No more condemnation

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Romans 8:1-9

1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

MORE LESSON: John 8:34 - 36

34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

Saturday, 4 October

Memory Verse: AThere is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Romans 8:1

Two armed robbers were hanged on the cross with Jesus as condemned criminals. In their last moments they both had the opportunity to pass from death to life because they were in close proximity with the Saviour of the world. Out of anger, one of them voiced out his frustration demanding that the Messiah save Himself and extend salvation to them. However, the co-robber who understood what was going on in the realm of the spirit was quick to rebuke his partner in crime. Thereafter, he made a request for eternal salvation and at that moment he passed from condemnation to life. In accepting Jesus as personal Saviour a transition happens as you are moved from death to life.

It will be to the amazement of many who saw these condemned criminals hanged on the cross, if they get to Heaven and see one of them seated in glory! But such is the power of the Cross of Jesus. On the Cross the Master crushed all condemnation for those who believe in His substitutionary work. It is no wonder that a robber entered into paradise ahead of many.

A similar incident is that of Rahab the harlot who entered the Promised Land ahead of many (Joshua 2:1-21). As a matter of fact, some Israelites were destroyed and could not enter Canaan because of unbelief. While the Israelites had an entitlement mentality, someone who had a background of putting her back on the ground for men as a means of livelihood entered the land of milk and honey by faith in the God of Israel (Hebrews 11:31). Condemnation ends when people believe the God of Israel for their salvation.

The Scripture says there is therefore now no more condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. The three levels of grace that knock the devil out of the fighting ring are:

i. To be in Christ.

ii. To walk not after the flesh.

iii. To walk in the Spirit.

Our being in Christ is fundamental and to remain in Christ requires not walking in the flesh. On the flip side, no one can overcome the flesh without walking in the Spirit. Jesus says, The words that I speak to you are spirit and life (John 6:63), meaning that a spiritual walk is only possible by hearkening to the word of God.

Prayer/Action

* Thank God for giving you a new life in Christ.

* Pray that as you continue to walk in the Spirit, you will overcome every work of the flesh.

* Declare that from today you will live in victory perpetually, no more condemnation.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Jesus, my promise keeper, October is here, do it again, in the precious name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

The Burning Ones

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Leviticus 6:12-13

12 And the fire upon the altar shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out: and the priest shall burn wood on it every morning, and lay the burnt offering in order upon it; and he shall burn thereon the fat of the peace offerings. 13 The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.

MORE LESSON: Acts 2:1-4, 1 Kings 18:36-39

1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

1 Kings 18:36-39 And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word. 37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again. 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.

Friday, 3 October

Memory Verse: For our God is a consuming fire. Hebrews 12:29

The altar may be built and the sacrifice laid, but without the fire, nothing happens. The fire completes the offering, signifies God’s acceptance and sets everything in motion. In the Scripture, fire coming down from heaven was often a sign of divine approval. What does the fire represent today, and how do we keep it burning? Understanding the role of the fire is essential to sustaining a vibrant walk with God.

Fire often represents God's presence and power in Scripture. The fire signaled divine presence when Moses encountered the burning bush (Exodus 3). It signified divine endorsement when Elijah prayed on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18). When the disciples gathered in the upper room, fire rested on them as a mark of divine empowerment (Acts 2). Fire is never casual—it always speaks of something sacred, something supernatural.

In Leviticus 6:9, God instructed that the fire on the altar must never go out. This wasn’t just about maintaining heat but preserving the flame of intimacy, worship, and consecration before the Lord. The priests were required to add wood daily, clear the ashes, and guard the flame. In the same way, as a believer, you are now the temple, the altar and the priest. You are responsible for tending the flame within.

The fire is the burning passion for God, the intensity of love for His presence, the zeal for His Word, and the fervency in prayer. It is the Holy Spirit actively, purifying, refining, and empowering us to live holy and impactful lives. When the fire burns strong, sin loses its grip, fear fades and boldness arises. Note, however, that like natural fire, spiritual fire can dwindle if not fuelled. Many believers begin with a blazing passion for God, but over time, activity compromise, and neglect cause the flame to burn out. This is why Paul told Timothy, Fan into flame the gift of God... (2 Timothy 1:6). Fire must be stirred and maintained. It is by your daily devotion, prayer, worship, and the Word. Commune with other believers, walk in obedience, and observe times of waiting on God. We place these " wood " daily to keep the fire burning. Even clearing out “ashes” —things from the past that may now be clogging or suffocating your spiritual life matters.

It’s not enough to have once encountered God’s fire; it must remain burning because a cold altar cannot produce transformation. A life without fire is vulnerable, directionless and ineffective, while a life on fire becomes a beacon to others, a light in the dark, and a vessel through which heaven touches earth.

God's fire is both purifying and empowering. It consumes the offering and ignites purpose. As priests of the New Covenant, our responsibility is to guard and tend the flame. Don’t let distractions, disappointments, or delays snuff out your fire. Return to the altar and feed the flame daily with the Word, worship and with surrender. Let the fire fall again and keep burning. Christians and not cold ones can change the world.

Prayer/Action

* Ask the Lord for His divine endorsement of all your sacrifices on His altar.

* Ask the Lord to increase your passion for Him.

* Pray against every form of distraction or device of hell working to put out your fire for the Lord.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: All through this month, it shall be righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost for me and my family, in the name of Jesus.

TODAY’S FASTING FOCUS: Righteousness, Peace, and Joy is my portion; Romans 14:17; Matthew 6:33

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

A Call to Consecration

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Romans 12:1-2 

1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 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.

MORE LESSON: 1 Peter 1:13-16, Leviticus 20:7-8

13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Leviticus 20:7-8 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. 8 And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you.

Thursday, 2 October

Memory Verse: Therefore, ‘Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. 2 Corinthians 6:17

A call is a divine beckoning to step away from the ordinary and embrace the sacred. The journey to maintaining a burning altar is the call to consecration. Consecration is not a vague religious word; it is a deliberate decision to set oneself apart for the purposes and pleasure of God. In a time when the world lures many into compromise and spiritual coldness, God is raising a generation of burning men and women who are wholly surrendered to Him, and whose lives will attract the fire of God. However, this fire does not fall on empty altars but on sacrifices and lives that are yielded.

Romans 12:1-2 is a foundational scripture for anyone who seeks to burn continually for God. Paul appeals to the believer, saying: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 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. Believers are enjoined to present their entire beings as living sacrifice, not just their intentions. Notice that the word "present" is active; it implies a conscious offering. It is not forced and not coerced but a choice to say, “Lord, here I am — all of me.

Consecration involves both separation and dedication. First, there must be a separation from the world's systems and values that contradict the Kingdom's values. This does not mean isolation but insulation—being in the world yet not of it. It is dedication and aligning with God’s will and desires. It affects how you think, speak, act and spend your time.

You cannot carry the fire of God if you are casual with your lives. In Leviticus 6:12-13, the priests were commanded to keep the fire burning on the altar. Similarly, your inner altar must be constantly fuelled holiness and obedience. The fire represents God’s presence, passion, and power, which only dwells where there is surrender.

Consecration is costly. It means letting go of certain relationships, habits, ambitions, or even good things that are not God’s best. It may be painful, but the reward is far greater. God fills what He finds empty; He uses what is wholly yielded. The more you die to self, the more He can live through you.

If you desire the fire of God to burn continuously on the altar of your heart, consecration is not optional — it is essential. It is the starting point for intimacy, power and relevance in the Kingdom. Today, God is still calling out, Who will go for us? (Isaiah 6:8). Before the “Go,” there must be a Woe is me — a moment of personal purification and surrender. The burning altar is built on the foundation of a consecrated life. Will you respond to the call?

Prayer/Action

* Rededicate your life to God and ask Him to renew your love for Him.

* Present your body to the Lord and ask Him to accept it as a sacrifice.

* Pray that the fire of the Holy Ghost will burn continuously on the altar of your heart.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: My destiny, welcome to a greater season, greater life and greater testimony, in the winning name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Laying the Sacrifice

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Romans 12:1-2

1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 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.

MORE LESSON: Hebrews 13:15-16, Philippians 2:17

15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. 16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Philippians 2:17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

Wednesday, 1 October

Memory Verse: Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and trust the Lord. Psalm 4:5

In every altar encounter in the Scripture, one key element was always present—the sacrifice. An altar without a sacrifice will remain inactive; the offering activates the altar. In Romans 12:1, Paul urges that: ...by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. We are not called to offer bulls or goats. but to present ourselves as living sacrifices. How do we lay our lives on the altar in a way that pleases God and invites His fire? In Romans 12:1 Paul appeal is both tender and firm: I beseech you... True sacrifice must be voluntary; God will never force you to surrender. However, He waits for it, and He is moved by it. The sacrifice God seeks is not just in moments of worship but also in our daily choices—choosing obedience over comfort, holiness over compromise and service over selfishness.

To understand the power of sacrifice, learn the patriarchs. Whenever Abraham built an altar, he laid something on it—a lamb, a ram and his son Isaac. That was an act of obedience, trust, love, and surrender. In that moment of ultimate sacrifice, God revealed Himself to Abraham as Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides.

Today, God is still looking for hearts that will lay down their “Isaacs”—things that matter most to you or which that compete for His place in your life. It could be ambition, relationships, comfort or even self-will. The altar demands that you place every part of your life before Him and saying “Not my will, but Yours be done.

A living sacrifice is a paradox—it means dying daily while still breathing. It is consistently laying down your rights, desires and opinions to do God’s will. It’s in how you love difficult people, give generously, forgive quickly, and obey even when it hurts. The altar becomes a lifestyle, and the fire becomes continuous.

However, sacrifices are not always easy; they cost something. In 2 Samuel 24:24, David said, “I will not offer to the Lord what costs me nothing.” True fire falls on costly offerings. Yet, it is not about earning God’s presence but expressing your love and desire for Him. When you lay your life before Him in genuine surrender, Heaven responds.

The altar is not a place of convenience but a place of consecration. To lay your life on the altar is to say, “God, You have all of me.” It’s not a one-time act but a daily decision to yield, trust and obey. The fire of God always falls where there is sacrifice. So today, what are you holding back? What part of your life needs to be surrendered? Lay it down, please put it on the altar. Let your life become the offering, and you will see God respond—not just with fire, but also with glory.

Prayer/Action

* Rededicate your 'all' afresh to the Lord.

* Ask the Lord to consecrate you anew for His work at this endtime.

* Pray for fresh grace to zealously burn for God.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Father, thank you for October, arise today and teach Nigerian leaders the lesson of Nebuchadnezzar, and let the glory of Nigeria arise again, in the mighty name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Rebuild the Broken Altar

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: 1 Kings 18:30-39

30 And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the LORD that was broken down. 31 And Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, unto whom the word of the LORD came, saying, Israel shall be thy name: 32 And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed. 33 And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood. 34 And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time. 35 And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water. 36 And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word. 37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again. 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God.

MORE LESSON: Joel 2:12-13, Revelation 2:4-5 

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: 13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.

Revelation 2:4-5 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

Tuesday, 30 September

Memory Verse: The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart—these, O God, You will not despise. Psalm 51:17

Before fire can fall from heaven, the altar must be in place. As a place of communion, covenant and sacrifice. In the Old Testament, it was the centre of worship and a meeting point between God and man. Spiritually, it represents the posture of the heart: devotion, prayer life, obedience and love for God. When the altar is broken, the connection to God becomes hindered; but When it is restored, Heaven responds with fire.

In 1 Kings 18, Elijah confronted a spiritually backslidden Israel on Mount Carmel. The Israelites’ hearts had turned toward Baal; they had forsaken their covenant with God. The altar—symbol of their devotion—was broken. So, before Elijah could call down fire from Heaven, he first repaired the altar. Today, many believers desire fresh fire and intimacy with God but the altars of their hearts are in ruins. Elijah’s action was both prophetic and practical. He gathered the stones representing the twelve tribes—unity must return. He repaired the structure, implying that consistency and order must be restored. Then he prepared the sacrifice—true surrender must be laid down. Only then did he call upon the Lord, and God answered with fire.

The message today is an invitation to rebuild our broken altars. So what does a broken altar look like in the life of a believer? It may be a life once fervent but now cold and dry, or a prayer life that has grown silent, or a heart distracted by the cares of this world. It could be the absence of Scripture meditation, worship or ignoring the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Like Israel, many believers may have allowed compromise, busyness or hidden sin to tear down their altars. However, here is the good news: altars can be rebuilt. God never despises a broken and contrite heart; His desire is always restoration, not condemnation. Like the prodigal son, when we come to ourselves and return, the Father runs toward us. The first step is acknowledgement, and the next is repentance. Then comes intentional rebuilding—brick by brick, prayer by prayer, moment by moment.

To rebuild your altar is to prioritise your time with God again, dig into His Word, engage in heartfelt prayer, and reconnect with your first love. It is saying, “Lord, reignite my heart; rekindle my devotion; rebuild what I have allowed to fall apart.” Then, like Elijah’s story, the fire will fall when the altar is in place. Your altar may be in ruins, but He specialises in restoration. You don’t have to train in spiritual drought; begin today to rebuild your altar. Be intentional about prayer; return to the Word and cut away distractions. Invite the Holy Spirit to breathe afresh on you. Like on Mount Carmel, the God who answers by fire will make Himself known. Begin the rebuilding today?

Prayer/Action

* Ask the Holy Ghost to rekindle His fire upon your altar.

* Pray for fresh zeal to serve the LORD.

* Declare that you will be a positive impact that will spark the fire of revival in the church of Christ.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Hallelujah, September is ending, and I am continuing, thank you Jesus forever.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Through the Clouds

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Genesis 15:13-14

SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. 2 Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth. 3 If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be. 4 He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap. 5 As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. 6 In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.

MORE LESSON: 2 Corinthians 5:7

7 For we walk by faith, not by sight.

Monday, 29 September

Memory Verse: Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. Ecclesiastes 11:4 (NLT)

Before stepping forward, we often long for perfect conditions in life, ministry, relationships or career. The Bible, however, reminds us that waiting for everything to align perfectly can leave us stuck, unfruitful and frustrated.

Life, much like flight, rarely offers perfect conditions. As a believer, you must not wait for "clear skies” in life, ministry, relationships, or career ideal circumstances, complete understanding, or visible outcomes before taking the next step if you have a witness in your spirit that God is in it. 2 Corinthians 5:7 says: God doesn't call us to walk by sight; He calls us to walk by faith.

In aviation, pilots don’t wait for clear skies to fly: they are trained to navigate the clouds, relying on instruments and preparation. The same applies to your walk with God. Life may not always give you clarity, comfort or certainty; remember that faith means moving forward, trusting that God is leading and guiding even when visibility is low. The skies may never be clear, but those called to soar must be willing to fly through the clouds. Progress doesn’t wait for perfect conditions — it requires faith, readiness, and resilience. Like a pilot trusting his instruments in the fog, trust God’s guidance even when the path is unclear.

You may not see the whole picture, but God sees beyond the clouds. Don’t let uncertainty stop you from planting, building, or obeying His call. If you wait for perfect conditions, you might miss divine opportunities. Step out, even through the fog — God is your compass. You must train your “spiritual instruments” — prayer, scripture, godly counsel — to guide you through life’s fog.

Pilots don’t wait for perfect weather; they train to fly through clouds, relying not only on what they see but on the instruments they trust. Likewise, you must learn to navigate life, not by what you feel or see but by the Word of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

You must ask yourself: What have I been putting off as waiting for the “right time”? Why is God asking me to trust Him and move, even without clarity? Don’t be discouraged by what you can’t see. Be ready to trust, press forward, and fly through, knowing God is with you in every altitude.

Prayer/Action

* Ask the Lord for grace not to wait for perfect conditions but trust Him in every season.

* Ask the Lord to teach you to walk by faith and not by sight, confident that He is guiding you.

* Ask the Lord for help to rely on His Word and presence as He guides and strengthens you to move, build, plant and soar through life.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Jesus, my Anchor and Defender, I give you praise for September, in the wonderful name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

The Power of the Spoken Word

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Proverbs 18:20–21

20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. 21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

MORE LESSON: John 1:1-3

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

Sunday, 28 September

Memory Verse: Death and life are in the power of the tongue... Proverbs 18:21a

Words are not just sounds, they are seeds. They carry life or death, creation or destruction. Proverbs teaches us that the tongue has power to communicate and to create. When you speak, you activate either life or death in your environment. This is why you must be careful the things you say. The mouth of everyone is a weapon but much more, the mouth of a believer is a more potent weapon because of the authority that backs them. Jezebel understood this and she wrote a letter in the name of the king (Ahab) and sealed it with his signet ring so that Naboth would be killed and the plan was successfully executed. Assuming she stated in the letter that he should be promoted to be in charge of the king's guard, that could also have been done without question or hesitation. So as children of God who have the backing of Heaven, it is wisdom to speak what God says and blot out permanently anything that does not align with His will. We can give life or destroy life, destiny and even properties with the words of our mouth. The words we speak create the reality that we see.

The Bible consistently shows us the creative force of words. God said, Let there be light, and there was light. Jesus said, Lazarus, come forth! and the dead man lived again. Words move realms, shape destinies, and open doors. The problem is that many believers are careless with their words. They speak defeat, fear, doubt and death, then wonder why they see no change. Your mouth can be the engine of breakthrough or the architect of limitation. What you say frames your world.

Even angels respond to spoken Word. Psalm 103:20 says angels excel in strength, doing His word, hearkening unto the voice of His word. That means when you speak the Word of God, you activate angelic assignment, thus your words license the supernatural to move.

But the key isn't just talking, it's speaking in alignment with the truth. Idle words, negative confessions or emotional outbursts can sabotage what God is trying to build in your life. Let your mouth become a vessel of life. As from today, be intentional with your speech. Speak over your family, your work, your spiritual growth. Declare healing, peace, abundance and wisdom. Speak to the mountain. Speak to the storm. Speak to your soul. Speak to your future.

As you speak, believe. As you believe, receive. You have the right, the authority, and the power to declare life.

Prayer/Action

* Thank God for giving you the power to speak life.

* Repent of every careless word.

* Declare, I choose to align my mouth with God's word. I declare that I am healed, favoured, empowered and fruitful. My words will reflect Heaven. My speech will glorify You. Amen.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Let's sing prophetically – I am going greater, yes I am, I am going greater today (2×), I'm going above the sorrows, into the presence of God, into the presence of Jesus, I'm going greater today, hallelujah! Sing it all day for a miracle!

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

The Treasure Within

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: 2 Corinthians 4:6–7

6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

MORE LESSON: Matthew 13:44–46, Colossians 1:27

44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: 46 Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

Colossians 1:27 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:

Saturday, 27 September

Memory Verse: But we have this treasure in earthen vessels... 2 Corinthians 4:7a

God has placed unimaginable wealth within you, not physical riches but divine treasure. Paul calls it this treasure in earthen vessels, referring to the glory and power of God residing in human containers. Think about that: the eternal God chose to deposit His power and presence in you.

Why earthen vessels? Because they are ordinary, fragile and unimpressive to the natural eye. God delights in hiding treasures in unlikely places to show that the excellence of power is of Him, not of us. This is the mystery of grace: that God puts glory in weakness, greatness in insignificance, and power in humility.

You may look at yourself and see nothing special but God sees treasure. You may feel inadequate but within you lies Kingdom potential, spiritual authority and eternal purpose. However, like the physical treasure, what's inside must be discovered and drawn out. So, you must look beyond what your eyes can see and begin to see yourself the way God sees you. There is more to you than meets the eye and only God has your true identity. In order to see and live your potential, you must see the excellence within from God's perspective because this treasure isn't always visible. Many people walk around with buried callings, suppressed gifts and undiscovered anointing. This is because the vessel hasn't been broken. Sometimes God allows pressure so that what's inside you can be revealed; thus the crushing reveals the oil. The fire reveals the gold and the pressures of life reveal the value in you.

Your task is not to create something new but to reveal the deposit that is already there. Your duty is to steward it, develop it, guard it and most importantly, release it. Your voice, gift and vision all come from this inner treasure.

Stop comparing yourself with others and don't despise your vessel. Your worth is not in the clay but in the content. What makes you valuable is not your appearance, status or resources, it is the divine treasure within. You didn't come to the earth blank, a “tabula rasa”, you came with divine purpose, presence and anointing deposited in you and waiting for manifestation. The world is waiting for your manifestation.

Today, ask the Holy Spirit to help you rediscover what God has deposited in you. Begin to declare, “I am a carrier of glory. I have treasures inside me.” Let that revelation shift the way you walk, talk and serve.

Prayer/Action

* Thank God for placing treasures within you.

* Receive help of God to see yourself through His eye so that you will value, protect and release what He has placed in you for His glory.

* Declare, 'I am not empty, I am full of purpose and power'.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: I am a pride to the kingdom of God, I shall not be dethroned by anything, in the wonderful name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Another Joseph Wanted

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Genesis 41:33-46

33 Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt. 34 Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years. 35 And let them gather all the food of those good years that come, and lay up corn under the hand of Pharaoh, and let them keep food in the cities. 36 And that food shall be for store to the land against the seven years of famine, which shall be in the land of Egypt; that the land perish not through the famine. 37 And the thing was good in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of all his servants. 38 And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is? 39 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: 40 Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou. 41 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. 42 And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; 43 And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt. 44 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I am Pharaoh, and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt. 45 And Pharaoh called Joseph's name Zaphnathpaaneah; and he gave him to wife Asenath the daughter of Potipherah priest of On. And Joseph went out over all the land of Egypt. 46 And Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt. And Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh, and went throughout all the land of Egypt.

MORE LESSON: Psalm 105:17-21

17 He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant: 18 Whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron: 19 Until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him. 20 The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free. 21 He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance:

Friday, 26 September

Memory Verse: And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art. Genesis 41:39

TODAY’S FASTING FOCUS: No appointments with death; Deuteronomy 33:6; Isaiah 38:1-7

Whenever there is a challenge or a problem to solve somewhere, the answer lies in the hands of one man, woman, boy or girl. When the right person emerges, the problem is solved, as Joseph counselled Pharaoh. A great famine was coming, and as revealed by God, it would ravage for seven years. However, Joseph counselled that before the famine, there would be a great abundance; it would last seven years. If the abundance was appropriately managed, the effect of the famine would be significantly mitigated.

Therefore, Joseph advised that someone was needed to help the nation and save the future. That person must be wise, discreet, discerning, and have the character and capacity to handle the situation effectively. Pharaoh decided that person was Joseph, as recorded in Genesis 41:39: And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shown thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art.

Joseph did a good job. We need a Joseph in every facet of our lives—in the home, in the school, in the office, in the public service, in the leadership of our nation, in the leadership of the church, and indeed everywhere. He must be someone who:

• is wise.

• is discrete.

• is discerning (Genesis 41:39).

• is able.

• fears God.

• loves the truth.

• is free from covetousness (Exodus 18:21).

• is full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.

• is honest.

• has ‘good’ testimony (Acts 6:3,5).

You know what? You can be that person! If you give yourself totally to God, He will purge you, mould you, fill you with His Spirit and power, and make you a Joseph of our generation. God wants you to be the solution to our societal problems and the answer to people's questions. The time to answer that call is now.

In Isaiah 6:8, the Prophet Isaiah answered God’s call: …I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.

Prayer/Action

* Ask the Holy Spirit to help you become a solution provider.

* Pray against all distractions that limit you from being a voice to your generation.

* Pray for the grace to be faithful and truthful in life.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: I cancel every appointment with death over me and my family today, in the mighty name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Victory is Sure

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: John 6:33

33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.

MORE LESSON: Acts 27:22-25

22 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, 24 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. 25 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

Thursday, 25 September

Memory Verse: These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Trouble is not a stranger in life; it’s baked into the journey. Life is spiced with challenges, trials and storms. Jesus didn’t hide this from us. In John 16:33, He said, "In the world, you will have tribulation." He didn’t stop there, but He gave the antidote: Be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.

Yes, even believers face battles: the difference is in how we fight them. While the world drowns in anxiety, face believers challenges and fight with hope because we fight with God on our side. We don’t go through storms alone: the Master is in the boat!

Paul was in a shipwreck, but his declaration was explicit, in Acts 27:22: There shall be no loss, because he believed what God told him. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me (Acts 27:25). Hannah was misunderstood and afflicted, yet she found grace at the altar and gave birth to a prophet (1 Samuel 1). Your trouble is not a verdict—it’s a process.

What you are going through is not the whole story. It’s a part of the divine script, and the ending is glorious! Don’t let your heart be troubled (John 14:1). Don’t permit fear to dominate your mind because God doesn’t just observe your pain. In 1 Peter 5:7 He assured us: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Anyone born of God has been designed to overcome, 1 John 5:4 says: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. That includes you, so do not worm. Don’t complain. Don’t cave in. Stand firm in faith and walk through the storm knowing your victory is certain. Troubles may be part of the journey, but victory is the destination. Hold your peace and press forward.

Prayer/Action

* Declare: I refuse to let fear rule my heart; I cast every care upon Jesus today.

* Confess that you shall rejoice, even in the fire, and come out stronger.

* Decree that your victory is sure.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Hallelujah, glory and amen, that is what my song shall be all through the remaining days of this month, in the amazing name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Take Freedom

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Matthew 11:12-15

12  And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. 14 And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come. 15 He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

MORE LESSON: Luke 16:15 

15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

Wednesday, 24 September

Memory Verse: And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. Matthew 11:12

Freedom is not a product of pity but the prize of spiritual violence. Nothing in the Kingdom is handed to you passively. You must rise with boldness and take what God has already provided. Freedom is never given; it is taken. Where independence is given, it is a complete falsehood; only those who take it enjoy it more. You must stand your ground to confess that what is purchased must get to you.

Jesus paid for your redemption but you must walk in the knowledge of this. Freedom is not cheap, even though it is free. The Cross paid it all, but ignorance still enslaves many. You must know what belongs to you before you can take it. Know God’s provision and build the necessary knowledge; you must know. You can’t claim what you haven’t discovered.

Stop explaining your bondage away. stop justifying failure and don’t romanticise your affliction. The fact that you are in a bad place doesn’t mean God put you there. Never accept academic, spiritual, material or business failure. That you are failing does not mean that God cannot make you succeed; what you need to do is to find out what the problem is and solve it. Don’t justify failure; otherwise, you will remain a failure. Micah 7:8 says: Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall arise. The enemy may knock you down, but he cannot keep you there unless you stay down.

You must insist that what God said is final over your life. Whether it's sickness, poverty, delay or defeat, don't accept it. Don’t spiritualise what God has already nullified. God did not ordain you to fail, so don’t settle for failure. If something isn’t aligning with Scripture, confront it!

Take your place through prayer, fasting, declarations and study of the Word. Freedom is yours but you must break the door if someone has locked it. Insist that your inheritance will not be denied you. You don’t wait for freedom; you rise and take it. Freedom is your covenant right. Claim it boldly!

Prayer/Action

* Declare that you will not accept anything less than what Jesus has paid for.

* Command every form of bondage around you to break now.

* Receive revelation and strength to take what is yours.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: I decree an endless rising for me this month, spiritually and in all spheres, in Jesus' super name.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Eyes on Victory

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Eyes on Victory

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

MORE LESSON: Proverbs 24:15-16

15 Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place: 16 For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

Tuesday, 23 September

Memory Verse: For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief. Proverbs 24:16

The present situation is not your destination. What you see now is not the whole story, so keep your eyes on the finish line. 2 Corinthians 4:17says: For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. Don’t let the pain of the present rob you of the promise of the future.

It is great wisdom to learn from those who have passed the way we are presently going through in life. If you want to walk in dominion, learn not to fall from those who fell, and how to rise from those who have risen. Ask questions, study patterns. Trace testimonies. There is no wisdom in mocking what you admire. You won’t increase by running down those who have already made it. Instead, draw close, observe, launch your move and exceed them (Proverbs 24:15-16).

Please don’t complain about what others have; connect to them and learn. Hebrews 13:5 admonishes us: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” (BSB) Let wisdom guide your attitude. Humility is a ladder, and pride is a pit.

Even your taskmasters, those things that once dominated you, must come under your rule. In Exodus 7:1, God told Moses, “See, I have made you a god to Pharaoh” This means that what used to instruct you now takes instructions from you. That addiction, that depression and that limitation must bow, in Jesus’ name.

You are not under; you are above all. You must see yourself as God sees you—an overcomer, not a slave. You don’t conquer by focusing on where you are; you must rise by seeing where God is taking you. Rule what once ruled you!

Prayer/Action

* Ask God to help you fix your eyes beyond your struggle and fix them on His promises.

* Ask God to teach you wisdom and surround you with mentors who will guide you.

* Pray that every former oppressor will bow to your authority in God.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Father, none of your promises shall fail or fade in my destiny ever, in the wonderful name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Covenant Meal II

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Mark 14:22-25

22 And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body. 23 And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it. 24 And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many. 25 Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.

MORE LESSON: John 6:53-58

53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.56 He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. 58 This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.

Monday, 22 September

Memory Verse: The Spirit can make life. Sheer muscle and willpower don't make anything happen. Every word I've spoken to you is a Spirit-word, and so it is life-making. John 6:63 (MSG)

God, being a Covenant-keeping God, has made provision of covenant meals to strengthen us as we commit to the Covenant of life in Christ Jesus. Covenant meals include: the word of God and the Holy Communion.

The written word of God contains the terms and conditions of His covenant; the spoken word releases the Spirit that sustains the covenant. We can go further and farther on the strength of God's word, following the principles of the Kingdom: righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Jesus made it clear that feeding on His word is feeding on the Spirit and Life. To annul death and its manifestations (sicknesses, disease, poverty, sorrow), we must grow our word bank, which is our life bank.

Jesus introduced Himself as the 'bread of life', and gave this bread to us to commemorate His sufferings, partake of His death and resurrection, and participate in the “victory march” against the prince of this world and the agents of darkness. Yet again Our Lord Jesus shows us a mystery in John 6:53 that eating His flesh and drinking His blood typified by the communion bread and wine indicates having faith in Jesus, His work of salvation on the Cross of Calvary, living for Him, while obtaining spiritual nourishment from Him alongside the hope of eternal life. The covenant meal goes beyond a ceremonial ritual in remembrance of Christ. When we eat, we go beyond eating with spirits (as spiritualists glory in) to eating life-giving spirit; for the life of a being is in its blood.

Life is transactional, i.e. it runs based on a system of exchange. Working/striving for the word is working for eternal life. Simon Peter said, the disciples had decided not to depart from the One that has the words of eternal life (John 6:68). Some individuals live to work for daily earthly bread, while the call of God is for “transactions” for the souls of men, fishing them out of sin of the world system and translating them into the Kingdom of God. At that level, the disciple asked God in the Lord’s prayer, to give them access to their daily bread. while contending for the things that pertain to life by feeding on God's word, meditating on it, declaring it, and partaking in the Holy Communion in faith. The Covenant meals of the Word of God and the Holy Communion bring life to us. We can eat to the point that we become so full of life, and that life swallows up.

Prayer/Action

* Thank God for His Word, His body and His blood which He has given to us.

* Receive grace to be a partaker of the covenant meals continually.

* Ask for mercy in any area you have fallen short of upholding covenants with God.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Every word ever spoken to me contrary to God's plan over my life begins to catch fire now, in the powerful name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Covenant Meal I

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: 1 Kings 19:1-8

1 And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword. 2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time. 3 And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. 4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers. 5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat. 6 And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again. 7 And the angel of the LORD came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee. 8 And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that meat forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God.

MORE LESSON: John 7:37-38 

37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any 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.

Sunday, 21 September

Memory Verse: The purpose of my covenant with the Levites was to bring life and peace, and this was what I gave them. This called for reverence from them, and they greatly revered me and stood in awe of my name. Malachi 2:5 (NLT)

A Covenant goes beyond a binding agreement to a hallowed, purposeful relationship characterised by conditional blessings or curses. For instance, in Genesis 2:16-17, the conditions for the covenant of life versus the death penalty were introduced to Adam, and tied to the sources of meals he could and could not eat. The dire consequence of contravening this changed the trajectory of man's relationship with God and introduced mortality to the human race.

Fast-forward to around 2,630 years later, Elijah was commissioned as God’s prophet to uphold the covenant between God and Israel, turning them away from the worship of Baal. 1 Kings 19:1-8 gives a narrative of Prophet Elijah's experience as he fled from Jezebel. The day's journey (estimated at 18-30 miles), the wilderness experience, being alone, resulted in the dissipation of strength to the point that he became so weary and slept under a juniper tree. The tree of the cedar family, is one of the oldest living tree species, surrounded by several myths and believed to represent a place of renewal, rejuvenation and healing. Unfortunately, his weariness went beyond the physical to the fabric of his spirit (his intellect, awareness and consciousness of God as his source). Alas, rather than cry to God for help, he cried to God for death.

God did not lead Elijah into the wilderness; he chose to move to escape for his life. We should navigate negative experiences by running into the Strong Tower (the name of the Lord), for therein is sustained strength. Loneliness is more than a physical experience, for you can be alone but not feel lonely. Elijah felt alone, not only physically but also spiritually (verse 10). There is indeed strength in companionship, both physical, mental, and spiritual.

The journey of life cannot be accomplished without adequate spiritual strength. We must continually feed on meals to sustain our strength. Therefore, the angel woke up Elijah a second time to eat and in the strength of that meal supplied to the Prophet by God, he journeyed 40 days and 40 nights. Imagine a man who was wearied after a day's journey on normal food but could travel 40 days and 40 nights on a divinely supplied meal. You can not feed on grass and manifest grace. Receive wisdom to feed fat on divine resources.

Prayer/Action

* Thank God for the privilege of covenants.

* Thank God because you are a part of the covenant of Abraham and also the New Covenant.

* Ask for grace to fulfil your obligations in your covenant with God and never be a covenant breaker.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: I prophesy to the giant in me to rise today and begin to do greater things, in the matchless name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Dimensions of Power

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Isaiah 55:11

11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

MORE LESSON: Isaiah 40:28-31

28 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. 29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: 31 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.

Saturday, 20 September

Memory Verse: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:11

Power has been defined as the ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way. Power goes beyond the capacity to do or perform. The Greek word “dunamis” refers to power, miraculous works, and specific spiritual gifts manifest in believers through the Holy Spirit anointing. We will examine several dimensions of power.

Power to be/become. systems come into existence with vested power. Life itself is powered into existence. No greater multifaceted dimension of the power to be is displayed than that by the “I AM” He is both deity and man, a father and a friend, the Lion and the Lamb, a Creator domiciled in his creation yet self-existing. The power to be was showcased in Genesis 1:3 when God said: Let there be light," and there was light. The one that calls the things which are not, as though they were (Romans 4:17). Being seated in Christ in the “I AM”, share in His multifaceted power to be. Power to translate and transform you from helplessness, lack, pain, sorrow, rejection into the person you desire to become is available by the anointing of the Holy Ghost.

Power to do or perform. Performance counts in the spiritual realm; the capacity to promote or hinder performance lies with God. The one who watches over his word to perform it (Jeremiah 1:12), accomplish its sent purpose (Isaiah 55:11), and disappoints the devices of the crafty (Job 5:12), will step into your matter and enforce the all-round victory He enacted at Calvary. Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:13 declared that he could do all things through Christ who strengtheneth him. Receive strength to perform valiantly in Jesus' name. Might is imputed through experiential knowledge of the ALMIGHTY, (Daniel 11:32).

Power for sustenance: strength becomes dissipated over time, and therefore, their need for renewal. Failure to do so can turn a champion into a caricature. Power went out of Jesus in Mark 5:29-30, through the hem of His garment to instantly terminate a 12 years demonic and chronic flow of blood. Jesus was aware of the importance of sustaining power through renewal when it was dissipated. Strength is imputed to the weary by the ALMIGHTY the Owner of power who increases the power of the weak (Isaiah 40:29). For our strength to be sustained; we must wait on God for renewal (Isaiah 40: 28-31).

Another vestry of strength is “the Joy of the Lord”; we must guard our hearts with all diligence, ensuring that our joy isn't broken and our strength sapped. When God is our strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1), and we hook and look up to Him perpetually, we remain strong; we can be referred to as “the helped of the Lord”. We must train for power and build stamina to handle an hour of temptation and a day of spiritual battle.

Prayer/Action

* Thank God for being powerful and making available that power to you.

* Ask the Lord for a higher endowment of power in your life, family, etc.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: I fan every God-given flame of my life into fire from today on, in the wonderful name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Acceptable Service II

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Hebrews 12:28

12 Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

MORE LESSON: John 4:23-34

23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. 25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. 26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. 27 And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her? 28 The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, 29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? 30 Then they went out of the city, and came unto him. 31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. 32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. 33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? 34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

Friday, 19 September

Memory Verse: Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. Hebrews 12:28

TODAY’S FASTING FOCUS: Satan, your time is up; Isaiah 10:27, Revelations 12:12

Serving God is a privilege and a form of worship. Note that for it to be accepted in heaven, it must be done God's way, with godly heart, and for God's glory. It requires specific qualities. You cannot serve God in any way and expect a divine reward. So, let us look at the biblical standards for acceptable service:

1. Serve with Deep Love for God

In John 15:13-16, Jesus teaches that accurate service flows from a heart of love. You can't serve God well if you don't love Him deeply; your drive must come from an intimate relationship with God. Service without love is empty labour.

2. Serve as a Pure Vessel

2 Timothy 2:20-22 paints a picture of God's house where some vessels are made of gold, some of silver and others clay. However, only the pure are used for noble purposes. You must cleanse yourself to be useful. Isaiah 52:11 says, Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord. You must separate yourself from compromise to be consecrated for impact. Purity is intentional consecration; it will position you for divine use.

3. Serve in Spirit and Truth

John 4:23-24 makes it clear—God is not looking for performance, but for worship in spirit and truth. That means sincerity, honesty, and a motive to please God, not man.

If your service is a stage act, it's not acceptable. If it's about being seen, it's already disqualified. God sees through performance—He responds to purity.

4. Serve Faithfully

1 Corinthians 4:2 declares, It is required in stewards that a man be found faithful. Faithfulness is not measured by public recognition, but by private obedience. Moses was faithful in all God's house— not popular, but faithful (Hebrews 3:2,5). That's what God rewards.

5. Serve Without Strife

2 Timothy 2:24 admonishes: And the servant of the Lord must not strive.... You cannot be quarrelsome, bitter or toxic and expect your service to be fruitful. God uses vessels that are clean, peaceful, and patient. God doesn't just count your hours—He weighs your heart. Purify your vessel, and serve with fear, love and truth.

Prayer/Action

* Ask the Lord to cleanse you and use you for His glory.

* Pray that you will not serve for attention or approval but in love, in truth and holiness.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Over my life, family and work, Satan, time up for you, in the powerful name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved

Acceptable Service I

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SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY: Ephesians 2:10

10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

MORE LESSON: 1 Corinthians 3:8-10

8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. 9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. 10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

Thursday, 18 September

Memory Verse: For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

You are God's workmanship; your salvation is an enlistment into divine assignment. You are saved to serve. God saved you not just to sit in church, but to serve purposefully. God watches what you do and weighs how you do it. The question, however, is your service acceptable?

In 2 Timothy 2, Paul outlines the framework for acceptable service.

• You must please the One who called you (v.4), not your ego, ambition or audience.

• You must serve by the rules (v.5), not invent your style.

• You must endure because the assignment outweighs the affliction (v.6–13).

• You must present yourself as approved (v.15); God is not seeking hype but authenticity.

God owns the work and He alone sets the standard. He's not desperate for volunteers; He's searching for worthy vessels. He is not just watching what you do but also weighing how you do it. Acceptable service require:

1. A Perfect Heart

1 Chronicles 28:9 says, the following condition, Serve him with a perfect heart and a willing mind... You may be gifted, eloquent, and busy, but if your heart is not right, your service is rejected. God inspects the heart before He receives the hand. He doesn't just examine your actions, He audits your motives. Amaziah did what was right, but not with a perfect heart (2 Chronicles 25:2) and God rejected him.

1 Corinthians 3:12-15 says fire will reveal the kind of material you built with. If they're made of hay, they will burn. Only what is born from sincerity, love, and purity will stand the test.

2. being a Living Sacrifice

Romans 12:1-2 calls you to become a living sacrifice. That means you don't serve God at your convenience—you serve Him at a cost. David said in 2 Samuel 24:24: I will not offer to the Lord that which costs me nothing. That's the kind of heart God honours; honest service is sacrificial.

God doesn't need performance; instead, He demands purity. If your heart is far, your hands are empty, even when they are full. God does not reward activity; He rewards authenticity. God accepts service that flows from a perfect heart and a sacrificial life. Don't just serve, serve acceptably.

Prayer/Action

* Ask the Lord to purify your motives and heart so that your service will be rooted in love.

* Present yourself as a living sacrifice—pure, yielded and ready.

* Pray that your life will be acceptable before Him.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER: Father, let the beauty of Jesus be found upon me today like never before, in the excellent name of Jesus.

© Strength for My Days by Bishop David Bakare - All Rights Reserved