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You are Called to Show Love, Not Perfection
"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!" - 1 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV)
From this verse, I would like to teach you 3 things, First, As a believer, you are on a continual journey of transformation, becoming more like Christ each day. Even the Apostle Paul, acknowledged his ongoing need for growth in Philippians 3:12-14, where he says, "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me... Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead."
Second, This verse reminds us that at every stage of life, we continue to grow, there is no level of faith you can attain while you are here on Earth where you can say that you are perfect and you don't need to learn or to pray. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, the word of God says "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."
Third: We are Ongoing Spiritual Battle.
The Christian life is an ongoing spiritual battle. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This battle requires constant readiness and vigilance. When Paul warns, "Be careful that you don’t fall," he acknowledges the real danger that even the seemingly strong can stumble.
Peter also echoes this warning in 1 Peter 5:8, "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." Complacency is the enemy of faithfulness. Therefore, you must guard your heart and mind, being diligent in prayer, study, and fellowship, to withstand the temptations and attacks you face daily.
Christ calls you to demonstrate love, particularly towards those who are weak, rather than to showcase your own righteousness. The essence of Christian living is not in displaying your perfection but in embodying Christ's love. Jesus, himself taught, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). This love includes bearing with one another's weaknesses and shortcomings, as Paul advises in Romans 15:1, "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves."
Moreover, in Galatians 6:1-2, Paul instructs, "Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." This directive reinforces the necessity of a humble and loving approach to others, understanding that you too are susceptible to falling.
So, God is reminding us of humility and vigilance in our spiritual journey. You are continuously being transformed into the image of Christ, engaged in a relentless spiritual battle, and called to extend love rather than assert your own perfection. Follow this path with a heart attuned to God’s grace, ever mindful of the care required to stand firm in faith.
Prayer: Lord, I pray to you, to help me to be humble and loving to everyone. May I show love to those who are weak. Help me to know I am on a continuous transformation journey which I will finish when I see your face in heaven. Amen
Our God is Great
For who in the skies above can compare with the Lord? Who is like the Lord among the heavenly beings? Psalm 89:6
Our God is very great, and His greatness cannot be compared to anyone either on earth or in heaven, yet many people do not know their Creator. Some only know Him superficially and are uncertain about what they know.
The Samaritan woman at the well, while speaking with Jesus, demonstrated her knowledge of God and the Scriptures. However, something you might not have considered about this woman is that her knowledge and understanding of God did not help her change her life; she was still living in sin and could not have a proper marriage. When Jesus looked at her, He knew she adhered to the religious traditions of the Samaritans, and He told her directly, "You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know..." (John 4:22). It was clear she did not truly know God.
Even today, there are many people who worship God without truly knowing who He is. As a result, they compare God to all sorts of things. This is why today's word prompts us to contemplate again on God and His power as we are asked, "For who in the skies above can compare with the Lord?"
You might say you do not compare God to anything because you do not do so directly. However, in your thoughts and the decisions you make every day, you may be comparing God to other things.
Let me tell you how you might be comparing God to other things. It is when you should entrust something to God, but you believe there is another way to accomplish it. Many people think that if they leave something to God, it will be delayed or not succeed, so they decide to use their own methods.
Moreover, when we fail to obey God and respect His commands, and when in your heart you do not fear God and do what He has forbidden, it is because in your heart you see God as an ordinary person. You think He has no power to do anything to you; you compare Him to a person who can threaten you but do nothing. The Word of God says, "In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; He is more awesome than all who surround Him." (Psalm 89:7), but many people do not fear God. They see the things written in the Bible as not being realistic.
But I assure you, God cannot be compared to anything nor does He resemble anyone. He has great power and might. It is time to give God His glory by continually contemplating His great works and worshiping Him in spirit and in truth.
Prayer: Oh Lord, your power and deeds are great and wonderful. I ask that through the Holy Spirit who dwells within me, teach me to know you and your power so that I may worship you in spirit and in truth.
Jesus, our faithful friend and our defender
But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
You may have a friend or someone close to you whom you trust and rely on in your life, but when you encounter problems and challenges, that's when you will truly know what kind of person they are.
No doubt you have been betrayed by someone close to you whom you trusted. Perhaps they spoke ill of you or joined your enemies to attack you. Betrayal is a significant problem in our society.
However, today's word tells us, "The Lord is faithful." This is a powerful statement to someone who has faced many life challenges and has been betrayed by people. Faithful people are very rare nowadays. But we thank our Lord Jesus Christ for His faithfulness to us. Jesus has never abandoned anyone; He is with his people in every situation.
God's faithfulness to us is what makes us strong. Knowing that you have someone who is with you, who believes in you, and wishes you well is enough to give you the courage and strength to move forward even in times of trouble.
So, the word of God says our faithful Jesus "will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." This means that Jesus is with us to defend and protect us. It is a great grace that God has given us.
In today's world, people say it is very lucky to find someone who will stand with you through all challenges and defend you, but we who have Christ say it is grace. Therefore, child of God, place your trust in Jesus. Do not rely on people. Jesus is always with you to encourage and protect you from all evil. Pray that He reveals Himself to you as a faithful friend, especially when you face life's challenges.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for being with me at all times. I pray that you open my eyes to recognize your presence in every situation I go through. Thank you for your faithfulness and protection. Amen.
Receive God's word with humility and respect - Part 2
Ezekiel 3:10 - Moreover, he said to me, "Son of man, take into your heart all my words which I will speak to you and listen closely."
In this verse, I want to emphasize the part where it says "all my words." As our Father and ruler, God deserves great respect, and we are obligated to obey and follow everything He says. Not just some, but everything He says, which is why He says "all my words."
Therefore, we must obey all His words. We shouldn't pick and choose what to listen to and what to obey from God. Accept God's word as it is, and He will bless you.
Today, I will talk to you about the consequences of not listening to and obeying God's word. Firstly, the Bible speaks generally about a person who hears God's word but does not take it to heart. Matthew 7:26-27 says, "Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand; the rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its fall."
When you refuse to value and hold onto God's word, life's challenges will destroy your life, and you will not be able to overcome Satan's temptations. Many Christians lack the strength to overcome sin because they don't have a strong foundation in God's word.
Also, in the book of Malachi 2:2, God's word says, "If you will not hear, and if you will not take it to heart, to give glory to my name, says the LORD of hosts, then I will send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have already cursed them, because you do not take it to heart." When you refuse to listen to God and pay attention to what He says, a curse is released upon you. And that curse ruins the blessings that God has given you.
In the book of Jeremiah 22:5, God's word says, "But if you will not obey these words, I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that this house shall become a desolation." God's word continues to say in Jeremiah 22:21, "I spoke to you in your prosperity, but you said, 'I will not listen.' This has been your way from your youth, that you have not obeyed my voice."
Here, God speaks about a person who has Prospered and, because of their success, refuses to listen to God's word and instructions.
Don't get to a point where you feel you don't need God because of your financial success. It is important to continue worshiping and learning God's word and obeying it every time He speaks to you. God has said He will make your house desolate if you do not listen to Him and hold onto His words.
Prayer: Oh Lord, I ask that you grant me the grace to hold onto your word so that I may succeed in my life. I pray that you grant me obedience to follow your word so that it may guide me on my life's journey. Amen.
You will benefit from your Labour
Psalm 128:2 reads: "You will eat the fruit of your labour; blessings and prosperity will be yours."
Psalm 128 is a wisdom psalm, which reflects on the blessings that come from fearing the Lord and walking in His ways.
"You will eat the fruit of your labour;" This phrase directly suggests that the person who fears the Lord and follows His commandments will benefit from their own efforts. In Israeli culture, this would mean enjoying the produce from one’s own fields and vineyards. In Ecclesiastes 3:13: the bible says "That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God."
The "fruit of your labour " symbolizes the rewards or outcomes of one's hard work, integrity, and dedication in various aspects of life, whether it be in work, family, or community engagements. Proverbs 14:23: says "All hard work brings a profit, the bible is talking about you enjoying this profit you made from your work. The enjoyment of one's own labour is seen as a blessing from God, reinforcing the belief that obedience to God’s commandments results in tangible, positive outcomes.
The term "blessings" encompasses all good things that come from God. It can include peace, health, joy, family harmony, and spiritual well-being. In the Hebrew context, the blessing is a comprehensive term that signifies favour and divine approval. In Deuteronomy 28:2 the word of God says "All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God."
Prosperity: This term indicates material and social well-being. It suggests not only having enough but living in abundance. Prosperity carries the connotation of holistic well-being, including financial, relational, and spiritual health.
Blessings and prosperity are conditional upon the individual’s reverence for God and adherence to His ways. Because God rewards faithfulness and obedience.
So the word of God today teaches us diligent and faithful work, grounded in the fear of the Lord, leads to a life blessed by God. It assures us that living a life in alignment with God's will brings about personal satisfaction and divine blessings, in both material and spiritual prosperity.
Prayer: Lord I pray to help me to live a righteous and holy life so that I may be blessed by you to enjoy the fruits of my labour, may the fruits of my labour be a blessing to my children and generations to come. Amen
God's thoughts towards you are always good
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. Isaiah 55:8
There are many things you should know about God's thoughts towards you, but today, I want to talk about just one. Do you know what God thinks about you? Or rather, do you know how God sees you? This is not about life's plans and strategies, but about your as a person. This should be a fundamental question to ask yourself regularly because the enemy works very hard to disrupt our thoughts so that we do not know what God thinks about us.
One thing the enemy has managed to instil in human understanding since the first day man rebelled is lies and misinformation. Satan has alienated us from God in our thoughts.
In the book of Isaiah 49:14, the Word of God says, "But Zion said, 'The LORD has forsaken me, the Lord has forgotten me.'" The thoughts of Israelites were that God had forsaken them, but they were mistaken. What they thought about God was different from what God was thinking about them, which is why He responded and said, "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you. See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me." Isaiah 49:15-16.
Our thoughts have often been very different from God's thoughts. Today, seek to know what God thinks about you. Many people have thoughts like those of Zion; they believe that God has forsaken them, that God has forgotten them, or that God is punishing them. But this is not true; God's thoughts towards you are good and peaceful. In Jeremiah 29:11, God says, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Therefore, God's thoughts and ways in your life are generally good, and the ways He uses to meet your needs are different from the ways you desire.
Our biggest problem is wanting God to do things in the manner and time we want, and when He doesn't, we think God doesn't love us and has bad thoughts about us. But what we need to do is know that God thinks good thoughts about us and trusts His ways.
Prayer: Thank you, LORD, for thinking good and peaceful thoughts about me and for your ways that are not like mine. I ask you to teach me to trust you, to accept your thoughts, and to follow and trust your ways. Amen.
God has a special Word for you
"My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life." Psalm 119:50 (NIV):
In every situation we face, God has already spoken a word over it. The role of God's word is to guide us during that period.
When you reach a point in your life where you don’t know what to do, the first thing you need is God's word, so it can give you guidance. David told God in Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." David knew that without God's word, he couldn't know the way to go or what to do.
Now, Child of God, in every situation you find yourself in your life, know that there is a word from God to guide you. When you go through tough times, God's word is there to encourage you and give you the strength to move forward. When David went through difficult times of hardship and suffering, he prayed to God saying, "I have suffered much; preserve my life, O LORD, according to your word." Psalm 119:107.
What I want you to know is that God speaks to you directly through His word and, more importantly, God knows your entire life. He knows what will happen to you in the future, so He gives you His word in advance to prepare you. When you go through that situation, you remember that there is already a word that God instructed you to read.
Sometimes, when you are in a particular challenge, as you read your Bible, you find yourself going straight to a word related to what you are going through. Other times, you might have a dream directing you to a specific verse in the Bible. Or God might use someone, or during a service, a particular verse from the Bible might be read that encourages you and revive your faith, reminding you that God is with you.
Therefore, Child of God, in any situation you are facing in your life, ask God to give you a word that will carry you through. Because God says, "He sent forth His word and healed them; He rescued them from the grave. Psalm 107:20." When God gives you that word, hold on to it and believe it until God brings you through safely. Amen.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that you send forth Your word to guide me in my life. When I go through difficult times, I pray, may Your word revive me and give me the strength to move forward. Amen.
Choose your Words Carefully
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." - Ephesians 4:29
One of the areas where Satan has been able to reach the people of God and destroy the testimony of Christ within us is in our words.
There is great power in words; the Bible says, "By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible." Words have the power to create.
Today, God warns us, "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths," because God knows the power carried by your words.
There are many things to learn about words, but today we'll focus on two main things:
1. The words you speak to yourself.
2. The words you speak to others.
The Word of God says, "He loved to curse; let curses come upon him! He did not delight in blessing; may it be far from him! He clothed himself with cursing as his coat; may it soak into his body like water, like oil into his bones!" (Psalms 109:17-19)
In this passage, we learn that when you speak words of curse, they harm the one you speak them to, but they also affect you; they become like your garment. That spirit of curse will possess you and be upon you like a garment. If you're used to cursing others, that same mouth will curse and affect your own affairs. And the outcome will be very bad.
And when people hear you speak negative words every day, their perception of you changes; they see you as someone unworthy. That's why God commands us today that the words from our mouths should be words that benefit others, not words of discouragement, mockery, or curse.
The wiser our words, the more the people around us are helped and healed. It doesn't mean these people will always treat us well; no, some will hurt you deeply and do you harm. But God wants you to be a good representative of Christ, not responding to evil with evil, nor being angry. Pray to God to give you the wisdom to answer everyone, so that you may live in peace and be a good testimony of Christ.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I entrust my mouth to you. I ask you to grant me your wisdom and patience. May all the words that come out of my mouth be words that help the needy and demonstrate your wisdom and love. Amen.
Make Jesus the source of your peace
"Now, may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you. 2 Thessalonians 3:16"
What is your peace derived from? What or who gives you peace? The issue of peace in your heart is a result of your personal decisions; it's you who decides to have peace or not. It is you who have chosen to give someone or something the power to rule your heart. Now, your peace comes from whoever rules your heart and life, whatever dominates your life is what gives you peace.
If you have decided that people are the ones to give you joy and peace in your life, that peace won't last, because people may delight you today but offend you tomorrow, and this is because no one is perfect, everyone has their flaws. It doesn't matter if this person is your spouse, friend, or anyone else. The word of God says, "Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. Jeremiah 17:5," so relying solely on someone to give you peace already puts you under a curse. Today Make Jesus the source of your peace.
For some, their worldly accomplishments are the source of their peace; when they have money, they are happy, but when they lack, they enter into sadness and stress. Others may not lack money but desire more than what they have. Some find peace in their positions at work, wanting more than what they already possess, and because they haven't attained it, they lack peace. The word of God says, "Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless. Ecclesiastes 5:10."
For some, the source of their peace is the pleasures and luxuries of this world. When faced with life's challenges and their hearts are hurt, their way of comforting themselves is indulging in worldly pleasures and luxuries. Some drink alcohol, some listen and dance to worldly music, and some engage in adultery. Humans have devised their own ways of finding joy apart from God, but the word of God is clear, "There is no peace for the wicked, says the Lord. Isaiah 48:22."
You cannot find peace by sinning. Also, you cannot find peace in environments where evil prevails. And a wicked person cannot give you peace; they don’t have that peace. So they can't give you what they don't have.
Jesus Christ said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27." True peace comes only from God. Make Jesus Christ your foundation; he is faithful and will not leave you, and he will provide everything you need in your life. The peace that Jesus gives is not like that of this world; his peace lasts forever in our hearts.
Prayer: Jesus Christ, you are the King of peace. I have searched for peace in this world and haven't found it; my heart has been hurt by many things, and even the people I trusted have broken my heart. Now, only you remain, Jesus, you are my refuge. I ask you to give me your eternal peace in my heart. Amen.
Exaltation in Christ
"And Hannah prayed and said, 'My heart exults in the LORD; my horn is exalted in the LORD, my mouth speaks boldly against my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation.'" 1 Samuel 2:1
We pick up from where we left off yesterday. Yesterday we saw that Hannah was faithful to her God and had a heart of gratitude. Her heart was filled with joy and gratitude after offering to God her precious and only son Samuel to be used in the house of God.
Today, we learn again from other words spoken by Hannah, "My horn is exalted in the LORD."
The first thing to learn here is that when you give an offering to God, you do not diminish or lose, but you increase and are uplifted.
The amazing thing here is that Hannah said these words after she gave her son to be used by God in the temple:
"And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and she brought him to the house of the LORD at Shiloh. And the child was young." 1 Samuel 1:24 ESV
After doing so, she said, "My heart exults in the LORD, my horn is exalted in the LORD." So, the important thing to learn here is that your elevation should be in Christ.
The concept of Divine Success or as we say today, being in Christ, is a broad and controversial issue in our current society. So today I will speak about it in two ways.
Some people start well with God, but when God blesses them and uplifts them, their success separates them from God, they leave Christ who made them successful. So, while they were not uplifted, they were "in Christ," after their success, they became "outside of Christ."
And the things that take away our success outside of Christ are things like ingratitude to God, lack of faithfulness, and breaking your vows and covenants with God. So, for some Christians their success is outside of Christ, they don't glorify God, nor are they used for the benefit of the kingdom of God.
The second way is when you are a Christian but the way you seek success in your life is not by God's principles. There are people or things you rely on to uplift you.
You can indeed succeed in getting what you need outside of Christ. Some people give bribes and get jobs, others have made fake certificates and got employment, some have stolen money and now they have houses, cars, and plenty of money. So, here we have Christians whose "horn has not been lifted in the LORD" their success has not been obtained from God.
Today I am asking you not to leave God. Don't take your success outside of him, remain in Christ, support God's work, and give offerings. And continue to live a holy and righteous life. If property has moved you out of Christ now it is time to return.
Also if you are seeking promotion or exaltation outside of Christ, please stop. Be humble, trust God and pray always like Hannah so you can also say like Hannah "My horn is exalted in the LORD"
Prayer: O LORD, grant me to be faithful to you and to live a holy life, let my success be within you, and also if you bless me, let me remain in you. Amen
Overcome and stand firm in Faith
They have bowed down and fallen, but we have risen and stand firm. Psalm 20:8
No one who trusts in God will be put to shame. This verse shows the outcome of the battle and competition between the people of God and their enemies.
Also, something I want you to know is that God has assured victory for his people in every battle, so do not be afraid; God's grace is with you even if your current situation is tough and you don't know what will happen next. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." So, child of God, do not fear; if you trust in God, your end will be good, and you will overcome all challenges.
Now, there are two important things I want us to learn from this Psalm in general: Psalm 20 is a prayer for protection and victory in times of war. The Israelites prayed it when they were attacked by their enemies.
1. From verses 1 to 6, they were praying for their king because they knew if their king won, they would also win. It's essential to understand that sometimes your victory is a result of someone else's victory. When they succeed, you succeed. For example, if you're employed by a company and it succeeds, you succeed too. Likewise, when your country prospers, you prosper.
Psalm 122:6-7 says, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.'" They knew that Jerusalem's prosperity meant their prosperity, so they prayed for its peace and success. You should also pray for the source of your blessings, like the company you work for, the area you work in, and your country.
2. The second point is in our verse. Here, the Israelites prayed, comparing themselves to their enemies. Psalm 20:7, says, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God."* And in verse 8, "They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm."**
In spiritual warfare, we often focus on defeating our enemies, and our focus shifts to their destruction to the point that we forget ourselves.
It's crucial to pray for what comes next after your enemies fall in battle. Here, they prayed and said, "But we rise up and stand firm."
Pray to God once you've defeated your enemies so that you can stand firm. Ephesians 6:13 says, "Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." I want to emphasize "and after you have done everything, to stand." It doesn't make sense if you're a fervent prayer warrior, but your life doesn't reflect it. You pray a lot, but after praying, sin overwhelms you. It's because you're fighting enemies without praying for yourself to stand firm in faith. This is a significant issue, especially among prayer warriors, to the extent that world people tell them, "You should've prayed first for God to give you humility or honor or obedience." So it's time to start praying for yourself to stand firm in faith and your work.
Prayer: O Lord, I pray that you help me to win every battle and after that to stand firm in my faith and to be a testimony to those who do not know you. I pray for my country and my workplace to have peace and prosperity. Amen.
In simpler terms, when God asks, "How long will you keep thinking and doing bad things?" he's showing how urgent it is to stop sinning and ask for forgiveness.
He wants people to realize how serious their sins are and to deal with them right away.
Basically, Jeremiah 4:14 is saying that we need to change inside, stop doing wrong things, and always try to do what's right to be saved and blessed by God.
So, Child of God, may your prayers this Sunday be about purifying and cleansing your heart with the blood of Jesus.
Repent and purify yourself to remove all evil things that are within your heart along with evil thoughts.
Wishing you a blessed Sunday 🙏
Wait Patiently for the Lord, he will bless you.
"Envy thou not the oppressor, And choose none of his ways." Proverbs 3:31
In today's world, because people do not know the word of God, the enemy has deceived many into believing his lies, and people imitate and desire things they do not understand.
The word of God says "Envy thou not the oppressor," meaning do not desire him, do not imitate him, do not want to be like him, because his end is not good.
The word of God forbids us from imitating evil and inappropriate character. The big problem nowadays, especially for young people, is imitating everything they see on TV and on social media, without knowing its consequences.
Another problem is the love of money, which leads people to do evil things. When the word says "And choose none of his ways." It means your life is a choice, it's a decision. Do not choose to gain money, power, or possessions through unjust means.
Do not envy an evil person who succeeds in his wicked ways, nor be angry and wonder why you are doing the right thing and not succeeding. The word of God says "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes."Psalm 37:7 (NIV)
Today, God speaks to us in this way because many people are going through a very difficult time in their workplaces, because of colleagues who get promotions and climb the ranks through unjust means. And in our society, also young people imitate behaviors and want to be like celebrities, even though what they do goes against our values.
The word of God in Psalm 37 exhorts us to trust in God and to have patience in life, and it shows us the end of evildoers.
"Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land." Psalm 37:1-4, 7, 9-11, 16, 34, 37 (NIV)
Prayer: O Lord, grant me patience and faith, teach me to follow you and live a life of righteousness and holiness. I ask for the strength to overcome all the temptations of this world. Amen.
The Works of the Holy Spirit in Believers' Lives
1. Helper/Teacher:
- The Holy Spirit serves as a divine Helper, providing guidance, counsel, and illumination to believers as we navigate our spiritual journey (John 14:26).
- By reminding us of Jesus' teachings and empowering us to understand Scripture, the Holy Spirit ensures continuity and depth in our faith.
2. Conviction of Sin:
- In addition to providing guidance, the Holy Spirit convicts individuals of their sinfulness, prompting them towards repentance and spiritual renewal (John 16:7-
- This conviction catalyzes transformation, leading believers toward a deeper relationship with God and a commitment to righteousness.
3. Indwelling Presence:
- Believers acknowledge the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit within them, symbolizing their union with God and serving as a constant source of comfort and strength (1 Corinthians 3:16).
- This intimate connection with the divine empowers believers to live out their faith boldly and authentically, confident in God's abiding presence.
4. Source of Revelation and Power:
- The Holy Spirit is our source of God's revelation, wisdom, and power, which enable us to discern God's will and purpose in our lives (1 Corinthians 2:10-11, Acts 1:8).
- Through the Holy Spirit's empowerment, we are equipped to overcome obstacles, fulfill our calling, and bear witness to the transformative power of the gospel.
5. Guide to Truth and Future:
- As the Spirit of Truth, the Holy Spirit guides us into all truth, illuminating God's word and revealing the mysteries of God's plan (John 16:13-15).
- By providing insights into the future and communicating God's will, the Holy Spirit empowers us to navigate life's complexities with faith and confidence.
6. Giver of Spiritual Gifts:
- The Holy Spirit bestows spiritual gifts upon believers, endowing us with unique abilities and talents for the edification of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
- These gifts enable us to serve others selflessly, they increase the growth of the church, and manifest God's love and grace in tangible ways.
7. Seal of Adoption:
- The Holy Spirit serves as a seal of adoption, affirming us as children of God and guaranteeing our inheritance in Christ (Ephesians 1:13).
- This seal serves as a mark of divine ownership and protection, assuring us of our status as heirs of God's promises and recipients of His grace.
8. Intercessor and Helper:
- During moments of weakness and uncertainty, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, giving us comfort, guidance, and assurance (Romans 8:26-27).
- Through groans that can not be uttered and divine intervention, the Holy Spirit prays for us, strengthens our faith, and aligns our hearts with God's will.
9. Granter of Eternal Life:
- The Holy Spirit works within us to renew, sanctify, and impart eternal life, transforming our mortal bodies and securing our salvation (Romans 8:10-11).
- By infusing us with the life-giving power of the Spirit, God ensures our participation in His kingdom and eternal fellowship with Him.
10. Sanctifier and Producer of Good Fruit:
- Through the process of sanctification, the Holy Spirit enables us to grow in holiness and produce the fruit of righteousness (Galatians 5:16-25).
- By convicting us of sin and empowering us to live according to God's will, the Holy Spirit cultivates virtues such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control within us, bearing witness to the transformative work of God's grace in our lives.
You are not subject to the power of darkness.
In the Gospel of John 3:20, Jesus says, "For everyone who does evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed."
From the beginning of Creation, God separated Light and Darkness. "And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness." (Genesis 1:4). Because these two things had already been separated by God, they cannot coexist and are incompatible but God has placed Light over darkness, in the book of John 1:5, it says "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it."
Light and Darkness in the Bible are often used as metaphors to signify the kingdom of God and the kingdom of Darkness, righteousness and evil or Good and Evil. In the book of Ephesians 5:11 it says "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them." In this verse, the works of darkness refer to evil deeds. The Word of God is showing us, Light and darkness do not mix and are enemies.
What I want you to know, child of God, is that if God has made you Light and you live and act in righteousness, those who are on the side of darkness will rise against you.
If God has made you Light in your family, lineage, or community, or in the place where you work, you carry the destiny of the redemption of your family. The kingdom of darkness ruling over your family or place of influence will rise against you.
So, don't be surprised when people hate and rise against you; it's a spiritual battle. Because you carry something that disrupts their plans.
The good news I bring you today is that even though they rise against you and hate you, they will not prevail! The word of God says, "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it." (John 1:5). Also, the word of God says, "You shall establish yourself in righteousness; you shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near you. Indeed, they shall surely assemble, but not because of Me. Whoever assembles against you shall fall for your sake. No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is from Me, says the LORD." (Isaiah 54:14-15, 17 NKJV)
So, child of God, there is special protection placed upon you by God, it will shield you from all the evils intended by your enemies. Amen.
Prayer: Thank you Jesus for making me a light in this world, I pray that you make me steadfast in faith, in all challenges, and let my light never dim. Amen.
His love gives us Victory
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37
Without a doubt, there have been times when you faced difficult moments in your life, and it is during these times that you discovered who truly loves you. These are the times when our enemies openly rise against us, and Evil people wish for our complete destruction.
When you go through challenges, that’s when people reveal their true feelings and those who have longed to see you fall use the opportunity to speak against you. David said in Psalm 41:5, "My enemies say of me in malice, 'When will he die and his name perish?'"
In all these hardships, it is only because of God's love for you that you made it through.
Sometimes, when you reflect on your life, you realize that it was only God who helped you. And how merciful God is during these times—it’s not even that you were perfect. Perhaps you didn't even know God, but He helped you. Maybe you survived not because you prayed hard or had great faith—perhaps you had even given up hope. But God's grace brought you through.
This brings us to today's world, where we boldly say, In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Therefore, it is God's love, not your effort, righteousness, or ability, that makes you victorious.
As a human being, you have many weaknesses. Often, when we face challenges, we indeed have made mistakes. You might have done something to deserve negative consequences, but it was God's love that saw you through. It is God's love alone that saves and helps us in our lives. No one is perfect. Even if you think you are perfect, I want to tell you that you are mistaken.
So, God is with you in all situations, and His love has no limits. Even if people hate you, He still loves you. There is no problem or challenge greater than God's love. Romans 8:38-39 says, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Prayer: Oh Lord, you are greater than the challenges I face, and your love is greater than the hatred of my enemies. In all situations, I know you are with me, and nothing can separate me from your love. I commit my life to you. Amen.
Though the Lord is on high, he looks upon the lowly; but the proud he knows from afar. Psalm 138:6
Given the current state of wickedness in the world, righteousness often seems like something without any benefit or meaning. Today's world praises evil more than good, causing many people to become discouraged, with some even turning to evil deeds.
The Word of God in Isaiah 59:14 says, "So justice is driven back, and righteousness stands at a distance; truth has stumbled in the streets, honesty cannot enter." This verse depicts a society corrupted morally, much like our current society, where truth faces great opposition and is scorned.
Now, God's Word says, "Though the Lord is on high, He looks upon the lowly." This statement encourages you if you are in a state of discouragement, because the effort you put into living a humble and righteous life may seem meaningless. I want to tell you that God sees you and knows you, and He has already prepared your reward.
Do not be discouraged because no one recognizes your goodness and integrity. The one who commands us to be righteous and live a holy life is God. Therefore, your reward will come from God, not from humans. Don't seek recognition from them.
Starting at the family level, many parents care and look at their children's physical achievements, and a child with economic success is seen as the best, receiving lavish praise from their parents. Parents have neglected moral issues to the extent that even children with integrity are disheartened because no one encourages them or shows them that the path they are following is good, right, and ultimately beneficial.
So today, I encourage you with this Word: "Though the Lord is on high, He looks upon the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar." There is a blessing that God has prepared for you. Continue to be humble and patient; one day, God will lift you up.
Even at work, do not compete with your colleagues. Some gain promotions through bribery and deceit, while others rely on dark powers. Some acquire wealth and money through theft. You, however, humble yourself before God, work diligently, and with integrity. God knows you, and that is enough. One day He will open the doors of your blessings.
Prayer: Oh Lord, I thank you for the grace you have given me in my life. I pray that you grant me humility and integrity in these challenging and tempting circumstances. May your Holy Spirit guide me and give me strength. Amen.
Jesus is able to help you
And because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:18
When we go through difficult challenges or trials, the first thing we often think is, "Who will help me?" This question has baffled many people, leaving them feeling helpless, lonely, and despairing.
Some people find people to share their challenges with, but often discover that these people can not help them.
The Word of God speaks clearly about Jesus Christ when it says, "because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted." I want you to notice the word "able." Jesus Christ alone is capable of helping you in all trials.
So, child of God, when you face challenges or trials, do not tell everyone or seek help from just anyone. You should go to someone who has Christ within them, for that person will be able to help you because God works through them.
It is true that God uses people to help you in your life, especially when you are going through severe trials and suffering. However, many people, particularly within the Christian community, have been hurt by those they expected to help them during their trials.
The matter of helping others is a command from Jesus Christ himself. Jesus told Peter, "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." (Luke 22:31-32) Therefore, there are people whom God has brought through similar challenges to help and strengthen you during your trials.
Child of God, Jesus Christ, went through many sufferings and challenges while he was here on earth. I assure you that he understands your situation well, so commit yourself to him with all your heart. There are also people whom God has raised to help others. Pray that God guides you to know them so that they can encourage and strengthen you when you face trials. Because God uses these people to help you.
Prayer: Oh, LORD, I ask for your grace to be with me, to bring me through all trials. I believe you are with me and will enable me to overcome all trials. Amen.
Receive God's Word with humility and respect. Part 2
Ezekiel 3:10 - "Moreover, he said to me, 'Son of man, take into your heart all my words which I will speak to you and listen closely.'"
In this verse, I want to emphasize the part where it says "all my words." As our Father and ruler, God deserves great respect, and we are obligated to obey and follow everything He says. Not just some, but everything He says, which is why He says "all my words."
Therefore, we must obey all His words. We shouldn't pick and choose what to listen to and what to obey from God. Accept God's word as it is, and He will bless you.
Today, I will talk to you about the consequences of not listening to and obeying God's word. Firstly, the Bible speaks generally about a person who hears God's word but does not take it to heart. Matthew 7:26-27 says, "Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand; the rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its fall."
When you refuse to value and hold onto God's word, life's challenges will destroy your life, and you will not be able to overcome Satan's temptations. Many Christians lack the strength to overcome sin because they don't have a strong foundation in God's word.
Also, in the book of Malachi 2:2, God's word says, "If you will not hear, and if you will not take it to heart, to give glory to my name, says the LORD of hosts, then I will send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have already cursed them, because you do not take it to heart." When you refuse to listen to God and pay attention to what He says, a curse is released upon you. And that curse ruins the blessings that God has given you.
In the book of Jeremiah 22:5, God's word says, "But if you will not obey these words, I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that this house shall become a desolation." God's word continues to say in Jeremiah 22:21, "I spoke to you in your prosperity, but you said, 'I will not listen.' This has been your way from your youth, that you have not obeyed my voice."
Here, God speaks about a person who has Prospered and, because of their success, refuses to listen to God's word and instructions.
Don't get to a point where you feel you don't need God because of your financial success. It is important to continue worshipping and learning God's word and obeying it every time He speaks to you. God has said He will make your house desolate if you do not listen to Him and hold onto His words.
Prayer: Oh Lord, I ask that you grant me the grace to hold onto your word so that I may succeed in my life. I pray that you grant me obedience to follow your word so that it may guide me on my life's journey. Amen.
Receive God's word With humility and respect
"And he said to me, 'Son of man, receive in your heart all my words that I speak to you, and hear with your ears.' Ezekiel 3:10
God loves us very much, and everything He says and commands is for our own benefit. However, the biggest problem for today's Christians is that they only want to hear certain kinds of words. Even when they attend church services and listen to God's teachings, they come with expectations of hearing specific things.
The Word of God says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness; 2 Timothy 3:16." When you go to church or attend a service, you should go with humility and a heart ready to receive the word that God will speak through His servants. Do not go to a service with your criteria of what you want to hear or who you want to hear from. Go to church to hear God only.
God said in the book of "Isaiah 66:2 ...but this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word." We should always receive God's word with respect and humility. Do not oppose God's word or criticize the preaching during sermons. Do not think you know more than what is being read and taught. Be humble and listen to the teaching; you will learn many things.
What should you do if the person reading God's word is not righteous, and their actions do not align with God's word? Jesus told His disciples about the Pharisees, "So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. Matthew 23:3." Do not refuse to listen to God's word because the person reading and preaching it, is a sinner. You should be receptive to God's message, regardless of the preacher's personal righteousness, as long as what he preaches aligns with the Bible. Listen to the word of God, and leave preacher's personal life aside.
But be cautious not to listen to false teachings. Those who teach false doctrines are known by the things they say, which are not found in the Bible, and some use God's word for their own benefit. But for you child of God, you have the Holy Spirit within you, He will show you what is true so that you can hold on to it.
When you go to church, go with humility and listen to God's word with humility. Do not just want to hear pleasant things. Some of you only want to hear about prosperity, you want to hear God will bless you financially, you will get a house, a car. Those are the kind of things Christians of today want to hear.
But listen, if the word admonishes and rebukes you, accept it and repent. Listen to the word of God carefully especially when it correct you, because true prosperity and blessings comes only when we obey Gods word. Tomorrow, I will talk to you about the consequences of not listening to God's word.
Prayer: O LORD, I ask for Your mercy for every time I didn't have humility in me to respect and receive Your word. I pray that You give me obedience and humility in my heart so that I may hear and receive Your word. Amen.
God is Love
"Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8"
No number of words can describe the love of God in our lives, and no amount or abundance of words can explain who God is. But in our lives, there is something we have seen and testify to because it has become real to us. That is nothing else but the love of God. Indeed, God is love.
The Apostle John in this letter wrote to us something he was personally certain of. He began this letter by saying, "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life; 1 John 1:1" So the Apostle John is speaking about something he had experience with, something he knew well.
When he speaks about the love of God, he uses the same principle. There are two types of people: those who do not know God and those who know God. And the difference between these people is not anything else but their actions, not their words, because many say they know God, but their actions do not align with what they say.
Love comes from God. If you know God, then you have love within you. The problem for many Christians is that we harden our hearts. We know exactly the right thing to do, but for various reasons, we do not do it. We refrain from showing God's love to people.
Now, these are the instructions God gave us. "Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. 1 John 4:7-12 NIV"
May God help you to reveal his love to the world so others may know He is love.
AMEN
"In Christ"
"who in him we have redemption, that is, the forgiveness of sins; Colossians 1:14"
Many people nowadays refuse to accept Christ and follow His commandments, but they want to come to church when they have problems and troubles to pray or be prayed for, then expect God to answer them. Once their prayers are answered, they continue with their lives without considering God's ways. They want God's help them, but they don't want God in their lives.
The Word of God says "who in him" meaning in Christ "we have redemption," so to obtain redemption, one must be in Christ. Some people have been deceived, while others deceive themselves, thinking they can use God for their own benefit as they please.
Now, the child of God doesn't see it as a disadvantage to be in Christ; staying in Christ is a great advantage. When you accept Jesus as the Lord and Savior of your life and decide to live a holy life, this decision will protect you from many evils in this world.
The Word of God says "Outside are the dogs, and the sorcerers, and the fornicators, and the murderers, and the idolaters, and everyone loving and practicing falsehood. John 22:15" When you are outside of Christ, these people have power over you, and all spirits of destruction have authority over you, and they will torment and destroy your life.
Child of God, strive hard to hold onto your faith and do not be deceived or tempted by the enemy to leave Christ.
The second thing is, when you are in Christ, you will succeed greatly in everything you do. In the book of John 15:4-8, Jesus Christ Himself said, "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch can not bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples."
So the fundamental thing for all of us is to make sure we abide in Christ, for there we will find redemption from all evil and forgiveness when we sin, and we will also receive God's blessings of fruitfulness and increase. Whatever you do, do it in Christ, let your work be in Christ, your business be in Christ, your family be in Christ. And God will bless and protect you and everything you have. Amen
PRAYER: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your grace that you have given us to live and walk with you, I pray that you always grant me to abide in you. So that I may be safe and receive your blessings. Amen
The Blessings of Worshipping God
Exodus 23:25 reads, "Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you."
This is a divine promise of blessings for those who remain faithful to God. By emphasizing the act of worship, the word of God explains the importance of acknowledging God's sovereignty and honouring Him.
The blessings mentioned here, which include provision (food and water) and protection (removal of sickness), show God's care for His people when they prioritize their relationship with Him.
This verse not only highlights the spiritual significance of worship but also emphasizes its practical implications in everyday life, such as health and sustenance.
Now, let us get insights from this verse Exodus 23:25
In the book of Exodus, amidst the myriad laws and regulations given to the Israelites, there lies a very important promise of God to us in Exodus 23:25. This verse encapsulates the divine assurance of blessings for those who commit themselves to worshipping the Lord. Let's unpack this promise and understand its implications for believers today.
This verse begins with a clear directive: "Worship the Lord your God." Here, worship is not merely an act of religious duty but a profound acknowledgement of God's supremacy and a deliberate choice to prioritize Him above all else. True worship involves both the heart and the actions, encompassing reverence, obedience, and adoration.
The promise that follows is both comforting and empowering: "His blessing will be on your food and water." This assurance extends beyond mere sustenance; it speaks to God's provision in every aspect of life. Whether in times of abundance or scarcity, those who worship God can trust in His faithfulness to meet their needs.
Moreover, God declares, "I will take away sickness from among you." This promise of health and wholeness shows God's concern for the well-being of His people. It reveals His desire for them to experience abundant life, free from the afflictions that ail humanity.
Exodus 23:25 paints a picture of the holistic blessings that accompany a life of worship. God is assuring us of His divine provision, protection, and healing when we remain steadfast in our devotion to Him. However, it's essential to note that these blessings are not transactional but relational. They flow from a genuine connection with God, built in love, trust, and obedience.
The word of God today is reminding us to cultivate a lifestyle of worship, not confined to religious rituals and practices. But to develop our personal deep relationships with Him, which permeates every aspect of our existence. As we prioritize God in our thoughts, words, and actions, we can rest assured of His abundant blessings, knowing that He is faithful to fulfil His promises to those who seek Him wholeheartedly
Prayer: Lord, help me to worship you in spirit and truth so i may experience your blessings and abundance in my life and deliverance from all kinds of sicknesses and diseases. Amen
God, our Shepherd is watching over us always.
As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. Ezekiel 34:12
For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness.
I will bring them out from the nations and gather them from the countries, and I will bring them into their own land. I will pasture them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines and in all the settlements in the land. I will tend them in a good pasture, and the mountain heights of Israel will be their grazing land. There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord.
I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.
As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats. Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? Must my flock feed on what you have trampled and drink what you have muddied with your feet? Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says to them: See, I myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. Because you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak sheep with your horns until you have driven them away, I will save my flock, and they will no longer be plundered. I will judge between one sheep and another.
I will place over them one shepherd, my servant David, and he will tend them; he will tend them and be their shepherd. I the Lord will be their God, and my servant David will be prince among them. I the Lord have spoken.
I will make a covenant of peace with them and rid the land of savage beasts so that they may live in the wilderness and sleep in the forests in safety. I will make them and the places surrounding my hill a blessing. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing. The trees will yield their fruit and the ground will yield its crops; the people will be secure in their land.
They will know that I am the Lord, when I break the bars of their yoke and rescue them from the hands of those who enslaved them. They will no longer be plundered by the nations, nor will wild animals devour them. They will live in safety, and no one will make them afraid.
I will provide for them a land renowned for its crops, and they will no longer be victims of famine in the land or bear the scorn of the nations. Then they will know that I, the Lord their God, am with them and that they, the Israelites, are my people, declares the Sovereign Lord.
You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord.
Ezekiel 34:11-31 NIV
Ameeen.
Remain faithful to God Always.
"And Hannah prayed and said, 'My heart exults in the LORD; my horn is exalted in the LORD. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation.'" 1 Samuel 2:1
Hannah is one of the people who went through tough challenges in life, and it was her diligence in prayer and faith in God that gave her victory, lifting her from the shame of barrenness.
There's an important lesson to learn from this woman who relied on God completely. And the main lesson is, What do you do for God after He answers your prayers? What do you do after receiving what you prayed for?
The first thing we learn from Hannah is Faithfulness to her God. Hannah made a vow to God, that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him to the temple for him to be used by God. And Hannah was faithful; she fulfilled her vow. Now my question is; When God blesses you, do you remember to fulfill the promises you made to Him?
The second thing we see in our verse today is a heart of Thanksgiving to God... "And Hannah prayed and said, 'My heart exults in the LORD;'" Here, the surprising thing is that Hannah sang this Psalm of Thanksgiving to God after giving her son to remain in the temple. Not when she received him, no! But when she offered her only son as a sacrifice to God.
Many Christians, once blessed by God, forget to thank Him. And even when the Holy Spirit reminds them, some refuse, while others give thanks but with much complaining and murmuring, prioritizing other things over God. This is not right. Hannah offered her only son as a sacrifice, singing, and rejoicing, saying, "My heart exults in the LORD." Do you rejoice when you offer your heart to the LORD?
May God grant you the grace to have a heart of Thanksgiving like Hannah's. Once He blesses you, don't compete with others, remember where you came from, remember your covenant with God, and fulfill it. If you do so, you will receive God's blessings.
Tomorrow, we will continue to learn from Hannah by the grace of God.
Prayer: O LORD, After you have answered my prayers, help me to remain thankful and faithful to you. And enable me to offer sacrifices of thanksgiving to you. Amen.
We are justified by Faith
Galatians 3:11 states: "Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for 'The righteous shall live by faith.'"
This verse highlights a fundamental theological concept of justification by faith.
1. Justification by Faith, not by the Law: The phrase "no one is justified before God by the law" was written by Apostle Paul to Christians in Galatia who were convinced by Jews to believe that if only they followed Jewish laws then they will be justified and accepted by God.
Just like many other Christians today who are being persuaded to believe they will not be perfect unless they follow some religious rules, or they will not be accepted by God if they don't belong to a certain religious group.
So Apostle Paul argues throughout Galatians and teaches them that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ and not through observance of the Mosaic Law (Galatians 2:16).
2. Living by Faith: The second part of the verse, "The righteous shall live by faith," talks about the daily nature of the Christian life. It's not just about being initially justified by faith but also about continuously living in faithfulness to God. Here Apostle Paul was referring to the Scriptures written in Habakkuk 2:4 "...but the just shall live by his faith."
Your focus should be on Christ through faith, then your faith in Christ will connect you to divine power, which will transform your life, and you will live according to the word of God. But if your focus is on your works - the law or religious practices and rules, I assure you today they can not transform you to live Christ's life and your faith will be in vain.
The important lesson I want you to learn today is to stop judging others by the measure of the law and your own deeds. In Ephesians 2:8-9, the Word of God says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Child of God know that we are all saved by grace through faith in Christ Jesus.
So just because you follow your church rules and what your religious leaders tell you to do, then you are a perfect Christian. No! You must have a personal relationship with God by believing in Christ and following what the Word of God says.
Prayer: O Lord, I pray that you give me the spirit of humility and love for all people. So that I may not count myself righteous and see myself as better than others. Don't let me be deceived by religion. Help me to know and believe you personally. Let me be firmly established in faith and not in religious rules and practices. Amen
God delivers us from the traps set by our adversaries.
He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler And from the deadly pestilence. Psalms 91:3 ESV
Firstly I want you to know, that all the traps of the enemy set against you will not succeed in the Name of Jesus.
You might think you are safe and have no protection issues, but the truth is that no one is without enemies, and our greatest enemy who hunts our souls every day is Satan. The Word of God says, "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8
One of God's great works for His children is to deliver them from all the traps of Satan. First, He saves us from entering those traps, but even when we fail and get caught in these traps, He is the one who rescues us.
Today, I want you to know the three main areas where the enemy sets traps for God's children.
1. Spiritual: God is protecting you from being ensnared by traps set in the spiritual realm, the traps set by Satan himself or wicked people using dark and magical forces to attack and harm you. David spoke of these in Psalm 18:5 where he said; "The cords of Sheol surrounded me; The snares of death confronted me.”
2. Temptations: Traps of being influenced by your own desires. There are times when your own emotions or desires lead you into trouble. The Word says, "But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death." James 1:14-15
3. Your own Words: Some people are waiting for you to make a mistake in your words so they can use them against you and sometimes they may even come to you asking you things to make you say some things they can use against you. The Word of God says, "You are snared by the words of your mouth; You are taken by the words of your mouth." Proverbs 6:2
You need God's protection at all times, but you also need to take precautions so you won't fall into these traps. And whenever you face challenges or fall into these traps, don't hesitate to turn to God and pray.
Prayer: I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not let my foot be moved; he who keeps me will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is my keeper; the LORD is my shade on my right hand. The sun shall not strike me by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep me from all evil; he will keep my life. The LORD will keep my going out and my coming in from this time forth and forevermore. Amen.
"God is with you to turn your sorrow into Joy."
"Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy." - John 16:20
There are times in life when everything seems to go wrong, and everyone you rely on, everyone you thought was there to support you, leaves you. This is a moment where your heart is filled with sorrow.
But perhaps you're someone whom God has blessed with family and friends who love and care for you. Yet, there are times when even those close to you fail to help, and you find yourself lonely and helpless. They may be unable to solve your problem because they're tired, they've helped you a lot but there's been no change, or perhaps your problem is beyond their capabilities, so they can't help you.
In times like these, remember that Jesus hasn't left you; He is with you. Jesus is our closest friend who is with us throughout our life's journey.
You may have someone close to you, perhaps a parent, a partner, a sibling, or a friend who truly loves you and is there for you in every situation, encouraging and comforting you. But because they are humans, they cannot change your situation. Jesus is different. Jesus is with you to save you and to change your situation; He is there to turn your sorrow into joy.
If you're going through many challenges and sorrows in your life, these are God's promises to you:
"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, 'Fear not, I am the one who helps you.'" (Isaiah 41:10,13 ESV)
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you." (Isaiah 43:2 ESV)
Prayer: Thank you, God, for your faithfulness to me, for you are with me always and in every situation to save me. I believe you will turn every kind of sorrow in my life into joy. Amen.
The works of the Holy Spirit in you
"But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking." Acts 6:10
The Holy Spirit is the precious gift God has given us. And Jesus clearly said, "Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you." John 16:7
Therefore, we see that God gave us the Holy Spirit to be our helper because He knows our weaknesses. The Word of God says, "for without Me you can do nothing." John 15:5, so it's clear that we need the Holy Spirit in our lives.
In today's passage, we see how Stephen was Bold and wise, making his enemies fail to contend with him. With the Holy Spirit within you, you can overcome every challenge and tactic of the enemy.
The Word of God says, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you..." Acts 1:8. This power enables us to stand strong and be victorious in every situation and challenge.
Today, I pray that this power of the Holy Spirit to be upon you, and enable you to overcome every challenge and succeed in all your endeavors.
Prayer: Thank you, Father, for your Holy Spirit who dwells within me. Holy Spirit, I surrender to you, make me strong and victorious in every spiritual and life challenge. Amen.
Hold on to Holiness and Purity
"You shall be holy to me, for I the LORD am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine." Leviticus 20:26
In this current world, the matter of holiness has become one of the most contentious issues, especially in our Christian faith. Some people say that no one is holy except God alone. It has reached a point where if someone claims to be holy, they are seen as arrogant and blasphemous.
The enemy has invested lies and deception in human thoughts and perspectives that contradict and isolate them from what God has said about them. The world does not want to accept that a person can be saved, forgiven of sins, stop sinning, and become holy. So, the issue of holiness has been greatly attacked by people from the other side, to the extent that some Christians who are saved have started to agree with it that they can never be Holy.
Now, the word of God has clearly revealed the truth about this matter. God Himself has said, "You shall be holy to me;" emphasizing that "we shall be holy to God," not to humans or to people of this world. Because God knows that the world can not accept us, so we should not try to impress them. Colossians 1:21-22 states, "And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you HOLY and blameless and above reproach before him."
So, it is clear that God has saved us from the world and made us His holy people. Now, children of God do not let the people of this world persuade you otherwise than the word of God says of you. And do not let them define who you are. What God has said about you stands.
Also, do not be swayed to return to a life of sin and wickedness from which God has rescued you. Do not accept to return to friendship and fellowship with people who push you to sin and do what is wrong. Maintain your holiness and purity.
Prayer: O LORD, I am yours; you have saved me and cleansed me with your precious blood. I pray that you enable me to live a life of holiness and purity. Amen.