They Drove Away Justice: Devotion for Saturday October 3, 2020

 

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Friday October 2, 2020

Topic: They Drove Away Justice

Text: Isaiah 59:9 – 15                                

According to Matthew Henry Concise Commentary, “If we shut our eyes against the light of Divine truth, it is just with God to hide from our eyes the things that belong to our peace.” No wonder the bible says that “There is no peace, says the Lord, for the wicked" (Isaiah 48:22; 57:21). A situation where the sins of those who profess themselves as God's people, are worse than the sins of others is very unfortunate.

Here in our bible reading for the day, the Prophet Isaiah decries the sad state of the nation where justice and righteousness are absent in the courts of law (Zechariah 8:16), and in social matters in general. All over the scriptures, God is always against injustice. He upholds justices and righteousness and He expects nothing less from us. But sad to say that He got the least from His people and was displeased about it.

What can we say of our present day religious and political leaders in this generation especially in our nation, Nigeria? Are they upholding justice? What of our judges? Have they not turned back justice by declaring the guilty, innocent and the innocent, guilty? Compare Amos 5:12 and 6:12.

Beloved, God is never happy when we pervert justice. It is a wicked and sinful person that does so (Proverbs 7:23). When we witness in any case, we should also not testify to pervert justice (Exodus 23:2). That should be the mark of true Christianity we confess.

Food for Thought: Deuteronomy 16:19

Memory verse: Isaiah 59 v 14

Prayer: Grant me the grace, O Lord to always stand for justice no matter the circumstances in Jesus name.

The Chosen of God: Devotion for Thursday August 13, 2020

 

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Thursday August 13, 2020

Topic: The Chosen of God                              

Text: Isaiah 49:7 – 12                                        

Have you ever asked yourself, why am I a Christian? Is it because I was born into the church? Is it because God chose me to be a Christian? Being a Christian is not because we are good enough to be, but because God chose us out of His love and grace.

Again, have you ever asked why God is so interested in Israel despite their stiff-neck disposition? The reason for the choice of Israel is to become an instrument through which the world will come to know God (Isaiah 49:8, 9). That is also why you are a Christian.

The catechism in Book of Common Prayer 2007:480 has it that “God required the chosen people (Israel) to be faithful, to do justice, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.” Our text speaks of what Christ will do for us and what we should do in appreciation of God’s faithfulness.

Beloved, God chose you as a Christian for some purposes. He chose you to become salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13), to become light of the world (Matthew 5:14) and to show forth His praise and glory. From the words of Book of Common Prayer, we are expected to “Be faithful, to do justice, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.” Have you being doing these? How faithful are you?

In John 15:16, Jesus stated why He chose and appointed us as Christians. It is just simple; we “Should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you” John 15:16b. How are you doing this? Are you bearing good fruit or bad fruit?

Action: As you go out today, do the work that will bear fruit for God either through preaching, charity or showing mercy on people you meet.

Memory verse: Isaiah 49:7

Prayer: Help me O Lord to live up to the reason for your calling upon my life.

Unrighteous Decrees: Devotion for Tuesday June 30, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Tuesday June 30, 2020

Topic: Unrighteous Decrees

Text: Isaiah 10:1 – 4                              

Our text today is a continuation of Isaiah Chapter 9. If you actually want to understand this text well, then start reading from Chapter 9. Isaiah indicts wicked oppressors. They are charged, with making wicked laws and edicts: They decree unrighteous decrees, contrary to natural equity and the law of God: and whatever mischief they prescribe those under them write it, enroll it, and put it into the formality of a law. It is bad to hurt someone, but it is worse to do it with design and deliberation.

Again, they were charged with perverting justice in the execution of the laws that were made. No people had statutes and judgments for the righteous as they had, and yet corrupt judges found ways to turn aside the needy from judgment, to hinder them from coming for their right and recovering what was their due, because they were needy and poor, and such as they could get nothing by nor expect any bribes from.

The third charge against these oppressors is that they were enriching themselves by oppressing those that lay at their mercy, whom they ought to have protected.

Can we find any of these accusations similar in our present day society? You that is in leadership position, do you make Draconian laws targeted at the poor, needy, widows, etc.? Draco is an Athenian legislator who made harsh laws. If you make harsh laws, you are like the lawyers berated by Jesus Christ in Luke 11:46 (compare Matthew 23:1 – 4). Repent today because the Day of Judgment is coming when you cannot escape the anger of God.

Food for Thought: Leaders should protect the rights of the less privileged ones and the poor, and not to abuse them.

Memory Verse: Isaiah 10:1                                                                                           

Prayer: Lord God, grant me the grace that in any leadership position I find myself, I will not make laws that will infringe on the rights of the poor and less privileged.

Is God Inconsiderate To Our Prayers? Devotion for Tuesday May 12, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Tuesday May 12, 2020

Topic: Is God Inconsiderate To Our Prayers?                                   

Text: Isaiah 59:1 – 8

Sometimes, when our prayers are not answered at the time we anticipated we usually conclude that God is inconsiderate. Most times, the reason our prayers are not answered is sin or perhaps not the right time God has appointed.

Here the prophet Isaiah highlighted it consequences especially in our relationship with God. It separates us from God and makes His ears to be heavy towards our prayers. Its consequences are exceedingly hurtful, separating us from God, and all good God has in plan for us. The prophet went further to enumerate the consequences of sin in Isaiah 59:9ff.

We usually accuse God of being inconsiderate to our needs and prayers even when we are living in sin. God cannot change His standard because of you. He hates sins and it can turn His ears away from our prayers. How can God answer you when you are living in bitterness, hypocrisy, adultery, fornication, masturbation and all manner of immorality? How can He answer when you are hoarding anger and grudges? It cannot work!

It is not only when we have killed or committed adultery/fornication that we have sinned. Little foxes like bitterness, anger, hatred, malice, lies will ever continue to make God inconsiderate to our needs until we repent of them. Kill those foxes now before it will be too late.

Food for Thought: God is never inconsiderate to us. We are the ones who sent Him away by accommodating sins in our lives.

Memory verse: Isaiah 59:2

Prayer: God, grant me the grace not to accommodate sin in my life but to passionately hate it so that your ears will not be heavy towards my prayers.

Let Your Light Shine: Devotion for Wednesday May 6, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Wednesday May 6, 2020

Topic: Let Your Light Shine                          

Text: Isaiah 60:1 – 8                                   

A true Christian is a light to the world. In Book of Common Prayer (2007:167), we have in the liturgy for baptism, where the person being baptized will be given a candle light with the following admonition. (One of the sponsors says): Receive the light of Christ to show that you have passed from darkness to light. (The congregation will respond): Shine as light in the world to the glory of God the Father, Amen. This clearly shows what the life of a Christian should be.

In Matthew 5:14 – 16, Jesus made it clear that we are the light of the world. What does it imply? It means that we are to show the world things as they are, and gives to men right views of them. We are to enlighten, direct, and quicken others. How much are you doing this?

In our text, the prophet calls on the nation of Israel to arise and shine because their light has come. God's covenant with Israel is, that His word and Spirit shall dwell with her forever. These are mightier than the powers of darkness (Isaiah 60:2a); so that in all her conflicts with them it is certain that she will, in the end, prevail (Isaiah 60:2b). As the light (Christ – see John 8:12; 9:5) is revealed, it will draw Gentiles to it (Epiphany – Matt 2:2).

For us who are Christians of today, as far as we have the knowledge of God in us, and the favour of God towards us, our light has come. It behooves on us to shine the light for others who are still in darkness to see our light and come to it. It is a command. Therefore, ensure you do it through godly living; through the words of your mouth and through your actions.

Food for Thought: How can you shine your light for others to see?

Memory verse: Matthew 5:16

Prayer: Father in heaven, let my light so shine before men, that they may see my good works and glorify you in Jesus name.

As Constant Reminders: Devotion for Friday March 6, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Friday March 6, 2020

Topic:  As Constant Reminders                     

Text: Isaiah 49:13 – 17

I learnt from my mentor, Robin Sharma to write inspiring quotations and paste them on conspicuous position so that my eyes can easily go there as to read it often and again. According to him, it will be a kind of reminder which will motivate me to apply the message to life. This is exactly what God means here in our memory verse for the day.

Our text started with words of encouragement (v13) that comfort has come for Israel because they thought that God had forsaken them in Babylon; but Isaiah pointed out that God would never forget them, as a loving mother would not forget her little child.

Are you in despair, discouraged, feeling lonely or abandoned? God is saying that your comfort has come. That you may be suffering today doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. Why complain (v14)? God went ahead to give the Israelites the assurance that He has not forgotten them (v15 – 17). He did so by inscribing or engraving them on His palms so as to be a reminder to Him about their welfare, comfort, blessings, protection, etc.

Are you in doubt about God’s concern for your welfare and blessings? Are you questioning God’s faithfulness to His promises concerning you? God says that He has not forgotten you. When we feel that God has forsaken us, we must ask if we are the ones that have forsaken and forgotten God (Deut. 31:6). He doesn’t forsake His people.

Action: Write down what can keep you continuously in the palms of God and paste in on a conspicuous position in your room so you will be doing them always.

Memory verse: Isaiah 49:16

Prayer: My Father in heaven, keep me continuously your palm so that you will always remember my blessings and welfare in Jesus name.

It Shall Be Well With You: Devotion for Friday August 23, 2019

Devotion for Friday August 23, 2019

Topic: It Shall Be Well With You 

Text: Isaiah 3:1 - 11

At times there is the need for re-assurance from God in the course of our heavenly race. Most people used by God in the scriptures at one time or the other cried out to God for re-assurance. When Jesus Christ was in agony and pain on the Cross of Calvary, He cried out (Mathew 25:46). David also did it as we can see in Psalm 22:1. Paul did same as we have in 2 Corinthians 12:9. Have you asked God for re-assurance once? Share your experience if you are studying as a group.

This encouragement for the righteous was aimed at making them to trust Him, and for sinners to repent and return to Him. This is so because it was time for the Lord to show His might (Isaiah 3:1 – 9). It is an assurance to the godly that God will defend them in the midst of these troubles. “It shall be well with the righteous,” is in all ramifications of life; prosperity, adversity, sickness, health, death, judgement, and through eternity. In every case, occurrence and circumstances, the righteous shall eat of the fruit of his labours.

Beloved in Christ, I bring you re-assurance again that despite the problems of sickness, delayed conception, getting a spouse; a job, admission, any many other human needs we might be facing at this moment, God is saying today that your righteous life is not in vain (Hebrews 6:10). There is a reward for you and you will certainly eat the fruits of your labours and righteousness. Read Psalm 1:1 – 3

Food for Thought: Ecclesiastics 8:12

Memory verse: Isaiah 3:10

Prayer: Lord God, as I follow your ways in righteousness, grant that it shall be well with me in all I do in Jesus name.

Take a look at this

Devotion for Saturday June 2, 2018

Topic: God’s Pardon For Sinners

Text: Isaiah 43:22 – 28                           

Another word for pardon is amnesty which literally means prosecution free period for an offender. Our memory verse is similar to what we have in Isaiah 1:18. For it to be repeated by Isaiah, it shows how serious God is about it. In our bible passage, God showed the real condition between Him and Israel; they have not cared to call upon him (Isaiah 43:22), neither did they offer sacrifices to Him (Isaiah 43:23, 24). Despite all these, God out of His abundant mercies opted to grant them pardon and forgive them (Isaiah 43:25). God has extended this same pardon to us. This is an encouragement for us to repent, because there is forgiveness with God. God’s pardon for us is still there till date and till death. Just like the case of Boko Haram that rejected the amnesty offered by the Federal government which led the President and Commander in Chief of Nigerian Armed forces to order full onslaught against them so will God unleash His anger on those who refuse to accept His pardon now. Have you accepted the offer from God or you have rejected it Now is the time you have to decide. The pardon God offers us ends at death. Once you die without accepting it, you will face persecution and judgment of God. Decide now on what to do for your own good. Sing SS&S 379; Abu 258

Food for Thought: “He that promised pardon on our repentance has not promised life till we repent” – Francis Quarles.

Memory verse: Isaiah 43:25

Prayer: God, help me to accept your pardon and forgiveness before it will be too late.

Judge Between Me And My Vineyard

Devotion for Saturday May 26, 2018

Topic: Judge Between Me And My Vineyard

Text: Isaiah 5: 1 – 7

Our bible passage for today is an imagery used by God to teach the nation of Israel and by extension we the present readers about our unfaithfulness, despite the enormous grace and mercies we have received from Him. He used the imagery of a vineyard at a very good place, fertile enough to produce good fruits (Isaiah 5:1, 2). All that was needed to make the vineyard were provided (Isaiah 5:2). Unfortunately and regrettably too, the vineyard produce the opposite of what God expected. Instead of good grapes, it produced wild grapes that are not useful. The lesson of the song of the vineyard shows that God’s chosen nation was expected to bear fruit—to carry out His work and to uphold justice. It did bear fruit, but the fruit was bad. The hurt friend (God) now directs rhetorical questions to the people of Judah, asking them to judge whether He is guilty of neglecting them or not. God often condemns sinners “out of their own mouth” (Deuteronomy 32:6; 2 Samuel 12:1-6; Job 15:6; Luke 19:22; Romans 3:4). Jesus gave us insight on how to identify someone by his or her fruit in Matthew 7:20. Have you examined your own “fruits” lately? Is it good or bad, useful or wild? This examination is appropriate and should be on regular basis because being vulnerable; we can fall off at any given time. We should take heed.

Sing A&M 94, Abu 171

Food for Thought: What kind of fruit(s) do you bear? Compare your fruits with Galatians 5:22 and 23.

Memory verse: Isaiah 5:3

Prayer: Almighty God, as you have invested so much on me, help me to make return equal to what you have invested in me in Jesus name.

He Will Comfort You

Devotion for Thursday March 1, 2018

Topic: He Will Comfort You

Text: Isaiah 51:1 – 3                              

It is good for those privileged to be born again, to consider that they were shaped in sin. This should cause us to have low thoughts of ourselves, and high thoughts of divine grace we have received by virtue of our new birth. In our text, we are called to a steadfast faith in the Lord. If we consider our present state, we will be discouraged. For this reason, God speaking through the prophet Isaiah called on us to consider where and how we started. He also challenged us to look at the life of Abraham our father of faith and his wife Sarah how He increased them. Thus, He assured His people of His comfort in their troubled state with promise of restoration (Isaiah 51:3). 

Beloved, God is a covenant keeping God. He that called us is faithful (Deuteronomy 7:9; Nehemiah 9:32). He called us for a purpose which amongst them is to increase and comfort us. In this world, we are faced with so many challenges of life like sickness (some protracted), sever wants, spiritual battles and many more. All these are what we face because we are still in the world. However, there is a place God has prepared for us that is void of all this challenges. In the interim however, He has assures us of His comfort (Psalm 102:13; Isaiah 40:1; 51:12; 52:9 – 10). 

What do you lacking now that everything seem to be like desert to you? He will make all to flourish again like the Garden of Eden be it your health, finances, marriage, studies, etc. In this new month, hold on to Him.

Sing SS&S 530

Food for Thought: When God says something, He performs it. Keep believing for He will never fail 

Memory verse: Isaiah 51:3

Prayer: Lord, send your comfort to me in my troubled situations.

NO MORE SHAME

Devotion for Monday December 26, 2016

Topic: NO MORE SHAME            

Text: Isaiah 54:1 – 5           

This portion of Isaiah’s prophecy is on the increase of the church through the conversion of the Jews and Gentiles. To be childless is a woman’s great shame and disgrace. Families depend on children for survival, especially when the parents became elderly. Here, God said that Israel (Jerusalem) was unfruitful, like a childless woman, but God would permit her to have many children and change her mourning into singing. This is one thing that the birth of Jesus brought about. God allowed His people to go through this period of unfruitfulness, mockery and shame because of their sin. However, in His compassion and mercy, He is promising them a glorious future devoid of shame and mockery.

Have you been abandoned because of sin by friends and loved ones? Is your past life now haunting you that you have become an object of ridicule because you are unfruitful? Return to God (Hos. 14:1) now, for He is the only one that removes shame. Not only will He remove the shame but He will wipe away the scars on you. Your miracle will spring forth (Isa. 54:2; 2 Kings 4:1–7). That glorious future is now, the dispensation of God’s grace through Christ. He has redeemed us from all the curses that hitherto have brought us shame. This is the period for fruitfulness, which will remove shame. Step into it.

Food for Thought: When God arises for us, nobody remembers our shame.

Memory verse: Isaiah 54 verse 4

Prayer: Arise, O Lord, and wipe out all shame I have suffered in Jesus name. 

JUSTICE IS TURNED BACK: Devotion for Thursday August 25, 2016

JUSTICE IS TURNED BACK: Devotion for Thursday August 25, 2016

Text: Isaiah 59:9 – 15             Memory verse: Isaiah 59:14

According to Matthew Henry Concise Commentary, “If we shut our eyes against the light of Divine truth, it is just with God to hide from our eyes the things that belong to our peace.” No wonder the bible says that “There is no peace, says the Lord, for the wicked" (Isaiah 48:22; 57:21). A situation where the sins of those who profess themselves God's people, are worse than the sins of others who are termed unbelievers is very unfortunate.

Here, the prophet Isaiah decries the sad state where justice and righteousness are absent in the courts of law (Zechariah 8:16), and in social matters in general. All over the scriptures, God is always against injustice. He upholds justices and righteousness and He expects nothing less from us. But sad to say that He got the least from His people and was displeased about it. If you were in God’s shoes will you be pleased seeing injustice pervade all affairs of life?  

What can we say of our present day religious and political leaders? Are they upholding justice? What of our judges and magistrates? Have they not turned back justice by declaring the guilty, innocent and the innocent, guilty? Compare Amos 5:12; 6:12. Is this the same in your country?

Beloved, God is never happy when we pervert justice. It is a wicked and sinful person that does so (Proverbs 7:23). When we witness in any case, we should also not testify to pervert justice (Exodus 23:2). Let the fear of God be in our hearts in every witness we bear or case we judge. If this be our guiding principle, it will make our society and the world at large a peaceful place to live in.

Food for Thought: Deuteronomy 16:19

Prayer: Grant me the grace, O Lord, to always stand for justice no matter the circumstances in Jesus name.

GOD IS NOT HANDICAPPED: Devotion for Wednesday August 24, 2016

GOD IS NOT HANDICAPPED: Devotion for Wednesday August 24, 2016

Text: Isaiah 59:1 – 8              Memory verse: Isaiah 59:1

It is erroneous to believe that God is handicapped and incapable to deliver, hear, heal, free and bless us. It is the belief of some many people that is why their miracles elude them. In 1 Sam. 5:1–5, is the story of how God proved that He is not handicapped. His Ark of Covenant was taken to the shrine of Philistine god, Dagon and He brought the statue down on two occasions. Unlike the Muslims who always take to arms when they perceive that Mohammed their prophet has been blasphemed as we have witnessed in this country and of recent was burning to death eight persons (students who are Christians) in Zamfara State, Nigeria. Our God fights for Himself. If we are not saved and our prayers are not answered, it is not because God is handicapped or incapacitated.

In our scriptural reading, we see sin and its consequences; exceedingly hurtful, separating us from God, and so separating us, not only from all good, but separating us to all evils. Yet there are many who derive joy in living in sin despite its consequences. This is very unfortunate! Such people are still under the influence and bondage of Satan.

Because God is holy, He cannot ignore, excuse, or tolerate sin as though it doesn’t matter. That is in the view and understanding of some men but not God. Sin cuts people off from God. It forms a wall that invariably isolates us from the people He loves. The long list of wretched sins the people of Israel and we by extension commit makes God angry and forces Him to look the other way. Anyone who dies in his/her life of sin separates himself or herself eternally from God.

Finally brethren, let us always search ourselves because if we haven’t received salvation it is not because God is handicapped but because of our sins. This is same to other blessings that come from God. Have you confessed your sin to God, allowing Him to remove it? He can save you if you turn to Him. You can do it now. There is no need to procrastinate.

Food for Thought: You can hinder your salvation and blessings because of sin and not because God is incapacitated.

Prayer: God, I repent of my sins today (mention them) because they are hindrance to my blessings in Jesus name.

GOD HAS ALTERNATIVE PLANS: Devotion for Tuesday August 23, 2016

GOD HAS ALTERNATIVE PLANS: Devotion for Tuesday August 23, 2016

Text: Isaiah 63:1 – 6               Memory verse: v 5

Isaiah 63 verse 5 is a clear warning for us not to think that we worth anything special in the eyes of God especially when He is using us. Being used by God is not a right but a privilege that should humble us because He can even raise stones to do our work. We should rather be up and doing because He has alternative plans. He can push us aside when we misbehave to use others. We know the case of Eli’s family, King Saul, etc.

Here, the prophet Isaiah, in a vision, saw the Messiah returning in triumph after the conquest of His enemies, of whom Edom was a type. In that vision, he saw Christ as travelling, not wearied by the combat, but, in the greatness of His strength, prepared to overcome every opposing power. Christ declares that He had been treading the wine-press of the wrath of God, (see Rev. 14:19; 19:13) and by His own power (Isaiah 63:3), without any human help, He had defeated His stubborn opposers (Isaiah 63:4), for the day of vengeance was determined on, being the appointed season for rescuing His people.

When Jesus Christ appeared on this earth for the first time, it was in apparent weakness, to pour out His precious blood on the Cross of Calvary as atonement for our sins. However, He in due time He will appear in the greatness of His strength to judge the living and the dead. How prepared are we for that day when He will appear in His strength? Again let us remember that He sought for help but none came. So He resorted to His second plan to redeem His people. 

This shows that there are things God want us to do for Him. What He desires me to do may not be what He wants you to do. It all depends where we find ourselves. We shouldn’t disappoint God to make Him resort to His alternative plan. Don’t ever think that without you the work of God will not go on. He will raise a man in your stead. Therefore be wise.

Food for Thought: Will God resort to alternative plan in your stead?

Prayer: Lord God, may I not be a disappointment to you that will make you resort to alternative plan in Jesus name.

ANOINTING BREAK YOKES: Devotion for Thursday June 23, 2016

ANOINTING BREAK YOKES: Devotion for Thursday June 23, 2016

Text: Isaiah 10:24 – 34     Memory verse: v 27

God's purpose was to use the Assyrian not to destroy, but to purify his people. Unfortunately, they abused it. Now God is assuring His people that though Assyria may treat them badly as Egypt did to their forefather, but that bondage will be broken (10:25). According to prophet Isaiah, God will raise a scourge against Assyria which will lead to breaking of the yoke of bondage (10:27). Before now, King Hezekiah has been under heavy bondage of the Assyrians. This was a grievous yoke and burden to them, but they shall no more pay that tribute to the king of Assyria. Before this invasion he exacted from them (2 Kings 18:14). Now they shall be no longer at his service, nor lie at his mercy, as they have done; nor shall he ever again put the country under contribution. This was God’s assurance.

God is never pleased to see His children suffer especially in the hands of the unbelievers. Most times He allows them to have upper hand against us because of His jealous love for us. By virtue of our repentance, we have been anointed of God. It is that anointing that will break every yoke of bondage of sin and the devil in our lives. Every child of God carries this anointing. For this reason God gave the charge in Ps. 105:15. In the name of God, I decree today that every yoke on your neck be it sin, indebtedness, poverty, sickness, etc, will be broken in Jesus name. This is your privilege as a Christian.

Food for Thought: What does Psalm 105:15 imply? 

Prayer: God, let your anointing upon my life break every yoke of sin, bondage, captivity, sickness, demonic influence, etc in my life and family.

IMMANUEL: Devotion for Friday December 25, 2015

IMMANUEL      Friday December 25, 2015

Text: Isaiah 7:10 – 16   Memory verse: v 14

Isaiah reproved Ahaz and his court, for the little value they had for Divine revelation. Unbelieving is destructive. This made God to ask Ahaz to ask for a sign so He can prove that His words are real. Nothing is more annoying to God than distrust, but the unbelief of man shall not make the promise of God of no effect; the Lord himself shall give a sign. The sign is that a son will be born whose name will be Immanuel meaning God with us.

Today is Christmas day, a day we commemorate the birth of the Immanuel. From this it is obvious that God‘s word will always come to pass. Ahaz had refused a sign addressed to sight. God now promises the people a sign addressed to faith; a sign therefore for the believing portion of the people. Family Bible Notes states that “While God punishes the unbelief and rebellion of His people, He will, for His own glory, fulfil all His promises to Zion, the sum of which is Jesus Christ, born of a virgin for our redemption.” God is ever faithful. For His name sake, He will fulfill all His promises for you. We wish you and yours Happy Christmas in Jesus name.

Food for Thought: Is God with you?

Prayer: God, may I benefit from the blessings of Immanuel in Jesus name.

WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER GOD: Devotion for Friday October 16, 2015

WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER GOD     Friday October 16, 2015               

Text: Isaiah 6:1 – 8         Memory verse: v 1

When we encounter the glory of God, many things follow. Moses Peter, Andrew, James and John encountered God and things changed. Paul also encountered that glory on his way to Damascus and he became a changed man. Isaiah encountered the glory of God here as we have in our text which some commentators see as his inauguration into office. Some also say that Isaiah was not born again before he started his ministry. This may not be correct as God used this revelation to show Isaiah His glory for some reasons.

This vision was quoted in John 12:41. He saw the Divine Presence seated on the mercy-seat, raised over the Ark of the Covenant, between the Cherubim and Seraphim, and the Divine glory filled the whole temple. This vision gave Isaiah a greater understanding of God and his ministry. He was cleansed of his sins and was commissioned. This vision also dealt with his fears about his call.

We are undone if there is not a Mediator between us and this holy God. A glimpse of heavenly glory is enough to convince us that all our righteousness are just like filthy rags. Have you encountered the glory of God? What impact has the glory on you? If you have not encountered God’s glory, you need to do something about it. It is the glory of God that will transform your life for good. Earnestly ask God to give you a glimpse of it.

Food for Thought: A glimpse of heavenly glory is enough to transform us from sinners to saints.

Prayer: God, reveal your glory to me so that my life and call will change.

HIS EVER PRESENCE: Devotion for Saturday October 3, 2015

HIS EVER PRESENCE             Saturday October 3, 2015         

Text: Exodus 33:12 – 23         Memory verse: v 15

Adam Clarke in his commentary on our text, posited that “Without supernatural assistance, and a most particular providence, he knew that it would be impossible either to govern such a people, or support them in the desert; and therefore he wishes to be well assured on this head, that he may lead them up with confidence, and be able to give them the most explicit assurances of support and protection.” The condition for this to be possible is stated in Isaiah 63:9. God had earlier given them the assurance of going with them in 33:3. Despite the assurances, Moses came up with the words in 33:15. He had some reservations about the journey because of its involvements and strenuous nature.

There are so many challenges that are before us in our lives’ journey. There are enemies to contend with. The only guarantee for our victory; our success, our protection and guidance is the presence of God. If you need all these, you have to court the favour of God’s presence to go with you every second, minute, hour and day of your life. Do not undermine this because it will amount to leaning on your own understanding which will fail you.

Food for Thought: Full assurance of God’s presence is a great motivator in any endeavour we want to undertake in life.

Prayer: God, grant me the favour of your presence every day of my life.

NUMBERED WITH TRANSGRESSORS:Devotion for Thursday August 20, 2015

NUMBERED WITH TRANSGRESSORS      Thursday August 20, 2015

Text: Isaiah 53:10 – 12                                         Memory verse: v 12

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his was the prophecy of what Jesus Christ will suffer for the sake of love He has for us. We did not put Him in our position, but He placed Himself there. Thus He took away the sin of the world, by taking it on Himself. He made Himself subject to death, which to us is the wages of our sin. To aggravate his sufferings He was numbered with transgressors, condemned as a criminal, and executed in company with two notorious criminals. He was in their midst as if He had been the worst of the three.

In 1 John 3:1, John tells us to behold the manner of love God has bestowed on us. This was the extent Jesus chose to suffer for us, being numbered among the transgressors. These sacrifices and love are meant for us. Have you accepted this love? Think about what He suffered for you and see if there is any need to surrender your life to Him or not.

Food for Thought: 2 Corinthians 1:3

Prayer: Lord, grant me a heart of gratitude for all you have done for me.

A NEW NAME FOR YOU

A NEW NAME FOR YOU      Friday July 10, 2015

Text: Isaiah 62:1 – 5                 Memory verse: v 2

Here is the assurance of Christ for us about His unfailing love, and His plea for us under all trails and difficulties. We the Christians shall be called by a new name, a pleasant name, such as she was never called by before. In the words of John Wesley note, “The church shall be more renowned than ever, both in respect of her condition, and so called Hephzi-bah, and of her relation, and so called Beulah, and this new name the Lord gives them accordingly” as they will not be forgotten (62:4).

Are you suffering and thinking you have been forgotten? Are people steering away from you because of your past life? Jesus Christ is promising you a new future. He is assuring you that your future will be more glorious if and only you will accept what He offers you today – salvation. Have you accepted Him? Now is the opportunity you have to make that small decision that will change your life forever.

Food for Thought: Do you have the assurance of God’s unfailing love?

Prayer: Lord, grant me a new name that will make me never to be forsaken.