Ways Temptations Come To Us: Devotion for Thursday April 23, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Thursday April 23, 2020

Topic: Ways Temptations Come To Us                         

Text: James 1:13 – 15

According to Matthew Henry, “Those who lay the blame of sin, either upon their constitution, or upon their condition in the world, or pretend they cannot keep from sinning, wrong God as if He were the author of sin.” Whenever God brings trials on our way, His aim is always to draw out the graces He has bestowed on us.

James shows us here that the origin of evil and temptation is in our own hearts and not God or even Satan. Thus we can stop sin from onset by resisting the things that leads to sin (James 1:14) or we will be charged with all the evils that follow. If the bible says that the consequences of sin is death (Romans 6:23a) and God is not pleased with the death of sinners (Lamentation 3:33; Ezekiel 18:23; 33:11), how can He tempt us into sinning which will lead to our death?

Most times we easily blame the devil for every sin we commit but James 1:14 underscores the opposite of our usual claim that devil is author of our sins. We are therefore to look for the cause of every sin, inside us, not out of ourselves. Even the enticements of the devil cannot hurt except we yield to them.

Everyone has desires arising from his own passions, tempers, habits, and ways of life. Do your ways of life entice you into sin? Remember any Christian without self-control is not a true child of God.  

Food for Thought: Proverbs 4:23

Memory verse: James 1:14

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

Do You Have Idols In Your Heart? Devotion for Thursday March 19, 2020

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Devotion for Thursday March 19, 2020

Topic: Do You Have Idols In Your Heart?                                             

Text: Ezekiel 14:1 – 11 

Most of us undermine the fact that God knows the intents of our hearts in whatever we do. These elderly people who came to Ezekiel have not actually repented of their sins before coming to God. With one hand they held on to sin and were using the other hand to inquire of God. You cannot mock God because He is a Spirit.

The offence of these men that came for inquiry is that they have made idols in their hearts which can never take the place of God. He is a jealous God. He doesn’t share our hearts with idols. Hence He instructed them to repent (v6) so as to avoid the consequences that might follow (v 8 – 11). Idols in the heart according to our bible reading are things that made them to stumble and fall into sin.

Beloved, what are the idols that can occupy our hearts and make us stumble? Can you mention five of those idols in hearts of people? Admittedly, most Christians have set up idols of money/wealth, hatred, anger, pride, lust, etc., which easily lead them into sin. God doesn’t take pleasure in the outward form of worship when it is connected with a wicked heart and life.

Again, He cannot be deceived by those who come to inquire of Him, and He will not allow them to mock Him when they are also serving idols. If they love iniquity and secretly practice it, He will answer them in wrath, and not in mercy. Therefore be warned so that similar thing will not come upon you.

Action: Write down things that can become idols in your heart.

Memory verse: Ezekiel 20:3

Prayer: Deliver me O Lord my God from every idol in my heart so that my worship will be acceptable to you in Jesus name.

Develop A Grateful Heart: Devotion for Monday January 20, 2020

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Devotion for Monday January 20, 2020

Topic: Develop A Grateful Heart                          

Text: Psalm 66:13 – 20

From our text, we can see the importance of testimonies in our congregational worship. Here the psalmist says that the varied offering constitutes the vow (Leviticus 22:18 – 23) he made to God when he was in trouble. Most people when faced with dangers, sicknesses and even death, make vows. This is very common. But when we make vows especially in time of distress, sickness or trouble, we should fulfill those vows (Ecclesiastics 5:4 & 5).

When God answers our prayers whether vows was made or not, we should testify to those that fear God about what He did for our us, and how He has heard and answered our prayers, inviting them to join us in prayer and praise. This will turn to our mutual comfort, and to the glory of God.

In our text, the Psalmist expressed his gratitude to God for he prayed and got an answer from Him. When we pray in simplicity and godly sincerity, our prayers will be answered too. This should excite gratitude to Him who didn’t turn away our prayers or His mercy from us.

Expression of gratitude is one best way to receive more blessings because it encourages God to do more for us. How grateful are you for all God has done for you? Think about it as you go forth into the world today. Take retrospect of your life and see if there are reasons to praise God today and always.

Food for Thought: O Lord I am very, very grateful, for all you have done for me, O Lord I am very, very grateful and I say thank you Jesus (Song)  

Memory verse: Psalm 66:20

Prayer: Lord God, grant me a heart of gratitude in Jesus name.

Faith And Confession Are Necessary in Salvation

Devotion for Thursday April 5, 2018

Topic: Faith And Confession Are Necessary in Salvation

Text: Romans 10:1 – 11

The Jews built on a false foundation, and refused to come to Christ for free salvation by faith as a result of not willing to open up for change. Their zeal was not enlightened, wise, or according to truth (Romans 10:2). Today, we have some people with great zeal in religion, and yet are blinded and hardened in sin. Right zeal is always found in accordance with truth and duty; holy in character and kind in spirit. The strictness of the law showed men their need of salvation by grace, through faith. It was based on this reason; Paul tried to point out that confession is necessary in salvation by grace which God has offered us in Christ (Romans 10:4ff). His position is “That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” Romans 10:9. He further expressed this truth in Romans 10:10. Two things are necessary for salvation; inward faith in Christ Jesus and public confession of that faith. Paul mentions them because both are necessary for salvation; the inward faith in Christ, and the outward confession of Him. It is based on the outward confession of sin that someone is baptized into the body of Christ. Some people often ask, “How do I become a Christian?” Romans 10:8 - 11 give us the answer: Salvation is as close as our lips and heart. People think that it is a complicated process, but it is not. If we believe in our heart and say with our mouth that Christ is the risen Lord, we will be saved. Have you received salvation? If not, this is your opportunity.

Sing the hymn: SS&S 493; Abu 175.

Food for Thought: The basic proof of our Christian faith is to believe in Christ (inward faith) and our confession that Jesus is Lord (outward faith).

Memory verse: Romans 10:9

Prayer: Heavenly Father, as I have confessed that Jesus is my Lord, help me to abide by it all the days of my life.

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.

The Imperative Of Inward Beauty

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Devotion for Wednesday May 17, 2017 

Topic: The Imperative Of  Inward Beauty

Text: 1 Peter 3:4

God created us in His image. The beauty we portray shows how awesome our God is. He made us beautiful and handsome for His glory but these days, I wonder if being beautiful is a crime. The way most people use their beauty in wrong ways is a cause for concern. Most people spend time and enormous resources trying to beautiful themselves. All these are good only if they are targeted at glorifying God (1 Peter 3:4b).

Here, Peter challenged us especially women whose concern is always what to wear, style to sow, style of hair do, etc, to ensure that we are also “beautiful inside in our hearts, with the lasting charm of a gentle and quiet spirit which is precious to God” – Living Bible. John Wesley Notes gives insight into why this is precious in the sight of God when he said that “A meek spirit gives no trouble willingly to any: a quiet spirit bears all wrongs without being troubled.” Meekness is one virtue that is expected of us as Christian.

Do you attach the kind of importance, time and resources you give to your outward beauty to inward beauty? Beautifying our heart is through constant meditation on the word of God. This helps us overcome temptations and trial (Psalm 119:11), and also accommodate the Holy Spirit (1Corinthians 3:16). How beautiful is your heart? Have you corrupted yours with malice, anger, bitterness, evil thoughts etc? If so, repent today. Let the beauty of your heart matter most to you than your outward beauty. 

Food for Thought: The best part of beauty is that which no picture can express. –Bacon

Memory verse: 1 Peter 3 verse 4

Prayer: God, make me beautiful within and help me to maintain inner beauty than my outward beauty in Jesus name.

Rend Your Hearts

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Wednesday May 3, 2017

Topic: Rend Your Hearts

Text: Joel 2:12 – 17 

God hates mere outward religious observance that does not reflect in the spirit. What God desire so much from us is not our outward show (sacrifices) as much as broken and contrite heart (Ps. 51:14–19, see Isa. 1:11, 13 & Jer. 6:20). It is only when we have truly repented that our sacrifices will be accepted (Ps. 51:19). Remember what Samuel told Saul in 1 Sam. 15:22. Joel spoke to the Israelites about the need to mortify their affections and serve God with pureness of heart, and not with ceremonies. His focus was that they should not merely rend their garments, but let their hearts be truly contrite.

Merely external worship and hypocritical pretensions will only increase the evil, and cause God to meet them with heavier punishment. Let there be the inward sorrow of heart, and not the mere outward manifestation of it by "rending the garment" (Josh. 7:6) because our God is gracious; good and benevolent in His own nature. He is also merciful; pitying and forgiving us when we repent. He is slow to anger. However, when He gets angry, it is fearful to fall into His hands (Heb. 10:31). God desire our true and genuine repentance, and not showing off with our presence, prayers, offering, tithes, etc, when our hearts are actually far from Him. Let there be genuine rending of our hearts.

Food for Thought: A pretender can deceive people as much as he wants but can never deceive God.

Memory verse: Joel 2 verse 13

Prayer: God, make to repent truly and never to be a pretender in your presence.

Knowing God’s Will

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Sunday February 26, 2017

Topic: Knowing God’s Will

Text: Psalm 51:1 – 6

The author of this psalm is King David as generally accepted. Commentators and analysts say he wrote it after Nathan the prophet had come to rebuke him for his crime and evil against the family of Uriah (2 Samuel 12:1ff). This assertion that David wrote it after Nathan had visited him has the backing from the fact that the psalm is a prayer of repentance and with David as the author; it must be the case involving Bathsheba and Uriah.     

One of the things that endeared David to God is his honesty and love for God. What God demands from us is not merely outward virtue, but inward purity. What this implies is that God demands reality, sincerity, true holiness and heart fidelity. He doesn’t care for our pretence of purity; he looks to the mind, heart, and soul (1 Chronicles 28:9).

What David posited here is that it takes a repentant heart to know the will of God. He was of the opinion that our dealing with God should be more of the heart, mind and soul. It should not be that of physical alone but more of spiritual as God is a spirit (John 4:24). To him, it is only when our minds are pure and sincere that God can come in to instruct and grant us the wisdom needed to live well. Have you actually repented? If not, you can never know the will and your actions will always be contrary to what pleases God. 

It takes God’s act to cleanse our hearts to make them pure (see Ezek. 11:19; 36:26). Sin is contrary to God’s will but when our hearts are clean and pure, we will begin to live according to the will of God. How pure is your heart? Do you desire to know God’s will for you? Then allow God to remove the impure and corrupt heart and to give you the heart of flesh. You should also learn how to guard your heart diligently to ward off impure thoughts. Your ability to moderate your thought will help you to live well for God. 

Food for Thought: Ezekiel 36:25 – 27

Memory verse: Psalm 51 verse 6 – Behold, you desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden parts you will make me know wisdom (NKJV).

Prayer: Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me in Jesus name. Amen.  

Be An Observable Model (In Utterances)

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Thursday February 2, 2017

Topic: Be An Observable Model (In Utterances)         

Text: Matthew 12:35 – 37   

Today and in the next five days, we shall be looking at some observable models from the scriptures; expected of us, that will challenge us to live well to the glory of God. Jesus posited that Christians are light of the world and salt of the earth which by implication demands that we should be models for the world. We shall, in these five days, look at some of the areas we can model our lives of worthy characters from the scriptures.

Ecclesiastics 5:2 says, “Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven and you on earth; therefore let your words be few.” This is a great advice for whosoever wants to be a model in terms of spoken words.

In our text Jesus reminds us that what we say exposes the thoughts in our heart. According to Life Application Notes, What comes from our mouth “Is an indication of what is in your heart. You can’t solve your heart problem, however, just by cleaning up your speech. You must allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with new attitudes and motives; then your speech will be cleansed at its source.”

Are the words that come out of your mouth good enough to edify people (1 Timothy 4:12)? Are you the type that doesn’t have control over your mouth? Remember that “In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise – Proverbs 10:19. 

Food for Thought: A vessel is known by the sound, whether it be cracked or not; so men are proved, by their speech, whether they be wise or foolish. –Demosthenes.

Memory verse: Proverbs 10:19

Prayer: Help me O Lord to be a model with the words of my mouth that the words of my mouth will be pleasing to you in Jesus name. Amen.

BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS

Devotion for Wednesday December 21, 2016

Topic: BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS  

Text: Matthew 5 verse 9                         

God is the author of peace and lover of concord. This informs His decision to come down to the earth to die for us. He desires us to live peaceful with one another. This made Jesus to speak peace to His disciples on many occasions. In John 14:27a, He said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.” He also urged us to speak peace to any home we are entering (Matthew 10:13). In John 20:21, Jesus commissioned His disciples with peace.

From the above, it is pertinent to note that peace is very vital in our daily lives. Jesus asserts that peacemaking is a character found in God and if anyone follows after that, it means such person is a child of God. When Christ came, He made peace with His blood on the cross and reconciled the enemies of God through His death (Ephesians 2:14–18). Our justification grants us peace and makes us peace makers through the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18, 19).

There is a connection between purity of heart and peacemaking. Here in our text is a challenge for us to love peace, and to labour after peace. We are to promote it amongst others; to become, not only peaceable, but peace-makers. How peaceable are you in your office, school, etc or as a boss, parent, and teacher in relation to your subordinates? It is only when we are peaceable (Hebrews 12:14) that we can truly be, peacemakers. Today, I challenge you to go out to that person that offended you or you offended to make peace. This may be your last opportunity. Don’t procrastinate about it.     

Food for Thought: Psalm 34:14

Memory verse: Matthew 5 verse 9

Prayer: Help me, O Lord, to pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.

BLESSINGS IN PURITY OF HEART

DEVOTION FOR TUESDAY DECEMBER 20, 2016

Topic: BLESSINGS IN PURITY OF HEART    

Text: Matthew 5:8                      Memory verse: Matthew 5:8

Purity is very essential in our Christian walk. God is pure and it is expected that we should be pure too. People characterized as pure in heart are people who are honest and sincere, people who do not accommodate evil thoughts in their hearts. The pure in heart are free from the dominion and pollution of sin. They are people of integrity and they demonstrate single-minded commitment to God. They are also free from evil desires and purposes, pride, evil thoughts, corruption, and lust.

In Psalm 51:10, David prayed that God should create in him a clean heart. This implies that for our heart to be pure, we need the washing of the heart with the blood of Jesus Christ which God alone can do. This is the promise of God in Ezekiel 36:25–28. What it involves is that we should always ask God for cleansing of our hearts because it can be polluted in a matter of seconds if we don’t guard what we take to heart.

Our hearts becomes impure when we allow filth to enter through what we read, hear, see or think. This is the reason for the admonition in Proverbs 4:23. We have a duty here to guide our hearts against pollution so that we will receive this reward. Because of the sincere devotion of a pure heart to Christ, such will see God here and now through the eyes of faith (Hebrews 11:27), and finally face-to-face (1 John 3:2). How pure is your heart? Are you one of those who will see God face to face? It has been my prayer that I will see God. Is that your desire too?

Food for Thought: Psalm 24:3 & 4

Prayer: Help me, O Lord, to maintain a pure heart always so I will be qualified to see your face.

WHEN WE SHOW TRUE REPENTANCE: Devotion for Saturday November 26, 2016

WHEN WE SHOW TRUE REPENTANCE: Devotion for Saturday November 26, 2016

Text: 2 Kings 22:14 – 20               Memory verse: v19

When we read the word of God and it pricks our heart, we should repent and ask God what we should do. This was the case when Peter preached on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:37). If there is any place to weep, it should be in the presence of God for He alone is the one that can help us and not Man. Man may sympathize but can never give you the needed help because he doesn’t have right over his affairs. Have you wept before man and failed to receive what you asked for? Never mind, with Jesus, it is a different case. He knows the necessities of our hearts, when we cry to Him; He saves us (Ps. 34:18). Josiah heard the word of God and it grieved his heart (compare Judges 10:15, 16). Godly sorrow leads to repentance (2 Cor. 7:10). How do you react when you hear the word of God? Does it prick your heart (Acts 2:37 & 7:54)?

Unfortunately, we are in a time where the word of God doesn’t touch the heart of many. The preachers are no longer preaching the raw and undiluted word of God. They preach what the congregation wants to hear. This is the reason we see people clapping hands when the word of God is coming forth instead of mourning for their sins. Most of us in this generation have hearts and consciences that have are dead.    

As a leader in the home, office, church, company, etc, how do you react to advice or correction? Does the action of Josiah challenge you? No matter how hardened our hearts may be, it must prick us when we hear the undiluted word of God (Heb 4:12). As you go to God with broken and contrite heart, He will hear and avert that evil He intended (Ps. 51:7). Josiah’s repentance saved him from dying in the war. Though he was wounded in war according to the warnings of the book but he didn’t die there. It would have been worse if not that he repented. 

Food for Thought: Mourning and weeping makes us modest by reminding us how far we have come short of what we can be.

Prayer: Lord, grant me true repentance as I hear your voice so I will not die in this battle for eternal life in Jesus name.

EFFECTS OF WISDOM: Devotion for Monday October 17, 2016

EFFECTS OF WISDOM: Devotion for Monday October 17, 2016                 

Text: Proverbs 2:10 – 22    Memory verse: Proverbs 2 verses 10 and 11

Yesterday we read gains from heavenly wisdom. We saw that wisdom is divine and God gives it to those who consistently and concertedly seek for it. Because of its great value, not everyone is ready to pay the price to acquire wisdom. Today’s bible reading highlights more of what we stand to the gain from heavenly wisdom.

Heavenly wisdom will deliver one from the ways of evil men (Proverbs 2:10–15). This implies that with wisdom, someone can know the best way to approach or handle evil men. Such person cannot be enticed into doing evil with them. Wisdom will enable him to know when to flee from their cunning and deceitful ways. Wisdom is very important in a time like this when people are so much evil minded and wicked.

Any Christian, who is truly wise, should be very careful to avoid all evil company and evil practices which can lure us out of our Christian faith. When wisdom has control over our lives, then, it not only fills our heads, but enters into our hearts, and will protect, and preserve, both against corruptions within us and temptations without.

Secondly, it will deliver men from adulterous women (2:16–19). The adulteress is referred to as a wayward woman in that she is outside the circle of a man’s proper relationships (Proverbs 2:16). When we have wisdom in our hearts, it will guard us against improper relationship.

Two of the most difficult sins man finds exceedingly hard to resist are pride and sexual immorality. Both are seductive. In combination, their appeal is deadly and can destroy someone overnight. We need heavenly wisdom to overcome them. In fact, Solomon’s opinion is that only by relying on God’s strength can we overcome them. Pride appeals to the empty head; sexual enticement to the empty heart. We should be extremely careful about what we take to heart. It is only by looking up to God, that we can fill our heads with His wisdom and our hearts with His love. Remember that you have a destination and a reward waiting for you. Therefore always ask God for wisdom and strength to resist these temptations.

Food for Thought: “The only effectual safeguard from the ways of sin and ruin is the knowledge and fear of God” – Family Bible Notes

Prayer: Heavenly Father, sow and nurture your knowledge and fear in my heart in Jesus name.

BLESSEDNESS OF THE RIGHTEOUS 2: Devotion for Monday October 10, 2016

BLESSEDNESS OF THE RIGHTEOUS 2: Devotion for Monday October 10, 2016

Text: Psalm 112:6 – 10    Memory verse: Psalm 112 verse 6

A man of faith who loves God is fearless and he overcomes (1 John 5:4 & 5) just as we read yesterday. David was fearless when he confronted Goliath and he overcame a well known warrior and champion. If you are afraid, you cannot triumph. Anyone who is afraid will always fail as Saul and other Israelis soldiers failed to have their names written in gold. Anyone who is fearful will easily be shaken. Such person is never stable in his thoughts, faith and actions. Do you want to be victorious and triumph in that spiritual or physical battle you are currently going through? Then fear God and not the devil or man. Sacred Songs & Solos (Sankey) 561 is a great source of insight on how you can be courageous and fearless in your Christian race.

Another blessedness of the righteous is that the person is not shaken. Sometimes, Satan and his agents will try by all means to move the person, but because his foundation in the Lord is firm, he shall never be moved, at least not moved for ever; if he is shaken for a time, yet he settles again quickly. He regains himself like the story I told in yesterday’s devotion.   

Beloved, are you easily shaken by threats of the enemies, lack of basic necessities of life, fear of the unknown, etc? You should always have the words of Christ in mind. He said, “Let not your heart be troubled … (Jn. 14:1). Of a truth, many times I do shake over things that God had done for me previously. However, when I remember what God did previously for me, I will regain myself. That shows the vulnerability of man. Things can move us but when we hide the word of God in our hearts, we can dig them out and strengthen ourselves.

A righteous man will have a good reputation, and that gives him satisfaction. He strives for a good name; a name for good things, with God and man. These will make people to remember him forever (112:6b). His heart is established because he fears the Lord and he is never afraid. What can be said about you? Is your heart established in the Lord? Are you easily shaken by problems? Then trust the Lord for in Him, you will be established and not be shaken.

Food for Thought: An established heart in the Lord can never be shaken.

Prayer: God, establish my heart in you so that problems of life will not shake me.

WHEN YOU WAY PLEASES GOD: Devotion for Saturday September 10, 2016

WHEN YOU WAY PLEASES GOD: Devotion for Saturday September 10, 2016

Text: Genesis 26:26 – 33                  Memory verse: Genesis 26:28 

Today’s bible passage confirms Proverbs 16:7 which says, “When a man's ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” This was the case of Isaac in our bible reading of today. We have seen this happen in so many places. David who killed Philistine giant and champion Goliath was offered asylum by Achish one of the Philistines kings who would have seen the coming of David as an opportunity to avenge the death of their champion but it was not so as he openly and warmly welcomed David and his men. He didn’t stop at that, he also gave him the power to choice the place he will stay and David opted for Ziklag to go out of his daily sight.

The bible asserts that the kings' hearts are in the hands of God, which, when it pleases Him, turns their hearts to grant favour to His people. A good man will always be peaceful. That was the case of Isaac. He never insisted on avenging the unfair treatment he received from the Philistines. Rather, he chose to forgive them and to enter into a new relationship and friendship with them.

Our Christian faith teaches and expects us to be good and friendly neighbours with people in our neighbourhood. It always expects us to live peaceably with all men as we have in Hebrew 12:14. For what Isaac did in making forgiving and making peace, providence smiled upon him and God blessed his labours. This persuaded the people of Gerar to come to Isaac.

With Isaac’s enemies wanting to make a peace treaty, Isaac was quick to respond, turning the occasion into a celebration. We should be just as receptive to those who want to make peace with us. When God’s influence in our lives attracts people; even enemies, we must take the opportunity to reach out to them with God’s love. Insisting on wrongs done to us can never bring God’s blessing upon us. Those that God has blessed and favoured have enough reason to forgive those that hate them, since they cannot do them any real harm. Are you willing to forgive those who offended you?

Food for Thought: “Doing an injury puts you below your enemy; revenging one, makes you even with him; forgiving it sets you above him” -Nylic Review.

Prayer: Lord, grant me the heart to forgive those who offend and hurt me in Jesus name.

LET NO MAN'S HEART FAIL: Devotion for Sunday August 14, 2016

LET NO MAN'S HEART FAIL: Devotion for Sunday August 14, 2016

Text: 1 Samuel 17:31 – 39       

Memory verse: 1 Samuel 17:32

A man who knows His God speaks with boldness and confidence. David knows the God He serves and all His promises of protection, favour, fighting for His people, etc. He knows that God is able to use him especially when it involves the “uncircumcised.” A shepherd boy, who came the same morning from keeping sheep to see his senior brothers in the Israeli’s army camp, had more courage to challenge the Philistine giant than all the mighty men of Israel. This was a very sad and unfortunate case.

God does great things for Israel, by the weak and foolish things of the world. Remember the devotion of Thursday July 28 2016 – NOT THE SPECIAL TYPE where we read that God does not use the perceived great, wise and intelligent people of this world. Rather He chooses the weak, unintelligent and poor people of this world as His instruments so as to shame the wisdom of men. God remains a mystery worth knowing.  

By all standard military wise and stature, David cannot be compared to Goliath but he was the only man in Israel at that time that has the spirit and mind of God in him. Confidence in God is a source of the highest and noblest courage, the most self-sacrificing devotion to duty, and the most exalted virtue. David had no single iota of fear about Goliath. He told Saul and his captains, “Let no man's heart fails because of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine."

As a child of God, what kind of message do you give to people when they face challenges of life? Do you speak faith into them or you bring more fear? Because David had the spirit of God in him, he was calm, confident and relaxed amidst the threat of Goliath. Is your heart troubled because of problems of life? Are you trouble because you are in prison; sick, unable to pass that examination, etc? Never mind, Jesus is saying "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me,” John 14:1.

Food for Thought: Deuteronomy 20:1 – 4

Prayer: Lord God, send your spirit to comfort me in areas I am troubled. Grant me the courage to confront all my fears and troubles of life the way you encouraged David to confront Goliath in Jesus name. Amen.

SANCTIFICATION AND ITS EFFECT: Devotion for Thursday August 11, 2016

SANCTIFICATION AND ITS EFFECT: Devotion for Thursday August 11, 2016

Text: Ezekiel 36: 25 - 38                 

Memory verse: Ezekiel 36:26 – I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.

God promised to restore Israel not only physically but spiritually as we have in our scriptural reading for today. To accomplish this, He would give them a new heart for following Him and put His Spirit within them (Ezekiel 11:19–20 and Psalm 51:7–11) aimed at transforming them and empowering them to do His will. Doing the will of God would become the effect of sanctification of God’s people. God said His people should be ashamed of their sins (Ezekiel 36:31) because the heart transformation (a heart of flesh) will result to owning up to their faults by being more sensitive to sins.

The people had become so callous that they had lost all sensitivity to sin. First they had to “remember” their sins, be ashamed of them, and finally repent of them (see James 4:8–9). If we examine our lives, we may find that we, too, have lost our sensitivity to certain sins. To regain our sensitivity to sin we must recognize our sin for what it is, be sorry for displeasing God, and ask His forgiveness without which we will lose our salvation. This many finally result in eternal condemnation. It is my prayer that this will not be our portion in Jesus name. Amen.   

You may have been living in sin and highly polluted, thinking that there is no more way out of it. God offers you a fresh start today. He wants to change your heart that had been depraved. You can have your sins washed away, receive a new heart for God, and have His Spirit within you, if you accept His promise. This will be the beginning of a life of righteousness; a life that hearkens to God's law, trembling at His threats, and moulded to comply with His whole will. Why try to patch up your old life when you can have a new one?

Food for Thought: Is your heart right with God? Have you received a heart of flesh that is pleasing with God?

Prayer: God, grant me the heart that obeys your law and comply with your will in Jesus name.

HE MOURNED AND WEPT: Devotion for Saturday July 2, 2016

HE MOURNED AND WEPT: Devotion for Saturday July 2, 2016 

  

Text: 2 Samuel 1:11 – 12              

Memory verse: v 12 -And they mourned and wept and fasted until evening for Saul and for Jonathan his son, for the people of the Lord and for the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.

In the token of anguish, David tore his clothes. This is a common practice in Israel (Gen. 37:29, 34; 43:13; Josh. 7:6; 2 Kings 19:1; Matt. 26:65; Acts 22:23). David was sincere in his mourning for Saul, Jonathan and the fallen heroes of Israel; and all with him humbled themselves under the hand of God too. David wept, mourned and fasted because of Saul, Jonathan and other Israelis that lost their lives. For a man of his calibre to weep openly does not mean he is weak. Such expression at times is needed for some reasons. It eases stress and burden of the heart, and it is used to pass message of love and empathy. Jesus did it at the tomb of Lazarus in John 11:35

David act was a clear testimony of his righteousness. “A good man will not desire the death even of his bitterest enemy, though it would open the way to his own elevation, influence, and honour” according to Family Bible Notes. This was the case of David. The emotional expression showed by David clearly underscores his previous acts of saving Saul when he had the opportunity to have killed him as one who fears God. It takes the fear of God to live righteously in our present day society filled with bitterness, envy, anger and greed.

Are you heavily burdened? Are you mourning the death of loved ones? You should not restrict yourself from expressing your emotion even in the public. Jesus did it. One way to ease our burdened heart especially that of bereavement is by weeping. It is not a mark of weakness. It helps us to ease off and be revived. The act of David here should be a challenge for us. We should not gloat over the downfall of our enemies just as we read yesterday, rather we should show love for them and even when death or evil befalls them, we shouldn’t gloat over them.  

Food for Thought: A good man will not desire the death even of his bitterest enemy, though it would open the way to his own elevation, influence, and honour.

Prayer: God, give me heart of love for those who despise and hate me.

IDOLS IN THE HEART: Devotion for Saturday March 12, 2016

IDOLS IN THE HEART: Devotion for Saturday March 12, 2016

Text: Ezekiel 14:1 – 11         Memory verse: v 3  

God knows the intents of our hearts in whatever we do, which most of us are unaware of or undermine. That is why most things we think that matter are not so with God and vice versa. These elderly people who came to Ezekiel have not actually repented of their sins before coming to God. With one hand they held on to sin and were using the other hand to inquire of God. God cannot be mocked. Their offence is that they have made idols in their hearts which can never take the place of God. God says He is a jealous God. He doesn’t want to share our hearts with idols. Thus He instructed them to repent (14:6) so as to avoid the consequences that might follow (14:8–11).

Idols in the heart according to our bible reading are things that made them to stumble and fall into sin. Beloved, what are the idols that can occupy our hearts and make us stumble? Can you mention five of those idols in hearts of people? Admittedly, most Christians have set up idols of money/wealth, hatred, anger, pride, lust, etc, which easily lead them into sin. God doesn’t take pleasure in the outward form of worship when it is connected with a wicked heart and life. He cannot be deceived by those who come to inquire of Him, and He will not allow Himself to be mocked by people who claim to be serving God and idols at the same time. If they love iniquity and secretly practise it, He will answer them in wrath, and not in mercy. Therefore be warned and don’t be a victim.

Action: Write down things that can become idols in your heart.

Prayer: Deliver me, O Lord, my God, from every idol in my heart so that my worship will be acceptable to you in Jesus name.

          

A HEART OF GRATITUDE: Devotion for Wednesday January 20, 2016

A HEART OF GRATITUDE           Wednesday January 20, 2016

Text: Psalm 66:13 – 20          Memory verse: v 20

From our text, we can see the importance of testimonies in our congregational worship. Here the psalmist says that the varied offering constitutes the vow (Lev. 22:18–23) he made to God when he was in trouble. Most people when faced with dangers, sicknesses and even death, make vows. This is very common. But when we make vows especially in time of distress, sickness or trouble, we should fulfill those vows (Eccl. 5:4 & 5). When God answers our prayers whether vows was made or not, we should testify to the people of God, of what He has done for us; how He heard and answered our prayers, inviting them to join us in prayer and praise. This will turn to our mutual comfort, and to the glory of God.

Here, the Psalmist expressed his gratitude to God for he prayed and got an answer from Him. When we pray in simplicity and godly sincerity, our prayers will be answered too. This should excite gratitude to Him who didn’t turn away our prayers or His mercy from us. Expression of gratitude is one best ways to receive more because it encourages God to do more for us. How grateful are you for all God has done for you? Think about it as you go forth into the world today. Take a retrospective view of your life and see if there are reasons to praise God.

Food for Thought: O Lord, I am very, very grateful, for all you have done for me, O Lord I am very, very grateful and I say thank you Jesus (Song)  

Prayer: Lord God, grant me a heart of gratitude in Jesus name.