Beware of Your Personal Assistant: Devotion for Tuesday August 11, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Tuesday August 11, 2020

Topic: Beware of Your Personal Assistants       

Text: Numbers 11:24 – 30                               

Mark 10:38 says, “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them.” In verse 14, Jesus saw it and was greatly displeased. His disciples were the ones that stood against the children who came to Jesus.

Here Joshua who was personal assistant to Moses was jealous that Eldad and Medad were prophesying in the camp. Joshua seems to have thought that, in remaining behind they had been guilty of disrespect towards Moses.  But Moses rejoiced in every gift of God's Spirit, though some irregularity might be connected with it.

This incident is similar to a story told in Mark 9:38-41 (Luke 9:49 – 50). The disciples wanted Jesus to forbid others to drive out demons because they were not part of the disciples’ group. But this type of narrow attitude was condemned by both Moses and Jesus.

Beloved, beware of putting limits on God; He can work through whomever He chooses. This act of limiting God on who to use is common among Christians today. When someone who is not a member of our church or fellowship is being used by God, we ridicule it immediately. You don’t choose for God whom to use. He can use anyone to work out His purpose when there is no vessel available for Him to use.

Those in leadership position should be wary of their personal assistants who stop people arbitrarily from coming to them or give wrong information to the public about you. A true leader should be available to the people he or she is leading.

Food for Thought: God is never limited in His dealing with us.

Memory verse: Numbers 11:28

Prayer: Lord, grant unto all the people in position of authority wisdom to handle weaknesses of their assistants in Jesus name. 

Assured Solidarity: Devotion for Wednesday July 8, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Wednesday July 8, 2020

Topic: Assured Solidarity            

Text: Joshua 1:16 – 18                                     

Usually, when God is at the centre of any movement, it easily receives solidarity and support of the people. There is no need to coax or intimidate people into doing what is right and appropriate. This was the case here in our bible passage for the day.

The people of Israel after hearing the message from Joshua were moved in their hearts which led to their response in bible reading for today. They agreed to obey Joshua. Their response was that whatever you command us to do, we will readily do, without murmuring or disputing. Again wherever you send us, we will go. These were assuring words to Joshua as he takes over the mantle of leadership from Moses.

They promised Joshua obedience (Joshua 1:16), they prayed for God’s presence with him (Joshua 1:17), they pass an act to make it death penalty for any Israelite to disobey Joshua's orders, or rebel against his commandment and they inspired him to go on with cheerfulness in the work to which God had called him; and, in desiring that, he should be strong and of good courage as God admonished him earlier.

How much solidarity do you give to your leaders, your pastors and teachers of the gospel? Do you support their motions for evangelism, revival, etc. in church meetings or you are there to oppose every move whether good or bad simply because you don’t love the Pastor? The work of God cannot progress where there are rancor and disagreement. We should always work as a team for that is the desire of God (John 17:11, 22)

Food for Thought: How much solidarity do you give to your leaders in the society and the church?

Memory verse: Joshua 1:16            

Prayer: Lord God, may I never be a clog in the wheel of progress in your church in Jesus name.

Do Not Procrastinate: Devotion for Tuesday July 7, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Tuesday July 7, 2020

Topic: Do Not Procrastinate             

Text: Joshua 1:10 – 15                           

In Romans 4:20, the bible recorded that Abraham did not waver or stagger at the promises of God. This means that he had no doubt about what God told him despite his physical condition and that of his wife (Romans 4:19).

In our bible reading today, Joshua said to the people immediately God had spoken to him, “Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you will cross over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the LORD your God is giving you to possess” (Joshua 1:11b). We honour the truth of God, when we stagger not or waver at the promise of God as Abraham did. The two tribes and a half were to go over Jordan with their brethren. When God, by his providence, has given us rest, we ought to consider what service we may do to our brethren.

“The certainty that God will bestow upon his people the blessings he has promised them, does not in the least lessen the necessity of their using all appointed means to obtain them” so says Family Bible Notes. God promised to take them into the Promised Land. They don’t have to procrastinate or sit in a place for the promise to be fulfilled. They have a part to play.

Likewise, God has made several promises to us. We shouldn’t procrastinate about them by waiting for “manna to fall from heaven.” Rather we should swing into action by playing our part in that promise made by God. Remember that God promised to feed the birds of the air but He does not throw their food into their nest.

Food for Thought: What will you do to ensure that God’s promises made to you will be fulfilled?

Memory verse: Joshua 1:11

Prayer: God remove from me every form of procrastination especially in heavenly matters in Jesus name.

When God Emphasizes A Words: Devotion for Monday July 6, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Monday July 6, 2020

Topic: When God Emphasizes A Words       

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 9                                   

In our text, God used the phrase “Be strong and of good courage,” 3 times in verses 6, 7 and 9. God used this phrase 3 times here because that was the area of Joshua’s strength but he seems not to have understood that. He wants Joshua to understand that He is with him and has empowered him to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Joshua, though a person of great courage and resolution, had severally proved that he was, yet he needs these exhortations. The reason is that his work was great, and difficult, and long, and in a great measure new. Again he needed the exhortation because he had a very mean opinion of himself, especially if compared with Moses; and remembering how perverse and ungovernable that people were, even under Moses, he might very well suspect the burden of ruling them would be too heavy for his shoulders.

Most times it is in the area of our strength that devil brings fear to intimidate us. Joshua knew that he has the charisma, character and ability to lead the people yet, he was reluctant and unwilling. In the days of Gideon, he was afraid of the Midianites even when he has the power already. It was the power in him that made the angel of the Lord to urge him to go in that strength.

What are the areas of your strength? Are you using them to their full potential or you are waiting for God to emphasize on it before you realize that you have such strength?

Food for Thought: Most times devil intimidates or tempts us based on our strength.

Memory verse: Joshua 1:9 

Prayer: Help me O Lord, to recognize my strength and use it for your glory.

Unlock Your Hidden Treasure: Devotion for Wednesday March 4, 2020

MY DAILY COVENANT WITH GOD DEVOTIONAL

Devotion for Wednesday March 4, 2020 

Topic: Unlock Your Hidden Treasure        

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 9  

To every human being, there are deposits of treasures/gifts, which are waiting to be unlocked. These treasures or gifts can only become real and ours when we take some positive actions. Some of the ways to unlock our treasures are through revelation, challenges of life, reading of books, practices, etc.

I became an author through the revelation I received from reading of books from my mentor, Robin Sharma. Some of his books opened my eyes to the enormous gifts in me. Then I realised that I can do something. There are gifts/treasures and talents in you that are yet to manifest because you are not aware of them. I pray that God will reveal them to you.

Joshua had a task of leading Israel into the Promised Land. God told Joshua that he will succeed in the task on the condition that he incessantly meditates on the word of God. The way to be inspired and increase your courage is to meditate on the word of God daily and it should be for the purpose of understanding and obeying it. For Joshua to discover his ability in leadership, he must as a matter of priority, read and meditate on the word of God to unlock that treasure in him.

Some of us have the treasure of becoming inventors, great athletes, great evangelists, pastors, teachers, doctors, nurses, etc., but fear have hindered us from attaining such greatness. God has an assurance for you in Joshua 1:9. Read and meditate on it.

Food for Thought: Fear is the greatest obstacle to attaining our greatness in life. 

Memory verse: Psalm 1:2

Prayer: Lord God, remove every fear in me that is an obstacle to the manifestation of the treasures hidden in me in Jesus name.

Be Strong and Courageous: Devotion for Friday January 3, 2020

Devotion for Friday January 3, 2020

                   

Topic: Be Strong and Courageous            

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 7                                           

Leadership demands courage because you are faced with numerous responsibilities. These responsibilities need wisdom and not only knowledge to handle. That is why you see a degree holder failing in leadership while a graduate of Secondary school performs better. It depends on the level of wisdom in that person which comes from God (Proverbs 2:6). Knowledge is only an added advantage in leadership and not the basic necessity.

Joshua had assumed the leadership of Israel and now has the mandate to lead them into the Promised Land (1:1, 2). God gave him all the assurances he needed and some strategies to lead well and prosper. He said that to succeed Joshua must (1) be strong and courageous because the task ahead would not be easy, (2) obey God’s law, and (3) constantly read and study the Book of the Law – The Bible.

If we intend to be successful in our endeavours this year, we should also follow God’s words for Joshua. You should be strong in faith and be courageous in following God and facing trials and temptation. You may not succeed by the world’s standards, but you will be a success in God’s eyes—and His opinion lasts forever. Follow God courageously and He will take you to your Promised Land.

Food for Thought: The highest and noblest courage is shown by the most faithful discharge of duty.  

Memory verse: Deuteronomy 29:9

Prayer: Lord God, make me strong and grant me the courage to faithfully follow your strategies for success this year in Jesus name.

Our God Keeps To His Words: Devotion for Monday August 12, 2019

Devotion for Monday August 12, 2019

Topic: Our God Keeps To His Words

Text: Joshua 21:45

The words of Solomon in 1 Kings 8:56 confirm our topic for the today. God has never spoken and failed to do what He said. Joshua subscribed to the fact that all God said concerning possessing the Promised Land by Israel came to pass.

The inviolable truth of God’s promise and its fulfillment is what Christians should look up to even when it delays in coming to pass. If in anything, it has seemed to come short, we should be ready to take all the blame to ourselves. God does not speak always but when He utters a word, He abides by it.

What are His promises you have laid hold on, prayed about them and they have not come to pass? What are you currently passing through that has almost consumed you and you have started to doubt the promises of God and their fulfillment in your life?

Joshua testified that all God promised him and Israel came to pass. Solomon did same. All the promises He made to Paul also came to pass. I am assuring you, the user of this devotional today that God’s promises about your life and future will be fulfilled.

Congratulations in advance!

All will come to pass in your life in Jesus name. Just keep trusting and waiting for at the right time, it will be fulfilled.        

Food for Thought: “He who is the slowest in making a promise is the most faithful in the performance of it” – Jean Jacques Rousseau

Memory verse: Joshua 21:45

Prayer: God, bring all your promises for me and my family to fulfillment in Jesus name. Amen.

Be Strong and Courageous

My Daily Covenant with God Devotional

Devotion for Sunday January 20, 2019

Topic: Be Strong and Courageous

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 9

In our bible reading for the day, God used the phrase “Be strong and of good courage,” 3 times in verses 6, 7 and 9. God used this phrase because that was the area of Joshua’s strength but he seems not to have understood that hence the emphasis from God on the phrase. God wanted Joshua to understand that He is with him and has empowered him to lead Israel into the Promised Land.

Joshua, though a person of great courage and resolution, had severally proved that he was, yet needs these exhortations. The reason is that his work was great, difficult, and in a great measure new to him. Again he needed the exhortation because he had a very mean opinion of himself, especially in comparison with Moses; and remembering how perverse and ungovernable that people were, even under Moses, he might very well suspect the burden of ruling them would be too heavy for him.

Most times it is in the area of our strength that devil brings fear to intimidate us. Joshua knew that he has the charisma, character and ability to lead the people yet, he was reluctant and unwilling. In the days of Gideon, he was afraid of the people of Medians even when he had the power already; that made the angel of the Lord to urge him to go in that strength. What are the areas of your strength? Are you using them to its full potential or you are waiting for God to emphasis on them? Now is the opportunity you have to use it and to use it well. Do not procrastinate about it nor undermine the power God has bestowed upon you.

Food for Thought: Most times devil intimidates or tempts us based on our strength.

Memory verse: Joshua 1:9 

Prayer: Help me O Lord, to recognise my strength and use it for your glory in Jesus name. Amen.

Unlock Your Hidden Treasure

Devotion for Sunday June 3, 2018

Topic: Unlock Your Hidden Treasure        

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 9                                  

Every human being has hidden treasures waiting to be unlocked. They can only become real and useful to us when we take some actions. There are many ways to unlock our hidden treasures. Some of the ways are through revelation, challenges of life, reading of books and practices. I became an author through the revelation I received from reading of books from my mentor, Robin Sharma. Some of his books opened my eyes to the enormous gifts in me. Then I realised that I can do something with my life. Many of us today are yet to manifest our gifts because we are not aware of them. I pray that God will reveal them to you. You will not die without realising your gifts and using them for your generation in Jesus name.

Moses had a task of leading the people into the Promised Land but was denied the opportunity because of anger and disobedience. God saw the kind of obstinate and rebellious heart they displayed under Moses and assured Joshua that he will succeed in leading them into the Promised Land on the condition that he meditates on the word of God regularly. Joshua 1: 8b says, “For then” ... which means that the means of being inspired and to increase true courage, is daily attention to the principles and precepts of the Bible, so as to understand and obey them. For Joshua to discover his ability in leadership, he must as a matter of priority, read and meditate on the word of God to unlock that treasure in him.

Some of us have the treasure of becoming inventors, great athletes, great evangelists, pastors, teachers, doctors, nurses, etc, but fear have hindered us from attaining such greatness. God has an assurance for you in Joshua 1:9. Shake off that fear, put on courage and certainly you will be at the top. See you there.

Sing the Hymn A&M 561; Abu 188

Food for Thought: Fear is the greatest obstacle to attaining our greatness in life. 

Memory verse: Joshua 1:8

Prayer: Lord God, remove every fear in me that is an obstacle to the manifestation of the gifts hidden in me in Jesus name. Amen

Be Courageous In A Time Like This

Devotion for Thursday January 18, 2018

Topic: Be Courageous In A Time Like This           

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 7                                            

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memory verse: Joshua 1:7  

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

He Keeps To His Words

Devotion for Wednesday August 9, 2017

Topic: He Keeps To His Words

Text: Joshua 21:45

The words of Solomon in 1 Kings 8:56 confirm our topic for the today. God has never spoken and failed to do what He said. Joshua subscribed to the fact that all God said concerning possessing the Promised Land by Israel came to pass. The inviolable truth of God’s promise and its fulfillment is what Christians should look up to even when it delays in coming to pass. If in anything, it has seemed to come short, we should be ready to take all the blame to ourselves. God does not speak always but when He utters a word, He abides by it.

What are His promises you have laid hold on and they have not come to pass? What are you currently passing through that has almost consumed you and you have started to doubt the promises of God and their fulfillment in your life? Joshua testified that all God promised him and Israel came to pass. Solomon did same. All the promises He made to Paul also came to pass. I am assuring you, the user of this devotional today that God’s promises about your life and future will be fulfilled. Congratulations in advance. All will come to pass in your life in Jesus name. Just keep trusting and waiting for at the right time, it will be fulfilled.         

Food for Thought: “He who is the slowest in making a promise is the most faithful in the performance of it” – Jean Jacques Rousseau

Memory verse: Joshua 21:45

Prayer: God, bring all your promises for me and my family to fulfillment in Jesus name. Amen.

STAND OUT FOR GOD

DEVOTION FOR: MONDAY DECEMBER 5, 2016

Topic: STAND OUT                                   

Text: Numbers 14:1 – 10             

In some cases, the multitude can be deceptive. There are sometimes in the game WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE, the audience failed the contestant by giving wrong answer. It is not always in every case that the majority of people are right in their opinion or belief. Thus it is very important we view issues from different perspectives to enable us draw a true conclusion of matters. This is also very important in our Christianity especially now that many false teachers and prophets are in the Church of Christ.

The best thing we can do as Christians to stand well on God’s side is to be very careful of the multitude. God hardly works with multitude. Rather, He chooses those who will separate themselves from the multitude to stand out. The majority report of 10 men caused a great rebellion among the people (Numbers 14:1–4). Because it is in human nature to accept opinion as fact, we must be very careful when voicing our negative opinions as Christians. Moses was put into more trouble (Numbers 14:5) by the majority report. The action of the multitude in rebelling, grieved Joshua and Caleb that they had to tear their clothes (Numbers 14:6).

Tearing clothing was a customary way of showing deep sorrow, mourning, or despair. Joshua and Caleb were greatly distressed by the people’s refusal to enter the land. They maintained their stand that they are able to take the land despite the majority report (Numbers 14:6–9). By standing out on God’s side, the Israelites wanted to stone them (Numbers 14:10). This is the greatest height of distrust on God and what He can do.

When the chorus of despair went up, everyone joined in. Their greatest fears were being realized. They lost their perspective and were caught up in the emotion of the moment, forgetting what they knew about God’s character. They quickly forgot that with Him all things are possible. They forgot that He can make way where there is no way. Unfortunately, they (those who doubted God) didn’t enter the Promised Land at last. When a cry of despair goes up around you, consider the larger perspective before you join in. You have better ways to use your energy than to grumble. Above all stand out. Don’t join others to do evil in your office, neighbourhood, business arena, etc. Show the people that you are different through being punctual, honesty, integrity, faithfulness, etc. Our call is to come out and be separate (2 Corinthians 6:17 and 18).

Food for Thought: A compromising Christian is a thorn on the flesh of the Church of God.

Memory verse: Numbers 4 verse 6

Prayer: Help me, O Lord, to stand out for you no matter the situation I find myself in Jesus name. Amen.

BEWARE OF YOUR PERSONAL ASSISTANTS: Devotion for Thursday July 14, 2016

BEWARE OF YOUR PERSONAL ASSISTANTS: Devotion for Thursday July 14, 2016

Text: Numbers 11:24 – 30                  

Memory verse: Numbers 11 verse 28 – So Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' assistant, one of his choice men, answered and said, "Moses my lord, forbid them!"

Mark 10:13 says, “Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them.” In Mark 10 verse 14, Jesus saw it and was greatly displeased and He said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:14b). His disciples were the ones that stood against the children who came to Jesus. 

Here Joshua who was personal assistant to Moses was jealous that Eldad and Medad were prophesying in the camp. Joshua seems to have thought that, in remaining behind they had been guilty of disrespect towards Moses. But Moses rejoiced in every gift of God's Spirit, though some irregularity might be connected with it. This incident is similar to a story told in Mk 9:38-41 (Lk. 9:49–50). The disciples wanted Jesus to forbid others to drive out demons because they were not part of the disciples’ group. But this type of narrow attitude was condemned by both Moses and Jesus.

Beloved, beware of putting limits on God; He can work through whomever He chooses. This act of limiting God on who to use is common among Christians today. When someone who is not a member of our church of fellowship is being used by God, we ridicule it immediately. You don’t choose for God whom to use. He can use anyone to work out His purpose when there is no available vessel. Those in leadership position should be wary of their personal assistants who stop people arbitrarily from coming to them or give wrong information to the public about them.

Food for Thought: God is never limited in His dealing with us.

Prayer: Lord, grant unto all in position of authority wisdom to handle weaknesses of their assistants in Jesus name. Amen.     

NB: Do you have question about our Christian faith? Is there anything about Christianity bordering you? Why not ask your question? We offer counseling and answer questions online. You can also reach us on our Facebook page (My Daily Covenant with God devotional) and we will arrange a chat with you.

ASSURED SOLIDARITY: Devotion for Sunday June 26, 2016

ASSURED SOLIDARITY: Devotion for Sunday June 26, 2016

Text: Joshua 1:16 – 18               

Memory verse: v16 - So they answered Joshua, saying, "All that you command us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go (New King James Version).           

Usually, when God is at the centre of any movement, it easily receives solidarity and support of the people. There is no need to coax or intimidate people into doing what is right and appropriate. This was the case here. The people after hearing the message from Joshua were moved in their hearts which led to their response in our text. They agreed to obey Joshua. Their response was that whatever you command us to do; we will readily do, without murmuring or disputing. Again, wherever you send us, we will go.

These were assuring words to Joshua as he takes over the mantle of leadership from Moses. They promised Joshua obedience (1:16), they prayed for God’s presence with him (1:17), they pass an act to make it death for any Israeli who disobey Joshua's orders, or rebel against his commandment and they inspired him to go on with cheerfulness in the work to which God had called him; and, in desiring that, he should be strong and of good courage as God admonished him earlier. These words of assurance from the people were enough to inspire Joshua into action. There is no leader that will receive such assurance from his subjects that will not be motivated. 

How much solidarity do you give to your leaders; political leaders, traditional rulers, your boss in the office, your master as an apprentice, your pastors and teachers of the gospel, your fellowship leaders, group leaders in the church, etc? Do you support your Priest/Pastor when he moves motions for evangelism, revival, etc in church meetings or you are there to oppose every move whether good or bad simply because you don’t love the Pastor? The work of God cannot progress where there is rancor and disagreement. We should always work as a team for that is the desire of God (John. 17:11, 22).

Food for Thought: How much solidarity do you give to your leaders in the society and the church?

Prayer: 1. Lord God, may I never be a clog in the wheel of progress in your church in Jesus name. 2. Use me to support those in authority through obedience and moral support. 

DO NOT PROCRASTINATE: Devotion for Saturday June 25, 2016 ]

DO NOT PROCRASTINATE: Devotion for Saturday June 25, 2016 ]

  

Text: Joshua 1:10 – 15                           

Memory verse: v 11 - "Pass through the camp and command the people, saying, 'Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you will cross over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you to possess”

In Rom. 4:20, the bible recorded that Abraham did not waver or stagger at he promises of God. This means that he had no doubt about what God told him despite his physical condition and that of his wife (Rom. 4:19). In our bible reading today, Joshua says to the people immediately God had spoken to him, “Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you will cross over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you to possess” (1:11b).

We honour the truth of God, when we stagger not or waver at the promise of God as Abraham did. The two tribes and a half were to go over Jordan with their brethren. When God, by His providence, has given us rest, we ought to consider what service we may do to our brethren. Again, we God has blessed us, we should not neglect our brethren. We should be of help to them with what God has blessed us with.

“The certainty that God will bestow upon His people the blessings He has promised them, does not in the least lessen the necessity of their using all appointed means to obtain them” so says Family Bible Notes. God promised to take them into the Promised Land. They don’t have to procrastinate or sit in a place for the promise to be fulfilled. They have a part to play. Likewise, God has made several promises to us. We shouldn’t procrastinate about them by waiting for ‘manna to fall from heaven’ upon our laps which rarely happens. Rather we should swing into action by playing our part in that promise made by God. For example the promise to bless us depends on the effort we make. God blessed Isaac and made him prosperous when he sowed in Gerar. God promised to feed the birds of the air but He does not throw their food into their nest.

Food for Thought: What will you do to ensure that God’s promises made to you will be fulfilled?

Prayer: God, remove from every form of procrastination in me especially in heavenly matters in Jesus name.

WHEN GOD REPEATS HIS WORDS: Devotion for Friday June 24, 2016

WHEN GOD REPEATS HIS WORDS: Devotion for Friday June 24, 2016

  

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 9                        

Memory verse: v 9 - Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (New King James Version).

In our text, God used the phrase “Be strong and of good courage,” 3 times in verses 6, 7 and 9. God used this phrase repeatedly because that was the area He has endued Joshua but he seems not to have understood that. He wants Joshua to understand that He is with him and has empowered him to lead the Israelis into the Promised Land.

Joshua, though a person of great courage and resolution, had severally proved that he was, yet needs these exhortations. The reason is that his work was great, and difficult, and long, and in a great measure new. Again he needed the exhortation because he had a very mean opinion of himself, especially if compared with Moses; and remembering how perverse and ungovernable that people were, even under Moses, he might very well suspect that the burden of ruling them would be too heavy for his shoulders.

God expected Joshua to make His law, his rule. He was charged to meditate therein day and night, that he might understand it. This is what is expected of us too in our Christian race wherein we face stiff challenges as Joshua faced. How much time do you spend in meditating on the word of God? We show the highest and noblest courage when we faithfully discharge our duties. There is no coward that makes it his great object to obey the known will of God.  

Most times it is in the area of our strength that devil brings fear to intimidate us. Joshua knew that he has the charisma, character and ability to lead the people yet, he was reluctant and unwilling. In the days of Gideon, he was afraid of the Midianites even when he has the power. It was the power in him that made the angel of the Lord to urge him to go in that strength. What are the areas of your strength? Are you using them to its full potential or you are waiting for God to emphasis on it?

Food for Thought: Most times devil intimidates or tempts us based on our strength.

Prayer: Help me, O Lord, to recognise my strength and use it for your glory. 

UNLOCK YOUR HIDDEN TREASURE: Devotion for Friday March 4, 2016

UNLOCK YOUR HIDDEN TREASURE: Devotion for Friday March 4, 2016

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 9                        Memory verse: v 8

To every human being, there are deposits of treasures/gifts, which are waiting to be unlocked. These treasures or gifts can only become real and ours when we take some actions. There are many ways to unlock our hidden treasures. Majority of the ways are through revelation, challenges of life, reading of books, practices, etc. I became an author through the revelation I received from reading of books by my mentor, Robin Sharma. Some of his books opened my eyes to the enormous gifts in me and I realised that I can do something. Beloved, there are gifts/treasures and talents in you that are yet to manifest because you are not aware of them. I pray that God will reveal them to you. You will not die without realising that you have those gifts without using them for your generation in Jesus name.

Joshua had a task of leading the people into the Promised Land. He saw the kind of obstinate and rebellious heart they displayed under Moses. However, despite all these, God told him that he will succeed in leading them into the Promised Land on the condition that he incessantly meditates on the word of God. Josh 1:8b says, “For then ... (NKJV).” It means that “The grand means of inspiring and increasing true courage, is daily attention to the principles and precepts of the Bible, for the purpose of understanding and obeying them” as Family Bible Notes posited. For Joshua to discover his ability in leadership, he must as a matter of priority, read and meditate on the word of God to unlock that treasure in him. Some of us have the talent of becoming inventors, great athletes, great evangelists, pastors, teachers, doctors, nurses, etc, but fear have hindered us from attaining such greatness. God has an assurance for you in 1:9.

Food for Thought: Fear is the greatest obstacle to attaining our greatness in life.  

Prayer: Lord God, remove every fear in me that is an obstacle to the manifestation of the treasures hidden in me in Jesus name.

BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS: Devotion for Sunday January 3, 2016

BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS        Sunday January 3, 2016

Text: Joshua 1:1 – 7                          Memory verse: v 7

Leadership demands courage because leaders are faced with numerous responsibilities. These responsibilities need wisdom and not knowledge alone. That is why you see a degree holder failing in leadership while a graduate of Secondary school performs better. It depends on the level of wisdom which comes from God (Prov. 2:6). Knowledge is only an added advantage in leadership and not the basic necessity.

Joshua had assumed the leadership of Israel and now has the mandate to lead them into the Promised Land (1:1, 2). God gave him all the assurances he needed and some strategies to lead well and prosper. Here are some of them. He said that to succeed Joshua must (1) be strong and courageous because the task ahead would not be easy, (2) obey God’s law, and (3) constantly read and study the Book of the Law – The Bible. If we intend to be successful in our endeavours this year, we should follow God’s strategies given to Joshua. You should be strong in faith and be courageous in following God. You may not succeed by the world’s standards, but you will be a success in God’s eyes and His opinion lasts forever. Follow God courageously and He will take you to your Promised Land in this 2016.

Food for Thought: The highest and noblest courage is shown by the most faithful discharge of duty.  

Prayer: Lord God, make me strong and grant me the courage to faithfully follow your strategies for success this year in Jesus name.

ENCOURAGE HIM: Devotion for Sunday November 15, 2015

ENCOURAGE HIM         Sunday November 15, 2015

Text: Deuteronomy 1:34 – 38       Memory verse: v 38

We should be mindful of words we utter especially when we are angry or quarreling with others. The Israelites spoke angrily against God and Moses which attracted severe punishment. This made God to decree that only Caleb and Joshua will enter into the Promised Land. Moses told them that God is also angry with him for not heeding to His instructions too. However, the journey must continue with Joshua leading. Thus he requested for encouragement for him from the people. 

The admonition to encourage Joshua to succeed is worth emulating by us. The time I was writing this devotion was when the issue of kidnapping of school girls was on. Many people seem to shift all the blame on the President as if he alone can solve that kind of problem. We should encourage our spiritual and political leaders to succeed. They need our constructive criticisms and prayers. Leadership is all about involvement and taking responsibilities. We don’t need title to lead according to Robin Sharma.

Food for Thought: In what ways can you encourage your political leaders and the preachers and teachers of the gospel?

Prayer: Lord, make me instrument of encouragement to my leaders