himself to David in the posture of a mourner for the deceased King and a subject to the succeeding one. He came with his clothes rent, and made obeisance to David, pleasing himself with the fancy that he had the honour to be the first that did him homage as his sovereign. Unfortunately, David judged him from the words of his mouth and sentenced him to death (1 Samuel 1:13 – 15). 

The courses wicked men take for their own advancement, often prove the occasion of their ruin. This is how most people run down colleagues in offices, neighbourhood, etc., because they want favour from their boss or someone in leadership position. Have you experience the act of these favour seekers once?

What shall it profit you when you betray people in a bid to gaining the goods of this world or a position in office? Why tell lies because you want to gain the praise of the people or your boss? Christians should speak the truth always and not to tell lies against people in a bid to secure a position or gain favour.

Food for Thought: The courses wicked men take for their own advancement, often prove the occasion of their ruin.

Memory verse: 2 Samuel 1:10

Prayer: Help me O Lord, never to betray others because I am seeking for favour.

Divine Consultation: Devotion for Monday May 25, 2020

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Devotion for Monday May 25, 2020

Topic: Divine Consultation                              

Text: 1 Samuel 30:7 – 10                                 

David couldn’t go to the Tabernacle to ask the Lord for guidance because it was in Saul’s territory and he was in Ziklag which belongs to the Philistines. Therefore, he called for the ephod, the only Tabernacle-related object Abiathar had with him. In the presence of the priest and this priestly garment, he asked God for direction.

When David called for the ephod, he was really asking the priest to bring him the Urim and Thummim, which were kept in a pouch attached to the ephod. Only the high priest could carry and use the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 39:1 – 21). God usually answer us slowly and gradually but here He answered David speedily because any delay would amount to evil on the captives. Our God is so gracious that He considers even the degree of our necessities, and associates Himself to them by coming to our aid or answering our prayers.

God urged us in Psalm 50:15 saying, “Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me." David called upon God and He answered him immediately. This shows that God is aware of all we pass through, the necessity of our needs and ever willing to help us if only we can call upon Him.

Are you in need today and have become so anxious about it? The bible enjoins us in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast all our cares and anxiety upon Him for He cares for us. Will you do that today? You will certainly have peace.

Food for Thought: Philippians 4:6

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 30:8

Prayer: Help my weakness O Lord, so that in time of trouble, I will confide in you and will not be in despair in Jesus name. 

Strength Comes from God: Devotion for Sunday May 24, 2020

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Devotion for Sunday May 24, 2020

Topic: Strength Comes From God                  

Text: 1 Samuel 30:1 – 6                               

It is not wise when we are under troubles to vent reproaches on others, or to give up in despair. Rather, we should rather confess and forsake our sins, seek help from God, and endeavour to learn and do His will. This is the best thing to do when we are in trouble or despair.

In Isaiah 40:31, the Bible gave us a clear example of what to do when we are in despair or trouble. It says “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” This was exactly what David did according to our text. When he was renewed, he and his men mounted wings ran and recovered all that were taken by Amalekites.

Our strength comes from God. For this reason Jesus warned that without Him, we cannot do anything meaningful (See John 15:5). Are you depending on your strength, it will fail. Are you depending on charms, they will fail. It is only when we depend on God that we are sure of succeeding in our endeavours.

David’s men, instead of planning a rescue looked for someone to blame. But David found his strength in God and began looking for a solution instead of a scapegoat. When facing problems, remember that it is useless to look for someone to blame or criticise for your problems, challenges, failures or inability to achieve your aims. Instead, consider how you can find a solution on how to come out of that problem. Let the example of David here be an encouragement for us in trouble times of life.

Food for Thought: Strengthening oneself in the Lord is a mark of dependence and confidence in God with whom all things are possible.

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 30:6

Prayer: Lord God, help me to always depend on you when I am in despair.

First Point of Call During Crises: Devotion for Saturday May 23, 2020

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Devotion for Saturday May 23, 2020

Topic: First Point of Call During Crises

Text: 1 Samuel 19:18 – 24                 

An aphorism of Aniocha people says that it is only a tree that hears they are coming to fall it and it will stay. This is not so with animal especially with human being. Such person will certainly flee. This was the case of David as we read yesterday.

Saul was consumed with jealousy over David’s growing popularity, but the Spirit of God immobilised him so he was unable to harm David. We saw one attempt yesterday. This shows that no matter what people plan against us, it will not harm us except God approves it.

When David left his home, he ran to the house of God and to the priest. In running to Samuel, David made God his refuge. Samuel, as a prophet, was best able to advise him what to do concerning the distress he was into. More so, it was Samuel who anointed him as king to take over from Saul.

Beloved in Christ when you are faced with challenges of life or the threat of the enemies, where will be your first point of call? Do you run to a native doctor first or you go to God’s house where the pastor will counsel and pray for you? Do you run to friends for counselling before you even pray about it? This is one serious mistake we make always.

When we place God as our first priority in times of need and trouble, He will rise on our behalf. David went to the house of God because He was the one that made him. He knows that without God, Saul will easily eliminate him. He had the understanding that God is his refuge and shield who is able to protect, guard, keep and secure him.

We should have this kind of understanding. God gave you that position, land, husband, etc, people are struggling with you. Go to Him and He will certainly tell you what to do.

Food for Thought: When problem confronts you, what readily comes to your mind? 

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 19:18

Prayer: Almighty God, grant me the grace to always seek you first in time of need before any other thing.

God Saves in Various Ways: Devotion for Thursday May 21, 2020

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Devotion for Friday May 22, 2020

Topic: God Saves In Various Ways

Text: 1 Samuel 19:11 – 17                         

There is no limit to what our God can do and who or what He can use to fulfill His will and purposes, and to save us from evil and danger. When Balaam didn’t hear His word, He used his donkey to speak to him (Numbers 22:27 – 34).

The story of David and Goliath is well known to us. God used a small stone to humiliate him for blasphemy and reproach on God of Israel. Since David killed Goliath, the Philistine giant and champion, Saul became his avowed enemy occasioned by envy and jealousy. He tried every opportunity that comes his way to kill David.

In our bible reading for the day is another design of mischief by Saul to kill David. When David had escaped the javelin (1 Samuel 19:10), Saul sent some of his guards after him to lay wait at the door of his house, and to assassinate him in the morning as soon as he stirred out (1 Samuel 19:11). What was his wrong? God anointed him King to replace Saul. David did not ask God to make him king. It was God’s decision which no man can overturn. Hence He is always out to save Him. Are there lessons for us here especially when we are persecuted as we live and work according to the will of God or to accomplish God’s assignment for us? 

“God moves in a mysterious in His ways, His wonders to perform” so says a songwriter, William Cowper. Instead of Jonathan and Michal taking side with their father Saul to attack David who was a clear favourite to succeed their father, they pitched their tent with David. This was an act of God. See Proverbs 16:7

Because David’s way pleased God, He turned the heart of Saul’s children to love him. It is my desire and prayer that God will use those who speak evil about you and those who hate you to save, help, deliver, promote and bless you in Jesus name. As God used Michal to save David, so He will use someone to help and save you today.

Food for Thought: “God moves in a mysterious in His ways, His wonders to perform” – William Cowper. Sing that hymn from Ancient and Modern 181.

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 19:13

Prayer: Lord, as you used Michal to save David, so I pray that you will send someone to help me in my present need in Jesus name. 

My God Will Save Me: Devotion for Friday February 21, 2020

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Devotion for Friday February 21, 2020

Topic: My God Will Save Me                       

Text 1 Samuel 17:37

It is proper to recall what God did for us in the past so that we can build our faith on that to face future challenges. This is the imperative of testimonies in Christian gathering (see Revelation 12:11). The Philistines used their champion and giant Goliath to challenge Israel, requesting that they should present someone for a one on one contest with their giant (1 Samuel 17:23 – 24). He taunted Israel and defied the God of Israel.

Saul and all the Israeli army fled at that challenge. It was sin that brought fear into their lives (compare Proverbs 28:1). However, David, a young man of less than 18 years of age according to some commentators saw the challenge of Goliath as against God and not Israel. That propelled him to fight. He told Saul and later Goliath that His God will save him. He had that assurance and was fearless.

In our present world, we are faced with challenges from spiritual and physical Goliaths who want to consume us. They are in our families, offices, business arena, neighbourhood, market, schools, etc. When they come challenging and making mockery of your faith and your God, are you bold enough to stand against them or are you running like Saul and his men (1 Sam. 17:11)? If you are afraid, then search your life to know if you are standing in the Lord or not.

Just think about that great deliverance God gave you before. He can still do something greater for you. He is still alive (compare Hebrews 13:8). Trust Him to save you from those spiritual and physical Goliaths challenging you in that marriage, home, school, office, neighbourhood, etc. The Lord is with you.

Food for Thought: God is never tired of fighting our battles and delivering us from the plans of the enemies

Memory verse: Psalm 18:17

Prayer: Help me O Lord to trust in you when the enemies rise against me.

Your Labours of Love is never in Vain: Devotion for Friday January 24, 2020

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Devotion for Friday January 24, 2020

Topic: Your Labours of Love is never in Vain      

Text: 2 Samuel 9:1 – 7 

Naturally, most kings will try to wipe out the families of their rivals in order to prevent any descendants from seeking the throne. But David showed kindness to Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul.

David was kind, partly because of his loyalty to God’s previously anointed king (1 Samuel 24:5-6) and mainly because of his vow to show kindness to all of Jonathan’s descendants (1 Samuel 20:14 – 17). David did not forget the love and sacrifice Jonathan showed him. Don’t forget the mercies you received from God and people.

People who are really godly will always remember the mercies they received from people and from God. David made inquiry because he knew he owe a great deal of responsibility to the family of Jonathan in particular. Jonathan was David's sworn friend; therefore he shows kindness to his son Mephibosheth. God is ever faithful to us; let us not be unfaithful to one another.

If Providence has raised us, and our friends and their families are brought low, we must look upon that as giving us the fairer opportunity of being kind to them. We can show kindness for love we have received from God by being more dedicated and committed to His service. And to those who have shown us love, we can pray for them always. When we do these, God will bless them and us, the more.

Food for Thought: “Kindness is the golden chain by which society is bound together” – Goethe.

Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 15:58

Prayer: God, may I ever be grateful for love I have received from you and from people.

Devotion for Wednesday February 28, 2018

Topic: He Will Sustain Your Burden

Text: Psalm 55:16 – 23

David resolved to call upon God, being well assured that no one seeks Him in vain (Psalm 55:16). If we desire to have peace of mind, and that joy in the Holy Ghost which is a safeguard and support in times of trouble we should be regular and constant in prayer. That is the reason David prays morning, noon and evening. This is a challenge for us. How many times do we pray in a day? Having developed a relationship with God and having seen God’s faithfulness to His word, David encourages us to “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” To sustain our burden as used in Psalm 55:22 means that God will bear our burden and answer us accordingly. This is a glorious promise to anyone tempted and afflicted to run to God. If God has assured us of bearing our burdens (Matthew 11:28 – 30), why do you despair? Unfortunately, most of us despair over common things of life. We have entered into the New Covenant with God as Christians which guarantees salvation, peace, healing, deliverance among other blessings, but can’t assess these blessings because we have refused to lay our problems at the foot of the Cross of Calvary where our salvation, peace and others things were bought with the blood of Jesus. Are you ready to cast your burden on the Lord? Better do so for your own good.

Sing SS&S 319; Abu 249 – What a friend we have in Jesus

Food for Thought: Psalm 37:5              

Memory verse: 1 Peter 5:7

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

When God Remembers You

Devotion for Monday February 26, 2018

Topic: When God Remembers You

Text: 2 Samuel 9:9 - 13

When God remembers us, He restores all we have lost and add more blessings for us. This was the case of Mephibosheth here. God used David to remember him. As a cripple, he was not counted as anything. Nobody says anything about him. The worst was the fact that his father was no more and his brother was not on the throne and probably Ziba might have withdrawn his services. Things may have been so hard for him. But God was somewhere watching and He decided to honour him. Are you crippled in any form either physically, financially or spiritually and you have nobody to help you? God will remember you as He remembered Mephibosheth in Jesus name. David restored to him all that belonged to his father (v 9) and also commanded Ziba to serve him so that they will be provisions for his family. Ordinarily, properties acquired by Kings are transferred to their successors and not to their sons. This was the reason these properties were in David’s hands (compare 2 Samuel 12:8). But he restored them to Mephibosheth. His status changed overnight. David went looking for Mephibosheth. It was not the opposite. When Providence smiles on us, we should not forget or neglect the people that helped us to climb to stardom. We go looking for them as David did and even as God came down to the earth looking for the lost world. This is love. We should emulate this kind of act as Christians. Till date Jesus Christ seeks this lost and ruined race. Let Him into your life. SS&S 363; Abu 269   

Food for Thought: A part of kindness consists in loving people more than they deserve.

Memory verse: 2 Samuel 9:9

Prayer: Lord, remember me and restore all that I have lost through the fall of man in Jesus name. Amen

What Is Your Servant?

Devotion for Sunday February 25, 2018

Topic: What Is Your Servant? 

Text: 2 Samuel 9:8                                  

Yesterday, we read how David sought for Mephibosheth and brought him to dine at his table just for the sake of Jonathan’s love for him. It was the conviction of unworthiness, and true gratitude for favours received led Mephibosheth to ask “what is your servant?” The way David treated him surprised him so much. David’s treatment of Mephibosheth shows his integrity as a leader who accepted his obligation to show love and mercy. His generous provision for Jonathan’s son goes beyond any political benefit he might have received. This should be a lesson for those in authority. What David did, humbled Mephibosheth. It is good to have a humble heart under undeserved Providences. This is applicable to our salvation too. We deserved death by virtue of our sins but God in His love and mercies came and died for us. This should make us humble in whatever position we find ourselves. This led to the statements Paul made in 1 Corinthians 15:9 and Ephesians 3:8. Mephibosheth used the phrase, a servant and dead dog not because he was crippled but because he saw himself as a despised person who is not worthy of such honour. Do you have a humbled heart? How do you feel about the gifts God has bestowed on you? A thankful heart is the greatest virtue. Develop yours.  Sing SS&S 1138; Abu 240

Food for Thought: The worship most acceptable to God comes from a thankful and cheerful heart.

Memory verse: 2 Samuel 9:8

Prayer: Lord God, grant me a thankful heart to always appreciate my salvation and works of mercies you do in my life. 

Our Kindness Rebounds To Us

Devotion for Saturday February 24, 2018

Topic: Our Kindness Rebounds To Us

Text: 2 Samuel 9:1 – 7

Naturally, most kings will try to wipe out the families of their rivals to the throne in order to prevent any descendants from seeking that throne.  But the case of David was different as he showed kindness to Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul. David was kind, partly because of his loyalty to God’s previously anointed king (see 1 Samuel 24:5-6) and mainly because of his vow to show kindness to all of Jonathan’s descendants (1 Samuel 20:14 – 17). David did not forget the love and sacrifice Jonathan showed him by willingly supporting his ascension to the throne of his father Saul. Do you forget the mercies God and people show you? In the midst of numerous affairs, cares and worries of life, we are apt to forget the gratitude we owe, and some engagements we have to undertake, not only to our friends, but to God Himself. Yet people who are really godly will have no rest until they have discharged their vows and attend to their engagements. David made inquiry because he knew he owed a great deal of responsibility to the family of Jonathan in particular. The kindness he showed David came back to his son. God is ever faithful to us; let us not be unfaithful to one another. We can show kindness for love we have received from God by being more dedicated and committed to His service and that of humanity. We should always pray for those who have shown us love. When we do this, God will bless them and us, the more. Sing SS&S 798; Abu 239

Food for Thought: Kindness is the golden chain by which society is bound together – Goethe.

Memory verse: 2 Samuel 9:1

Prayer: God, may I ever be grateful for the love I have received from you and from people.

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.

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.

Mind Your Utterances

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Friday May 19, 2017

Topic: Mind Your Utterances

Text: Numbers 14:26 – 35

It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God (Heb. 10:31). Also see the warning in Matt 21:24. Provoking God is asking for trouble. It is like falling on a stone or the stone falling on someone. When you undermine the powers or mercies of God, He will show you that He is a consuming fire. He did it to Sodom and Gomorrah. He did it also to Goliath. On the contrary, God is full of mercies. He showed it to David and his descendants. May you not fall into the hands of living God rather may you enjoy His mercies in Jesus name.

God hates murmuring and complaining especially from people who have enjoyed His faithfulness. The Israelites tempted God, provoked Him and received rewards for their deeds. They condemned and ridiculed themselves and God honoured their word (Num. 14:28–34). This act of murmuring provoked God. It is a kind of indictment on God that He is not capable of protecting or leading them into the Promised Land. Again, by murmuring they try to shows that God’s words are not true. This was the reason God decided to honour their words of self-condemnation.

Have you enjoyed the mercies of God in form of healing, salvation, deliverance, protection, etc, and you are complaining or murmuring over immediate problem now, repent before the anger of God will come upon you. Beware of the kind of confession you make about your life; your marriage, your children, your job, your relationship, your dream, your spouse, etc. You can’t tell when you will use your negative confession to offend God and attract punishment.

Food for Thought: Beware of the confession you make about yourself.

Memory verse: Numbers 14 verse 29

Prayer: Help me, O Lord, never to murmur or complain against you no matter my present condition.