2093
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
SAT 4TH NOVEMBER 2023
AUTHORITY OVER DEMONS
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... Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7).
Pastor Chris Says
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A distressed lady, tormented by evil spirits and trapped in a seemingly hopeless situation was once brought to me. During this encounter, the demons identified themselves by revealing their names, reminiscent of the account in the Bible where Jesus encountered a legion of demons.
I commanded the devils to come out of her in the Name of Jesus, and they did. But just about twenty-four hours later, I received news that this same lady, who was free from this demonic influence, was in trouble again. I immediately called for her to be brought back to me. As soon as I saw her, I discerned that the demons had returned.
Again, I addressed the demons to come out of her. And they did! Praise God! Here's something to understand: although we have authority over demons, we do not have dominion over human beings. People have the will to decide whether to invite these devils back into their lives through their choices and behaviours.
There're instances when, being led by the Spirit, we issue injunctions to restrain specific demons from returning; the demons know they're under orders not to return. Jesus exemplified this when He commanded the unclean spirit to come out of a boy and enter him no more (Mark 9:25). Obviously, the little boy couldn't make decisions for himself, hence Jesus barred the demon.
In the realm of the spirit, you sit with Christ; you occupy His place of authority with the power of attorney to use His Name. All the powers of darkness respond to, and recognize your authority in Christ. Therefore, be bold to exercise this dominion today over demons and circumstances.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the authority you've given to me over all demonic forces. I exercise authority over demons and establish your Kingdom in every place and in the hearts of men, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Mark 5:2-13; And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,
[3] who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains:
[4] because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.
[5] And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.
[6] But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,
[7] and cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.
[8] For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.
[9] And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.
[10] And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.
[11] Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.
[12] And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.
[13] And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.
Mark 16:17-18; And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
[18] they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 4:1-13 & Jeremiah 41-43
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:28-41 & 1 Chronicles 4
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 2ND NOVEMBER 2023
ETERNAL LIFE IS YOURS—SEIZE IT
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I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life (1 John 5:13 NIV).
Pastor Chris Says
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Eternal life is the life and nature of God. It's the organic and existential attributes of Deity. However, it's not enough for you to know that this life and nature of God is now yours; you have to seize it. That's the thrust of the Spirit's communication through Paul in 1 Timothy 6:12. It says, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life..."
The Greek rendering of our underlined portion is "epilambanomai." It means to take a hold of something without letting go. In other words, don't just be aware that you have eternal life; seize eternal life; take possession of it. This means to live it like you have it.
Every blessed day, walk in the consciousness that you have the life of God in you. Think, act, and live as one who's filled with eternal life. Every now and then, affirm that you have the divine life. It's incorruptible and can't be tainted or defiled by sickness, disease, failure, death or the devil.
If as a Christian, you've been sick and praying, "Oh God, please take away this sickness from me." That may not change anything, because He already did when He gave you eternal life. Before God, you're already perfect even though you might be going through trials, pains and difficulties. In His sight, there's nothing wrong with you.
Therefore, align yourself with His thoughts and visions through the Word and declare, "I'm perfected in Christ Jesus; I refuse to accommodate any sickness, disease or pain in my body because I have the life of God in me! I've taken hold of eternal life." You're an associate of the God-kind; live in this consciousness and be who you are in Christ.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for giving me eternal life and bringing me into a vital union with you. I've taken a hold of eternal life, and this life is working in every fibre of my being. I rejoice that I'm one spirit with you and thus an associate of the God-kind. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 3:16; For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
1 John 5:11-13; And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
[12] He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
[13] These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 2 & Jeremiah 36-37
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:8-17 & 1 Chronicles 2
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 1ST NOVEMBER 2023
OUR "JOINT SITTING“ WITH HIM
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And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together (Romans 8:17).
Pastor Chris Says
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In the first chapter of Ephesians, Paul highlights what God accomplished in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His own right hand—in the place of authority—in the heavenly realms. He possesses all power, and He’s glorified (Ephesians 1:20). Hallelujah!
Now, read what the Bible says in Ephesians 2:6: “And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” The same God that raised Jesus from the dead and sat Him at His own right hand has raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ. This is huge!
The term “sit together” is from the Greek word “sugkathizo”; it implies joint sitting or shared authority. We have joint sitting with Christ. We are where He is, and we have what He has. The authority He possesses is extended to us. Everything Jesus commands is done in our name, and everything we command is done in His Name. This is all legal. Our “joint sitting” with Christ is not of this earthly realm but heavenly; it has been established from heaven.
In Matthew 18:18, the Lord Jesus, before his ascension declared, “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” We’re His legal representatives on earth, and what we declare and speak in the earth is endorsed in the heavens. We’re entrusted with the responsibility of manifesting the glory of God in our world and establishing His will in the earth. Confidently exercise your authority in Christ. Enforce God’s will and manifest His Kingdom where you are.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the privilege and blessing to have joint sitting with Christ, and for the authority and responsibility you’ve reposed on the Church to enforce your will in the earth. Even now, your righteousness, excellence, beauty and grace fill the nations, and your Kingdom reigns and rules in men’s hearts, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Ephesians 1:19-23 AMPC; And [so that you can know and understand] what is the immeasurable and unlimited and surpassing greatness of His power in and for us who believe, as demonstrated in the working of His mighty strength,
[20] Which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His [own] right hand in the heavenly [places],
[21] Far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named [above every title that can be conferred], not only in this age and in this world, but also in the age and the world which are to come.
[22] And He has put all things under His feet and has appointed Him the universal and supreme Head of the church [a headship exercised throughout the church],
[23] Which is His body, the fullness of Him Who fills all in all [for in that body lives the full measure of Him Who makes everything complete, and Who fills everything everywhere with Himself].
Colossians 3:1-4; If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
[2] Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
[3] For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. [4] When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
Philippians 2:9-11; Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
[10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
[11] and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 1; Jeremiah 34-35
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 30TH OCTOBER 2023
THE ESSENCE OF CHRIST IN YOU
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If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3).
Pastor Chris Says
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Our opening scripture helps to paint a picture of the life we have now in Christ. It's the resurrection life. Remember, when He died on the cross, we died with Him. We were buried with Him, and when God raised Him up, we were raised together with Him.
The human life you had when you were born of your parents is dead; you have a new life now—CHRIST! Christ is your life. Hallelujah! The Bible says, "When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory" (Colossians 3:4). This is mind-blowing. This means you're not an ordinary person. How could you be sick when Christ is your life? How could anything be wrong with your liver, heart, or kidney when Christ lives in you? How could you fail, be defeated, or act foolishly when you're powered from within by Christ and guided by His wisdom?
Every so often, boldly declare: "Christ is my life!" Christ in you is a mystery to the world, but it is the essence and glory of the Christian life. The mystery was hidden from ages and generations, but now, it's been revealed: "Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:26-27).
The essence of Christ in you is Christ is your life. You're not subject to the rudiments and limitations of this world; you have the Christ-life, the divine nature. Blessed be God!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I'm not subject to the rudiments and limitations of this world because I live in Christ and Christ is my life. He's in every fibre of my being, in every bone of my body, and in every cell of my blood. I reign and rule over circumstances in His Name, shielded from all evil and harm because I'm seated together with Christ in the heavenly realms. Hallelujah!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Galatians 2:20; I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
1 John 4:4; Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
1 John 5:11-12; And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
[12] He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Titus 3:1-15 & Jeremiah 31-32
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:33-43 & 2 Kings 23
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 28TH OCTOBER 2023
AFFIRM THE "DECREE"
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To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD (Psalm 149:8-9).
Pastor Chris Says
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We've been authorized to take action against the chief spiritual personalities in the kingdom of darkness. Jesus said, "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils..." (Mark 16:17), and He also asserted in Matthew 18:18, "... Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Then He tells us in our theme verse to "...bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD." In the physical world, when the court has decided the case against a criminal, all that the judge does is read out his written judgment and go his way. But then the police take a copy of that judgment and go into action to execute it; they arrest the fellow and put him behind bars.
Now, in the realm of the spirit, we, the saints of God, are the ones called and authorized to execute the judgment that's been written against principalities and powers, the "kings and nobles of evil." The Bible says, "... this honour have all his saints..." (Psalm 149:9). It doesn't say, "some of His saints" or "the apostles and evangelists only" but "ALL His saints." Hallelujah!
How do you execute the judgment that's been written against these rebel holders-of-authority? The Psalmist tells us how, he says, "I will declare the decree..." (Psalm 2:7). You've got to declare the decree! But you need to know what decrees have been issued against these evil spiritual forces that are trying to run rampage in our world today.
One of the decrees says, "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:10-11). This is a decree of Almighty God! Now, you're the one to enforce this decree in the earth.
You're the one to rule with the Name of Jesus in your world: in your home, your family, your school, your community, your streets, and your country. Give no place to the devil! Rule your world with the Name of Jesus. Glory to God!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the power vested in the Name of Jesus and for giving me the power of attorney to use that Name. Now, I speak to the demons of evil and darkness that cause chaos and violence in my city and nation, I break your power over the people; I command you to cease from your operations and manoeuvres over them in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ! Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Job 22:28; Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: And the light shall shine upon thy ways.
Luke 10:17-19; And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.
[18] And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. [19] Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Timothy 4:1-22 & Jeremiah 26-28
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:12-21 & 2 Kings 19-20
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 26TH OCTOBER 2023
BORN FROM SPIRITUAL DEATH
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And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence (Colossians 1:18).
Pastor Chris Says
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Many misunderstand the underlined phrase above, thinking that it means the first to be raised from the dead. Prior to Jesus' vicarious death, there were those who had been raised from the dead. So what the Apostle Paul communicates by the Spirit here is different. When our sins were laid on Jesus on the Cross, He died spiritually. Spiritual death is separation from God. Only through a spiritual rebirth does one awake from spiritual death. Jesus Christ was thus the firstborn from spiritual death.
As Jesus hung on the Cross, He suffered the agony of being separated from the Father (Mark 15:34). This was a result of His being made the sin sacrifice, which automatically identified with sin. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him."
It should have been illegal for Jesus to be crucified and sent to hell, because He was innocent and without sin, but He went in our place. Recall the graphic details in Colossians 2:15 when He engaged Satan in that awful combat in hell and defeated him and all his cohorts of darkness: "And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it."
No one ever came out of spiritual death or out of Satan's bondage, but Jesus did. He paid the full penalty for every man. Thus, because a righteous man was given for sinners, it became legal, and possible, for sinners to be given His righteousness. He took our place of sin, that we might obtain His righteousness.
Now, He has made you the very expression of His righteousness. The righteousness that He was clothed with was made available to you because He died for you, and when He came out of death, you came out in and with Him. Now, like Him, you've been born into a newness of life (Romans 6:4). Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the vicarious sacrifice of Jesus in my behalf, who became the very representation of sin and died in my place so that I might be made righteous and also become the expression of your righteousness. I walk in and manifest your righteousness, today in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Romans 5:17-19; For if because of one man's trespass (lapse, offense) death reigned through that one, much more surely will those who receive [God's] overflowing grace (unmerited favor) and the free gift of righteousness [putting them into right standing with Himself] reign as kings in life through the one Man Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).
18. Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.
19. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.
1 Peter 1:3; Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
Romans 6:4; Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Timothy 2:1-26 & Jeremiah 19-22
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 7:45-53 & 2 Kings 15-16
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 24TH OCTOBER 2023
DON'T FORGET WHAT SPECIES YOU ARE
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All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).
Pastor Chris Says
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God's Word has been given to us to lead, guide, instruct and train us in the things of the Kingdom of God. But even more importantly, God gave us His Word to enable us see ourselves the way He sees us. That's because His Word is a mirror (2 Corinthians 3:18).
When you look into the mirror of God, you see the image that God has of you and what He thinks of you. He wants you to have and retain that exact image of yourself, so you can see who you are and act accordingly.
James 1:22-25 communicates the same important and instructive truth. It says, "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed."
It's quite enlightening that it doesn't say that the man who isn't a doer of the Word forgets "what he looked like." Rather, it says he forgets "what manner of man he was." In other words, he forgets the "kind" or "type" of man that he saw. God's mirror-His Word-doesn't only show you your appearance; it shows you your "kind" or "species." God's Word shows you that you're in God's class of being, and the life you have is the God-kind of life. Hallelujah! Your part is to keep looking steadfastly into God's mirror and not forget what you look like, who you are.
2 Corinthians 3:18 says, "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." The word "beholding" is translated from the Greek "katanoeo" which means to consider attentively; to fix one's eyes or mind upon. As you consider attentively and fix your mind on the image of you that you see in God's Word, you're transformed into the same image of divine glory, beauty and excellence. Glory to God!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I'm a new creation, a new species of being that never existed before—dead to the rudiments of the world! I'm constantly transformed into the same image of divine glory, beauty and excellence that I see in the Word. Blessed be God!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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2 Corinthians 5:17; Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
James 1:18; Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Timothy 6:1-21 & Jeremiah 15-16
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 7:20-31 & 2 Kings 11-12
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional Dailies
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 22ND OCTOBER 2023
THE URGENCY OF THE GOSPEL
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...preach the Word of God urgently at all times, whenever you get the chance, in season and out, when it is convenient and when it is not. Correct and rebuke your people when they need it, encourage them to do right, and all the time be feeding them patiently with God's Word (2 Timothy 4:2 TLB).
Pastor Chris Says
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We must constantly remind ourselves that the Lord is coming soon. We must work hard as people who are living in expectation of the Lord. Commit yourself to spreading the Gospel as though it rested on you alone to tell it to the whole world. Be committed to it.
We've got to use every opportunity to propagate the Gospel and advance the Kingdom of God. No one's effort is insignificant. It doesn't matter where you are; whether you're in a big city or a small town, ten souls in a small village have the same value to God as ten souls in a big city. It's the same Jesus Christ that died for them.
Where you are is God's headquarters! God cares about where you are and what you do where you are. The message of the Gospel committed to us to preach is the only hope for salvation. Therefore, never be discouraged or distracted; preach it with urgency and conviction.
You're the custodian of this glorious Gospel; it's your responsibility to preach it with the knowledge and power of the Spirit. Think and talk like Paul in the way he personalized the divine mandate to preach the Gospel. In 1 Timothy 1:11, he said, "According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust."
Notice the latter part; he didn't say the Gospel which is committed to "our trust" but to "my trust!" The Great Commission was personal to Paul. He ran with it as though it depended on him alone to preach the Gospel to the whole world. That's how it ought to be. Be committed to the urgency of the hour. Preach the Gospel irrespective of the tests, trials and persecutions that you might face while at it. Remember, the time is short.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Blessed be God for His unfathomable grace, wisdom and mercy lavished upon His Church to effectively proclaim the Gospel and establish His righteousness in all the earth in these last days! Thank you Father, for committing this glorious Gospel to my trust; I preach it in season and out of season, hauling many from darkness to light, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Matthew 28:19-20; And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20. teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
2 Timothy 4:5; But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Philippians 1:27; Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Timothy 4:1-16 & Jeremiah 11-12
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 7:1-10 & 2 Kings 9
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
7. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.
8. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
9. And all the people saw him walking and praising God:
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Timothy 2:1-15 & Jeremiah 7-8
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 6:52-60 & 2 Kings 6
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 19TH OCTOBER 2023
A CALL TO ACTION
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That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved (Romans 10:9).
Pastor Chris Says
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When we preach the message of salvation to sinners, we must give them the opportunity to act their faith and receive salvation. There must be a call to action. If we don't give them an opportunity to act their faith on the message, the seed sown in their hearts could be lost; Satan could steal it from their hearts (Matthew 13:18-19).
The proof that the seed of God's Word has taken root in someone's heart is their response and action of faith. Until a person responds in faith, it can be said that they have not truly heard the Word. When the Word is truly heard, it produces faith within the individual.
Faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17); and faith is the response of the human spirit to the Word of God. So the response is so important. It's the same when we minister to the sick. Take what Paul did in Lystra as an example.
A man who had been crippled since birth listened intently to Paul's teachings. The Bible says Paul perceived that the man had faith to be healed. He locked eyes with him and then commanded, 'Stand up on your feet!" The man jumped to his feet and walked, gloriously healed!
In ministering to people, be it the sinner, the sick, the oppressed or the depressed, we must provide clear instructions for their faith to be activated. Don't just preach the Word and leave them wondering what to do next; put them through and let them act their faith on the words they've received.
Even now, while reading this, if you've never been born again, click on the "Prayer of Salvation" pray that prayer, mean it with all your heart and immediately, you'll be saved, translated into the Kingdom of God. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, your Word is life to me, and as I hear and receive your Word, I'm compelled to respond, because I'm a doer of the Word. My faith prevails as I walk in the consciousness of all that the death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ consummated for me, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖FURTHER STUDY:
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James 1:22; But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
James 2:17; Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
Acts 14:8-10; And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:
9. the same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,
10. said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Timothy 1:1-20 & Jeremiah 5-6
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 6:41-51 & 2 Kings 5
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
TUESDAY 17
LIGHT TO THE NATIONS
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Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:14-15).
Pastor Chris Says ━━━━━━━━━━
There's so much poverty in the world that's not supposed to be there. Poverty is not from God; it's man-made. The poverty and wickedness in the world are because of the selfishness of man, and that's because Satan introduced that selfishness into man's heart. He's responsible for the darkness in our world.
But thanks be unto God! The Bible says even though darkness shall cover the earth and gross darkness the people, we're to arise and shine (Isaiah 60:2-3). God sent us (the Church of Jesus Christ) as a light to the nations. And in these last days, we'll shine with maximum intensity.
This is the time for us, as God's people, to use what God has given us and take our place as the light of the world. The Bible says "...the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty" (Psalm 74:20). But when we take our place, there's no force, adversary or adversity on earth that can withstand us.
So, arise and shine. Impact your world. You're the hope and solution that the world needs. The Lord has sent you to bring glory. excellence and meaning to the lives of those around you. You're His hands of love, mercy, and compassion to your world. Hallelujah!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I'm the hope and solution that the world needs, for the Lord has sent me as a light to bring glory, excellence and meaning to the lives of those around me. I'm God's hands of love, mercy and compassion to the world. Praise God!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Isaiah 60:1-3; Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.
2. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.
3. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.
Matthew 5:14-16; Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 & Jeremiah 1-2
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 6:22-29 & 2 Kings 3
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 15TH OCTOBER 2023
GOD ALIVE IN YOU
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And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God (Ephesians 3:19).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Bible says, "...Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:27). Christ in you means God alive and at work in you.
2 Corinthians 5:19 says, "To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation." It was God working in Christ as He walked the streets in Bible days doing those mighty miracles that He did.
Also, Colossians 1:19 says, "For it pleased the Father that in him (Christ) should all fulness dwell." When Jesus walked the earth, all of divinity was at home in Him. He was God alive- walking and talking in a man's body. But that's not the end. The same God is in you now as He was in Christ. Hallelujah!
Having received the Holy Spirit, God lives in you now; you're His temple. Through you, He impacts your world. He brings sinners out of darkness into His marvellous light. You're His extension in the earth today.
Remember His words, "...I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people" (2 Corinthians 6:16). He's talking in you and walking in you today. Every time you're ministering to someone about Jesus, that's God at work and alive in you and through you.
It's the reason you must be faithful and diligent in soul winning because through you, the Father expresses His love and righteousness. He said in Mark 16:15, "...Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Through you, He impacts this world with the glory of His divine presence, demonstrates the character of the Spirit, fills the earth with the knowledge of His glory, and rains righteousness upon the nations. Hallelujah!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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Everywhere I go, I go in and with the Father who lives permanently in me. Through me, He expresses His love and righteousness to others, for I'm His extension in the earth by Christ Jesus. Glory to God!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Philippians 2:13; For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Colossians 1:26-27; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
27. to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28 & Isaiah 61-63
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 6:1-14 & 1 Kings 22
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 13TH OCTOBER 2023
CUT THEM OFF!
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"Get out of here, Satan," Jesus told him. "For the Scriptures say, 'You must worship the Lord your God; serve only him' (Matthew 4:10 NLT).
Pastor Chris Says
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When the Lord Jesus ministered to different people in Bible days, He cast out a lot of demons, showing us that demons are responsible for most of the afflictions that people suffer with. And in Mark 16:17 He listed several signs to identify those who believe, and the very first of the signs is that they shall cast out demons.
But during His forty days in the wilderness, He gave us an insight into how to deal with Satan and demons. Satan had come to tempt Him, and the first temptation was for Jesus to command stones to be made bread. In response, Jesus, quoting from the Book of Deuteronomy, said, "... It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4).
For the second time, the Bible says, "Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down..." (Matthew 4:5-6). Again, Jesus responded and said, "...It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God" (Matthew 4:7).
Then came the last temptation. At a high mountain, Satan showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment, offering them to Jesus, if He would bow down and worship him. Jesus said, "Get out of here, Satan!" The original word in Hebrew for "Get out of here" signifies "sink out," or "disappear." That's casting out the devil!
In those three temptations, Jesus was consistent in emphasizing to Satan, "It is written..." and after establishing that clearly. He said, "Get out of here!" That's how to deal with Satan; you cast him out or cut him off from your home, your body, your city, nation, etc.
If it's your child, and he or she is within the age where you're still in control of what they do, you say. "Devil, this is my child, take your hands off my child; get out of here! He's got to obey, because you're exercising your authority in Christ. You have the legal right, the power of attorney to use the Name of Jesus and subdue Satan and his demons. Cut them off! Praise God!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Satan has no right to run things in my life, in my home or the lives of my loved ones; by my authority in Christ, I exercise dominion over him and his demons. I walk in power and in the glory of the Father, in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Matthew 10:7-8; And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.
8. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
Luke 10:19; Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Mark 1:25-26 MSG; Jesus shut him up: “Quiet! Get out of him!”
26. The afflicting spirit threw the man into spasms, protesting loudly—and got out.
Ephesians 4:27 GNB; Don't give the Devil a chance.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:1-13 & Isaiah 57-58
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 5:28-32 &1 Kings 20
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 11TH OCTOBER 2023
YOUR TONGUE IS THE COMPASS
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For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body (James 3:2).
Pastor Chris Says
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Proverbs 8: 21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue..." it parallels what the Master said in Matthew 12:37, "For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned." Through your thoughts, your character is formed, but it's expressed through your words. Your mouth-work is your life.
As revealed in our opening verse, Christian perfection or maturity is expressed primarily in your communication. If you want to go in the right direction in life, your tongue is the compass. If you offend in words, you're sunk; but if your communication is wholesome, your life will be great. Your speech controls you. Proverbs 15:4 says, "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life...." I love the way Peter puts it in 1 Peter 3:10; it says, "For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile." In other words, maintain the right confession.
Your mouth is where your blessing is. Romans 10:10 says, "...with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." It's a principle. God said to Joshua, "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night..." (Joshua 1:8). That means keep affirming the Word.
No matter what's happening around you, keep the Word on your lips. The Bible says, "When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up..." (Job 22:29). Again, the emphasis is on what you say. When things are rough and tough, you're not to wait to be lifted; you have a lifting power; it's in your mouth.
What is it that you want? It's all in your mouth. That's the compass with which you steer your life aright, in the direction of God's perfect will. Blessed be God!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I have a wholesome tongue; my words are sculpted in line with God's perfect will and direction for my life. I walk in divine health, prosperity, victory, success and financial abundance, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Matthew 12:37 AMPC; For by your words you will be justified and acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned and sentenced.
Mark 11:23; For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Colossians 4:2-18 & Isaiah 52-53
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 5:10-18 & 1 Kings 17-18
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 9TH OCTOBER 2023
COMPASSION IS A FORCE
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And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean (Mark 1:41).
Pastor Chris Says
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Recall what we said in our previous study about compassion: a strong desire to ease the pain of others. Compassion compels one to action. Compassion is a force.
When you study Jesus and the way He ministered, you'd observe that He was often moved by compassion. Every time He had compassion on, or was moved with compassion for someone, He did something to change the situation.
Compassion moved Him to teach the people, feed them, and heal them. Mark 6:34 says, "And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things." Matthew 14:14 says, "And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick."
Compassion moved Him to raise the only son of a widow back to life in a city called Nain. When Jesus saw the widow, the Bible says, "...he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not" (Luke 7:13). He then touched the casket and commanded the dead man to get up, and he came back to life.
Matthew 20:30 tells us of two blind men who cried after Jesus, saying: "Son of David, have mercy upon us!" Jesus stopped to ask them what they wanted and they replied that they wanted to receive their sight. The Bible says, "So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him" (Matthew 20:34).
So, like the Master, we're to be full of compassion. Change comes when we're moved with compassion. We're His express image today. He's counting on you to be moved with compassion and do something for those in need; change the lives and circumstances of those in your world. You've been empowered by the Spirit to take action, offer comfort and be a vessel of God's love and kindness to a hurting world.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I'm stirred by the examples of Jesus who being moved with compassion brought healing, strength, comfort and hope to those in need. I'm empowered by your Spirit to take action, to offer comfort, and to be a vessel of your love and kindness to a hurting world, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Psalm 145:8; The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; Slow to anger, and of great mercy.
Psalm 112:4; Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Colossians 2:6-23 & Isaiah 48-49
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 4:43-54 & 1 Kings 15
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 3RD NOVEMBER 2023
THINK AND TALK LIKE JESUS
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For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself (John 5:26).
Pastor Chris Says
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Nobody ever talked like Jesus. He spoke the most profound and sublime words ever, with such confidence and audacity that beats the natural mind. Think about what we just read! In John 6:38 He said: "For I came down from heaven...." He was unapologetic about His identity and origin, and that's how we ought to be.
1 John 4:17 says, "Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world." This is how you must think, talk, and live. Be conscious of your divine heritage and identity. 1 John 4:4 says, "Ye are of God, little children....." That means you hail from God.
So, like the Lord Jesus, boldly affirm who you are. In John 8:12, He said, "...I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." Confidently declare the same truth about yourself because He also said in Matthew 5:14 AMPC, "You are the light of the world...." Be conscious of who you are in Christ; be bold to call yourself what God has called you.
Let your consciousness of your divinity control everything about your life. You can live as successfully as Jesus did by following His example and the principles by which He lived. Become conscious of the God-life in you and boldly speak accordingly.
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I'm conscious of the life of God in me; therefore, no sickness, disease or infirmity can thrive in my body. The life of Christ is evidently manifested in me, from glory to glory, in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 7:32-45; The Pharisees heard that the people murmured such things concerning him; and the Pharisees and the chief priests sent officers to take him.
[33] Then said Jesus unto them, Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me.
[34] Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come.
[35] Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles?
[36] What manner of saying is this that he said, Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come?
[37] In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If an man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
[38] He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
[39] (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
[40] Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.
[41] Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee?
[42] Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?
[43] So there was a division among the people because of him.
[44] And some of them would have taken him; but no man laid hands on him.
[45] Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him?
Romans 8:11; But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
1 John 4:4; Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 3 & Jeremiah 38-40
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:18-27 & 1 Chronicles 3
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:1-7; 1 Chronicles 1
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 31ST OCTOBER 2023
LEARN TO RESPOND TO HIS PROMPTINGS
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And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth (1 Samuel 3:10).
Pastor Chris Says
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Samuel, as a young man, was taught by Eli the priest how to respond to God's voice. God called Samuel by name three different times and on each of those occasions, Samuel thought it was Eli that was calling him and ran to Eli.
From the first time the boy heard his name and ran to Eli, God could have stopped him and said, "Samuel, don't go to Eli, I'm the one calling you." He didn't do that because that's not how He operates. Rather, He let him go and left the responsibility of the training to Eli.
In my early days in the ministry, while still learning these things, I remember saying to the Lord, "But everybody ought to know your voice." His answer was, "No. It's my sheep that know my voice. The lambs follow the bidding of the sheep, because they don't know the voice of the shepherd." How instructive!
Remember, the Lord Jesus said to Peter, "Feed my lambs." He also said, "Feed my sheep." That's because the lambs are different from the sheep; they're "babies" and that's why they have to be taught.
When you study His Word, He talks to you, but you have to respond to Him. For example, when you read the Scriptures; don't just read or quote them; respond! Take Galatians 5:24 as an example; it says, "And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." Don't merely read and quote it; respond by saying: "I am Christ's, I belong to God; therefore, I've crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts; I've overcome the world!" Always respond to God and to His Word; your response is where your blessing is.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I hear and discern your voice. I'm sensitive and attentive to your guidance, promptings and counsels. I respond in faith, and my thoughts, words, and actions are aligned with your will always. I walk in victory continually, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 10:27; My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
Isaiah 30:21; and thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.
James 1:22; But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Philemon 1:1-25 & Jeremiah 33
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:44-59 & 2 Kings 24-25
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 29TH OCTOBER 2023
TRUST AND RELY ON GOD ALONE
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Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).
Pastor Chris Says
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In a world filled with imperfect human systems, it's crucial to shift our trust from these fallible structures and wholly trust in the Lord. The failures and limitations of human systems serve as reminders to us that our ultimate trust should be in the One who is completely reliable-the LORD!
Some time ago, news aired of a man who was planning to sue his state government for being wrongfully convicted. He endured 37 long years in prison for a crime he never committed. It's truly disheartening to think about it.
There're others who have remained behind bars for crimes they didn't commit as a result of the failure and inadequacies of the system and their government. Humans naturally feel the need to trust and depend on something or someone. We weren't designed to be faithless; we were meant to have faith or to be trusting.
However, because humans are fallible, systems run by individuals are also prone to failure. It makes no difference how lofty or robust you think the systems and structures of your nation or society are; they're still fallible. Trust and rely on God alone. Follow and live by His Word.
Trust the principles, systems, and structures of the Kingdom. The prophet Jeremiah, as inspired by the Spirit, wrote: "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit" (Jeremiah 17:7-8).
Then in Psalm 37:3, the psalmist said, "Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed." Cultivate absolute reliance on God instead of the frail or flawed human constructs. He never fails. He's righteous and just, faithful and true. Trust Him wholeheartedly.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I place my ultimate trust in you and your infallible Word. I lean on your wisdom and understanding and wholly depend on you. Thank you Lord, for granting me the discernment and wisdom to live triumphantly every day and manifest your glory and righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Psalm 118:8; It is better to trust in the LORD Than to put confidence in man.
Proverbs 3:5-6; Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding.
[6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths
Isaiah 26:4; Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Titus 1-2 & Jeremiah 29-30
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:22-32 & 2 Kings 21-22
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 27TH OCTOBER 2023
UNDERSTANDING GOD'S TIMING
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Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready (John 7:6).
Pastor Chris Says
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In the verse above, the Lord Jesus emphasized time consciousness and the significance of divine and prophetic timing. When you look at the prophetic revelation of the things that happened with Jesus, from His birth to His ascension, everything unfolded precisely as the prophets had foretold.
We live in a time-conscious Kingdom even though we belong in a timeless Kingdom. Jesus said, "I'm from above" (John 8:23). He was from eternity, but in dealing with things of this world, He was time conscious. We have to know the time in which we're living, where we are in God's calendar, what we should do, and what we should expect.
The question then is, how do you know God's timing for your life or for the nations? How do you know things that should happen or what we should expect? The answers are in the Scriptures-God's Word! That's the absolute source of Truth.
Through the diligent study of the Word, you can align yourself with God's timing and live a purposeful, meaningful and fulfilling life. For example, did you know that this is God's set time to favour you, and also the nations? The Scriptures let us know we're in His set time of favour. Psalms 102:13 says, "Thou shalt arise, and have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favour her, yea, the set time, is come."
Then in 2 Corinthians 6 : 2 NKJV, Paul reiterates God's prophetic word to Israel, which is applicable to the nations today: "For He says: in an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."
This is the day of God's favour, and we have to recognize it and act. It's a day of opportunity, the day of salvation. The Apostle Paul called it the acceptable time. In other words, this is the day in which God accepts men, receives men, and helps men.
The nations are also right now in the day of God's mercy and favour, meaning that we can take advantage of this opportunity and pray for all men and leaders of nations, because if we would pray, God will answer. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the wisdom and guidance I receive from your Word. I have an understanding of the times; I have clarity and understanding of your purpose and timing and I'm walking in sync with the Spirit to fulfil my destiny in Christ, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Ecclesiastes 3:1; To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
Romans 12:2; And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Ephesians 5:15-17; See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
[16] redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
[17] Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Timothy 3:1-17 & Jeremiah 23-25
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8.1-11 & 2 Kings 17-18
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 25TG OCTOBER 2023
A FRESH KIND OF A NEW BREED
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Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Greek rendering of the verse above actually reads, "If any man be in Christ, he is a new species of being!" This isn't just referring to a new life that's just begun, but also refers to newness in type. This means the one who's born again is a new type of man, a new species.
You're not just a fresh one of the same kind; rather, you're one of a kind that never existed before. You're a fresh kind of a new breed of man. Hallelujah! The Lord Jesus is the first among this special class of associates of the God-kind. He's the last Adam, and when you study 1 Corinthians 15:45-49, the Bible lets us know that we all have been born after the similitude of the last Adam (or second man-vs 47).
The Bible says, "...like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:4). You received a newness of life and it's the God-life. This is the summary of the message of who the Christian is. Though your physical body remains the same, your spirit, which is the real you, is born anew with the divine life.
This new life is higher in quality than the human life because it's eternal life. This new type of man isn't subject to Satan, neither does he need deliverance from any oppression. He can't be oppressed! This world hasn't seen our type before. That's why they can't figure out who we really are.
It reminds of what Jesus said in John 3:8 about the one who's born again: "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit." We're partakers of the divine nature-comrades of the God-kind (2 Peter 1:4); born of God, born with eternal life, to rule and reign in this life. Brace up to this truth and walk in this consciousness.
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I'm a new creature; I have a special kind of life - different in type and quality from the human, animal, or plant life; it is the God-life! I live above the devil and his cohorts and above the rudiments of this world. I'm born of God, born with eternal life, to rule and reign in this life! Glory to God!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Romans 6:4; Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Galatians 2:20; I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
Ephesians 2:10 AMPC; For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Timothy 1:1-18 & Jeremiah 17-18
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 7:32-44 & 2 Kings 13-14
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 23RD OCTOBER 2023
RIGHTEOUS USE OF YOUR FINANCES
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But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
Pastor Chris Says
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Whatever you are currently doing with your finances, especially in relation to God, to the propagation of the Gospel and the advancement of the Kingdom is a reflection of what you would do if your finances were multiplied a hundred times.
Someone might think, "Only if I could get a million dollars, I'll be a big financier of the Kingdom of God!" The question is, have you been faithful with the little committed to you? Have you put that little in your trust into the Gospel?
The Lord Jesus, in Luke 16:10, emphasizes the principle of faithfulness and integrity in managing worldly possessions when He said, "He who is faithful in a very little [thing] is faithful also in much, and he who is dishonest and unjust in a very little [thing] is dishonest and unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the [case of unrighteous mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions), who will entrust to you the true riches?" (Luke 16:10-11 AMPC).
Money is an amplifier, it has the unique ability to amplify. magnify or reveal one's character. Every action and decision you make with your money today is a testament to your character, and this fundamental aspect of your character will not change when your financial resources are increased. You will simply do more of what you have been doing.
For people who already use their money in negative ways, having more financial resources will only amplify those negative actions. Conversely, if you're using your money for righteous purposes, seeding the Gospel, and advancing the Kingdom, having more money will amplify those good actions.
That's why you need to examine your current financial behaviours; do they align with the principles of God's Word? God is pleased to multiply the finances of those who are committed to His righteous cause. When you prioritize serving the Lord and His Kingdom, your actions with money become a testament of faithfulness. It's not about the amount of money you possess, rather, it's the alignment of your heart and intentions with God's purposes.
By consistently prioritizing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and seeking His Kingdom above all else, you position yourself to experience God's provisions and the multiplication of your resources. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I declare that I am a faithful steward of all that you have entrusted to me, and I use my finances in ways that honour and glorify you. My financial character is rooted in righteousness. I give generously, sowing seeds of blessing, and I'm committed to the prosperity and advancement of the Kingdom, In Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Luke 16:10-12; He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
11. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?
12. And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?
2 Corinthians 9:6-9; But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
7. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
8. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
9. (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: His righteousness remaineth for ever.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: N/A
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: N/A
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 21ST OCTOBER 2023
YOU CAN CAST OUT DEMONS FROM ANYWHERE
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Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8).
Pastor Chris Says
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There're those who say, "You can cast demons out of individuals but you can't cast them out of a city". But that's not true. In Mark 5, we find a very interesting story of Jesus demonstrating His authority in casting out devils. He came across a demoniac who lived among tombs, and had a legion of demons.
When the man saw Jesus from afar, the demon, speaking through him, said, "...What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not" (Mark 5:7). The Bible says the demon "...besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country" (Mark 5:10).
Even the demons knew Jesus could send them out of the country and they immediately began to plead with Him. Whether "the country" means countryside, a region or a territory, it makes no difference. They understood that Jesus could send them out of the place; they knew it then, and they still know it today! We've been given that same authority to put them to flight.
Jesus said, "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues" (Mark 16:17 NKJV). Jesus gave us authority to cast out demons; He didn't limit it to any place. We can cast out devils from anywhere. Hallelujah!
Take control of your city, state, and country! Cut off the influence of Satan in your country. Run him out of your country. Oftentimes, when there's chaos, anarchy and turmoil in a place, many don't realise that it's the devil that's behind such negative activities. But you've been vested with all power and authority in heaven and in earth to subdue, dominate and take charge of your world, using the Name of Jesus. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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The devil is a fully defeated foe, and I've been vested with all power and authority in heaven and in earth to subdue, dominate and take charge of my world. I therefore demand, in the Name of Jesus Christ, that the demons that influence and cause violence, shortage and opposition to the Gospel cease and desist from their operations in my nation. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Psalm 118:10-12 NIV; All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.
11. They surrounded me on every side, but in the name of the Lord I cut them down.
12. They swarmed around me like bees, but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns; in the name of the Lord I cut them down.
Philippians 2:9-11; Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
10. that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
11. and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Luke 10:19; Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Timothy 3:1-16 & Jeremiah 9-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 6:61-71 & 2 Kings 7-8
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 20TH OCTOBER 2023
ACT YOUR FAITH AND EXPERIENCE THE MIRACULOUS
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So also faith, if it does not have works (deeds and actions of obedience to back it up), by itself is destitute of power (inoperative, dead) (James 2:17 AMPC).
Pastor Chris Says
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Let's consider the example of the man in Acts 3:1-16, who was lame from birth and begged for alms at the gate of the temple called Beautiful. The Lord Jesus Himself had been in that very temple multiple times, yet the man's condition didn't change.
But on a certain day, as Peter and John walked by, he begged them for money. Then, the Bible says that Peter looked at him intently and said, "Look on us. Expecting to receive something, the man gave them his attention. Peter then declared, "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have, give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk."
Peter then took the man by the right hand and lifted him up. Immediately, the lame man's feet and ankle bones received strength. Imagine if the man had resisted as Peter was trying to yank him up; he probably wouldn't have received his miracle. The miraculous change in the man's life occurred because the call to action was answered. He received the Word with corresponding action.
When you receive the Word about your prosperity and finances, for example, it's important to back it up with the right actions. Without taking action, your situation may remain the same. For example, 2 Corinthians 8:7 (NIV) says, "But just as you excel in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us--see that you also excel in this grace of giving." What do you do when you meditate on this truth?
First, understand that the Word has the power to change your situation. The Word brings you transformation through the power and Spirit of God. Therefore, when the Word comes to you like what we read in 2 Corinthians 8:7 above, recognize the call to action that accompanies it and respond.
Whenever you get a prompting from the Word or in your spirit as a result of the Word, don't hesitate or wait. Seize the moment and respond immediately. By acting in faith, you position yourself to experience the miraculous blessings of the Word.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the glory of your Word and the transformation I experience even now as your Word takes root in my spirit, producing in me fruits of righteousness. I respond and take action on your Word; therefore, your glory is seen in my life, and I experience the fullness of your blessings and abundant provisions, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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James 2:17-26; Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
18. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
21. Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
22. Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
23. And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
24. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
25. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
26. For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
Acts 3:6-9; Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 18TH OCTOBER 2023
BE SPIRITUALLY SENSITIVE
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Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8)
Pastor Chris Says
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Many years ago, while casting a devil out from a dear lady, the demon, trying to put up some resistance, said, "I'm not coming out; I'm responsible for the removal of her fallopian tube!"
Of course, I didn't bother to engage the demon in a dialogue; I simply said, "You're coming out right now, in the Name of Jesus!" And he screamed and came out of the lady. Later on, the lady began to explain to me how she was given the wrong diagnosis and underwent a bilateral salpingectomy. She didn't know demons were responsible for that cruel mistake.
This has happened to a lot of people. There're people who have had to go through surgeries they never needed; some died in the process. Many hospitals are deathtraps, where demon spirits lodge and inspire doctors to do the wrong things. We're living in the days of intense spiritual conflicts and warfare.
A young girl of about nine years became demon-possessed; her behaviour suddenly changed and her health became unstable. No one could understand what happened to her. She started having very strange dreams where she'd find herself at the bottom of a river with a "queen" and other girls of her age.
Her life became a mess. It was later discovered that it all happened at her school when her friend, who was demon- possessed, gave her a particular gift item, and the devil entered into her. Life is spiritual, everything you can see with your optical eyes and relate physically with, came from the realm of the spirit.
It's essential for you to be spiritually sensitive to discern and decisively deal with the enemy whenever he shows up. Be on the alert. The Lord Jesus warned us to watch and pray (Mark 13:33). Speak in tongues often, because as you pray in tongues, spiritual realities are unveiled to your spirit and you won't be ignorant of the devices of the enemy. You'll see and will be able to relate with the "real" truth concerning any situation. Praise God!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I'm strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. I keep His Word in my heart and in my mouth always and therefore discomfit all the stratagems, schemes, manoeuvres and manipulations of the devil. And as I speak in tongues, spiritual realities are unveiled to my spirit, and I see and relate with the "real" truth concerning any situation. Hallelujah!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Ephesians 6:10-13; Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
11. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Colossians 1:9; For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
1 Corinthians 14:2 AMPC; For one who speaks in an [unknown] tongue speaks not to men but to God, for no one understands or catches his meaning, because in the [Holy] Spirit he utters secret truths and hidden things [not obvious to the understanding].
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 & Jeremiah 3-4
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 6:30-40 & 2 Kings 4.
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 16TH OCTOBER 2023
THE LIFE HE'S GIVEN US
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The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows) (John 10:10 AMPC).
Pastor Chris Says
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Many don't know why Jesus came. There's a difference between what He came to do for Israel as a nation and what He came to do for the whole world. For the whole world, He came to give life to the full.
You can only give what you have, and Jesus didn't just have life, He was life personified-the embodiment of life (1 John 1:2). The Bible says, "For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself" (John 5:26). It's the reason He could give us life to the full. He's the life-giver: "...it is written, The first man Adam became a living soul. The last Adam became a life-giving spirit" (1 Corinthians 15:45 ASV).
There's something about this life that He's given us. Paul helps us understand it some more in Romans 8:2. It says, "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." Paul wasn't saying the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has "freed" us from death but that it's made us death-free.
You're untouchable by death. You've been translated from the realm of death into the realm of life.
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I'm a partaker of the divine nature, filled with the "maximum load" of God. I walk in divine health, prosperity and victory every day. I am a living testimony of God's grace, goodness and love. I walk in the consciousness of my new life in Christ, knowing that I am more than a conqueror and victorious in every situation. Thank you, Father, for the glorious life you've given me in Christ, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 5:24; Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
1 John 5:11-12; And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 & Isaiah 64-66
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 6:15-21 & 2 Kings 1-2
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 14TH OCTOBER 2023
MORE THAN HUMAN
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And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life (1 John 5:11-12 NKJV).
Pastor Chris Says
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Christ in you means eternal life in you. Eternal life is the life and nature of God: the God-life. Notice the tenses in our theme scripture; it says God "has given us eternal life." It's not a promise. He's not "going" to give us eternal life. You have that life NOW. As a result, John says in the 13th verse, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life" (1 John 5:13 NIV).
He wants you to know that you're more than human. Your human life has been supplanted by the life and nature of God. This divine life in you has made fellowship and oneness with God possible. You're by no means an ordinary person. Recall the words of the psalmist in Psalm 82.6, "I have said, Ye are gods, and all of you are children of the most High."
The same truth is referenced and reiterated by the Lord Jesus in John 10.35 when He said, "If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken." We are gods, because God gave birth to us. We're the offspring of the Word: "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever" (1 Peter 1:23). 1 John 4:17 says, "... as He is, so are we in this world."
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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Christ lives in me! I'm the expression of His reality, His grace, glory, kingdom, power and personality! I'm the expression of His fullness; He is my completeness. It makes no difference what challenges I face in life; there's a force-an empowerment-at work in me to blaze through the barriers. Everything and anything I could ever need is inside the greater One that lives in me. Glory to God!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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1 Corinthians 3:16; Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
Colossians 1:26-27; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
27. to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
1 John 4:4; Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18 & Isaiah 59-60
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 5:33-47 & 1 Kings 21
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 12TH OCTOBER 2023
A CALLING TO GLORY AND VIRTUE
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According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue (2 Peter 1:3).
Pastor Chris Says
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The verse above says God has called us to glory and virtue. That means we've been called to a life of honour, heavenly dignity, and excellence. No matter what situation you find yourself in, your life is one of honour, dignity and excellence. Glory to God!
The Amplified Classic says He "...called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue)." There should be no mediocrity in your life because excellence is working in you.
The Apostle Paul says, "We encouraged you, we comforted you, and we kept urging you to live the kind of life that pleases God, who calls you to share in his own Kingdom and glory" (1 Thessalonians 2:12 GNB). What a life He's given us! How could you live an ordinary life when you have a calling to glory and virtue?
It doesn't matter how dark and gloomy things get in this world; be unruffled because your journey in life is one direction only: upward and forward. You're not of this world! Your path is different. It's a path of glory and excellence, prosperity and success, peace and joy. Hallelujah!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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My life is for the glory of God and I experience His goodness and mercies today; my life is one of honour, excellence, praise, glory and thanksgiving to the Lord at all times. Hallelujah!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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1 Peter 2:9 AMPC; But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
2 Peter 1:3 AMPC; For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).
2 Corinthians 3:18; But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Thessalonians 1-2:1-16 & Isaiah 54-56
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 5:19-27 & 1 Kings 19
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 10TH OCTOBER 2023
FASTING HELPS TO MAINTAIN SPIRITUAL FOCUS
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And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away (Acts 13:3).
Pastor Chris Says
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There're several spiritual blessings and benefits of fasting and one of them is that it helps you maintain spiritual focus. It involves putting away food, but it's not just about abstinence from food but all forms of distraction for the time being. This helps your spirit to become more sensitive to the Spirit of God. You become more conscious of His leading within your spirit.
At such times when your heart and mind are turned away from the things of this world unto the Lord, it becomes easy for you to receive His guidance.
If you're going to be spiritually alert and walk spiritually, you should fast from time to time. That means to centre your attention on the Lord for the time. By doing this, your spirit gains the ascendency. When you want to deal with certain important things of the Spirit or you're studying the Word and you want to have the insight and sensitivity of the Spirit, fast.
Through fasting and prayer, your effectiveness in the things of the Spirit is improved. Your ability to hear and receive from God is sharpened, and you're more attuned to the finer signals and instructions of the Spirit that you need for a higher level of life; a life of continuous glory and success. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, my spirit is attuned to your leading, guidance, promptings, direction and voice within me. I'm receptive and responsive to you as you guide me to walk in, and fulfil, your perfect will today, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Joel 1:14; Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the LORD your God, and cry unto the LORD,
Joel 2:12 Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:
Luke 2:36-37; And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;
37. and she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Colossians 3:1-4:1 & Isaiah 50-51
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 5:1-9 & 1 Kings 16
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 8TH OCTOBER 2023
COMPASSION-A STRONG DESIRE TO REMOVE PAIN
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But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth (Psalm 86:15).
Pastor Chris Says
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Notice that the Bible didn't say God has compassion, which would also have been wonderful, but it says God is full of compassion. What's compassion?
Compassion means to recognize or to become aware of the sufferings of another with a desire to alleviate that suffering. That's what makes it different from sympathy. To sympathize with someone means to identify with someone in his suffering or pain. That doesn't mean the sympathizer is going to or able to do anything about the person's suffering.
Compassion is also different from mercy, which is forbearance shown especially to an offender or to someone you have the right or power to punish. But compassion has a strong desire to remove the pain. If there's no desire to take away the suffering, then it's not compassion.
So, when the Bible says God is full of compassion, it means He looks at you and recognizes what you may be going through with a desire to change the situation. Hallelujah! The Bible says we have a high priest who is touched with the feeling of our infirmities (Hebrews 4:15).
Psalm 145:8 says, "The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy." God is loaded with compassion; He's never mad at you. Rather, He's always moved with a desire to bless you, help you, and change your situation.
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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Gracious Father, you're full of compassion and abounding in mercy and truth. Thank you, for your compassion knows no bounds, and I'm grateful for your unwavering love and care. That same compassion is ignited within me to recognize the sufferings of others; I'm moved with a burning desire to alleviate their pain and make a positive difference in their lives through the Word and by your Spirit, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Psalm 78:38; But he, being full of compassion, Forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: Yea, many a time turned he his anger away, And did not stir up all his wrath.
Psalm 111:4; He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: The LORD is gracious and full of compassion.
Matthew 9:36; But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
Colossians 3:12; Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Colossians 1:24-2:1-5 & Isaiah 46-47
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 4:30-42 & 1 Kings 14
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional