Fullness of Joy

 Fullness of Joy 

Ps.16.11 - You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

In Christ alone is fullness of Joy.  Every joy or happiness obtain in this world without Christ is temporal.  If the world itself is temporal it can only offer you temporal benefits if your life and happiness is predicated on it. Wealth and riches will fade away, position and power are time bound, wisdom of this world wearies the heart and kills, fame destroys. Only the love of Christ through the redemptive work and sacrifice on the Cross brings joy everlasting. He has paid all the debts and consequences of sin and death, He rode triumphantly over them. 

Are you searching for joy in this world of chaos?  Try Jesus.  He is the source of life, pleasure and Joy. Our Joy is in fellowship with the Father and the Son.  Our joy is in obedience to His command that we should love one another.  When you obey His command to love and care for one another,  we find fullness of Joy.  Running after earthly Joy will only lead to emptiness and insatiability.  If you attach your Joy to earthly investments and money, you  may never  have enough to buy eternal joy. No amount of riches or wealth seem sufficient for any man  Those who think power and position will give them Joy, they get it and still wanting more. Some attached their Joy to building houses and possessing the costliest properties and treasures of great value, yet couldn't really find the inner joy they desperately wanted. 

 

 "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.Matt.6:19- 21

The secret of full joy is living and investing in the Kingdom where there's no fraud,  not robber,  not moth to destroy it. God’s presence is a place of Joy and satisfaction. The place where sorrow and tears would be wiped away completely. The experience of this kingdom begins the day you  make a decision for Christ. Cast all your troubles and sorrow on Him,  He cares for us all.  Don't let you pain and sorrow hold your in boundage longer than it has, release it at the feet of the cross. If you're afflicted and empty in your soul, call upon His name He will answer your prayers and make your joy full again. John 16:24.

Readings: Click here  John 15:1-11; 1 John 1:1-7; Psalm 16

Power in the Kingdom

 Power in the Kingdom 

The Kingdom of Liberty

  The Kingdom of Liberty 

Col.2.13 - 15- And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, Having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.

Every citizen of the Kingdom of God is a freeborn.  We are no longer a slave to fear, not to sin, the flesh or any human organised traditions.  The power of the kingdom of Christ destroys every accusation of the devil over everyone in the Kingdom.  When you give your life to Christ,  you automatically become a citizen of the kingdom and so you possess all the rights and emoluments of the kingdom.  For as long as you are a legal citizen of the kingdom of God,  you are covered by the protection of the kingdom,  nothing can harm you anymore,  you become a son or daughter who is expected to live in absolute freedom and confidence. 

If you still find yourself under any bondage or the other, check your life and documents.  Are you truly a legitimate citizen or the kingdom?  Settle your position in the Kingdom first before running from one Prayer Mountain to the other. You may be a regular attendee of all conventions organised by popular prophets and Pastor in the world,  if you fail to resolve your status in the Kingdom,  you'll only continue to move from frying pan to fire.

Our God is a covenant keeping God. If your respond to His invitation to salvation which is available to all men, he will welcome you to His kingdom, a place of covenant where He rules and preserve His own. No one comes to Him and remain the same. He will take away your afflictions and replace it with His mercy and favour. 

In His manifesto,- Luke.4.18-19; He says, 

 - "The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD."

The Lord has not called us into captivity but unto freedom from every form of bondage and affliction.  Be it physical,  spiritual,  medical, economical, religious,  political and so on. Christ has not brought the grace of salvation to add more bondage to humanity but to show us the truth that makes free. The kingdom of God where His Spirit lives is a place of freedom, a place of love, peace,  righteousness, comfort,  healing,  satisfaction and Joy.  He has come purposely to set the captives free, to give hope to the hopeless,  healing to the sick and salvation to the afflicted. 

Are you experiencing any of form of affliction in your soul or body?  Call on Him today,  surrender your life completely and allow Him to do what He knows best. There is no oppression in God's Kingdom, there's no extortion in Zion. Zion is a place of liberation and freedom. Break loose from the deceit and captivity of those who merchandise the temple of God. Seek Jesus and Jesus only. He is the Lord of the kingdom.  He has come to save and deliver as many who will run to Him.

"For on Mount Zion there shall be deliverance, And there shall be holiness; The house of Jacob shall possess their possessions". Obad.1.17.

Readings: Col. 2: 1-15; Gal. 4:1-10 ; Psalm 56; Isa. 49:7-26 .

Prayers: Oh God my Father,  arise in your mighty power to deliver my soul from death and affliction. Keep my feet from falling, save me from every trap of oppression and establish me in the land of comfort and satisfaction.  I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen. 

 Peace Be Still 

Mark.4.39 - Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.

The world is a place of storms and many troubles.  There's no way anyone will pass through it and not experience its blows. There are so many times of our lives that we may have to face the torrent and stormy wind of life. But safety is assured if Christ is with us on the journey. 

The disciples were on their way to crossing to the other side of the sea. The storm came and they did everything possible within there power to keep their ship afloat, all to no avail.  When they thought all hope was lost they remembered Jesus was with them. Their manner of approach to Jesus showed they never really believed that His presence with them was enough assurance that no arm will befall them. Like many of us today,  they were perplexed and despaired just like the children of Israel before the red sea, they complained and verbally  assaulted Moses because of their unbelief.  But God showed up, a single act of faith by Moses parted the red sea, a simple statement from Jesus " Peace be Still " calmed the storm.

What is your storm, your worries and challenges.  They might feel so strong that you want to give up, or even abuse God. So many believers have lost their faith to fate.  They forgot the Lord is still here. Many have thrown caution to  the wind because of survival.  Cheer up brethren  the Lord is in the boat. Call on Him and He surely will still the storm.  

One thing we need to pay attention to in this passage is the disappointment of Jesus in the disciples' attitude of lack of faith. I believe Jesus expected them to be still, if not for any other reason but that He was with them.  Faith in God is absolute trust in Him regardless of the situation.  Speak faith to your hopelessness,  speak life to your dry bones.  Believe and know that the Lord is still at work and He will never let you down.  No one trusts in Him is put to  shame.  Be anxious for nothing,  cast all your worries on Him,  stop complaining, rather praise Him and be still in His presence.  For as long as the Lord is with You, there's no reason to panic. 

Futthermire, let's note here that the most important thing is His presence. If Jesus had not been in the  boat  with them,  it could  have been a  different  story  entirely. If you have not invited Him into your life, kindly do so now, for wherever His Spirit is, there is liberty, there's succour.  And when He leads, no storm of life can blow you away.  Stay with Him and be Still.  Shalom!

Readings: Exodus 14:1-31; Psalm 46; Ezek. 37:1-14; Mark 4:35-41

Prayers: I speak peace and stillness to every storm blowing against my life's journey.  I receive Divine confidence to rebuke every fear and doubt impeding my faith and trust in You. Let your peace permeate every aspect of my life and destiny in Jesus Christ's name. Amen. 

No Fear in The Kingdom

 No Fear in the Kingdom 

Luke.12.32 - "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

A notable and uncompromising attribute of the Kingdom- the presence of God is absolute peace and serenity.  Wherever there's the reign of God, there's peace,  joy and harmony.  God is never an author of confusion, chaos or threats.  The kingdom of this world is full of fear, war and terror. Darkness brings fear, worry, doubts and disappointment .  When the scripture urges us not to be anxious,  it's because it's never an act of the kingdom.  Anxiety and fear belongs to the wicked, and the end  result is pain and death. Isa. 48:22. Ps. 68:6.

In Psalm 1, the righteous is compared to a tree planted by the river side. No reason to fear whether in rain or drought.  No panicking whether it's cold or hot, there will always be supply.  Because it's located  and established beside the source of water.  When you reside in the Kingdom,  there's no reason to fear. It's only the wicked that will be tossed to and from like chaff before the wind. The kingdom is a place of sure protection. The name of the Lord is a strong tower,  the righteous run into it and are safe, Pro.  18:10. Salvation is of the Lord,  regardless of your little abilities when you are with God you victory is sure. Psalm 91, He who  dwells in the secret place of the most High,  shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.  The kingdom is that secret place and the shadow of the Almighty where security is sure and never to fail.

Human security will fail be it technology,  or diabolism. Charm will fail, ammunitions will finish,  the only unending and unfailing security is that of the Kingdom of God.  In His kingdom hunger is not a problem,  because there shall be nothing like that anymore,  no more thirst, no inflation nor economic downturns,  no security breach because God Himself is the Chief security officer, there's no power failure because the lighting system is not that of PHCN, not even the Sun or the moon, but God Himself is the light that shines all day. What more shall we say,  if God be for us who can be against us?  Listen brethren,  your Lord is faithful and true,  whatever He says He will do, so will He do. Do not fear the threats and intimidation of any man and the powers of this world, for He that is with us is greater than He that is in them. 

Do not fear little flocks,  for it's your Father's pleasure to give you the kingdom.  Though your strength may be small,  your God and Father is the Almighty.

 "Have you not known? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is He who sits above the circle of the earth, And its inhabitants are like grasshoppers, Who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, And spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. He brings the princes to nothing; He makes the judges of the earth useless... Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength..."Isa. 40:21-31.

His Kingdom is full of peace,  righteousness and Joy everlasting.  In His presence there's pleasure for ever and ever, Ps. 16:11. With Him is strength and all power in heaven and on Earth,  Ps. 62:11. Stay still, trust Him and believe that the Lord is God and He is more than able to do exceedingly above all we could ever ask or think. With Him there is no reason to fear, His kingdom is sure. The kingdom is here.

Readings: Psalm 1; 23; 91; Luke 12:22-32; Rom. 14:1-23

Prayers:

Oh God my Father,  I trust in you and I believe you always have my back. Establish my feet in your precious kingdom. Quench the fiery threats of the devil. Cast away all my fears and give me the grace to rest secured in You till the very end of my sojourn on Earth.  I pray through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen 

But one thing is needed

 But One Thing is Needed 

Luke.10.42 - But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her."

Jesus was a visitor at Mary and Martha's home, while Mary sat with Jesus chatting and listening to Him,  Martha was busy trying to entertain the Lord. This story is a good example of how believers are busy with irrelevant activities, spending a lot of money on jamborees or mere ephemerals. The ability to discern and identify what is more important to God as children of the kingdom is really pertinent to a fulfilling walk with God. We need to set our priorities right in other to please the LORD. Martha was furious wanting Jesus to order Mary to Join or help her in what  Jesus saw as unimportant worries, just like we sometimes bully and hurt one another because of mere religious activities and money matters at the expense of a quality time with God.  

The response of Jesus here may be surprising and unexpected just as it will  be to many of our passionately organised jamborees. Like Martha, what many called service to God is nothing but mere labouring on irrelevants. Jesus rebuked Martha for worrying too much about unnecessary details that had no spiritual value. To Him, what Mary chose ie. Staying with Him was more needed than food and other stuffs Martha was engrossed with. The requirements of the Kingdom is more about relationship and Communion with God than activities.  How can you possibly work and please a God who doesn't know you? It's such a pity we are in a generation when many are busy in the Church without any personal experience of conversion. Before you get yourself worked up with activities, kindly settle the issue of your salvation first.

The rich young man left in sorrow when Jesus told him to sell all he had and give to the poor. Jesus wanted a disciple first not just a wealthy distant admirer. If you are not saved and you are the greatest giver to mission works,  your priority is misplaced.  Your salvation before your money. God is not after your pocket but your soul. What will it profit a man whose donation won souls to the Kingdom while his own soul is doomed in Hell. The gifts and donations you give to God are good but one thing is needed and most important, the salvation of your soul.  

John.3.3 - Jesus answered and said to Nicodemus, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

John.3.5 - Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

Are you born again?  Your answer is more important to God than your title, position and donations.  Surrender your life to Him today not just your valuables or money. 

Readings: 2 Kings 5:1-27; Luke 10:38-42; Mark 10:17-31.

Prayers:

Oh Lord,  I come to You today, save me from all my shortcomings and deliver me from mere religious activities which distracts from what is really needed.  Help me to know You personally and stay in your presence forever and ever.  Amen 

Not a Judge

Not a Judge

Then one from the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me." But He said to him, "Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?" Luke.12.13-14

One of the sources of distractions to kingdom message and growth is turning the Church to a courtyard and her ministers to arbitrators and judges. Many believers and leaders find relevance in settling disputes and so promoting or encouraging busybodies, rumour peddlers and conflict promoters. It may sound so good that as a minister or a believer you tend to see yourself in the light of a peace maker, always giving attention to issues of conflicts and disputes among brethren. If you think this is your area of calling,  you've got to be careful. This is a ministry that is very tricky and demands a  lot of wisdom and caution. 

As believers we should understand the statement of the scripture in Matt 5:9; that says, "blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God" doesn't turn us to arbitrators in every domestic argument or dispute.  The case of the man who came out of the crowd to Jesus in Luke 12, should teach us to discern and understand that God has not sent us into the world  to settle quarrels or to share properties and inheritance but to reconcile men to Himself. We are called to  make peace between men and God, to restore sinners to their maker through the preaching of the gospel. 

The Apostles in Acts chapter 6 also understood this fact when disagreement and complaints arose among the disciples about distributions for the widows. They prayed and ordered that deacons should be appointed to address the complaints and administer the tables to avoid distractions for the Apostles. That was not their primary calling. The matter of the kingdom demands absolute focus and commitment.  So, to avoid wasting their energy on settling disputes and sharing food, instead of praying and sharing the gospel,  they had to commit that duty to other people.  On the other hand, Moses would have killed himself prematurely by sitting and settling issues for the people all day if not for the timely intervention of Jethro. 

Many of us are dieing of stress and overwork because we don't understand our calling. We don't know when to say no to the crowd. We want to please men and so we turn the house of God, a house of prayer and solemnity to a place of noise, conflicts and court of arbitration.  I do not say it is bad for the Church or her leaders to intervene in conflicts resolutions, but if we learn anything from our Lord Jesus Christ,  we should know we are not called to Judge. It is not easy to combine our spiritual and primary assignments to God and His work with the complexities of human excesses. 

The Church is not a court of arbitration, save yourself from disputes and distractions. The Church of today is already crowded with complex set of people with different characters and peculiar problems. We should be wise enough to know when to ignore it. We need the help of the Holy Spirit and clear understanding of our fundamental purpose to be able  to handle this and not lose focus of the things that are of more importance for the kingdom edification. 

 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one's praise will come from God. 1Cor.4.5

Readings:  Exo. 18:13-26; Matt. 7:1-6; Luke 12:1-21; Acts 6:1-7.

Prayers:

Oh God of wisdom,  help me not to lose sight of You and the things that matter most in the Kingdom. Help me to be more Kingdom conscious rather than being issue driven.  I pray through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

Emmanuel- Ekiti Gospel Track

 

A Focus on the Kingdom

A Focus on the Kingdom 

Matt.6.33 - But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

In a world where everyone seems to wake up each day chasing shadows,  it is imperative to call the attention of the children to the most important matter which is the kingdom.  There's no doubt the devil has succeeded in distracting almost all of us.  Some believers are mostly concentrating on ephemerals, they seem to have lost focus of what the faith is all about. They are so worried because of what to eat,  drink,  what to put on, where to lay their heads that they forgot all the promises of God. Many believers are as anxious as the world about tomorrow and its loads of worries to the extend that they follow and run after it using the same strategy like the world. 

We compete, we argue and fight within ourselves on food, position, fame, recognition,  superiority as so on. We run after riches and materials things at the expense of the Kingdom.  Righteousness seems like something no longer as important. So many religious gatherings aren't about the worship or care of souls but for the financial proceeds and self aggrandizement.  We build basilicas and heavy monuments  while the body of Christ is shattered  by spiritual starvation. Some seems to have forgotten that the kingdom of God is not in eating and drinking,  but in righteousness,  peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Many even negotiate on their personal gains and entitlements before embarking on activities that are supposedly evangelical.

Where is righteousness in the Church today?  where is the peace of Christ? Where is Joy, the joy in the Holy Spirit? There is a great gap between the Christianity of today and what it used to be in the days of old when mutual care, righteousness, love, holiness and the likes used to be rewarded and placed on very high esteem. These days, we seem to extol money, title and fame above righteousness and purity.  We praise and celebrate riches and wealth,  honour and award corruption because of their huge donations.  There are wars and segregation among many brethren.  Virtually every congregation has one in-conflict or the other. Disagreement and dissensions between clergy and other clergy,  the lay-clergy dichotomy has gone beyond leadership and followership to factionalism.  Are we not losing focus of the kingdom?  I hope we still understand the primary reason for the Church ie. The great commission 

This is a wake up call to all believers to return and seek the kingdom and its righteousness only.  It's time for us to earnestly contend for the faith that was once delivered to the saints Jude1:3.  What shall  it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul? If there's any reason to fight, it should be for the kingdom and not for position and emoluments. Many soldiers of the kingdom are dieing and most of us are busy chasing shadows. Aren't we learning anything from all these sad experiences and the way the devil seem to be having a free day among us. It's time for the saints to arise and defend the kingdom,  defend righteousness and peace, defend purity and love,  defend  truth and honesty,  defend holiness and sanctity of your heart and soul.  Do not let the evil forces overshadow your spirit,  do not join them to promote ungodliness.  Stand up for Jesus,  stand up for the faith. Stand for the kingdom. 

Readings: Matt. 6: 24-36; Matt.  11:1-30; Rom. 14:1-23

Prayers:

Oh! Lord my Father, give me grace to seek first what matters,  the kingdom.  May I never lose my crown. Help me to show forth Your glory and honour all my days in Jesus name,  Amen

Empowered by the Holy Spirit

 Empowered by the Holy Spirit 

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Gal. 5:22-23.

Love is a Divine attitude, the inherent nature of God. It is difficult for anyone to demonstrate God's kind of love if such person has not received His Holy Spirit. One of the ways to identify who is truly born of God is the kind of fruit you  bear. For you shall know them by their fruit.  It's a pity that we're in a generation where speaking in tongues,  prophesy,  power ministrations and miracles are the yardstick to measure the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in the life of ministers. And so, many will go as far as dining with the devil for miracle power.  What is the essence of gifts without fruits.  When your gifts fail to bear fruits of the Spirit then something is fundamentally wrong with your source. 

You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Matt. 7:16&20

Anyone born of God carries His nature and demonstrates His character. I John 1:15&16. We are not only called to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit but to also bear His fruit.  Note that these gifts can be manipulated and adulterated but the fruit of Love, joy,  peace, longsuffering,  kindness,  goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness and self control all equal to one can't be manipulated or adulterated by the devil.  Gifts are external and temporal but the fruit of the Holy Spirit is internal and eternal.  

- Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 1Cor.13.8

If you believe you are born again and you still struggle with the works of the flesh- adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the likes- Gal.5.21. Regardless of your title or position, be honest within yourself and pray earnestly for grace and strength of the Holy Spirit. If you still struggle with sin and canal thoughts, being bullied by the flesh and its lust, kindly humble yourself under God's power. 

 - Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Rom.8.26

Helping our weaknesses is the major work of the Holy Spirit, a miracle no man or demon can perform. He helps us to overcoming the flesh and its lust. Crucifying the old nature of sin and being transformed completely into the new nature of Christ 1John.3.9.  This is beyond any human strength.  It neither by power nor by might but by My Spirit says the Lord - Zach 4:6.  Wait on Him until your mortal body is quickened by His Spirit - Rom. 8:11. Fruitfulness is the hallmark of Christian maturity, It is what only the Holy Spirit  can achieve in us and through us. John 15:1-5.  Abide in Him. 

Further Readings: Zach 4:5-10; Matt. 7: 15-27; Gal. 5:16-26; Rom. 8:1-27

Prayers:

I receive Divine strength to bear the fruit of the Spirit.  To manifest the nature and character of God,  to overcome sin, the world and the flesh. I recieve grace upon grace to reign  with  Christ in  heavenly realms. I pray through Jesus Christ our Lord,  our Strength and Redeemer.  Amen. 

A gift to give

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 A Gift to give

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John.3.16

Today is the popular valentine's day,  being celebrated across the globe by lovers - married and unmarried. A day of sharing love by writting and giving gifts. While the day was dedicated to a selfless commitment of a matyred priest to love and marriage blessing at a time it was prohibited, I am not sure if anything being celebrated this day is the same with the course for which valentine died. He believed so much in love and marriage that he sacrificed himself in its defence,  Just like Christ gave Himself out of love for the world to be saved. Is the relationship you're celebrating today founded on true love, purity and godliness or mere infatuation and lust? What are you giving or sacrificing for your marriage and relationship to succeed and yeild the fruits of righteousness and peace?o

God gave His best to humanity when He gave His only begotten Son, and He gave His all when He gave His Holy Spirit to help us overcome our weaknesses and sin. We have life through His breath in us, and daily, he loads us with benefits beyond measure.  If God had shown us love by giving,  what are you giving in return?  God expects us to follow His example by giving ourselves in Love both to Him and also to our fellow men. 

Before you judge your spouse or partners about their contributions in a relationship, check yourself first, what are you bringing to the table? Love or Stress? Relationship is not one sided. It is  a two way affair don't be the liability.  It is better to give than to recieve, givers never lack,  the hands that gives is always on top. Prov. 28:27. Like Paul said in Acts.20.35 - "I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."'

The best way to go at this challenging time is for each and everyone to ask ourselves what we're going to contribute for the growth and development of our homes, society,  nation and the world at large.  We need one another to survive this challenging time. We should complain less about our expectations from our partners or leaders both political and religious.  Let's all think more about what we can do rather than what we want. The love of God is more about what you give than what you receive. Let those who are more previleged help the less privileged in whatever way they can. And when you do, do it in love as unto God who is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. 

"Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you." Luke.6.38

Do not use your valentine for just romance or lustful celebrations. Rather build a healthy marriage and relationship,  reach out to families and love ones, do not forget the needy and the helpless,  the orphans,  poor widows, the sick and the homeless. Love is a gift to give!  Spread it!

Further Readings:  Psalm 112; Matt. 19:16-26; 1 John 4:7-21.

Prayers:

Gracious Father of love, help us to know You more in love and extends that to everyone around us. Teach us to give more than receiving and above all make us builders of destinies through our giving and not destroyers. We ask through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

Who is My Neighbour

 Who is My Neighbour? 

"You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." Matt.5.43-44

When it comes to showing love we become selective as to who exactly deserves it. Love your neighbour as yourself. Who exactly is my neighbour? My family members?  House or flat mates? kinsmen or my tribe? People of my race, colour or language?  My friends who supported me when I was in need? Those who celebrate and share gifts with me regularly and such like that? Well, I  wouldn't say no, but it's beyond just this familiar set of people. 

The story of Christ about the man who was attacked on a journey and left to die by his attackers is still the best answer to the question, A priest passed by but left without a care. Sometimes,  I  felt he couldn't help because of his priestly duties and laws governing his position. He feared the consequences of becoming unclean by touching a presumed  dead body. In the same manner, a levite also passed by but abandoned the man to die,  I guess it's also for the same reason. We could be so engulfed in religiosity most times that we forget the act of love, mercy and care, which is the hallmark of the faith.

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone".Matt. 23:23

Eventually the man was saved by an assumed sinner,  a Samarian. This is sufficient to show what Christianity is all about and who exactly deserves our love. It's not about title, status, race or language,  not about the colour of our skin, or about the religion or political party you belong,  but whoever is in need and you have the capacity to help out,  that's your neighbour. That helpless vulnerable idiot that's always loitering around your office. That aboki guy who you think is beneath you,  that Thug who always feed on 'paraga' and snuffs creating neusance on your street, that prostitute who is so dirty and uncouth. What about the man who offended you so deeply that you have vowed never to talk to forever. They are all your neighbors whom you have to love and treat just the way you would love to be treated. 

Stop looking in the wrong places, they are always around you,  treat them with love unconditionally. Pray for them even when they mock you. Feed them and salvage them when they are despaired. Do no take delight in their misfortune, rather give them helping hand when it's necessary.  And when you do all this for your neighbour,  you'll be called the child of your heavenly father. Do well to take care of yourself as well as your family and the people in the household of faith without discriminating against outsiders and strangers.  Your neighbours are right beside you,  love inclusively with the love of Christ. 

Further Readings: Matt. 5:38-48; Pro. 25:1-28; Luke 10:25-37

Prayers:

Oh God of Love,  help me to love like you do. Give me a clear conscience to relate with and to love everyone around me regardless of who they are and how they treat me.  This I pray through Christ our Lord.  Amen 

Love is the Way

Love is the Way 

Jesus said to him, ""You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." Matt.22.37-40

Love is the summary of the Law and the entire scripture.  Where love abounds, laws and constitutions are useless.  Love is the fulfillment of the law. 

 - For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another! Gal.5.14-15

Love is a command. It is the Law and the commandment of God. It is not an option but a necessity.  No one can be part of God without love, because God Himself is Love.  - This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. These things I command you, that you love one another. John.15.12 &17.

Love requires intentional effort. It is an action not a philosophy or doctrine that is only expressed in words.  Love is shown and demonstrated not just a verbal expression but pragmatic expression.  Love is not just expressed when it is comfortable,  it is a habit and lifestyle that should be seen in every believer.  You cannot confess to Love God and hate your fellow man. There's no hatred in Love. This is the point where Love goes beyond feelings,  it is done intentionally and unconditionally. Read Rom. 12:9-29

Beyond being the summary of the Law, Love is also the summary of Grace. Grace is receiving a favour you never deserve or merit.  This can only come out of Love. God loves and gives grace to all men John 3:16. So, Grace is a product of Love. If we therefore recieve God's unmerited favour,  we are supposed to show the same favour and kindness to everyone around us.  Not necessarily to only those we think deserve it but to all, as many God will give us the capacity to Love. 

Further Readings: 1 Cor. 13, Deut. 6:2-9, Matt. 22:36-40

Prayers:

Oh God of Love, help me to walk in love. To love like You do, serve and care about others just like you do. Give me Your sufficient grace and provisions to love everyone around me and to be able to show it in my actions.  I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen 

The Narrow or the Wide Way

 Tuesday,  11 February 2025

The Narrow or the Wide Way

Matt.7.13 - "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.

One major attribute of Man that God will not tamper with is our freewill to make our own decisions.  The power of choice is in our hands to  decide on where to go and who to follow.  He made the garden of Eden in the beginning,  put the man-Adam and his wife- Eve there to cultivate and feed on everything except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Adam through his wife chose to eat the forbidden fruit and the human history took a new turn as death came into the story.

Moses, the great prophet in Israel said to his people at the tail end of his ministry,  "See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil, I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live" Deut.30.15 &19. Joshua would  do the same too , to show that the ball was in their court to decide who to serve. It is a voluntary decision.  God will never force Himself on anyone.  Salvation is a choice not by force.  But remember, He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?  Mic.6.8

The Lord has done His part and indeed He has done His best, when Christ was sacrificed to ensure that our debt of sin and condemnation of death was duly paid for. His desire is that no sinner perishes but that all could come to repentance.  Yet you need to make the decision to either accept His offer of salvation or reject it. It is a simple offer. Make a decision now, tomorrow may be too late. 

- how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, Heb.2.3  

- Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."Acts.4.12. 

 - Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John.14.6

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household." Acts.16.31; 

Further Readings: Josh. 24:14-25; Deut,. 30 :8-20; Micah 6:1-16, 1 John 1:1-9

Prayers: 

Oh Lord my Saviour,  I believe You are the only way to salvation and eternal life, accept me today and save my soul from destruction.  Give me a new life and establish me in Your truth.  I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen 

Though it seems right

Devotional

Monday 10th  February,  2025

Though it seems right 

Prov.14.12 - There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death.

Human choice of the complex and exciting ways of life over the simple way through Christ might seem right and perfect in their hearts because to them,  it makes the world interesting and fun filled. Salvation was offered free of charge,  no, many want it with costly and unimaginable sacrifices. A typical African want something magical and dramatic.  And so, when solutions to problems don't come dramatic and magical they seem ineffectual.  It is a common stand that any charm that doesn't cost you a fortune might not be effective.  Life and death are options placed before all men.  Be careful of what you choose.  The fact that it's a consensus' choice doesn't make it a right choice. 

Christ shed His blood to put an end to blood shed and sacrifices, whether of animal or human, yet some believe there can be no solution to human challenges without shedding blood most of which has to be the innocent's. You'll wonder sometimes about the happenings in the world.  Many people are engaging in some unimaginable things to live or survive, they do crazy things for fame and wealth,  for polical posts as if their lives depend on it. How would any sane man explain why a boy of 17years sacrificed his friend for money rituals. Wickedness and horrific incidents have become so normal to many that they make jokes and merry while others are in pains. They rejoice when they get there desires, not minding whose life or destiny had to go for it. Such people remain under the terrible judgment of God if they fail to repent.

In Matt. 6:33ff, Jesus expressly admonished all to seek the kingdom of God and its righteousness. We should not worry about food,  clothing,  shelter and the future,  for with Him, they are all settled.  But many are not satisfied with that simple word of God, they care more for the other things than the kingdom, they want soothsayers who will tell them how tomorrow will be, wanting all the  goodies the world has to offer. They want to have the future today, and so go the extra miles to achieve their aims and in the process many get into satanism,  Cultism and many tough covenants and complex secrets to survive in the world. The devil doesn't have any free gift,  don't dine with him.

"Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink--even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk--it's all free!  - Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Isa.55.1&2

Further Readings: Prov. 14:1-17;  Isa. 55;  Rom. 3:1-31

Prayers:

Oh gracious Lord.  Let Your mercy and grace order my steps in the right way of righteousness.  Cause me to work in it without looking back. Deliver those who are lost in the way of sin and death.  Help me to drink from the well 9f Your salvation.  I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen 

Human Complexities

Devotional,  Sunday  09, February 2025

Human Complexities 

Eccl.7.29 - I discovered that God created people to be upright, but they have each turned to follow their own downward path."

God created man pure,  innocent and simple. Adam was made in the image of God without sin, spotless and really perfect just like a newborn.  We were all born beautiful and good. When we study the  nature of God and what He originally made us to be, we will like the preacher discover that we were created to be upright,  honest,  and absolutely free from wrongs.  No reason for envy, insecurity,  inferiority or superiority complex and all other complexities, competitions and insatiabilities evident now in our characters.  This wasn't how it used to be or how God wanted it to be, but sin and disobedience turned humanity into dishonest,  self centered and insatiable enigmatic being. 

The economists posit that human wants are insatiable.  The nature of man seems to have become popular for always wanting more. The rich never get satisfied with riches, the high and mighty want more and more power and authority, desperacy for more at every possible cost, this brought about corruption, radicality, and wickedness. Jeremiah said the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked,  who can know it? Jer. 17:9.  The psalmist said, "But no, all have turned away from God; all have become corrupt. No one does good, not even one" Ps.14.3. 

Simplicity and uprightness are now boring and uninteresting,  we want it tough, complex and expensive. That's when it's fun and exciting. I remember once explaining in a Bible study class how peaceful and organised heaven will be, where there will be no more violence,  sorrow,  pain, crime, thuggery,  political upheaval,  economic downturns, fraud, partying, even Church gathering,  revivals,  evangelism etc. A white professor responded, if that is how heaven is going to be, I don't want to be there. It will be too simple and boring. That all these chaos, calamities,  problems,  death,  sorrow etc make the world interesting and unpredictable. What do you think? 

Eccl.9.3 - It seems so tragic that one fate comes to all. That is why people are not more careful to be good. Instead, they choose their own mad course, for they have no hope. There is nothing ahead but death anyway.

Further Readings: Eccl.  7; Psalm 14: Matt. 5: 24- 35.

Prayers: 

Lord, help me to accept your simple will and plans for my life.  May I never complicate my life and destiny because of impatience and worldly corruption. Thank you for your loving and caring hope given without measure.  Let your grace see me through and make me a worthy servant of yours.  I ask through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen

JESUS CHRIST: THE CORE OF RELIGION

 Devotional,  Saturday 8th February,  2025.

Jesus Christ: The Core of Religion 

Matt.5.17 - "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.

The human race has been in search for reconnection and relationship with God from time immemorial. That is why everyone prays to an unseen  Being. Religion has been the major way to accomplish this purpose.  

One of the major religions of the world is Judaism. It is the religion of the Jews,  a religion that encapsulates everything about the culture,  history and  life of the Hebrews.  The faith of Abraham,  the first patriarch of the Jewish  religion spread through covenant to the Israelites who by divine providence were enslaved many years in Egypt and were later delivered by Yahweh through the hand of Moses. Although, they got to the promised land after many years of challenging experience in the wilderness, Moses gave them the Torah and other levitical order that formed the basis of their faith and life, but couldn't really afford a permanent realm of liberty and fulfillment. They battled various external incursions from other nations for many years.  The Lord God of their Fathers promised to send them a Messiah who will give them the freedom and perfect peace they eagerlly desire and await. But when He eventually came, they couldn't recognise nor believe Him.

He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: John 1:11-12.

 

The coming of Christ was confusing to His people but because He was not just the Saviour of the Jews alone but for the entire seeds of the woman who all had been subjected to futility by the devil.  Jesus,  the Messiah is not only for the Jews but for the whole world. He did not come to establish any earthly  kingdom  or religion but to manifest God to every one who believes in Him. There is no racial or religious barrier to faith in Christ.  He is the express image of the unseen God. He came to manifest Him to all men of every race, language,  culture and religion. He is the centre and fulfillment of every religious revelation.  There is no other revelation greater than Him, being seen in the body. In Him is life, and the life is the light of the world. 

John.3.13 - No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.

John.1.18 - No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.

Further Readings: Gen. 3:1-17;  Deut 18; John 1:1-18; Rom. 8:19-25; John 3 :1-18

Prayers:

 Lord Jesus,  I believe you are the express image of the living God.  I accept your Lordship and as the way to the Father.  Help me to see through the grace of Your light that I may work therein . I pray in Your holy name.  Amen 

What Religion is

 Friday 07 January 2025

What Religion is 

Jas.1.27 - Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. 

Religion is a complex subject to define in a way that will be generally accepted. To some it's the humans way of relating to God and the universe. The best explanation of what religion is has proved to be difficult because of the complex nature of what it means to various people and their cultures. 

In the context of this devotional, we will limit ourselves to the biblical veiw of religion. One innate nature of religion is to promote and teach morality and good conducts among the people. You are to serve as illuminator to the darkness of the world.  To shine as the light of the world,  a city set on a hill that cannot  be hidden.  Matt 5:14-16. Whatever we define religion to mean, there's something more paramount that's is expected by God and man. 

The scripture in James 1:27 makes what is more important clear. That is, seeing religion from its functioning and duties in the society. What it does especially as regards its vulnerable members. Religion has become intrinsic in the nature and life of many if not all and in some quarters it has been seen to have done more harm than good, becoming the bane of the society.  A stigma not caused by religion itself but by it corrupt practitioners.

Religion is supposed to exemplify love and communality. It's supposed to influence and improve both its adherents and their community.  Many are so conscious of protecting traditions and style that they ignore love and care. 

Religion without love for one another is nothing but vanity-"For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another" 1John.3.11.

Isa.58.6 -7 "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?

Further Readings: Matt. 5:17-48; I John 3:11-24.

Prayers:

Lord,  help us to grow from distracting debates and arguments to practising and showing of love and care for the helpless and vulnerables. Give us grace to practice our religion in a way that it will make the world a better place for  all, and refine our souls for the hereafter.  I ask in Jesus Christ's name.  Amen 

Religion and Faith

Thursday 06  February 2022.

Religion without Faith!

Matt.23.23 - "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.

A recent survey and assessment of the religious revivals in Nigeria states that, it's a revival of gathering of multitude,  plenty cars, big buildings, lots of cash but with little or no faith to show. Why are religious centres increasing by the day yet corruption,  wickedness and sinfulness are on the highest level. Churches are growing in numbers.  Programmes and  various religious activities are all over the places.  Pastoral work is  becoming one of the best sought-after professions especially in this side of the world where everyone seems to be religious but no form of godliness.  I Tim 3:5.

Religiosity is not equivalent to a relationship with God. Going to Church and prayer centres does not make you a Christian. Bearing a Christian name or Title does not mean you are a child of God. Are you a Church Member by subscription or by Conversion? Have you repented from your old sinful ways? Have you been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb? Have you made a personal, sincere and heartfelt commitment to Christ as your Lord and Saviour? 

Moreover,  religion that fails to change your old nature or manifest in action and love shown equally to all, is nothing but dead religion. Jas.1.27 - Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. 

Two points must be noted in this verse.  The care of the needy, and being unspotted by worldly corruption.  Religion that cannot be separated you from the love and desperacy for materials things, corruption  and manipulations at various degrees is never the intention of God. Our faith as believers should shine like light to illuminate the darkness of the world.  Sinners should find comfort in the house of God and not that men's problems will be complicated by fraud and unhealthy attitudes in the house of God. We need to rise to true faith and undefiled religion as we await the coming of our Lord. Religion is vain when faith is never put to action. 

Further Readings: Isa. 58; Matt. 23

Prayers:

Lord Jesus, I surrender my life to you. Come in Your mercy and grace and forgive all my sin and take charge of my life. I renounce every work of darkness and vain religion today. I embrace the love of Christ and sincere submission to the Word of truth. Cleanse me and make me worthy of Your kingdom. Give me Your Holy Spirit and help me to live a new life in You all the days of my life. Thank you my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

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God of Time and Chances

 Devotional 

February 05, 2025

God of Time and Chances 

Eccl.9.11 - I returned and saw under the sun that-- The race is not to the swift, Nor the battle to the strong, Nor bread to the wise, Nor riches to men of understanding, Nor favor to men of skill; But time and chance happen to them all.ng

As human beings,  we are made with so many limitations.  One of these limitations is our inability to discern our time and seasons. We do not know nor have any input on when, where and how to be born. We only got to see ourselves growing wherever we were born.  Just like the birth experience none of us has power on when our end will come. No wonder the preacher says the race is not to the swift nor the battle to the strong,  but time and chances happen to them all.  Time is never static, it waits for no man, so use your time and opportunities wisely. 

Although,  as believers we may not have power over time and the opportunities they often present,  the knowledge of the creator and owner of time gives unflinching assurance that all things work together for the good to them who love Him, those who are called according to His good purpose -Rom. 8:28. God has everything planned out before creating anyone.  No one comes here on his own or for himself.  If we are going to fulfill our reason for existence we need the knowledge of Him who made us and put us within a time limit.

We worry so much about ourselves and future.  What we shall eat, drink, clothes to put on, houses,  mobilities,  survival in difficult times and even death. The Lord expressly admonishes His disciples never to worry about all of these but rather  seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness,  all other things shall be added. Matt 6:25-34.

So many of us are running helter-skelter trying to beat the time, craving for so much without seeking the One who makes time and decides its use. Many even thought God is not needed in their affairs.  Trusting and flexing in their wisdom, knowledge,  power and wealth.  They thought they had it all planned out, forgetting that without God's mercy and grace they do not possess any ability over the future.  They boast in their achievement and power forgetting that exaltation and blessings only come from above. 

This is to call our attention again to acknowledge the Almighty,  who rules in the affairs of man. Nebuchadnezzar failed to acknowledge this on time, he became a beast for many years.  The rich farmer in Luke didn't acknowledge this, his breath was taken from him, Herod the king failed to return the glory of his time and opportunities to the Almighty,  he became a sudden food for worms.  Don't be a fool who would not acknowledge God in his life. God is still relevant in our generation and in every nation.  No nation or persons can be so strong and already made to ignore the place and importance of God in their lives.  

Prov.3.5 - 6- Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

Further Readings:  Eccl. 9:1-18; Dan. 4; Matt. 6: 25-34. 

Prayers: 

I put You in front of all my life and time. Lead and order me according to Your will.  Help me to fulfil all that is proposed for my time. And at the end of it all, may I have a place in Your eternal kingdom.  This I ask through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.  Amen.