Receiving your Healing

Text: Mk. 2:3-12.
More Lessons: Mk. 11:22-3
Bible Reading in One Year: 1 John 1-2

All the miracles of Jesus have lessons for us and make our situations easier to respond to His healing power. In our text today, Jesus encountered a terrible case in Capernaum, which was like His operational headquarters. Expectedly, much crowd followed Him, looking for one miracle or the other. The case of the paralysed man and his faithful helpers brought tremendous lessons in trusting God for a near impossible healing. 1) The helpers were not discouraged by the barrier (the crowd). Don't quit. Trust God for what next. 2) They removed the roof in order to have a way. Where there is a will, there is a way. Be determined that God the healer will make a way for your healing. 3) They broke the ceiling and let down the man in front of Jesus. Break your hindrances and take a step of faith to come to God's presence. No one who is determined to receive anything while in the presence of God ever gets disappointed.
4) Jesus saw their faith. God must see your faith; when you trust Him, He is excited to prove His ability and power on your behalf.
5) Jesus forgave the sick man's sins. Christ cleanses totally so that satan will not have any reason to return affliction to a person that receives healing. 6) The man received his healing despite the unbelieving Pharisees around.

God is depending on your faith in Him for your healing, And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all.… Mk.2:12. You too will go forth today with your miracles no matter the hindrances and difficulties, in Jesus' mighty name. You will win over whatever has kept you down.

And you will not lack faithful and committed friends at the hour of need. The absence of friends who can go an extra mile like the friends of this sick man is responsible for the untimely death and affliction of many today. As you believe God for such helpers, pray also that God will use you to be a dependable hand for somebody needing help to come out of an affliction. Be a healing hand today, heal and be healed! Whoever carries whatever you need for a healing, you will not miss him/her. And whatever obstacle you need to overcome to reach your miracle you will overcome. I prophesy, today is a healing day!

Prayer/Action
* Rebuke every force of paralysis, physical, financial and otherwise.
* Refuse to be helpless in life.
* Renounce and destroy the power of sin that could be responsible for your affliction and receive forgiveness and healing.
Anoint yourself and everyone around you for healing.
Give thanks for answered prayer. Take a step of faith and do what you couldn’t do before. I see healing of any sickness. Receive it, it's a healing day!

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Operating the Supernatural

Text: Deut.18:9-14.
More Lessons: Rom.8:14-16
Bible Reading in One Year: Songs of Solomon 7-8

The supernatural is about unusual happening that beats the imagination of every human being. It has to do with anything that is beyond the comprehension of human senses, something that is not explainable by natural laws. The supernatural refers to activities in the spirit realm which are made manifest in the natural. The supernatural therefore is a realm where spirits operate.

Humans are special specie of spirit. We are spirits housed in a flesh. We are made so by the Creator who has created all things for His own purpose. As spirits living in flesh, there is a measure of limitation to how much and how far our spirits can operate. In order to operate in the supernatural however, you need to be aided by another spirit who is not bounded by the flesh. When you enter into an accord with such a spirit, he potentiates and leverages you into the spirit realm and you can accomplish supernatural works. This is a spiritual ordinance, i.e. an order that has been set, just as the physical ordinance of the sun and moon.

The authentic Spirit approved by God for humans to leverage into the spirit realm is the Holy Spirit. The way to enter into a relationship with the Holy Spirit is through Jesus Christ. Jesus said, I am the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). When you confess Jesus as your LORD and Saviour and surrender your life to him, the Holy Spirit who is the Spirit of Jesus comes into your life to reside. By Him, you can operate in the supernatural. There are those who seek to operate in the supernatural by the help of satanic spirits. The witchcraft, div1ination, necromancy, use of charms, familiar spirits, belonging to cults and occultic groups are demonic means by which some people seek to enter into and operate the supernatural. Such media is wrong, deceitful and lead to eternal death. That is why God strongly warns men against such in our Bible reading today. If you find yourself in any of these, your way out is Jesus Christ. Repent now and go to a Pastor and seek for deliverance. After which, desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and by He, you can operate in the supernatural and eternal life which God has also guaranteed.

Prayer/Action
* Thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit by which you can operate in the supernatural.
* Ask the Lord for the infilling/fresh filling of the Holy Spirit today.

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You are a Divine Mystery

Text: Exo.1:11-12
More Lessons: 1Pet.2:9-11
Bible Reading in one Year: Songs of Solomon 4-6

I have good news for you today. Y our life is a mystery your enemies cannot understand, a riddle they can never solve no matter how much they try. The simple reason is that God planned your life long before the world was created (Eph.1:4) and Satan does not know or understand that plan of God. Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men! Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues: Psa.31:19-20. The scriptural reading today buttresses this truth. Israelites were severely oppressed in Egypt with the aim of stopping their population growth. But the more they were afflicted and subjected to hard labour, the more they multiplied. Pharaoh commanded the midwives to kill the male children as soon as they were born, but before the midwives come, the Hebrew women have put to birth. What a mystery Pharaoh and Egyptian could not understand.

Friend, once you are born again, you are under a better covenant relationship with God than what Israelites were in those days. Your life is hidden in Christ and Christ in God (Col.3:3). Y our enemies do not know the plans of God for your life. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him: 1Cor .2:9. No one, including Satan, knows the great plans God has made for your life.

No one can peep into your future and divine your destiny. If Satan or any of his agents ever does, it is because God allowed him in order to frustrate him. God purposely allowed the wise men from the East to see the star of Jesus, come to Jerusalem to meet King Herod so that Herod and his entire palace will be frustrated. You remember how Herod was agitated when the wise men eventually left without bringing him a word about the where about of the baby, Jesus. And no matter how much Herod tried, he could not get at Jesus. If your destiny is ever stolen, altered or frustrated after you have given your life to Jesus, you allowed it to happen. As for God, he has made enough defence and protection for your life by hiding you in him. Whoever will succeed in attacking and destroying your destiny will have to first attack and destroy God. As you enter into the day, walk with the understanding that you are a mystery, a wonder and a riddle to your enemies. Say to yourself: I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge: Psa.71:7.

Prayer/Action
* Thank God for His wonderful plans for my life.
* Pray that God will continue to make you a wonder to your generation.

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A Thousand Times More

Text: Deut. 1:11
MORE LESSONS: Gen. 22: 17
Bible Reading in One Year: Songs of Solomon 1-3

The LORD God of your fathers make you a thousand times so many more as ye are, and bless you, as he hath promised you! Deut. 1:11A hundred fold blessing is what people think is the highest that God can give but I have discovered that God is able to give a thousand fold. God wants to showcase His children so that the world may know that what comes out of Him can never be small. The God that created such a large universe as this is surely able to make you a thousand times more than you are now. And by the time God has fulfilled the promise to make all His children a thousand times more than they are now, the resources of heaven would not even have been scratched a bit; He has in abundance all we need for life. God has abundance of riches in heaven but He doesn't need them; it's only here on earth that we have needs. It is God's will to give you a thousand times more,... May you increase to thousands upon thousands; may your offspring possess the gates of their enemies." Gen 24:60 (NIV). May God give you a thousand times more, in the name of Jesus!

A thousand fold is a different order of increase. It is a special type of increase because it has broken all natural laws. A thousand fold is that which only God can give. The help a man needs to enter into a thousand times more can only come from God.

A student that receives a thousand fold blessing starts getting results that are a thousand times more than his ability. A civil servant, by the hand of the Lord God Almighty, can receive a thousand times more than his labour till he stops being the servant they have been calling him. A business person with the thousand times anointing gets a thousand times return on investment for his business. The laws of the market; supply and demand, all begin to work together to favour him and they deliver a thousand times more to him. My prayer for you today is that spiritually, physically, materially, and in all the results of destiny, you will be a thousand times more, in the name of Jesus.

The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob will not leave you at this level. May He make you a thousand times more than you are now in Jesus’ name. Amen!

Prayer/Action
* Ask God for the blessing of a thousand times more.
* Ask God to open the windows of heaven and pour upon you His limitless blessings.
* Ask God to pour upon you such blessings that only God can give.
* Command the door of smallness to be replaced by a net breaking harvest.

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Wisdom for Soul Winning

Text: Acts 1:4-8
MORE LESSONS: John 1:37-40
Bible Reading in One Year: Haggai 1-2

The moment you give your life to Christ and get born again, your main responsibility is that of sharing the Gospel message of Christ with others, beginning from your home, your immediate family and relations to the uttermost part of the world. Sharing the Gospel of Christ is the most important thing a man can ever do in life. The people who believe your message will receive eternal life having crossed from death to life and will spend eternity in joy and bliss. Those who refuse to believe your message shall be damned forever in the lake of fire. So, it is such a serious matter that all diligence must be employed to get the best result. The following tips in addition to the Holy Ghost power upon you will be helpful in sharing the Gospel message.

1. Be natural while you are serious. Do not try to sound over righteous. Avoid holier-than-thou attitude that condemns people.
2. Be sensitive. Listen to the Holy Spirit. Watch the mood of the person you are to share with. Pick a common subject to start your conversation.
3. Be tactical. Avoid being dragged into irrelevant absurdity. Be focused on the main subject which is salvation. It takes wisdom to win souls.
4. Be prayerful. Use every opportunity to silently ask God to help you win the soul.
5. Use the Scripture wisely. Do not just quote the Word, explain the Scripture.
6. Share the testimony of your own encounter with Christ, it can be very powerful.
7. Gently, wisely but firmly press for a decision for Christ right away.
8. Pray with the person on receiving Christ, i.e. lead him or her in prayer to Christ.
9. Invite him to your church, or a Bible believing church close by.
10. Keep contact with him or her until they can stand firm in Christ. Go ahead and win a soul to Christ today. Great reward awaits soul winners.

Prayer /Action
* Pray that God will give you great passion for soul winning.
* Pray that God will lead you to a ripe soul who is ready to receive Christ today.
* Pray that God will anoint you to effectively share the Gospel message so that souls can be saved.
* Pray that your fruits will abide.
Make sure you speak with someone for Christ today.

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It is a Stepping Stone

Text: Phil.1:19-21
More Lessons: 2Cor .4:16-18
Bible Reading in one Year: Zephaniah 1-3

How can you say that the beating and stoning by the villagers is working out something great for the kingdom of God? This was a question asked by a young brother in the Faith who went out with a group of brethren to a village in Northern Nigeria for a crusade. Barely had they settled down to begin their preaching when some Muslim radicals came against them hurling stones and sticks. The brethren had to run for their precious lives. True to it, how can God's purpose be fulfilled and His kingdom increase in my pains? Exodus 1:12, 20 suggest an answer. Israelites were subjected to forced labour with rigour in Egypt and were afflicted on every side. But the more the Egyptians afflicted them, the more they multiplied. I perceived that the cruel treatment outside the home made the individual family members to come together in deep love and affection for one another. I could hear them say to one another, “if they hate us and maltreat us out there, Let us not maltreat one another inside our home, let us love one another. If they say they don't want to see us, let us see more of one another”. Since the Hebrew husbands had nowhere to go after field day; they had more time at home with their wives and children, and the resultant effect was increase and multiplication and stronger family ties. Apostle Paul was given a thorn in his flesh. He wrote: And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong: 2 Cor. 12:7-10. Apostle Paul summed it up this way: He wrote while he was in prison: For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. You will surely testify of victory before the people in Jesus name.

Prayer/Action
* Appreciate God for all you are going through
* Ask God to use your pains and difficulties to step you into greater height.

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Be a Blessing, not a Curse

Text: Est. 6:1-3
More Lessons: Lk. 5:1-8
Bible Reading in one Year: Habakkuk 1-3

One of the reasons why God granted you the opportunity to be alive, working, or studying in school is to be a blessing to all who come your way. It gives God pleasure to see you use your position, profession and occupation to bless humanity. God has also programmed that through that position you will enter into his blessings and increase for your life, if only you will discharge your responsibility with a sense of service, not as a hireling. Unfortunately, many believers don't know this truth, and they handle opportunities to bless those that come their way, their offices and their business centres carelessly. They discharge their duty without a sense of commitment. Some even use their position to oppress others. For such people, their promotion has become a symbol of pain and curse for men. In our passage today, Mordecai, an exile in Babylon, was privileged to serve as one of the keepers of the door of the King's chamber. It was his responsibility to defend the king. When his fellow door keepers plotted to assassinate the king, he exposed their plots. That was the beginning of his promotion in that land. If he had kept quiet, the plot may have succeeded. Mordecai may even have lost his job after all, because a new king may not likely retain the same gate keepers.

In Exodus 1:15-21, the Hebrew midwives were handed over a decree from Pharaoh: When you are on duty and you see a Hebrew woman give birth to a son, kill him; if it is a girl let her live. It was an order from Pharaoh and whoever disobeyed was doing so at the risk of her life. But the midwives approached their duties as midwives with the fear of God, and let the male children live. They were determined to be a blessing through their profession and not to be to tool in the hand of a superior officer to inflict pains on subordinates.

When these midwives were confronted for failing to carry out the king's order, they simply explained with wisdom why it was difficult to implement the king's decree. Therefore, God blessed them and provided for them and their household (vs 20, 21). Be determined to be a blessing to others through your profession, occupation, and position of authority. Make up your mind that no one will use you to cause pain and affliction on others. Be determined to discharge your responsibility with every sense of commitment and loyalty, expose every kind of wickedness as Mordecai did.

One thing is sure; your good deed will speak for you someday, somewhere, even in places where you are not physically present to speak for yourself. God will surely remember your good deeds. Y our day of honour is at hand.

Prayer/Action
* Repent of every mistake you made in using your position to cause pain for others.
* Ask the Lord to grant you the grace to serve humanity through your present occupation.

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You are Different

Text: 1Pet. 2:9-10
More Lessons: Exo. 1:15-19
Bible Reading in one Year: Nahum 1-3

There is a popular story about an eaglet that was hatched and grew up amidst some chicks. As long as the eaglet did not know the difference between itself and the chicks, it kept walking, hopping, and flying low and over a short distance. But the day the eaglet looked up and saw an eagle just like it flying and soaring high, it took off from the ground and went up high in the sky.

Many Christians do not know that they are unique, peculiar, and special people. The Bible passage says: But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: v9 Once you give your life to Jesus, you are different from the common man walking on the street. God re-created you in Christ Jesus so that even when men around you are falling you should stand tall and be a shining light to them. Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. 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. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising: Isaiah 60:1-3.

The story in Exodus 1:15-19 unveils how unique God's people are. The midwives testified before Pharaoh: the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered before the midwives come in unto them. Beloved, you are different from unbelievers. Allow this truth to sink into you and let it rule your day. The diseases and afflictions that overtake unbelievers cannot prevail over you because God has promised to keep such diseases away from you and to place them on your enemies (Deut.7:14-15). God has promised to preserve you when you go out and when you come in (Ps.121:8). Angels are all over you (Ps.34:7) and they have been given instructions to watch over you (Ps.91:12). So you cannot be involved in an accident. A thousand devils cannot touch your life, you need not fear to travel anywhere, any time. God said, because you have set your love upon Him, He will deliver you: He will set you on high because you have known His name. You shall call upon Him, and He will answer you. He will be with you in trouble. He will deliver you, and honour you. With long life will He satisfy you, and show you His salvation. You can find this promise in Psalm 91:14-16. You must be so special to God for Him to make such a sweet promise to you. As you begin your day today , walk with the consciousness that you are different from everyone you meet on the street because of Jesus in you, you are very special, you belong to the royal family of the great King.

Prayer/Action
* Thank God for making so great a promise to you.
* Make a promise to serve God with all that you have.
* Share with someone today a promise of God in the Bible to encourage him

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Second-Class Citizen Mentality

Text: Exo. 1:8-14
More Lessons: Jer. 29:4-7
Bible Reading in one Year: Micah 4-7

The scriptural passage this morning can be regarded as an irony. The Egyptians were not only afraid of the rate at which the Israelites were multiplying, they dreaded them. Yet, they were successfully able to make Israelites serve them with rigour. How can someone be afraid of you, yet he is still able to enslave you, and make you serve him the way he wants? How is it that you were so intelligent, full of potential, your enemy knows it and he is even afraid of what you can become, yet he still subjects you to all manner of tributes and forced labour?

The problem with these Israelites was their mind-set while in Egypt. There was no doubt that they were sojourners in Egypt and their true land was Canaan, but Israelites lived in Egypt with a disposition of total strangers who do not have a stake in the land. That disposition made them to constantly see themselves as second class citizens in the land. They were always wishing and looking for opportunity to return to where they came from, and the Egyptians knew this very well. That was why the king said to his people, behold, the people of the children of Israel are more and mightier than we: Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war, they join also unto our enemies, and fight against us, and so get them up out of the land (vs.9, 10). They also forgot that they were in Egypt by divine direction. They failed to realize that it was for their sake God blessed Egypt. In fact, Egypt prospered because of Joseph an Israelite. So Israelites had a big stake in the land in Egypt.

Friend, you are where you are today by divine direction. Stop seeing yourself as a citizen in your locality, and some other persons as the “sons of the soil”. Arise and take your place. You are created to rule and not to be ruled over.

Your enemies know how capable you are; they know that if you rightly take your place, there will be no room for them. That is why they are doing everything to scheme you out and continue to rule over you. It is true that Heaven is our home and we are sojourners on earth, but while we are still here, Jesus said we should occupy until He comes (Luke 19:13). That means we should take charge, be responsible, manage and direct until He comes. You cannot afford to do less. Arise, change your mind set. You are the true son of the soil because the whole earth belongs to God your Father. It is enough of slaves riding on horseback and princes walking barefooted. If anybody deserved to rule and manage that your work place, it is you, because you carry the spirit of grace and truth. Get up today and begin to plan your way to the top where ever you find yourself.

Prayer/Action
* Jesus, help me to set my mind aright.
* Grant me what it takes to occupy till you come.

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A Goodly Child

Text: Exo. 2:1-4
MORE LESSONS: Psa. 139:14
Bible Reading in one Year: Micah 1-3

No child born into this world is a product of an accident. God carefully fashioned everyone and created a purpose for which they are to fulfil. Nobody is in this world without a purpose and responsibility. One reason why some people do not succeed in God's purpose for their lives is lack of foresight on the part of their parents of the manner of children God has given them. Since they lack understanding, they are not able to instruct, guide and direct the path of their children from infancy. Moses' parents were full of foresight. Moses was born at the time when all Israelites who gave birth to male children threw them into River Nile, in obedience to Pharaoh's decree. But when Moses' parent looked at the baby in their hand, they saw a “goodly”, “unique”, “fine”, “proper”, “extraordinary” child. They saw in that child a world-mover; a deliverer, a prophet, a miracle worker. They saw greatness, prosperity and success in their baby. What they saw in that baby made them to dare to disobey Pharaoh's decree and hid the child. By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment” (Heb.1 1:23). Parents, what good do you see in your children, and what are you doing to preserve that which you have seen in them? What are you doing now to help your children realize their dreams? It is unfortunate that some parents only see in their children folly , “block head”, “stupid child”, “you will never make it in life”, “good-for-nothing”, and these they yell at their children every time. What these parents do not know is that their words go a long way to rule over the destinies of their children. If you keep insulting your child as good for nothing and stupid, the forces of darkness may simply reckon your words as a curse upon that child and ride on that to afflict your child. Moses' parents saw in their child excellence, achievement, greatness and they worked Moses into it.

It is possible that your parents never saw anything good in you, and those around you never assisted you to pursue your dreams, but how do you see yourself? Moses grew up in Pharaoh's house, but he never saw himself as an Egyptian. By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter: Heb.11:24. Now that you are grown up, your destiny is in your hand. It is how you see yourself that matters. God created you great, and has purposed to use you for great things. Begin now to see yourself the way God created you, and you will enter into your greatness.

Prayer/Action
* Lord, open my eyes to see the unique gifts in me and my children
* Grant me what it takes to nurture my uniqueness to fruition.
Make a choice today to speak excellently to your children.

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Solid Foundation

Text: Matt. 7: 24-27
MORE LESSONS: Mark 1: 2-8
Bible Reading in One Year: 2 Thessalonians 1-3

Anybody can build a house, but houses are in grades and categories. When you look at some houses, you can tell how long they will last. There is a mud house I know of that has been standing for over ninety years. There is another structure in Zaria, Nigeria; the first church built by the Europeans in the entire Northern Nigeria, with mud many years ago and it is still standing. What makes a house last and stand when others are crumbling? The answer is in the foundation. How good the foundation of a house is determines how long it will last. Though good foundations are very expensive to build, the wise always pays the price to put a solid foundation in place. The unwise person thinks that since the foundation will be hidden, he can do a shabby work of it and continue with the part of the building that is open to all to see. He forgets that no matter what is built on top; if the foundation is faulty, the whole structure will collapse.

Foundation is the secret of advancement in destiny. Whether your life is going to become a bungalow, a story-building or a skyscraper is determined by the foundation. By foundation we mean the preparations you are putting in place and the silent prices that you are paying for where you are going in destiny. Y our Christian foundation includes things as quiet time; studying the Bible and other Christian literature, learning memory verses, fellowship with other believers, fasting and prayer. These are foundations for tomorrow. Giving, paying tithes and offerings and contributing to kingdom projects are financial foundations for your tomorrow. Everything in destiny needs adequate preparation. Y our preparation determines your strength which in turn determines your speed; which then determines your advancement. So in destiny, preparation determines strength; strength determines speed and speed determines advancement.

In Mark 1:2-8, the Bible tells us how John the Baptist was sent in preparation for the birth of Jesus. Even God makes preparations before He does things. It is easy to confess and claim wealth; marital, academic or career success but until we see your preparations before we can tell whether your confession is valid. Everything in life answers to preparation and laying the right foundation. May God give you the grace to start paying the price for building a solid foundation for your destiny in Jesus’ name.

Prayer/Action
* I declare that my foundation is firm and solid in Jesus’ name
* O God, wherever the foundation of my life and destiny cracked, fix it for me in Jesus’ name.
* Commit all preparations for your destiny afresh into God’s hands.

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No Longer Gentiles

Text: Eph.4:17-24
More Lessons: Col.3:3-6
Lamentations 3-5 Bible Reading in One Year:

The day you truly gave your life to Jesus, your citizenship changed. In the spiritual realm, you were moved from the clan of the Gentiles into the family of God, Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: Col.1:13. Gentiles are people who have no portion in God. They are outside of Christ, therefore they have no hope of enjoying the promises of God (Eph.2:12).

They are like dogs who can only stay outside and not permitted to enter the house. When Rev. 22:15 says, But outside are dogs..., it refers to Gentiles who do not deserve mercy (1Pet.2:10), but are objects of the wrath of God. In the realm of the spirit, Gentiles don't count; anything can happen to them and nobody will be held responsible. They are slaves of the gods they serve; and just as the slave master is free to do whatever he likes with his property , so is satan, the head of the clan, free to do whatever he likes with his subjects.

Gentiles live for the pleasures of their flesh which their master imposes on them. They become so consumed by the passion of their flesh that their understanding become darkened and alienated from the life of God. They are spiritually blind, lost every sense of feeling, given over to all works of uncleanness, and filled with greed (Eph.4:18-19). But the good news is that you have been brought into the fold of God, But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ: Eph.2:13. It is a privilege to be in Christ Jesus.

So much has been invested in the making of the believer that it will be a great abuse of rights and privileges and a disservice to oneself to contemplate the way of the Gentiles. The Scripture reading today admonishes the believer not to follow the way of the Gentiles, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness: Eph.4:21-24. Since you no longer belong to the gentile family, you are to live a separated life from them in every way. Although they may think it strange that you do not flow with them and may persecute you, the Scripture says they shall give account to God who will judge the quick and the dead (1Pet.4:5). God encourages you to purge yourself of gentile character s and attributes, come out from among them and separate yourself. Nothing about the unbeliever should give you reason to envy him, rather seek to open their eyes of understanding so that they may come out of the flood that is carrying them to damnation. You are light and must continue to walk in the light. Only those whose Gentile root has not been properly cut off, being dogs, go back to their vomit.

Prayer/Action
* Lord, purge me of the character of the Gentile.
* Denounce the old nature and confess your new citizenship.
* Ask for grace to always do what is right even if you are being persecuted.

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Purity is Power

Text: Psa. 15:1-5
More Lessons: II Tim. 2:19-21
Bible Reading in one Year: Lamentations 1-2

Purity is the standard of God for everything we do because it is His nature. God wants us to live a life that is free of pollutants Eph. 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:. When we do, then we become His likeness and whenever He finds His likeness He bestows His all. An impure heart is a waste basket and the devil's workshop, Psa. 60:8, Moab is my washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe: Philistia, triumph thou because of me. God detests impurity of heart and life. For humans to become pure, he needs to be grafted on Jesus the main branch. As it is recorded in II Pet.1:3-4, divine nature is through the Lord Jesus Christ. Human effort cannot do it. The Bible says all human efforts to be pure and truthful is like a filthy rag, Isa. 64:6.

When we believe God's provision for our purity, we will be able to live a pure life. Whenever a branch is properly grafted on the main stem, it will begin to bear the fruit of the stem. At the beginning it may not be total but as long as the branch remains and abides, the nature of the stem is transferred into it. Purity of life starts from the heart.

When the heart is pure and aligned with God's word and purpose through the Spirit, then purity of life is possible. Your experience, your relationship and the fruit you bear are indicators of the state of your heart. When you are defeated every single time you are confronted by satan and unable to live a consistent Christian life, then your life purity is low. Inability to live up to the standard of the word of God is another indication that the heart is not in a good state. Whereas, when your heart is pure, you become a hot coal and a no parking zone for the enemy. Understanding God and his word becomes easy because the heart is clear and free of filth. Such a believer becomes demon-proof. Purity brings boldness and courage. It makes one to be at peace with God and man. Unusual favour of God begins to manifest towards such people. Such a one can easily become a tool in the hand of God to dislodge darkness. II Tim.2:20. Apure man will always have God's approval all the time as it was with Jesus, this is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased. May this be God's testimony for you also, in Jesus’ name.

Prayer/Action
* Ask God for children that heaven and the earth will be proud of.
* Pray against any child’s wrong doing that could wipe away God’s favour from the entire family.
* Ask God to send more godly children to the earth through all waiting mothers in the church.

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Where are you?

Text: Psa.115:9-16
More Lessons: Isa.45:18
Bible Reading in one Year: Malachi 3-4

In Gen.3:9, God did not call Adam because he did not know where he was, he called him the way he did to know whether Adam knew where he was. Knowing where we are and who we are are two great issues of life that must not be played with because these determine so much about the believer. Each time God asks you about your where about, it is because He wants to be sure you know where you are. There are other questions you need to proffer answers to, in order to live a victorious jubilant Christian life. Such questions are:

1. Why is God always restoring the earth each time He destroys it? Gen.1:1; 6:7; Rev.21:1
2. Why will there be a new heaven and a new earth again? Rev. 21:1
3. Why will God not agree that you commit suicide or arrange one for you whenever you are tired of living?
4. Why will saints come back for a millennial reign on earth.
5. Why will God not keep us in heaven?
6. Why will the devil always want to kill even a believer.

We are not on the earth because God does not want us in heaven, we are here because earth is the place where believers do two things:

1. The earth is our Domain, Gen.1:26-29. It is only on the earth that we can exercise dominion. We rule as priests and kings on the earth Rev. 5:10. God does everything He pleases in heaven, on earth and below the earth. And the believer is as God on earth, Heb. 2:8
2. To deal with the devil. It is only beings with human bodies that can exercise authority on earth. Demons and devils need to be brought under subjection. They have no right on earth.

The earth is the place of the believers authority, so nothing should lord it over us here: like sickness or death. Demons are not supposed to live inside you because you are superior. That is why demons will have to possess humans to exercise authority and dominion. I am sure you wonder whenever the believer gives demons the matching order and they obey. It is because they are misfits on the earth.
They are not created to live here. Don't also wonder why God will send Lucifer and his angels to the earth after his defeat in heaven despite that God knows that you are there? It is for a show. God knows that the authority He has in heaven that sent the devil packing is also available in you on earth. God knows we can handle satan. God sent the devil to the earth, so that you can send him to the abys. Send the devil, sickness and trouble out of your life and environs today, in Jesus' mighty name. Send him to hell, right now and there will be compliance because you have been wired to do so. Put the devil in his natural habitat (hell) today.

Prayer/Action
* Send the devil and all his works parking from your life and back to the abbys now in Jesus’ name.
* Declare that you are walking in kingdom dominion and authority over dis-embodied evil spirits.

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God's Hedge

Text: Job 1:6-12.
More Lessons: Isa. 59:1-3
Bible Reading in One Year: Malachi 1-3

In the Word of God, there is provision for safety or defence. God is emphatic about this, When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee Isa. 43:2. It is of paramount importance for us to have the right attitude to the Word of God. Y our trust in someone's word reflects your relationship with the person. What is your relationship with Jesus? God built a hedge around Job, thus satan could not touch him initially. Similarly, God's hedge has been raised around your family, finance, business etc that is why there is safety. May the Lord's hedge be strong around you. It is God's hedge that is constantly around you when you sleep and wake up. There are many that sleep and have bad dreams, unpleasant experiences, some even die in their sleep. But David says, I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me Psa. 3:5. God's hedge around you is your security, strong and lasting since God is everlasting. Our non-consistency, disobedience, and broken relationship, weaken the hedge, He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him Eccl. 10:8.

You need to repent of your secret sin or else the serpent will strike you. A sinner can be attacked at any time because he doesn't have God's defence/hedge. Ask the Lord for forgiveness and make your way straight with Him. Thereafter, God's love will be available for you all your lifetime, As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever Ps. 125:2. I proclaim this shall be your portion. However, you must dwell in the secret place of the most High and abide under the shadow of the Almighty (Ps. 91:2). Henceforth, you will not be afraid of the terror by night; nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness. As David declares in Psa. 91:5-6, Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. So shall it be for you, in Jesus' name.

Prayer/Action
* Give thanks to God for His cover over you and your family.
* Declare that this cover shall never be removed.
* Pray that you will live up to God's expectation and that He will keep the hedge around you intact.

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Appointed Season

Text: Psa. 104: 9-19
More Lessons: Gen 1: 14-18
Bible Reading in One Year: Colossians 3-4

I want you to know that seasons don't just happen, they are appointed. The reason we see daybreak, nightfall and the climatic seasons happening is because someone appointed them to happen since creation. God appoints seasons and He has given you the authority to appoint your seasons as well. A lot of people remain stagnant in life because they think things will happen for them naturally, they are ignorant of the principle of the appointed season. Remember ye not the former things; neither consider the things of old. Behold I do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert: Isa. 43:18-19. The seasons of old have stayed too long in your life, it is time for a new season. But for the season to change, the responsibility for the appointment of a new season lies on you.

When Joshua saw that the season was becoming unfavourable for him as night fall was approaching and he had not finished the work God gave him over the enemies, he commanded the sun and the moon to stand still. (Read Josh 10: 12-14) That is a man appointing the kind of season he needed for his assignment in destiny. You can appoint your season as Joshua appointed his. Tell the sun and the moon to stand still until you are done; tell things to work in your favour.

A new season only comes by the force of appointment. The Bible says, Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you: Matt. 7:7. Appoint your season and it shall be appointed unto you. If the doctor has said to you that you have a terminal disease or you are faced with failures, disappointments, and lack, The Lord is saying to you, 'That was yesterday, you can appoint yourself a new season today .' I declare a new season to spring forth in your life in Jesus Name. And He changeth the times and the seasons, He removeth kings and setteth up kings: He giveth wisdom unto the wise and knowledge to them that know understanding: Dan. 2: 21. God changes the times and the seasons. Your unfruitful and unproductive seasons can be changed to fruitful seasons. NEVERTHELESS, he left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and FRUITFUL SEASONS, filling our hearts with food and gladness: Acts 14:17. The doctors might have their unfavourable reports or you might have been struggling in poverty, nevertheless, I assure you that your time for a new season has come. Nevertheless means regardless of what the past has been, your change has come. Your appointed season has come, in Jesus’ name.

Prayer/Action
*Ask God to reappoint the seasons of your life to begin to favour you.
* Declare every unpleasant season in your life over.
* Ask the Lord to give you favour for every disappointment.

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Heights of Glory II

Text: I Sam.16: 1 1- 18
More Lessons: I Sam.17: 46 -54
Bible Reading in one Year: Colossians 1-2

It is clearly established from the previous topic that God's desire for us is an ever glowing and ever growing glory. A case study of the life of David shows us the definite possibility of ever increasing glory for those who walk with God and the reverse for those who turn their backs against God. In fact, shame is the portion of a man who rejects Jesus as his Lord and Saviour and refuses to take his place in the family of God through the salvation Christ suffered, bled and died for. If you have not made that decision personally, do it now and step into lifetime of glory from earth to heaven.

First, David had household glory. He was searched for and anointed in the parlour of his father's house. I Sam.16:12. May you have a place of honor in your family. Secondly, he moved higher into national honor when he slaughtered Goliath in the name of the Lord. I Sam.17:42. You won't stay at this level this year, the cycle of glory has shifted to bring God's children into the limelight, receive yours in Jesus name. Y our portion in the nation will be given to you. Just be like David, solve a problem in the nation and move up higher. For every problem you solve, you position yourself for glory.

David's third level of glory is that he was anointed king over Judah, a tribe in Israel. II Sam.2:4. The fourth level is that he was anointed king over the 12 tribes of Israel II Sam.5:1-5. So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David made a league with them in Hebron before the Lord: and they anointed David king over Israel. David was thirty years old when he began to reign and he reigned forty years: II Sam.5:3-4. David's glory grew increasingly to the point that Jesus the messiah came from the line of David. In fact, even in death, David's glory is still speaking Ps.89:3-4. God gave him an everlasting covenant that blessed him and his generations of children yet unborn. Wow! May your glory outlive you. Secrets of David's heights of glory included i) David loved God. Ps.42:1. ii) David served man and God. I Sam.17:17-20. iii) David honed his skills I Sam.16:14-18. He developed himself. Y ours will also be an ever-growing glory!

Prayer/Action
* I receive a height of glory that will keep speaking even after my death.
* The glory of my life will bless my unborn children to the thousandth generation.
Outline steps you can take like David to step into a higher level of glory

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Heights of Glory I

Text:Job 39:13; 26-30
More Lessons: I Cor .15: 40- 45
Bible Reading in One Year: Ezekiel 46-48

There are heights of glory in the experiences of glory that men have with God. This is clearly seen even in God's creation. Isaiah said prophetically, For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron…: Isa. 60:17 showing us levels of glory. Gold, silver, brass are of greater worth and glory than iron wood or stones. May the glory you experience move from level to level and height to height. All birds fly but their heights differ. Some birds flap and generate speed for a low height while others like the eagle mount up high. You will mount high this year in Jesus’ name.

God's desire in glory for His children is to mount high not to peck on the ground like chickens. But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength: they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint: Isa.40:31. Since all Christians are supposed to wait upon the Lord, it means God wants all His children to mount high as the eagle. All that desire glory in an increasing measure therefore must do the following: i) Cultivate strength to fly high. This is achieved by fellowship with God and the people of God, the more you spend time in God's presence and in God's house, the stronger you develop your wings to fly high. Strength also comes in the place of knowledge: in the Word of God and in other areas. Read broadly and read greatly. Strength also comes as you pray in the Holy Ghost. Jude 20. ii) See afar off (both horizontally and vertically). This means having foresight and wisdom. If you will experience heights of glory in God, then you must cry to him this day for wisdom and foresight. The glories and successes in store are not for shallow thinkers who lack fore sight and innovations.

As men are in sizes, life is in phases. God has greater phases for His children. Therefore, do not be satisfied with the level you presently have, there's more in God. The best is yet to come. Aim high. iii) Deal with fear of changes. Some people hate changes because of lack of foresight. You must be ready to make necessary changes to experience heights of Glory. Learn from people's failures and successes and make changes in your own life. Don't gossip about men, rather learn from them to be a better person and your height will surely change to a higher glory. See you on high places!

Prayer/Action
* Lord, take me higher today; don't allow me stay at this level.
* I am an eagle Christian, I receive strength to mount high and do great things today.
Pick a book to read this week that will add greatness to you in that desired area of your life.

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A Happy Home

Text: Psalm 127:1-5
More Lessons: Jn. 13:17
Bible Reading in One Year: Ezekiel 43-45

Having a happy home is not only a function of the good things that family members can do for one another, but also of the presence of the Lord in the home. Wherever God is present, His fullness and goodness must be there.

Building a happy home is very important because the family is a vital part of the society. It is the home that feeds the society with people. Therefore the society is the true reflection of homes. If people in homes are happy, the society will be a happy one. A happy home is a happy family and for the home to be happy there must be a harmonious relationship between husband, wife and children which cannot happen unless members learn to be peaceable and friendly, as Paul enjoins, Follow peace with all men, …. : Heb.12:14. When family members work for peace, there will be happiness in the home. Making everyone feel he or she is a VIP in the family by accepting, trusting and liking one another can foster joy.

Making sure the basic structure for the home is correct is also a necessity as it is prescribed in Eph.5:23-24; the husband being the head, the wife the helper and supporter of the husband and children the blessing of the union, with all sharing responsibilities at home. Putting in place suitable principles to seal the relationship is very essential. When forgiveness, giving, restitution and forbearance are practised, living together becomes a delight. Showing appreciation for every good gesture helps members to be able to do more. Also, if members know, accept and play their roles well at home, there will be no lapses or schism, and every one's need will be met (Eph.6:1-9).
One other great thing that keeps the family together is family altar where everyone keeps appointment with God every day. It is the church in the home where the husband can perform his headship role as the priest. When the family houses the ark of the Lord, God will be there and pour His goodness and blessing on the family.

Finally, for the home to be free from satanic activities such as divorce, separation, disagreement all the time, adultery, wayward children and sexual perversion, we must allow the wise Master Builder to build and keep our home for us. A happy home is cultivated by a collaborative effort with God Almighty the Creator of the family.

Prayer/Action
* Oh Lord, grant me grace to be an agent of Y our goodness in my home, in Jesus’ name.
* I destroy everything responsible for sorrow and pain in homes today in Jesus' name.

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Wells of Salvation

Text: Isaiah 12:1-6
More Lessons: Neh.8:9-12
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezekiel 40-42

Today’s reading is a vivid description of what men get at the point they give their lives to Christ. They inherit wells. Wells are reservoirs typifying an unending and unlimited supply. When a man strikes an oil well, he becomes a millionaire not just because he found oil but he found a well of oil. In Christ, we have been given an unending well of God's power and wealth because we are his children, wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. Also, Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints; and of the household of God: Eph.2:19. We now sit with Christ in heavenly places far above forces of darkness and wicked spirits of this age. We have been blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places. Eph.1:3. Yet all this we only have access to using one thing as spelt out in the scripture for the day. That instrument to draw from the wells of salvation is Joy! This is why Satan labors so often to rob us of our joy. He knows that it is with joy we tap into God's unending wells of resources given to us; so he makes us sad with ourselves, people around us and the nation. Some even get so joyless that they start contemplating suicide. Refuse to allow Satan in his plot, stop him in his tracks by picking up your joy again for it is your instrument to draw from God's innumerable wealth for you.

Even if you have done something wrong that weighs your spirit down, get back on track with God. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness: I Jn.1: 9. Confess your sin and repent of that wrongdoing and God will forgive you as He said. That voice that condemns you is not of the Spirit of God, who shall lay anything to charge God's elect? It is God that justifieth: Rom.8:33. Therefore, even if it is the issue of sin that made you lose your joy, there is provision for you to have it back. Get it back because it is your container to receive every other thing from the Lord.

Prayer/Action
* Let your joy be renewed in my spirit today in Jesus’ name.
* I destroy every ploy of Satan to steal my joy and deprive me of God's blessings? Sing a song of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord. Ponder on His benefits and allow the joy of the Lord to return in its fullness.

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Say it as it is

Text: Psa.107:1-8
More Lessons: Psa. 15:1-2
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezekiel 37-39

Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesians admonished believers on how to use our tongue and what he said, Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Eph.4:29. Useless and fruitless words are forbidden for the believers; but words mixed with grace that can produce strength and edification are encouraged. Lie is a lie, and truth is truth, truth mixed with lie is a lie and not truth. A man cannot be separated from his word, we are what we say, so if you tell lies, you are a liar.

In Gen. 12:12-13 when Abraham told Sarah to lie about who she was, he was not acting out of faith but in fear, and he reaped the harvest of it immediately. His wife was taken from him and the lie was detected and Abraham a righteous man was accused of lying, Gen 12:18.

It is high time we embraced truth and uprightness by saying things exactly as they are. When Adam and Eve sinned, the book reported it as it is. God's word tells how Peter denied the Lord and how Judas betrayed Him without covering the act and the actors. It reports adultery and murder, gossips and misbehaviour of every kind even of God's people. Believers must not colour things even if others do. We must tell it as it is. Every time the Bible tells it as it is. It shows that all sinners have no hope of eternal life; but did not stop there. It gives sinners a way out of sin, as recorded in, For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God: Rom. 3:23. Then you also must tell it as it is by sharing what Jesus has done for you.

Our text today says, let the redeemed of the Lord say so. Believers must not keep quiet about the goodness and the mercies of God enjoyed on daily basis. Tell others the promise of the Lord concerning them, encourage others by your word, and don't allow the devil use your word to carry out his own agenda. Run away from exaggerations, falsehoods, hurtful jests, and words that cast other people down. Be a lifter of people by your words today.

Prayer/Action
* Reject falsehood and every lying spirit seeking to strip you of truth and integrity of heart.
* Receive divine enablement to speak the Words of God ministering Grace, in Jesus’ name.

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Wonders of Grace

Text: Eph.3:1-8
More Lessons: Zech.4:7
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezekiel 34-36

Scripturally, there are two seasons; law and grace. Grace and truth came through the Lord Jesus Jn.1:17, but law came through Moses. After Jesus died on the cross, grace not law has become God's standard for His children. Most of the time, the New Testament books either open or close with grace, so grace is the standard in the New Testament. Receiving the favour that you do not deserve because of love is what is called grace. It is the opposite of struggle, Zech 4:6, ...nor by power , but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. When a man comes to the giver of grace; Jesus Christ, he begins to live a life of ease and prosperity. Grace is the divine labour saving devices through the Lord Jesus. It is a divine and special virtue given to man by God.

Acts 4:33 talks about a dimension of grace, And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. If ordinary grace can make a man great, what will great grace do? It will make a man to be uniquely outstanding. Moreover, the Bible talks about manifold grace I Pet. 4:10, exceeding grace ITim.1:14, all grace II Cor. 9:8, more grace. Joseph and Paul the apostles were examples of men who enjoyed God's grace (Gen. 39:1-6, Eph.3:8). When a man finds grace, he becomes a wonder to himself and to others for the following reasons:

1. Grace gives a man what he does not deserve, according to Eph. 2:5-6. When we were in sin, weak, poor and far from God, we were quickened together with Christ and raised to sit with him by grace.
2. Grace makes a man become what he should never be (ICor.15:9-10). It is the grace of God that made Paul become an apostle when he should not be. He moved from the chiefest sinner to the chiefest apostle. ITim.1:15
3. Grace enables a man to take what is humanly impossible as Paul did. In II Cor.1 1:24-28, Paul fasted often, was in peril, beaten with many stripes, he was always willing to spend and be spent II Cor. 12:15. And he did move according to I Cor.14:18. By grace he finished the race II Tim.4:12.

Moreover, the primary purpose of the grace of God in a man's life is glory Gal.2:21 to glorify God and His servant and to save sinners. The grace of God must not be taken in vain, it should be used because immediately it is received, one becomes a debtor. So, grace is for a divine usage, profit and to enlarge the kingdom of God to be the best we can ever be! Let me ask you therefore, what grace do you have? What is it meant to achieve? How far have you achieved?

Prayer/Action
* Father, lap all my effort with your grace.
* Let you grace replace every struggle of my life.
* In the name of Jesus, let grace be the opening and closing chapter of my life.

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All-round Glory

Text: Deut. 28:1-14
More Lessons: Psa. 128:1-4
Bible Reading in One Year: Ezekiel 31-33

Our first reading is a vivid description of God's desire for His people. However, the delivery of these blessings depends on your meeting the conditions which are mentioned four times within the short passage (vs.1, 2, 9 and 13). (1) Listen to the Word diligently . This is very essential for knowing who God is, what He wants, what He hates, etc. It will help one to do exploits and deliver one from destruction (Dan. 11:32, Hos. 4:6). It also helps the development of faith and obtaining direction from God, which brings success (Prov.3:6). (2)Be watchful and careful to do ALL. Many hear or are eager to hear but they don't practise what they hear. Partial obedience is disobedience before God (Jam.2:10). However, it is possible to do ALL that God expects you to do by His grace. Paul says, I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me: Phil.4:13. You too can do all that God expects you to by His grace.

This is indeed a promise of an all-round glory from the Almighty, the King of glory and giver of grace and glory (Ps. 84: 11, Ezek.16:14). God cannot fail and it’s not His will that any of His children should fail, or be put to shame (Josh. 5: 9) because you are created for His glory (Isa.43:7). For instance, it was said of Abraham that the Lord blessed him greatly in all things (Gen. 24:1, 34-35,2 Cor.9:8). God will make you great as He did for Abraham who obeyed His instructions. Isaac also obeyed, sowed and persevered, and Isaac... waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great: Gen. 26:13. Even the people of the land envied him...for thou art much mightier than we: Gen. 26:16. Such glory is also awaiting you.

Even satan reported his failure over Job to God, Hast not thou made an edge about him...all he hath on every side....:(i.e. security) Job1:1. It does not matter what your past and present experiences may be, you can still enjoy all-round glory when God intervenes as He did for Jabez (1Chro. 4:9-10). A fish cannot be in the river and lack water. Get attached to the King of glory by accepting Jesus Christ if you have not done so. If you are in Christ already, note that God has in stock for you unthinkable all-round glory (1Cor.2:9,2Cor .4:16-17).

Take these steps also:
i) Be angry with everything in your life that is short of glory.
ii) Cry to God concerning your situation as Jabez did and became more honourable than his brethren.
iii) Seek His face for concrete steps to take.
iv) Obey each instruction from Him/His servant (Gen.26:12-1, 2 Kgs. 4:3-7).
v) Be diligent in whatever God directs you to do.
vi) Forget the past and believe God to do a new thing in your destiny.
vii) Focus on Jesus (2 Cor. 3:18).
viii) Put your trust in God with whom nothing is impossible and you will experience all-round glory.

Prayer/Action
* Pray that God will replace all your failures and shame with glory.
*Prophesy that this year, you are moving from glory to glory in all areas of your life.

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Step up in Glory

Text: Gen.37:12-17
More Lessons: Gen.39:1-21
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezekiel 28-30

Light looks white when seen, but when light is passed through a medium it becomes colourful. God created His people to be glorious and move on to full glory, but the fullness of glory in all its beautiful colours cannot be seen until it is passed through a medium. A man who refuses to pass through will never get to his destination of victory. This was clearly experienced by Joseph in today's reading. Joseph did not stagnate because he passed through the process for the glory. As you also pass through your divinely chosen process, you will not stagnate in destiny.

What were the things that gave Joseph a step up into glory:
i) His gift and talents. Joseph had natural endowment of dreams and interpretation of dreams. Gen.37:5, 9-11;40:12. His gift was not hidden but declared. Because of laziness and ignorance, a lot of people hide their talents and end up as non-entities perpetually. Do not hide your talents, declare them and use them.
ii) Joseph served readily; he served his father, Potiphar and the prisoners. Gen.37:13; 39:4; 40:6-7. To step up in glory, serve God. It is said that “God loves you because of who you are and He blesses you because of what you do” what are you doing for God?
iii) Joseph knew his opportunities and stepped into them. Gen. 40: 14. Joseph though in prison was not imprisoned in his mind. He had no bitterness against God. He still behaved properly in prison.
iv) Joseph was liberal; he went beyond what he was told and gave wise counsel which stepped him up to the throne. Gen.41:34-37. There are some people with creative and innovative ideas in them but they are not forthcoming with these ideas at work or elsewhere. Such people cannot step up in glory.
v) He was godly in all he did and at all times. Even in the face of terrible temptation, he refused to compromise his faith and obedience to God.
The man that fears God will be promoted by God, though the promotion may delay but as God did for Joseph and he fulfilled his glorious destiny, God will do the same for you!

Prayer/Action
* Lord, do to me all that will cause the faces of glory you have put in me to manifest.
* Joseph did not stagnate in glory, I also will not stagnate.

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All-round Strength

Text: Isa. 40:28-31
More Lessons: II Cor. 12:9-10
Bible Reading in One Year: Ezekiel 25-27

God does not hold back His blessing but gives to all men liberally and upbraids not. He always gives His best and His all, for the gifts and calling of God are without repentance: Rom.11:29. He was not satisfied with His Spirit coming upon man intermittently in the old covenant, so He came up with a new covenant where His Spirit permanently dwells in man. In the same way, God gives all-round strength to His people. Finding no one to send for man's redemption, He came down Himself, And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth: Jn 1:14.He gave all of Himself to rescue man from the shackles of sin.

After accomplishing this task on the cross of Calvary and it was time to return to the Father; He never left us comfortless, He puts in us the totality of Himself in the Holy Ghost to abide with us forever (Jn 14:16-17). Thus,...we all, with unvailed face, the glory of the Lord beholding in a mirror, to the same image are being transformed, from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord: II Cor 3:18 (YLT).

Part of our heritage in God through the work of salvation is all-round strength because there is no iota of weakness or fainting in God, He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength...:Isa.40:28-29. This is to say that God gives all-round strength to those who don't have. God is able to bring increase to your life from nothing as He did at creation when all things were made from things that can’t be seen (Heb 11:3). He has equally given to us all things that we need for godly life through the knowledge of Him, and has shared His glory with us and given us all-round strength (II Peter 1:3-4).

However, you may sometimes experience some moments of weakness in one area or the other in your life and quickly jump into conclusion that you have weakness in such area, forgetting that all-round strength is a function of knowledge and not feelings,...the people that do know their God shall be strong and do exploits: Dan 11:32. Also, II Peter 1:3 clarifies this truth. Even then people become strong after being weak (Heb11:34). Indeed, the strength of God is made perfect in weakness, so that when we are weak, then we are strong (II Cor12:9-10).This manifold wisdom is paradoxical, and cannot be understood by the devil; for if he had known, he would not have crucified the Lord of glory (I Cor 2:8). Though the resurrection of the dead is sown in weakness, it is raised in power (I Cor. 15:42-43). All-round strength is not a myth after all, but the expression of God’s divine nature in us through His knowledge. I Jn 4:17 makes it more explicit...as he is, so are we in this world. In this year of season of glory, Jehovah's everlasting strength will be manifested in every area of your life.

Prayer/Action
* Declare that God’s strength will be sufficient for you.
* Ask for God’s strength to be made manifest in your weakness.
* Declare all-round strength.

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Looking unto Jesus

Text: Heb.12:1-13
More Lessons: Jer .1:1 1-12
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezekiel 22-24

A true friend is one who loves you and is with you in adversity, pain and difficulty. Jesus is a true friend. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends: Jn.15:13. Jesus loves us so much that he died for us, rose from the dead for us and even now, He intercedes for us in heaven. He is ever with you in joy or sadness; in peace or trouble. He is sufficient for today and tomorrow, that is why we need to look to Him. Looking to Jesus means keeping Jesus in sight. Your sight determines your destination. It also means living unto him, focus on him, this is the number one purpose for every man in life. You must do everything to stop the distractions around you that hinder a steadfast looking to Jesus.

Secondly, your sight determines your direction. Only a man with correct sight can get to a place of fulfilment. Everything about you cannot be fulfilled until you see it. See it and get it. Jer .1:11.Your sight helps your focus and when your focus is sustained, all you need to do can be accomplished. Matt 6:22 makes it clear that a man's sight is his brightness. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body will be full of light. Thirdly, your sight determines your future therefore, mind what you see and be careful what you watch. Looking unto Jesus means seeing the victory of Jesus and all he has gone to prepare you for heaven. No wonder he said, Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my father's house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself, that where I am, there you may be also: Jn.14:1-3.What tremendous promises to keep our sight on.

Anything that will become bigger than Jesus, keep your sight away from such including the discouragements of men and their fears. Think about positive things and your fears will disappear. Keep Jesus in sight!

Prayer/Action
* Father, forgive me for not keeping my focus on Jesus.
* Henceforth, I will keep my focus on Christ and I will reach my desired destination in Jesus name.
* I destroy all distractions that hinder me from seeing well.

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The 37th Psalm II

Text: Ps. 37:11-27
More Lessons: Ps.34:11 – 22
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezekiel 19-21

Still on the vital lessons from this Psalm of instruction. Today, we will consider the attitudes that enable the righteous to do well in the land. The first attitude to consider with the benefits attached is meekness. This is a fruit of the Spirit Gal.5:22 and the nature of Christ Matt.11:29. It is an essential key to prospering in this present world even though the people around us will think otherwise. Meekness here also contradicts the attitude of some in the world that says if you can't get what you want in peace; kill and destroy lives to get it by all means. A meek man rather will do what is right and walk in the fear of God to get what he wants in this world. Consider the rewards of meekness in today's text:...they shall inherit the earth... implying because they wait for God, he will put the world at their feet. The meek will delight themselves in abundance of peace and finally, the days of the meek are known by the Lord implying that God takes particular notice of them to help them and to bless them.

Another good attitude is contentment in righteousness Ps.37:16.The little that a righteous man has will bring him joy and gladness than abundant riches gotten by wicked practices. Also, a vital additional attitude is to show mercy to others. Ps.37:21; 26.A man who gives will never lack because God will be his source. See what the Word of God says about you as you give and show mercy to others” He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed. The blessings of showing mercies are so tremendous that you and your generations of children eat from it. Be encouraged today to believe these inspired words of God that righteousness pays. Savour the summary of this blessedness:
i) The Lord upholds the righteous Ps.37:17.
ii) Their inheritance is forever Ps.37:18.
iii) They shall not fear in evil times Ps.37:19a.
iv) In famine they shall be satisfied Ps.37:19b.
v) God orders their steps and delights in them Ps.37:23.
vi) They are never forsaken and their children will never beg Ps.37:25.

These are just some of the benefits of righteous living in a world that cries against righteousness. Walk with God in righteousness and you will testify all day long as you shun all acts of wickedness. Mark the perfect man and behold the upright for the end of that man is peace: Ps.37:37

Prayer/Action
* I receive power for righteous living as I step into this day.
* I will surely enjoy the benefits of righteousness and my portion, another man will not take from me.
Make a conscious and particular effort to do something good to someone today and add to your rewards of righteous living before the Lord.

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The 37th Psalm I

Text: Ps.37:1-10
More Lessons: Matt.13:37- 43
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezekiel 15-18

We have well aid out pattern for living no matter the shifting of the times. This pattern is in our ever living manual; the Bible. Today's Psalms is one of such patterns laying instruction procedure for correct and proper conversation in times like these. This Psalm clearly spells out two ways men live in the world: wicked living and righteous living. It distinctly outlines the portion of the wicked and the lot of the righteous, then urging us to make correct choices. In this world, there are men who glory in wicked practices, they are agents of Satan who lurk in darkness, kidnapping children for money, selling bombs for destruction of lives and collecting wages for wickedness. To such, there is a reward: For they shall soon be cut down like the grass and wither as the green herb. For yet a little while the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shall diligently consider his place, and it shall not be: Ps.37:2;10.

Several times, when we look around and see the world full of evil doers that flourish and prosper, on all levels we start to fret, to envy even their liberty to get wealth by unlawful means in the indulgence of their lusts; we are apt to fret at God for allowing such men to live, prosper and prevail as they do. Hear what the Bible above says about their end and cease to envy them. We are tempted to think they are the only happy people; and we are therefore tempted to share in their gains and join ourselves with them. The Bible strongly warns us against such behaviour lest we share in their eventual destructive end if they refuse to repent.

The flourishing of a righteous man is like that of a fruitful tree Ps.1:3 but that of the wicked man is like grass, which is short lived. The triumph of a wicked man is short but his weeping and wailing will be everlasting. Instead of envying the wicked, we are to do the following
i)Trust in God and do good. Ps.37:3.
ii)Delight in God and He will give you your desires without you needing to cut corners or exploit others for it.Ps.37:4.
iii)Ask God daily for where your daily bread is and He will lead you there. Ps.37:5.
iv)Rest in the Lord in contentment with what He provides and patiently wait for what He is yet to bring to fulfilment in your life. Ps.37:7.
v)Do not allow bitterness at others deprive you of the joy of life
vi)Thank God daily for His mercies.Ps.37:8

Prayer/Action
* Lord, I choose the way of righteousness because it is the way to peace and joy. I refuse to envy or imitate the wicked so that I will not perish like him.
* My portion will be given to me as I go out today and the rod of the wicked will not rest on my portion.

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Times and Seasons II

Text: Hosea 6:1-7
More lessons: Jer. 29:5-12
Bible Reading in One Year: Ezekiel 12-14

The reason why some people resort to using the mediums to know their future instead of seeking God is because they want to know times in their own way. Yet God is willing to reveal to men if they will do it His own way. Men's way is to ask the Lord for the total picture of their life at the time they pray to the Lord. God's way is the way of faith, Then shall we know as we follow on to know the Lord; His going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth: Hosea6:3. God expects us to walk each day with Him in faith and by faith(Heb.1 1:6).The Christian walk is that of faith and daily obedience.

As God gives an instruction and you obey, He gives the next instruction. Each step of obedience takes you higher and leads to an orderly pattern of walk that culminates in a fulfilled and accomplished destiny (Jer .2:1 1). Be assured today that if you are God's own, His expected end for you is peace, void of evil. As months go by with different seasons unfolding, take time to seek the face of the Lord and He will direct your path. There are several assurances of divine guidance and direction for God's children among which are: Prov.3:5-6; Ps.48:14; Ps.73:24.
The Holy Spirit is available to guide into fruitful seasons, profitable opportunities and investments (John16:13). The more you fellowship with the Lord both in personal devotion and congregational worship, the clearer your mind will be and the brighter your path also because you will be more discerning of His ways.
Be assured that He that spared Moses as a baby from the sword of the tyrant Pharaoh, guided his infant basket to be nurtured in the same Pharaoh's palace, groomed him among the Midianites and raised him as a deliverer for Israel will surely direct your times and seasons to greatness! Seek God and stay with Him.

Prayer/Action
* Lord, take over my times and seasons, lead me to my greatness in the land of the living.
* Let the lines fall to me in pleasant places and give me a good heritage.
Make a purposeful pattern for better times of fellowship with the Lord and follow this pattern, avoiding distraction.

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Times and Seasons I

Text: Ps. 31:1-15 More lessons: James 4:13-16
Bible Reading in One Year: Ezekiel 8-11

The issue of times and understanding times has always intrigued men. The search for the knowledge of times is something several pursue with great interest. The irony is that many people want to understand the times neglecting the Creator of times, the Almighty God, Why, seeing times are not hidden from the Almighty, do they that know him not see his days? Job 24:1. Some people resort to horoscope instead of getting close to God in order to know, understand and experience their times.

They substitute the leadership of God over their life with stargazing which the Bible strongly warns against because it’s idolatry, There shall not be found among you any that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times [horoscope], or an enchanter, or a witch, or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard or a necromancer: Deut.18:10-11.

God says all who do stargazing are an abomination to Him. The methods of observing times as listed in Deuteronomy above have become modernised and easily accessible in newspapers, on the Internet and mobile phones. Some go for fortune-telling and to wizards and "prophets" to discover secrets of the future using various forms of spells and incantation to cure diseases and form league with familiar spirits. Through these, many fellowship with devils. Let it be clear that those involved in such acts cannot fellowship with God and therefore cannot understand times and seasons if they are not in agreement with God the owner of times and seasons.

Today's reading clearly states that if anyone will truly understand the times, he must trust God, But I trusted in thee, O Lord; I said, thou art my God. My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me: Ps.31:14-15(AMP). The Amplified version says to trust God is to lean on, rely on, and be confident in God. God is reliable, dependable and trustworthy. He has kept the universe intact from creation till now and the order hasn’t been disrupted: the ground has not sunk under our feet nor the sky fallen on our heads. This same God assures, But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and green and tomorrow is tossed into the furnace, will He not much more surely clothe you, O you of little faith?

Therefore do not worry and be anxious...: Matt.6:30-31(AMP). Men who have become God's own by the salvation experience obtained through faith in Christ Jesus and are abiding in Him are secure no matter what the times and seasons hold. Therefore, trust God!

Prayer/Action
* Lord, I will trust in You continually and I will experience the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Throw out all materials of observing times and stargazing. Cleanse your house of all idolatrous materials that show independence of God. Take time to seek His face for divine guidance.

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