LOVE, THE FULFILMENT OF THE LAW (2)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL..

DATE : SUNDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : 

LOVE, THE FULFILMENT OF THE LAW II 

Memorise:

 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, 

and keep his commandments. 1st John 5:2

Read: 1st Corinthians 13:4-7

4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Message 

The memory verse for today tells us in very strict terms the godly means of measuring love among brethren. Any show of love that does not stem from the love of God and obedience of His commandments, should be considered fake and deceptive. It should be noted that the focus of Apostle Paul here is not on the fulfilment of the Mosaic Law, but rather about the biblical principle as established by God for Christian practice. This is to cement in our hearts the teachings of Jesus which emphasizes that we are not operating under the law anymore, but under the love of Christ. Living under the grace and liberty of Jesus empowers humanity first to love God and then to love one another.

The big question is, in what sense does love fulfil the totality of the law? And, how does the idea of fulfilling the law through love compare to doing the works of the law? Romans 13:9-10, says:

“For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”

The answer to the above question is embedded in this passage. Accordingly, if the love of God is shed abroad in your heart, you will be able to fulfil the law without

grumbling, but with joy. This is why Paul reduced the commandments to only one, “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” As I have often counselled my children, Love can insulate you from the pain, discouragement, and difficulties associated with any given task. Love can reduce the length of an assignment from years to days by fulfilling each day with excitement, hope and fun. Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, because of the love he had for her (Genesis 29:20). No price is too much to pay for the one you love. Jacob served a total of 14 years waiting for Rachel, but did not realize he had waited that long, if a man truly loves a woman, he will be prepared to wait for her to be ready before marriage. The one who loves you will not compel you to sleep with him before you are married. To the world, one faulty yardstick for measuring love is one’s readiness to go into pre-marital sex. Anyone who claims to love you but cannot wait for you to be ready before you go into marriage does not truly love you. Love is not hasty but patient. Anyone who is not ready to pay a price for you does not really love you.

 

Furthermore, obedience is the natural result of love. You will never want to disobey or rebel against the authority of someone you truly love. All the vices mentioned in the above passage such as adultery, murder, stealing, false witness, covetousness, and others are not compatible with love, rather, they are all contrary to love. It is absolutely impossible to think about doing any of these to your neighbour while also claiming to love God. This is contrary to the Word of God (1st John 4:20)

Prayer Point:

Father, please help me to love you and my neigbours in pratical terms in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : John 3:16-4:30 and Job 30:9-16

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

LOVE, THE FULFILMENT OF THE LAW (1)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE: SATURDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2016

THEME: LOVE, THE FULFILMENT OF THE LAW I

Memorise: 

These things I command you, that ye love one another. John 15:17

Read: 1st Corinthians 13:1-3

1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Message

The Bible takes the subject of love so seriously that love is equated to the sum total of all the commandments of God. The Bible goes further to say that love is the fulfilment of the law. The use of the word ‘law’ in the New Testament sense, is usually a reference to all the commandments and statutes recorded in the Old Testament and specifically those in the first five books of the Bible known as the books of Moses (Pentateuch). Now, the reality that God equates love to the whole of the Old Testament commandments is a serious food for thought. The Bible in 1st Corinthians 13:1-2 says:

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.”

The above passage speaks clearly about the importance of love and how children of God should view or rate love on the scale of spirituality. Here, God compared some special spiritual gifts of uncommon value to love. Speaking in the tongues of men and angels seem to mean the ability to speak in heavenly tongues and at the same time interpret it in the language of men. This has always been a very rare gift which is highly sought after in the body of Christ, yet, anyone with this rare gift but without love, is described as a sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. In essence, such is viewed by God as a mere noise-maker. Furthermore, the Bible says if one should have the gift of prophecy, understand all mysteries and have all knowledge, even if the person should have enough faith to do great miracles, without love, such a person amounts to nothing in the eyes of God. This simply means that love is the golden rule by which whatever gifts we exhibit and whatever services we offer to God are measured. Therefore, love is the ultimate commandment. Romans 13:10 says:

“Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”

As I always ask my children, do you truly love God? What price have you paid as proof of that love? If you love what you do, it will be easy to do it with all your heart. Love is missing in our fellowship with God today. All you get from some is lip service. This is professing love without backing it up with physical evidence. Colossians 3:23 says, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men”. Your service to God must come from your heart, borne out of love. The service that pleases God is one from the heart rendered in love, as God is love. If you are born again, you have the capacity to manifest agape love. To what extent does this love manifest itself in your life and service? Do you know that faith requires the oil of love to operate effectively? (Galatians 5:6). Add love to your faith and you begin to bask in the glory of God, because He will equally respond out of greater love and your life will never be the same again.

Prayer Point

Father, help me to love You with all my heart in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: John 1:1-3:15 and Job20:21-30:8

AUTHOR: Pst. E. A. ADEBOYE

MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE... TRY SOME PANCAKES AND EGGS (LOL)

A can of milk 

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar 

1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder 

2 tbsp golden syrup

1 egg

1 tbsp melted unsalted butter

A pinch of salt

1 cup flour.

Pour milk in a bowl, add apple cider vinegar and allow to sit for five mins.

Add baking soda, baking powder, golden syrup, egg, salt and melted butter. Whisk to mix together. 

Add sifted flour and mix gently. DONT OVER MIX. 

Allow to sit on kitchen counter for five min.

Place pan on heat, add a lil bit of oil, pour a quarter cup of the batter and cook about a min on both sides. 

Have a lovely Saturday!

ABUNDANT LIFE AFTER LIFE

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : FRIDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : ABUNDANT LIFE AFTER DEATH 

Memorise: 

And he said unto me, it is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. Revelation 21:6

Read: Revelation 21:1-7

 21 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

Message

Some of the major quests of humanity are the search for the existence of God, the nature of religion, and the possibility of life after death. Out of deep concern for this topic, philosophers and the great world religions constantly debate specific views about life after death such as reincarnation, resurrection, and some other options. Over the years, philosophical speculations on life after death have yielded various theories on the immortality of the soul, to prove that the soul can exist apart from the body, and thereby suggesting that the human soul will live on after death. This view is well suited to our religious beliefs, because it is something like this that gives people hope in the face of death. The question that must be asked, however, is whether there is any good reason to believe in life after death. Is it a reasonable hope or nothing more than wishful thinking?

Though the average Christian does not need anyone to convince him about the reality of life after death, but generally speaking, it is necessary to consider some facts which are not widely known. There is actually empirical, observable and scientifically verifiable evidence about life after death. This evidence is usually provided by a phenomenon known as a “near-death experience” (NDE), which is an experience where a person who is considered to be clinically dead, is involved in a disembodied state of existence, or other aspects or forms of an afterlife. While in a state of the absence of any discernible signs of life, such as consciousness, pulse, or breathing, some have reported such experiences as having the sense that one is dead and looking down on one’s body. Others have reported things like travelling down a tunnel or a dark passageway, meeting other persons or supernatural beings, seeing beautiful scenery, re-entering one’s body, and experiencing feelings of peace. In some cases, some have shared their experiences about a terrifying visit to hell. It is important to note that most of these people give a very vivid account of their personal encounters.

On the basis of divine revelation, we are confident in the promise of everlasting life. As Christians, we affirm the biblical teaching that human beings do live on after physical death. We can therefore confidently answer the question of life after death in the affirmative. We can say beyond any reasonable doubt, YES, there is life after death. Not as an ordinary life devoid of the divine essence, but an abundant life in accordance with the Word of God in Revelation 20:6 that says:

“Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”

Revelations 20:6

Life after death offers abundant life to all that will faithfully serve the Lord till death. First, we will partake in the first resurrection, and then the second death will have no power over us. We will automatically become priests of God, with the special privilege of reigning with Him for a thousand years. What a life to look forward to, I pray we will all make it there in Jesus’ Name.     

Prayer Point:

Father, please grant me the grace to faithfully serve you till the end in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : Luke 23:6-24:53 and Job 29:7-20

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

LEARN FROM JESUS' EXPERIENCE

I have not posted anything personal recently because i have been going through a terrible phase. It has been difficult but by the Grace of God, i am overcoming (yes, it is a work in progress)

I found solace in the book of Matthew.

Chapter 4 describes the temptation of Jesus after his baptism by immersion. I was able to draw some lessons from His experience:

1. The Holyspirit intentionally allowed Jesus to experience this temptation phase. It was the first encounter Jesus had with the devil on earth. And it was the only recorded encounter. Matthew 4: 1

" then Jesus was LED by the HOLYSPIRIT into the desert to be tempted by the devil" 

I couldnt help but wonder why this experience was necessary to God. We would discover this at the end of the experience.

2. The second point i got from this was that the devil came when Jesus was vilnerable. Matthew 4:2

"After fasting for fourty days and nights, he was hungry"

Have you ever experienced hunger?According to Wikipedia, hunger represents the physiological need to eat food. 

So it is safe to assume that the paramount thing on Jesus' mind was to get something to eat. That was the moment the devil chose to tempt him.

This leads me to my third point

3. The devil is very patient and persistent. He waitied in the shadows for 40days till the moment he realised that Jesus was hungry. One question that came to my mind was how did the devil know Jesus was hungry. The bible says in 1 Kings 8:39 that Only God knows every human's heart. There is no one else who has that ability. So satan couldnt have read Jesus' mind that he was hungry. he must have watched for physical signs of weakness and hunger before he risked tempting Jesus.

4. The devil used Jesus' primary need to initiate the tempting discussion. Matthew 4:3

"If you are truly the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread'

This part emphasized the deceptive nature of the devil. 

While i was reading that verse, i thought: What if Jesus had commanded the bread to turn to bread?

The Spirit revealed to me that Jesus did not need to prove his identity to the devil because the devil already knew that Jeus is the son of God and the promised Christ. He came to earth to prove to the jews and gentiles about His identity and assure them of the love of God by the fulfilment of his promise in Isaiah 9:6

" for to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace''

So if Jesus had yielded to the devil's first question then it means that Jesus was not sure of his identity. One little crack in faith and belief and the entire wall would come crashing down.

5. Jesus used the Word of God to reply the devil.  Matthew 4:4-5,10. That means He must have studied the bible and memorised it. The Bible in Luke 2: 41-52 told u that Jesus literally grew up in the temple, among the teachers, listening and asking questions

And this made him grow in wisdom and stature. 

6. Temptation can happen anywhere even in the church. Dont think that because you are in the church, you are under some kind of impenetrable cover against temptations. Do not be deceived.

Matthew 4:5-6

"Then the devil TOOK Him to the HOLY CITY and had Him stand on the highest point of the TEMPLE"

and the devil questioned his identity again. And also quoted psalms 91:11-12. Be not deceived, the devil knows the Word of God probably better than any of us. So we need to be armmed with the Word to respond and attack the devil. Dont simply say " Leave me alone"

Back up your words with authority by quoting the scriptures. Matthew 4:10

"...AWAY FROM ME, SATAN. IT IS WRITTEN, WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD AND SERVE HIM ONLY"

See what Jesus did: 

"It is ALSO written do not put the Lord your God to the test"

Jesus reiterated the fact that He is not only the Son of God. He is also a Lord to the devil. Emphasis on His identity and authority! You gotta love Jesus.

This is also a lesson for us. We should not put God to test by disobeying Him. He is a just God and He rules with Power and Might.

5. God allows His chidren to be tempted. You can see that during this experience the two major players were Jesus and the devil. God just stayed back and observed. He didnt interfere. He could have struck the devil with lightning but He didnt. Even in Jesus' state of being hungry and possibly weak, God demonstrated faith that Jesus would overcome the devil. Therefore it is important that we always pray for grace to overcome temptations.

7. Jesus commanded satan to leave. When Jesus was done, he told the devil to GET OUT with the authority of the scriptures. Matthew 4:11. The devil obeyed Jesus and he left. It was after the devil left that angels came and attended Jesus.

This was the beginning of Jesus' Ministry of earth. The Heavens and the earth were convinced that He was ready to do that which he was sent to do and because of Him, you and I are saved by His blood.

TIME TO FIGHT (2)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : WEDNESDAY 17th FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : TIME TO FIGHT 2

Memorise : 

Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: Colossians 3:5

Read : 1 Timothy 6:6-12

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.

7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

Message

Anyone that has been in the Christian race for some years would have discovered the militant nature of the average Christian. Every true Christian is fully aware of the on-going conflict around us , physical,mental, and spiritual. We are confronted with contrary  doctrines in our daily lives, we face diverse kind of temptations, we are bombarded with many ungodly ideas and propositions; sometimes it could be vicious attack from unknown people or aggression from neighbours. In addition to all these, we are constantly faced with attractive and seemingly profitable offers from the pit of hell to lure us into all kind of sins. The devil is prowling around the world looking for Christians to destroy according to 1 Peter 5:8

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"

The Survival of a child of God therefore depends on his or her preparedness for battle and ability to fight. We must be ever ready so that nothing will catch us unawares. We cannot afford to slumber or sleep, we are meant to be spiritual watchmen and scouts, constantly looking out for bands of approaching enemies that may try to take us by surprise. This is why the  above passage counsels us to be serious minded and vigilant, carefully monitoring every move of the enemy around us, and to be fully prepared to counter and completely neutralise his evil attacks. However, one of the most dangerous places to be in conflict situation is at the  back.  Whenever you see somebody dropping back in a war situation, be sure that fellow will soon be hit very hard. King David learnt this lesson in a hard way. I pray that you will never backslide into error and be caught in the snare of the devil in Jesus name.

In Mathew 16:18, the Lord Jesus declared that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the Church. These gates are the access points that the enemy may use to penetrate our lives. To permanently keep these gates shut, Colossians 3:5 counsels us to subdue the flesh and is Worldly desires through discipline. We must wage war against self to subdue, discipline, and put it under control. If we fail to discipline ourselves, then it becomes easy for pride, sexual immorality, inordinate ambition, covetousness , and other form of indiscipline to creep into our lives and give opportunity to devil to butcher us. May the Lord deliver you from every evil plan against your life in Jesus name. Finally 1 John3:8b says:

"....For  this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."

The instruction to fight becomes easy to carry out when we realise that Jesus Christ the son of God came to this world for the sole purpose of destroying the works of devil. I decree that every work of the devil in your life be destroyed now in Jesus name.

Prayer Point : 

Father, please help me to stand. Don't let me ever fall for the devil in Jesus name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : Luke 6:17-7:50 and Job 23:1-13

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

TIME TO FIGHT (1)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : TUESDAY 16 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : TIME TO FIGHT 1

Memorise : 

TO every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1 

Read : 1 Timothy 4:1-6

1 NOW the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:

5 For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

Message 

Fighting means to engage in a struggle against a perceived enemy or enemies either defensively or offensively. Most human beings, irrespective of who they are, what they know, where they have been, and their level of spiritual maturity, have something they would fight for. We fight for our fundamental human rights, we fight for possessions, we fight for our family, we fight for our job. We are sensitive to criticism and insults, and sometimes we even fight for things we don't really own. The question is, should a true Christian fight for anything? And if you were to write a list of things worth fighting for, what would that list include? In this respect, Ecclesiastes 3:1&8 says:

'To every thing there is a season, and time  to every purpose under the heaven.. A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.'

Conflicts come in different categories. Though we have the right to self defence, Christian are not called to take up arms against their offensive or aggressive neighbours because our weapon is not physical. However, God is under attack in today's world because His creative order, His principles and commandments are being maliciously attacked by heretics. Surprisingly, some of these enemies of the gospel of Jesus Christ have managed to rise to enviable positions of authority both in church and civil government. This has emboldened them and their supporters to intensify their evil attacks on the Christian faith. Do we fight for our Lord? Do we stand aloof or fight whenever these attacks occur around us? 1 Timothy 6:12 says:

'Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.'

Christians do not have any choice in this matter; we do not have the luxury of a personal decision on this one. In reality, the battle of the heretics and false prophets is raging right now and our Commander in Chief, the Lord of hosts, has commanded us to fight, and we must fight. The above passage started out by qualifying the kind of fight that Christians could engage in as the good fight of faith. It is a good fight because it prevents the rapid spread of heretic teachings, and delivers people from ignorance and false doctrine. It is good because we are on the wining side, we can never lose because we are more than conquerors. It is good because we will be handsomely rewarded for our efforts here on earth and when we get to heaven. It is a good fight because we are well fitted with the most potent weapon in the universe- the Word of God. Above all, though we are saved by grace, our performance in this battle will ultimately determine our rank among the host of heaven and the manner of our reward. Apostle Paul seems to have discovered this truth as reflected in his final declaration in 2 Timothy 4:7:

'I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith'

Only a general in the army of God who had fought valiantly for the truth could say this:

Prayer Point.

Father, please let me finish well and able to say that I have fought a good fight. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : Luke 4:16-6:16 and Job 22:12-30

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

COMMANDED TO REJOICE!

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE: MONDAY 15TH FEBRUARY 2016

THEME: COMMANDED TO REJOICE!!!

MEMORISE:

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end - Jeremiah 29:11.

READ: Philippians 4:1-7

1 Therefore, my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

3 And I urge thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with my other true labourers, whose names are in the book of life.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

MESSAGE:

The commandment to rejoice seems to be a repeated theme in the book of Philippians. First, Philippians 2:18, then 3:1, and 4:4. Why did Paul pay so much attention to the word rejoice? On a closer look at all, rather, Paul’s emphasis is on the term “rejoice in the Lord”. He was trying to draw a line between the common rejoicing that happens to all human beings and the art of rejoicing in the Lord. 

God wants us to know that joy is a matter of realm, because there are diverse types of joy and it is the realm of joy that makes the difference. There is a rejoicing that is common to all men, it is a feeling of joy that depends on situations and circumstances around us and it is temporal and short-lived: this joy is unsubstantial and evanescent.

However, there is a delight that comes with God’s presence, it is divine and powerful; the joy of the Lord. This joy is also called the ‘joy of salvation’, it is real, it is a great kind of joy, it is endless, and an everlasting joy that brings down the presence of God into the hearts of men. 

Apostle Peter had this to say about this kind of rejoicing in 1st Peter 1:8: “Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:”

What makes rejoicing in the Lord so important that God had to repeatedly command us to rejoice? It is the very first miracle that happens to a person when he becomes born again. The joy of the Lord is immediately shed in the heart of the fellow. The unspeakable expression of the joy of salvation is therefore the most vital and undeniable proof that a person is genuinely born of God. 

The wisdom of God commanded it repeatedly in the Bible, and emphasised it in Philippians at least for two major reasons. First, being born again is a spiritual walk with God and the joy of the Lord is the token of our connectedness to God; losing the joy therefore, is another token of disconnection from God. You will never be disconnected from God in Jesus’ name. 

Secondly, God knows that a genuine conversion to Christianity would cause a forceful separation and disconnection from the worldly system of thought and action, which naturally leads to rejection, persecution, and diverse temptations. Therefore, the joy of the Lord is provided as an offensive weapon of consolation, encouragement, and strength in the face of persecution. That is why Philippians 4:4 says; “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.”

God commanded His people to rejoice, He was not giving a suggestion or permission, neither did He make it a matter of choice. We are compelled to rejoice in the Lord as a necessary ingredient to the Christian faith. Rejoicing is founded on and derived through the Word of God, it is needful in affliction, it brings comfort and strength to press forward in times of trouble. 

PRAYER POINT:

Father, please fill my heart with your heavenly joy, that is all I need from You today.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : Luke 2:22-4:15 and Job 22:1-11.

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE.

FULFILLING GOD'S PURPOSE? (5)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE : SUNDAY 14TH FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : FULFILLING GOD’S PURPOSE? (5)

MEMORISE:

A wise son maketh a father glad: but a foolish man despiseth his mother -Proverb 15:20.

READ: Psalms 127:3-5

3. Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

4. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.

5. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

MESSAGE:

The Bible in several passages uses the word fool to describe a disobedient child. It is important therefore to take a closer look at the characteristics of fools as presented in the Scripture. 

According to Proverbs, a destructive fate awaits the fool. This is especially so because of the rebellious attitude of fools. The Word of God also describes fool as arrogant, untrustworthy, argumentative,

reckless, and impulsive. Fools usually refuse instructions to their own detriment. The Bible says in Proverbs 22:15: "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him."

Children are usually disobedient when they wrongly assume that they know better than their elders, especially their parents. Such attitude would naturally give birth to arrogance. It is this arrogant attitude that makes them impulsive, that is, they confidently speak and act without properly thinking through. This is also the root of reckless behaviour of such children. Because they think they know so much, when in fact they know very little, they usually get into needless arguments. 

The combination of these detrimental behaviours would usually lead to unstable lifestyle. When these vices are found in anyone, success will be far from such a person and destruction would be looming over such a life. I hereby prophecy into the life of every child of God that is reading this devotional today, the Lord will purge your life of all evil vices and behaviours today in Jesus name. 

The encouraging thing is that God has a glorious purpose even for young people. And the earlier they start pursuing the purpose of God for their lives the better. The purpose of God for Christian children is to be wise sons and daughters. Their wisdom is always expressed in their humility and simple obedience. The reward of their obedience and godliness is always evident in their success stories and testimonies. 

Obedient children are always at peace with God and man; they live in good health, and are usually free from any form of addiction. Because they have sound minds, they cannot be lured into cults and other destructive lifestyles. Even at a tender age, an obedient child views himself as a role model and a future leader. An obedient child is conscious of God's purpose as his sole occupation and his mind is constantly ruminating over how to achieve this. This awareness will keep his mind fixed on the word of God.

PRAYER POINT:

Father, Please help me to be obedient in all things and help me to fulfil your purpose for my life in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : Luke 1:1-2:21 and Job 21:17-34.

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE.

FULFILING GOD'S PURPOSE? (4)

The OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : SATURDAY 13 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : FULFILLING GODS PURPOSE? 4

Memorise:

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4

Read : Genesis 18:17-19

17 And the LORD said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do;

18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him?

19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

Message 

The Bible declared the father as the head of home- head of the mother and the children. As such, fathers have complete authority within the household to direct the affairs of the family, and to administer discipline when necessary. However, Apostle Paul admonishes that fathers should handle authority over their children with care; they are to be careful not to provoke their children to wrath. Some fathers are guilty of using their authority unreasonably in ways that cause their children to harbour resentment. However, fathers have the responsibility to bring their children up in the way of the Lord. In many cultures today, parents have submitted and completely relinquished their God given responsibility to raise godly children to school teachers, Sunday School teachers, pastors, or governmental institutions. Every Children parent should  know that God will hold them responsible for the success or failure of their wards. Children are God's heritage, we have an awesome responsibility and authority over them, we are responsible for them before God, and we will surely render our account to God over them.

Are there any particular reason (s) why parents, particularly fathers, are called by God to play such a crucial, God ordained role in the upbringing or discipleship of their children ? Ephesians 6:1-4 gives us a clue:

"CHILDREN, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord".

God knows that from childhood, little children gradually lean to love and trust their parents because of the relationship they have. Children normally grow up to receive love and care from their parents in form of feeding, clothing, washing, and protection from cold and other harmful circumstances. Therefore children naturally gravitate towards their parents. For the same reasons, children are more likely to learn the ways and manners of their parents by default. Most children would choose to learn from their parents because parents are the first heroes of children. God in His wisdom is fully aware of these factors; He therefore designed the family to take advantage of the opportunity provided by nature.

The Bible provides a very good balance here; children are to obey their parents, while parents are to treat their children with respect so that they will obey without coercion. God expects children to obey their parents for Christ's sake, even if their parents are not believers. Also, children should not commit any sinful act just because their parents command them to. When faced with choice between the two, children must obey God rather than man.

Prayer Point :

Father, please make me a successful parent. Don't let me fail You over my children.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Mark 14:43-16:8 and Job 21:1-16

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

FULFILING GOD'S PURPOSE? (4)

The OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : SATURDAY 13 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : FULFILLING GODS PURPOSE? 4

Memorise:

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4

Read : Genesis 18:17-19

17 And the LORD said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do;

18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him?

19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

Message 

The Bible declared the father as the head of home- head of the mother and the children. As such, fathers have complete authority within the household to direct the affairs of the family, and to administer discipline when necessary. However, Apostle Paul admonishes that fathers should handle authority over their children with care; they are to be careful not to provoke their children to wrath. Some fathers are guilty of using their authority unreasonably in ways that cause their children to harbour resentment. However, fathers have the responsibility to bring their children up in the way of the Lord. In many cultures today, parents have submitted and completely relinquished their God given responsibility to raise godly children to school teachers, Sunday School teachers, pastors, or governmental institutions. Every Children parent should  know that God will hold them responsible for the success or failure of their wards. Children are God's heritage, we have an awesome responsibility and authority over them, we are responsible for them before God, and we will surely render our account to God over them.

Are there any particular reason (s) why parents, particularly fathers, are called by God to play such a crucial, God ordained role in the upbringing or discipleship of their children ? Ephesians 6:1-4 gives us a clue:

"CHILDREN, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord".

God knows that from childhood, little children gradually lean to love and trust their parents because of the relationship they have. Children normally grow up to receive love and care from their parents in form of feeding, clothing, washing, and protection from cold and other harmful circumstances. Therefore children naturally gravitate towards their parents. For the same reasons, children are more likely to learn the ways and manners of their parents by default. Most children would choose to learn from their parents because parents are the first heroes of children. God in His wisdom is fully aware of these factors; He therefore designed the family to take advantage of the opportunity provided by nature.

The Bible provides a very good balance here; children are to obey their parents, while parents are to treat their children with respect so that they will obey without coercion. God expects children to obey their parents for Christ's sake, even if their parents are not believers. Also, children should not commit any sinful act just because their parents command them to. When faced with choice between the two, children must obey God rather than man.

Prayer Point :

Father, please make me a successful parent. Don't let me fail You over my children.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Mark 14:43-16:8 and Job 21:1-16

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

FULFILLING GOD'S PURPOSE? (3)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : FRIDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : FULFILLING GODS PURPOSE? 3

Memorise: 

And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Gen 2:18

Read : 1 Samuel 19:9-12

9 And the evil spirit from the LORD was upon Saul, as he sat in his house with his javelin in his hand: and David played with his hand.

10 And Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the javelin; but he slipped away out of Saul's presence, and he smote the javelin into the wall: and David fled, and escaped that night.

11 Saul also sent messengers unto David's house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and Michal David's wife told him, saying, If thou save not thy life to night, to morrow thou shalt be slain.

12 So Michal let David down through a window: and he went, and fled, and escaped.

Message

Let me start by clarifying something about being alone. Being alone could be in two ways, by solitude and by loneliness. Solitude is by being alone on purpose; an intentional separation from people for a period, such a person can be alone by the river side or watching television without being lonely. There is a biblical basis for solitude ( Exodus 33:7,11; Luke 5:16; Luke 22:41), therefore, solitude could be a good thing. However, loneliness is usually never desired. Prolonged loneliness may sometimes lead to depression. Being alone is the very fast aspect of creation that met with God's disapproval and His harsh judgment of not being good, and 1 Corinthians 1:25 says,

"Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men."

Therefore, God's assessment of "being alone" should be taken seriously. God in His infinite wisdom decided to solve the problem of being alone by providing a "help meet for the man". A perfect companion that is suitable for him, one that will cancel out the negative effects of "being alone". Now, fulfilling the purpose of God in life in general and marriage in particular depends largely on our understanding and total submission to the manufacturer's instructions. A simple, direct, Holy Ghost inspired and time tested meaning of this passage is clear to all. Help refers broadly to aid or assistance, the word "helper" may connote subordinate, but does not necessarily imply inferiority. Hosea 13:9 refers to God as Israel's helper, also, Genesis 2:18-25, describes how God provided the suitable helper for the man.

The declaration of Adam, that Eve is the bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh is a pointer to the fact that marriage creates the closets of all human relationships and should be cherished as such. We are to note also that only Eve was created and not Several Eves or another Adam. This is the confirmation that God established heterosexual monogamy as the divine pattern for marriage at creation. However, the languages of Ephesians 5:22-25 is probably clearer on the God given roles of husbands and wives.

"Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.  For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;"

Every child of God that is determined to fulfil God's purpose must live according to the order of marriage ordained by Almighty God. Marriage is the foundation of life according to the Bible. Consequently, marital failure may as well translate to failure in life and ministry. 

Prayer Point : 

Father, I believe in the institution of marriage according to the Bible, please help me to build a strong, happy and joyful home in the mighty name of Jesus. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : Mark 12:41-14:42 and Job 20:20-29

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

FULFILLING GOD'S PURPOSE (2)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE: THURSDAY 11TH FEBRUARY 2016

THEME: FULFILLING GOD’S PURPOSE? II 

Memorise: 

And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the Garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. Genesis 2:15

Read: Genesis 1:26-28, 

26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

Message 

At the beginning of creation and before the fall of man in Genesis chapter three, the instruction given to humanity can be safely classified into three categories. Category one is to cultivate the land and to keep it. The words “subdue”, “have dominion”, and “rule” are all pointers to what is required to effectively keep the land as steward-kings of God’s creation. Category two is the institution of law with the purpose of teaching people to live under authority. The third category is the institution of marriage to expose people to the principle of love and teach people to live for someone other than themselves. From that very beginning, God made it very clear that He is not abandoning us to ourselves to figure things out all alone. He wants us to use everything we have to serve Him and humanity, therefore manual labour or service at this level was not the result of the fall, rather it was part of God’s original purpose for humanity. The truth is evident in Genesis 2:15-18, which says:

“And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. And the Lord commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. And the Lord God said, it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.”

The starting point of fulfilling God’s purpose for anyone therefore, is to be productive. Since we are discussing the very first set of instructions to humanity, obedience to God must necessarily start from here. A true believer is to provide for his near relatives and his immediate family at the same time. It is not by choice; failure to provide for one’s family is equal to denial of the faith as stated in 1st Timothy 5:8:

 “But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”

This is the major reason why believers must be busy doing something worthwhile in life. If a Christian is unable to care for his family, such a person will be unable to love and care for others. The Bible says that such people are worse than infidels. Now it is possible to be in such a state temporarily due to several reasons, but it must not be accepted as permanent status. A faithful Christian will soon find favour with God and man that will pull him or her out of such despicable situation. I therefore prophecy into the life of anyone in such a situation reading this devotional today, the Great Provider will transfer you from poverty to abundance today in Jesus’ name. For those that are looking unto God for profitable ventures, receive it now in the name of Jesus. From this day, you will begin to fulfil God’s purpose for your life in the mighty name of Jesus.   

Prayer Point:

Father, please help me to fulfil my purpose in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Mark 10:46-12:40 and Job 20:1-19

AUTHOR: PST. E. A. ADEBOYE

FULFILLING GOD'S PURPOSE? (1)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE: WEDNESDAY 10TH FEBRUARY 2016

THEME: FULFILLING GOD'S PURPOSE? 1

Memorise 

"See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant." Jeremiah 1:10

Read: Jeremiah 1:1-10

1 The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests that were in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin:

2 To whom the word of the LORD came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign.

3 It came also in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, unto the end of the eleventh year of Zedekiah the son of Josiah king of Judah, unto the carrying away of Jerusalem captive in the fifth month.

4 Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

6 Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.

7 But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.

8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD.

9 Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.

10 See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.

Message

Several passages of the Bible confirm the fact that every human being was originally created by God and born into this world to fulfil God's purpose. Colossians 1:16 says;

 "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:" Colossians 1:16

There is nothing like an afterthought with God. Everything He does is purposeful and deliberate. Not only that, He has everything to the minutest detail, precisely tied to time. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says;

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven:"

From Adam and Eve, to Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and all the prophets and Kings in the Bible, they all were precisely programmed to come and go according to God's ultimate plan. There is no randomness with God; all things that have ever happened on earth and in heaven were ordered according to His unsearchable  wisdom. Acts 15:18 says;

"Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.

For example, John the Baptist was selected by God to prepare the way for the Lord by announcing His arrival, confronting the sinfulness and rebellion of that generation and by preaching repentance of sins. Jeremiah's purpose as a prophet of God was clearly described in Jeremiah 1:1-10. These two prophets were able to fulfil God's purpose; they did not at anytime jettison their responsibilities. John the Baptist perfectly prepared the way for the Lord without taking upon Himself any additional responsibility beyond that which  was ordained from heaven. Immediately he identified Christ, he made it public, he was ready to decrease and stay in the shadows as Jesus began to increase. Bible scholars have several interpretations about the real cause of his death, but at the end, Jesus declared him as the greatest man that ever lived. His greatness must have been tied to the fulfilment of God's purpose for his life. 

Jeremiah on the other hand was deliberately setup by God as the national  prophet to the nation of Israel in his generation. It was a period of apostasy and God was determined, after many unheeded warnings, to deal with the children of Israel according to their doings. Jeremiah was set over the kingdom of Israel to root out, pull down, destroy, and throw down. He was also permitted to build and plant. The Bible confirmed that though Jeremiah wept much for his beloved country, he faithfully discharged his duties without fear or favour.

God has also setup each of us for His purpose in this generation. Are you fulfilling God's purpose for your life?

Prayer Point: 

Father, please give me wisdom, knowledge and boldness to discharge my duties in this world without fear or favour in Jesus' name. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Mark 9:14-10:45 and Job 19:13-29

AUTHOR: PST. E. A. ADEBOYE

VICTORY THROUGH PRAISE

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : TUESDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : VICTORY THROUGH PRAISE

Memorise : 

And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten. 2 Chronicles 20:22

Read : 2 Chronicles 20:21-24

21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.

22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.

23 For the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of mount Seir, utterly to slay and destroy them: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, every one helped to destroy another.

24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.

Message

Victory is generally presented in the Bible as an act of God. From Genesis to Revelation, God is always presented as the source of all victory, which He grants to those who obey His commands and out their trust and confidence in Him. Wherever you turn to in the Scripture, the principle holds true.

And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over then in it. Colossians 2:15

In essence, God has destroyed the value and quality of our enemies and has also put their failure,disgrace and shame in open display for all to see. Victory is always presented in the Bible as achieved by God without human intervention. This reality make it absolutely necessary to praise God whenever we are confronted by the enemy, knowing that victory is assured in Jesus' name.

The Bible also presents praise as a spiritual language that can reach beyond the intellect to touch the heart of God. Whenever God wants to do something really supernatural, He calls for an army of musical warriors, to bombard the stronghold of the enemy. Such was the case in the time of Jehoshaphat King of Judah who deployed divine Warriors, an army worshippers, to march into battle with musical instruments in their hands and songs of praises in their mouths. As they praised and worshipped God, he rose on their behalf and completely destroyed all their enemies. 2 Chronicles 20:22 says

"And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten."

What I know for sure is that if you praise God, His enemies cannot standby. Some 30 years ago, we went to Otukpo town in the middle region of Nigeria for a programme, with some students. I planned  to talk on divine healing. Then , we began to praise God so intensely that the glory of God descended and I forgot every other Scripture I had planned for the next sermon except Luke 1:37. Suddenly, there were clusters of students kneeling and praying in tongues though they had never heard of the Holy Ghost baptism before. Others joined them praying in tongues and the end of the day I could not preach. Go ahead now, praise God until you bring down His glory.

Key Point :

As you worship God today, He will arise and scatter all your enemies in the mighty name of Jesus.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : Mark 7:1-9:13 and Job 18:20-19:12

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

DELIVERANCE THROUGH PRAYER

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE: MONDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2016

THEME: DELIVERANCE THROUGH PRAYER 

MEMORISE:

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye 

may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16

READ: Acts 12:1-8

1) Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church.

2) And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.

3) And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)

4) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.

5) Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

6) And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

7) And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.

8) And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.

MESSAGE:

If children of God would take time to study the Word of God and pay great attention to His person, ways,

attributes and commandments, the world would be a much better place. Prayers will be answered quickly and Christians will revel in the glory and favour of God. We will partially know the reason(s) behind God’s actions and what to do at any time to move His hands in our favour. 

By the grace of God, anyone that is conversant with the history and development of the Redeemed Christian Church of God will agree, without any doubt that God has constantly revealed His mind to us in the place of prayer. May His name be praised forevermore in Jesus’ name.

A careful study of the story of Hezekiah in Isaiah 36-38 reveals two important factors that lead to God’s deliverance through prayer. The first is recorded in Isaiah 37:20, where Hezekiah asks God to deliver Israel for His own sake and not theirs: “Save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone are the Lord” Isaiah 37:20.

God responded by saving them for His glory. There is no greater and stronger foundation for our salvation than this. It is by His grace and it is accessible to all human beings without any qualification. It is open to the poor as well as the rich; it is open to men and women of all ages, race and background. Not because we deserve it, but to show that God is a merciful God who delights in showering blessings on His children.

The second factor is found in the same story. Hezekiah first prayed for Jerusalem’s existence that was being threatened and God graciously answered and saved Jerusalem, again he prayed for mercy and elongation of his own life and God answered too. 

In both cases, God’s deliverance came in direct response to a humble and desperate prayer. God will always respond to the desperate requests of His children because Jesus is our sinless high priest who makes it possible for us to approach the throne of grace with confidence.

The New Testament reveals a similar pattern in the book of Acts 12:1-8;

“Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.” Acts 12:5

The Lord answered the prayer of the Church with the miraculous deliverance of Peter. Here again, God answers the desperate prayer of His people for the glory of His Name. I therefore decree, as you make your request known to God this day, He will answer you by fire with signs following in Jesus’ Name.     

PRAYER POINT:

Father, please don’t let me ever suffer any kind of defeat in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:

Mark 5:21-6:56, Job 18:5-19

AUTHOR: Pst E. A ADEBOYE

COMMISSIONED BY THE HOLYSPIRIT

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : SUNDAY 7th FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : COMMISIONED BY THE HOLYSPIRIT 

Memorise

As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. Acts 13:2

Read : ACTS 13:1-4

1 NOW there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

3 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

Message 

Fasting is a Biblical practice whose interpretation in the Old Testament was slightly different from what it was in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, in addition to being a means of prayer and supplication, fasting is also synonymous with mourning, shame  and lamentation. The practice typically took place when a crisis or other significant event became more important than eating. However, the New Testament presents fasting purely as a means of prayer and supplication devoid of mourning, shame or lamentation. As a matter of fact, Jesus taught us to fast without giving neighbours any clues, which means we should look clean and happy as always while fasting. 

Moreover when we fast, be not, as hypocrites, of a dad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say to you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head and wash thy face; that thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto father which is in secret: and  thy father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.

Mathew 6:16-18

The above passage forms the basis and model for fasting in the New Testament Church. Fasting is therefore a means of seeking the face of the Lord for divine intervention in human affairs. It is such a powerful weapon of spiritual warfare that Jesus told His disciples that some level of miracles may not be possible without adding fasting and prayers. That is probably the reason why apostles of Jesus Christ took fasting and prayer seriously after the physical departure of our Lord Jesus Christ. Right from chapter one of the book of Acts, fasting began to feature in the activities of the disciples, and each time, God responded with great miracles, signs and wonders.

Fasting was especially used by the apostles whenever they wanted God to commission them or needed special instruction or direction. Obviously, the apostles old and the church at Antioch spent quality time in worship, fasting and prayer, earnestly seeking the Lords will as they opened themselves to divine direction. Their effort was honoured by God through the power of the Holy Ghost as they as they received answers to their request by physical manifestation of the power of God in their midst. The apostle would not have been able to do much without the commissioning power of the Spirit of God.

Prayer Point : 

Sweet Holy Spirit, please don't let me do  anything without your direction and commission in the name of Jesus.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MARK 3:13-5:20 and JOB 17:6-18:4

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

REVIVAL BY THE WORD (2)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : SATURDAY 6th FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : REVIVAL BY THE WORD 2

Memorise: 

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:2

Read : 2 Timothy 4:1-2

1 I CHARGE thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

Message 

Revival by the Word comes through total obedience to the Word of God. It is for this reason that the scripture admonishes us to preach the Word, which is to propagate the Gospel and spread the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are to be instant in preaching the Word because we do not have the luxury of time or planning for a convenient period. We must be prepared to preach the gospel always without regards as to whether it is convenient or not. Romans 10:17 says : 

"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God".

Faith comes only by hearing the Word of God. The conscience of men becomes activated through the hearing of the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. At the hearing of the Word of God, the corrupt and sinful mind of an individual begins to do self analysis internally. A decision is then reached by the help of the Holy Spirit, personal conviction takes place in the mind and sorrow for sin and repentance follows immediately. All these would not be possible without the act of preaching the word. To this end Romans 10:14 says 

"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?"

Romans 10:14.

The big question here is how shall they hear without a preacher? Our appointed duty is to preach the Word, the Holyspirit Himself will take over from there. It is important to note that God is not only asking us to preach the Gospel, He is concerned about preaching the right content and applying the right manner in our preaching. We are specifically expected to reprove and rebuke the evils in the life of the people by the Word of God. This is where many in the body of Christ today are falling short of the glory and expectations of God. Sound doctrine and healthy teachings as accurately documented in the Scriptures must be preached always without fear.

We must bear in mind that our principal assignment is not only to populate the Church buildings; we have a greater duty to prepare the people of God for heavens through correct and unbiased presentation of the truth in the Word of God. By this the people will be exposed to the truth that sets free from sin and all unrighteousness. It is this freedom from sin that leads to peace and joy in the Holy Ghost, followed by the release of abundant blessings from above. As you make up your mind to live in obedience to the Word of God and take every opportunity to share the Gospel with at least one person daily, the glory of the Lord will become manifest in your life in Jesus name.

Prayer Point : 

Father, please empower me to preach your undiluted Word always in Jesus' name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MARK 1:1-3:12 and JOB 16:18-17:5

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

REVIVAL BY THE WORD OF GOD (1)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : FRIDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : REVIVAL BY THE WORD OF GOD 1

Memorise : 

 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

Read : NEHEMIAH 8:1-10

1 AND all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel.

2 And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month.

3 And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law.

4 And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah, and Meshullam.

5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:

6 And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.

7 Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place.

8 So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.

9 And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.

10 Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.

Message 

To have the full understanding of the term " revival by the Word of God", we need to carefully consider the various interpretations of the Word of God in view of the Old Testament and the New Testament. In the Old Testament, the Word of God implied both a word about God and a word from God. In effect, the word of God refers to what God says, and at the same time describes God, His essence and attributes. The New Testament on the other hand, presents the Word of God as a person, the second person of theTrinity. Jesus Christ or Lord, who was with the Father from the beginning of creation. The New Testament presents the Word of God as follows : 

"For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. Colossians 1:16-18

The special ability of the Word of God to revive is based principally on the fact that He is the source of all things in heaven and earth. Since all things were created by Him, the power to revive is embedded in His creative power. God Spoke all things into being by the power of His Word. Since the power to create is greater than the power to repair, it is well within the power of the Word to revive a corrupted creature at will. 

To this end the Bible says the Word of God is living and active, He has the power to quicken and animate anything He chooses. The Word is able to examine and judge those who hear him, He does not fail, but always accomplishes the set purpose. The Word of God is in fact a weapon of warfare That is able to penetrate and deal with material objects such as joints and marrow, and even the immaterial world such as the soul and spirit. 

This passage further confirms that there is no hiding place for any creature before the Word as all things are made bare and completely exposed before Him. Furthermore, the thoughts and intents of the heart of men are correctly discerned and decoded by the Word of God.

Dearly beloved, I admonish you to stop playing games with God. Ask for forgiveness, renewal, revival and rededication today. He will answer your prayers beyond your wildest dreams. He will revive you by the power of His Word and give you a new beginning of joy.peace, and prosperity. You will also reign with Him in heaven in Jesus name.

Prayer point :

Father, Please revive me by the power in your Word in the mighty name of Jesus. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATHEW 26:68-28:20 and JOB 16:1-17

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

The Ancient of days; HE is faithful

While i was sleeping i heard the Holyspirit say:

"Open your mouth and i will fill it"

Those words filled me with great confidence and excitement. I quickly went through my bible to search where those words are located.

I found them in Psalms 81:10

"I am the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt. Open wide your mouth and i will fill it."

Then early this morning, the devil struck with a harrassment that made my mum shed tears but my faith was reiterated in the words God gave me last night.

So i want to bless God with this song.

The heavens declare your power and royalty Lord You reign

King of all ages, You are the Ancient of days Lord You reign.

Great are You Lord, and greatly to be praised, Lord You reign

We cry holy, holy is our God

Let  your glory, glory fill this place

Arugbo Ojo (The Ancient of days)

Iwo l'aseda, l'awon eda, l'ameda oh

(you are the creator of all creatures, he who knows the created)

Arugbo Ojo

Iwo l'oni, kaabo, kaabo

(He who all praise belongs to, we welcome you in)

Ma rora Arugbo Ojo.

REVIVAL THROUGH PRAYER

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL...

DATE : THURSDAY 4th FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : REVIVAL THROUGH PRAYER 

Memorise: 

After two days will be revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, 

and we shall live in his sight. Hosea 6:2

Read: Hosea 6:1-6, 

1. Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.

2: After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight.

3 Then shall we know, if 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.

4 O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away.

5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth.

6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

MESSAGE

Prayer is a divine mechanism that God gave to Christians as a means of communicating with heaven. It is also a very powerful weapon for spiritual warfare. A man who has a fervent prayer life walks with God; no journey can be more blessed and productive than the one taken with the Almighty God through prayer. Simple prayers offered for individuals, the local community, the nation and the Church were responsible for much of the great miracles and moves of God in different parts of the world in history. The Bible in James 4:2 says,

“Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.”

James 4:2

This passage states clearly that we could so much desire a thing to the point of killing for it, but this does not guarantee that we will get that desired thing. The only thing that guarantees our getting a lasting blessing is to ask in prayer.

When we speak of a revival, it must be clear to all that there is never such a thing as a revival if it does not start with prayer. Every revival in history came to be as result of prayer. The great revival under Jonathan Edwards in the eighteen century kicked off with his famous call to prayer. David Brainerd, Charles Finney, the Wesley brothers, the great revival of 1930 in Nigeria, and the one that gave birth to the Redeemed Christian Church of God, all started with prayer. As a matter of fact, every true awakening and revival always begins with prayer. The big question therefore is; do we need revival now?

Taking a cursory look at happening around the world, we will see clearly that what the world needs now is revival, more so when we consider happenings within the body of Christ. Things have deteriorated so badly, both the laity and clergy have departed from the path of holiness and truth. Today, the fruit and gifts of the Spirit are only evident in the lives of very few Christians. Many genuinely born again Christians are not living in sin but they are cold and operating far below expectation. The only solution to the problem of the Church now is revival. We must pray that God should revive us again, break through our self-centred daily routines, and fill us with the fire of revival as of old in Jesus’ name.

God is especially pleased to answer any prayer that is focused on the revival of God’s work and God’s people. In my personal experience, fervent prayers always preceded every great move of God. Even prophecies and revelations of God must be prayed into physical manifestation. Therefore as individuals, we need revival in our personal lives, we need revival in our local communities, and we need revival in our nation. The Church of God also needs revival for renewal, rededication and spiritual empowerment. 

Prayer Point: 

Father, please revive us again, fill us with the fire of revival for renewal and spiritual empowerment in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATHEW 25:31-26:68 and JOB 15:22-35

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

REVIVAL THROUGH RETREAT

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE : WEDNESDAY 3RD FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : REVIVAL THROUGH RETREAT

Memorise:

Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee? Psalm 85:6

READ: 1 KINGS 19:4-8

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 baked 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.

Message:

All human beings have an intense desire to connect to God. One vital element that is required to connect to God is a nice quite atmosphere, devoid of daily concerns, where one can ruminate over spiritual truths. Meanwhile, it is often difficult to create such within the unrelenting activities of one's daily life. This is why a retreat comes in handy. 

A spiritual retreat could be defined as a sustained period of quite. Uninterrupted time for a person to be reflective and receptive in Gods Presence. It offers a time to leave daily concerns, to connect with ones spiritual self, and to be attentive to the needs of ones soul and spirit. 

People seeking for a time of retreat often locate a retreat centre or a specific geographical place that offers an atmosphere conducive for quite reflection. The search for spiritual retreats has taken many to prayer Mountains and remote solitary places.

Mount Carmel is best known as the site Elijah battled against the prophets of Baal. However, the fact that Elijah and Elisha frequently return to Mount Carmel is an indication that they were using the mountain for spiritual retreat. The overall purpose of a spiritual retreat is to be transformed in whatever manner God chooses. Withdrawing to a place of spiritual retreat is to be transformed in whatever manner God chooses. Withdrawing to a place of spiritual retreat offers a time for refreshment and nourishment of life, a time to experience a continual sense of Gods presence that could become a constant reality in everyday life. 

Act 3:19 says "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord"

Therefore, a time of spiritual retreat is a time for sober reflection, repentance, rededication, revival and rejuvenation. The book of 1 Kings 18:20-46 showed us the structure and pattern of spiritual retreat. First, Elijah rebuilt the ruined altar to YAHWEH, symbolising repentance and rededication of Israel to God. 

Then, he dug a trench around the altar and poured 12 jars of water on the sacrifice, the wood, and the altar, filling the trench, symbolising the activities of the spirit. Finally, he called on YAHWEH, who answered immediately by fire that consumed the whole sacrifice, including the water, the wood, the stones of the altar. 

This was immediately followed by heavy rains after three and half years of drought. There was great celebration as the people rejoiced in the Lord for a time of refreshing. A spiritual retreat always leads to celebration. 

A spiritual retreat is also used to pursue personal holiness and to stay connected to God. Several passages in the Gospels according to Saint Mark and Matthew, give the account of Jesus retreating to pray. This points out the importance of spiritual retreat to Christians. Every child of God, as a matter of necessity, must constantly create time for spiritual retreat, seeking the face of the Lord for cleansing, renewal, rededication, and spiritual empowerment.

Prayer Point:

Father, please revive me again, that I may experience a time of refreshing from above in Jesus name. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATTHEW 23:37-25:30 and JOB 15:7-21

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

INTIMIDATED?

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DATE: TUESDAY 2ND FEBRUARY 2016

THEME: INTIMIDATED?

Memorise:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour - 1 Peter 5:8

Read :1 KINGS 19:1-4

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 tomorrow about this time.

3 And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beer-sheba, 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.

Message:

Discouragement is usually defined as a lack of courage, a state of mind which is marked by fear of failure and loss of hope. Discouragement is one of the powerful weapon commonly used by the devil to keep children of God from fulfilling their purpose. 

Satan used it against the Israelites to prevent them from entering Canaan because they were intimidated by the circumstances surrounding conquering the Canaanites; the Canaanite cities were very large, well fortified, and seemingly undefeatable. These caused the heart of Israelites to melt within them to the extent that they lost faith in the Word of God, and could not act on the promises of God.

Discouragement is failure to live by faith. It usually leads to doubt, and an inability to view circumstances around us from a divine perspective. Discouragement is therefore a sinful state of mind that is unable to adjust to disappointment and unfavourable circumstances in line with the Word of God and His promises. 

It is important to note that discouragement is a powerful weapon of intimidation in the hands of the devil. It usually comes whenever a person has an important objective to achieve. For example, Israel had an objective given to them by God; the walls of Jerusalem were to be rebuilt. 

As the people embarked on the project with vigour determination, they were faced with opposition from enemies and even the Jews. The situation became intimidating to the point of demoralisation as recorded in Nehemiah 4:10-23. At a point, some of the workers became discouraged while the wall was yet half finished, then the opposition intensified their attack using fear and intimidation as the chief weapon. 

All these were masterminded by the devil to make it impossible for the Jews to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem at that time. 1 Peter 5:8-9 says, Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the World.

The Bible admonishes us to be sober, vigilant, and watchful, always ready to resist and confront anyone that may want to weaken our hands from doing whatever assignment the Lord has committed to us.

By the grace of God, the success story of the Redeemed Christian Church of God is being told all over the world today, but when we first started, the steps God used to bring in the results that are being celebrated were terribly criticised both within and outside church. 

I decree that all oppositions to your success and breakthrough will be silenced today in Jesus name.

Prayer Point:

Father, don't let me ever fall for discouragement from satanic intimidation. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATHEW 21:28-23:39 and JOB 14:18-15:6

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE

LOOKING UNTO JESUS (2)

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL..

DATE : MONDAY 1 FEBRUARY 2016

THEME : LOOKING UNTO JESUS 2

Memorise : 

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; Hebrew 12:2b

Read : HEBREWS 12:1-2

1 WHEREFORE seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Message

The phrase "Looking unto Jesus" contains three very important words of salvation, encouragement and direction for daily Christian living. Nicodemus, in his search for the true God and eternal life like every human being, approached Jesus for possible understanding. Jesus made the new birth very plain by using an Old Testament illustration of the fiery serpents of brass put on a pole for the Isrealites to look upon as recorded in the book of Numbers 21:8-9.

"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the son of man be lifted up. That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:14-15

As looking unto the brass serpent on a pole in faith brought healing to the children of Isreal in the wilderness, so also, whosoever shall look unto the crucified Christ as the Messiah and the Saviour of the world by faith, shall receive forgiveness of sins and be born again. 

From time to time in the rigorous journey of life, we sometimes find ourselves in a state of tiredness and confusion. At such times, Apostle Paul in Hebrews 12:1-2 admonishes us to run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and the finisher of our faith for encouragement. We are not to look into Jesus for encouragement only, we are also to look into Jesus as our perfect example, so as to follow in His footsteps. 

For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us as example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but commuted himself to him that judgeth righteously 1 Peter 2:21-23

Looking unto other gods for deliverance, healing and salvation has brought untold hardship and loss to many, while looking unto great men and women that are successful in life and ministry has resulted in great disappointment, sorrow and pain. As a matter of fact, this has been a major of failure in life, but there is no failure or disappointment in Jesus. Looking unto Jesus can only increase your faith and lead to physical and spiritual upliftment.

We are to look unto Jesus in our daily Christain living as the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End who provides us with direction through His Word. This also brings us in contact with the Divine knowledge, wisdom and power of God. An ordinary person therefore, becomes equipped to do exploits of supernatural dimensions. 

Prayer Point : 

Father, Please give me the grace to always look unto You for everything I need in life. 

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR : MATHEW 19:1-21:27 and JOB 14:7-17

AUTHOR : Pst E. A ADEBOYE