Every Believer is an Intercessor

Every Believer is an Intercessor

1Tim.2.1 - Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,

The ministry of Intercession is not peculiarly limited to any specific individuals or some group of people.  We are all called to pray for one another. Firstly for our leaders both political and religious.  Leaders are to pray for the followers and viz-a-viz. The house of God is primarily a place of prayer,  prayers are to be offered to God in the temple for one another. Just like the physical Temple built for the purpose of prayer so is our body, being the temple of the Lord and should be used as an instrument of prayers and supplications.

There is therefore a cause for concern seeing how distracted the Church is from our primary assignment as intercessors and watchmen for the world.  Standing in the gap for the people and the nation is the first duty of the Church. Many of us have failed in this line of duty rather we are busy pursuing other purposes, complaining and carrying irrellevant rumours around. The saints are called to reach out to sinners in Love and intercede for their salvation. The strong are called out to help those who are weak. We are meant to carry each other's burden. And one major way the Church can help the weak and feeble souls is through Intercession.  Instead of praying,  we are most times satisfied pulling them further down through our words, actions and inactions. The Church now seemingly appears like an Army that delights in killing and trashing her wounded soldiers. 

The essence of fellowshippung in the Church is to help build each other in faith. To look out for those who are lost and vulnerable. Iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens the countenance of his friend Pro. 27:17. This is not a business only for Church leaders but for all believers.  Interceding for the salvation of souls yet unsaved and restoration of the lost ones back to faith are our primary purposes.  Let's return to it first on our knees.  We are all called out to pray and interceed for one another. We are to help one another stand strong on this battle field against our common enemies, the flesh, sin and the devil.

Readings: Esther 4: 12-17; Prov. 27:1-17; Tim. 2:1-8;  Gal. 6:1-10

Prayers: 

I receive fresh grace and passion to be an intercessor. I will do my best to keep the kingdom together as a force fighting a common battle. Lord reignite my fire for prayers and intercesion for the men, the Church and the world as a whole.  May I never fail nor faint in this duty in Jesus Christ's name I pray.  Amen. 

The Secret Ministry of Intercession

The Secret Ministry of Intercession 

Ezek.22.30 - And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.

Intercession is a prayer to God on behalf of another person, ministry or nation. God is searching for men in the secret place to pray. People who may not be at the war front like Joshua but would wait with Moses on the mountain like Aaron and Hur, making sure his weary hands are kept uplifted until the battle is over. The secret place is the place where the battle of life is won. This is one of the most important ministries or departments in the Kingdom that every ministry and minister should give serious attention. It is very pertinent to the growth and sustainability of any ministry or mission. 

The devil attacks this department of the Church to the extent that some intercessors had abandoned their calling to the secret place while contending with people they should be interceding for.  To be an intercessor, one need to learn from Christ Himself who even in the face of rejection, persecution, torture and death hurled on Him by the same people He was mediating for, never complained.  He rather prayed that God would forgive them for they knew not what they did. 

Intercessors don't complain nor seek to be known or awarded for what they do. They don't need human appreciation or approval. It's a ministry in the secret place that is more effective when it is kept there in the secret. Intercession is the power house of every believer and ministry. The longer you wait on your knees in the secret place, the better your productivity and effectiveness in ministry. God is still searching for vessels in this area. Who will give their time, resources, sacrifice pleasure, stay up at night, wait in the gap for God’s people and His work on earth.  

Is this your area of calling?  Don't be descouraged because of human attitude and insults. Is God calling you into this ministry? Great! It's time you arose and fulfil it, stop procastinating. Do you have passion for a better Church? Pray! Do you love to see souls won to the Kingdom? Start by interceding. Do you long for a new revival experience in our time? Go to the secret place of prayer,  that's where great men are birthed, nurtured and pruned for exploits. You are needed! God is still searching for sincere and passionate souls to stand in the gap for the Church and for the nations.  Let's get to work on our knees. 

Readings: Ezek.  22:23-31; Exo. 17:1-16; Rom. 8:19-34; 1 Tim. 2:1-8.

Prayers:

Oh gracious Lord,  raise men for Yoursef who will stand in the gap, seeking Your face in the secret place until Your glory fills the earth like waters cover the sea. Consecrate me for this divine service and bless every soul interceding in the secret for souls and Church of God. I ask in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen 

Serving from the Secret Place

 Serving from the Secret Place 

But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly. Matt.6.3-4.

In a generation where most people wouldn't want any act of service to God or humanity except when it's publicised or announced. Most Church members  want their  names mentioned before responding to calls to serve. Everyone loves the pulpit ministry but most people can't pay the hidden sacrifice. They love public recognition more than heavenly recognition.  Many do not serve to be rewarded by God but to be applauded by men. I see a need to re-examine how our service to God is done especially at a time like this when fame and public approval seem to appeal to many more than God’s words and commands. 

The Secret Place is the best place to serve, planting season is often  silent and hidden. Sow your seeds whether in the form of prayer, fasting or giving silently and discreetly. Jesus taught that the best way to give as a believer is to do it without letting others know. This is signifying humility and simplicity. God wants us to be humble even in the place of prayer. The act of bended knees is synonymous to being humble and submissive before God. Express yourself to Him humbly and secretly. When we brag about the hours spent before God in prayers or turn prayer to only noisy and dramatic acts just to feel good within ourselves or to get the people's approval of our spirituality, Jesus says we have received our rewards already. 

As much as many love giving and praying in public places for others to see or applaud, it doesn't automatically mean it's divinely approved. This act is becoming a custom in many churches today as many leaders believe if you do not make them do it openly or allow them display it by announcing it publicly, they wouldn't give big. The standard of God hasn't changed. Jesus was explicit about the act of giving,  fasting and praying being done secretly. He appreciates it more and rewards those who will give and pray only unto Him in Spirit and in Truth. It is called  prayer not a show.  It is called  service not doing God or the Church a favour. Giving or praying in the secret is giving or praying honestly for divine rewards. This is Christ’s command to all Christians. Let not your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Then your father who sees in the secret will reward you in public. 

We need a return to the biblical recommendation for Christian spirituality and divine service of giving. They are first of all acts of service and duties to God our Father. When we fast and pray,  it's because we want to communicate with Him and not to impress anyone. There's always a divine instruction that has to be followed strictly for every act of service to God. We cannot continue to do God's work our own ways and expect His blessings. Jesus calls us to pray, fast and give with all sincerity and honesty. He's calling us to a spiritual consciousness in worship and with pure conscience. 

Readings: Psalm 25:1-22; Matt. 5:42-48; Romans 13:11-14.

Prayers: 

Oh God of Truth,  Who knows the secret of every heart,  help me to be more discreet in my service and walk with You. I do not want to be a lousy, noisy and mere empty vessel. Teach us to serve you in an acceptable way that we may receive timely answers to our prayers and rewards for our sacrificial services here and in eternity.  We pray through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen 

The Hiding Place of Refuge

 The Hiding Place of Refuge 

Ps.91.2 - I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust."

The secret place of God is the hiding place for all His children. It's the place of our sure refuge, shelter and defence against all enemies' assaults. When the devil roars around like lion seeking whom to devour, we are not perturbed because only those homeless and without shelter can fall prey to the predator. God wants all of us in His secret place because there we find salvation and rest for our souls. The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe. Prov.18.10

The arms of flesh will definitely fail. The horses and chariots, the amulets and ammunitions can't fight against the spiritual wickedness in the high places. Many people forget the Lord in the face of threats and intimidation of the power of darkness. In a generation where many thought God is often too slow to protect,  they run in error of desperacy to seeking refuge from herbalists, cults and occultism, but the end result is usually more disastrous than what took them there. Like the case of a woman who sought refuge and protection for her only son by joining the witches only to be asked to sacrifice the son as her contribution to the coven.

Many seek solutions to money matters and several other life's challenges from demons only to end up as lunatics. The Psalmist says in Ps.20.7&8- Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God. They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.

 - God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. For You have been a shelter for me, A strong tower from the enemy. Ps.46.1&3.

I am very sure, everyone who has tasted of the power of God's hiding place can testify and praise the Lord Almighty like king David who said, "Blessed be the LORD my Rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle. My lovingkindness and my fortress, My high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, Who subdues my people under me". Ps.144.1&2

Readings: Psalm 20, 91; 46; 144; 61; Prov.  18:1-15

Prayers: Hide me oh Lord in Your secret place of Refuge. Keep me from every peril and danger of this world. May I forever remain under Your shadow in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen

Our Father's Dwelling Place

 Our Father's Dwelling Place

Matt.6.6 - But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

In continuation of our study on the secret place,  today we'll meditate on it as the dwelling place of God, our Father.  The secret place is the place to find the Father. God doesn't dwell in the midst of rowdiness or chaos. He is a God of orderliness, seclusion, serenity and calmness.  Every prophet of old found Him in their moments of aloneness and separation. There are distractions out there in the crowd,  but Jesus the author and finisher of our faith will often withdraw from the crowd to a solitary place to commune with the Father.  

Luke.5.16 - But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer

Yes,  God is everywhere but His attention is mostly available for His chosen vessels in the secret place. Although, He ministers to the crowd openly but the disciples were taught the act of solutude, that's where He answers their many questions. He speaks in parable to the crowds but inside the dwelling place, He explains in clear terms to His disciples. If Jesus could develop the act of praying in the solitary place, to the extent of separating Himself for 40 days and nights alone in the wilderness before He began and also at Getsemane before He ended His earthly ministry, we should know it carries a great mystery that we all should unfold and emulate.

Matt.14.23 - And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. Mark.1.35 - The next morning Jesus awoke long before daybreak and went out alone into the wilderness to pray.

Moses met Yahweh in the wilderness alone before He was commissioned to lead Israel after being a vagabond for almost 40 years. God taught Him a regular act of meeting with Him alone in the secret place for regular instructions on every issue about His calling and life. The secret place of God is a place of awe and reference. The experience of Elijah's encounter with God on Horeb the Mountain of the LORD is another case for further consideration. Ironical, the three representing, the Law, the Prophets and the Gospel, were together with the Father at the mountain of transfiguration. If you truly need the attention or regular fellowship with the Father, the secret place of prayer and meditation is His dwelling place. Seek Him there and You will find Him.

Heb.4.16 - So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it.

Readings: 1 Kgs 19:1-21; Exodus 3:1-14; Mark 1:32-37; Matt. 17:1-9.

Prayers: Lord of grace and mercy, help me to establish a personal permanent abode with You in the secret place of prayer where your sovereignty abounds for ever. Teach me to there abide until I see You face to face. I ask in Jesus Christ's name. Amen

The Secret Place

 The Secret Place 

Ps.91.1 - He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

The secret place is your private life. Everyone has a private life, where you are all alone. The private life of every believer speaks volumes on how his life will be in reality. What you do in your secret place will determine how your whole life will pan out. If you dedicate your private life to mundane things, that determines your whole life's focus and reality. The secret place is a part of our lives that needs serious attention and that is why we are going to spend a few days talking about it. 

If there is a part of our lives that needs all the efforts to improve daily, to explore and maximise, a part where time wasting is a great disservice, a part of us where we determine our future, career and eternity. It is that private part of us. As we humans are created with this opportunity so God has His own. Jesus was a man who adored His solitary and knew when to activate it no matter how busy He is. 

The secret place is a place of preparation, study, learning and prayers. For a believer, it is a place to spend time with God, your maker. A place to receive strength and abundant grace for a purposeful living. A place of searching, seeking, knocking and receiving. The place to receive revelations, power and direction for each day and every day of our lives. It is a place of covenant and self consecration. A sure place of safety, salvation, security, absolute protection and all round blessings. 

We are not supposed to waste away our private life on frivolities and unproductive acts. If you maximise your private opportunities, you will gain the reward in the open. The secret place is a spiritual place, what you do there determines your physical realities. The consequences of which might go beyond you alone but have lasting effects on your generations yet unborn and also influence destinies attached to your existence. 

Matt.6.6 - But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

Readings: Psalm 91; Mark 1:35-45; Gal. 2

Prayers: 

I receive grace to make the best use of my secret life. I receive grace to explore, maximise and spend my secret life in the presence of God so that I may stay secure in His plan and purpose for me and my generation in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

Pray in Secret

 Pray in Secret 

Matt.6.6 - But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

The Pharisaic character of showing off is now becoming the order of the day among believers and in many churches. We love to publicise every pious act. Worshipping God is supposed to be a spiritual thing, done in spirit and in truth. We need to note what Jesus Himself warned the disciples against. We are in a generation where secret intercessors are very scarce. Some intercessors now want to be paid and recognised by the councils.  Personal private prayer altar before God, kneeling in the secret to pray is still highly revered by our Father who sees in secret.  

Jesus Christ advised the disciples as He does to modern day believers, 

Matt.6.5 - "And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.

Jesus says, It's hypocritical to do what you don't do in the secret in the open. They give their donations only in the open and the only time they appear serious and prayerful is at the Church.  They do this for men and not for God. With their mouth they are close to God but in their hearts they are a million miles far away. Don't do like them 

Matt.6.7 - And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.

Beware of vain repetitions. Composing special prayer rhymes to form sweet melodious sounds to human ear is only a show of human wisdom. This is not a yardstick to proof your prayer prowess, that you spent hours shouting all day and night in the temple or on the mountain doesn't mean your payer will be heard. Allow the Holy Spirit to help your 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

Matt.6.8 - "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.

Readings: Matt 6:1-8; James 4 :1-11; Psalm 15.

Prayers:

Help me Father to seek You more in secret. Revive my quiet time and personal prayer live. I need a sincere personal experience of your presence in my secret place in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen 

A Father-Son Relationship

First thing First-A Father-Son Relationship 

Matt.6.8 -9 "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.

An established Father-son relationship with God is the first step to effective prayer life. Prayer is a two way affair that involves listening and speaking, giving and taking, knowing and being known. How do you communicate with someone you don't have access to? How do you get someone you don't know to do your bidding? And when you are oppurtuned to access Him, what do you ask for? First thing first, wisdom is the principal thing, in all your gettings, get understanding. Knowing Him as a Father is the first and most important prerequisite to answer prayers.

A touch on Solomon's prayer in Ikgs 3, shows us how God is delighted when we know what's more important to pray about. As a Father, He knows all our needs before we ask and He is more than willing to do even more if we can only learn to priorities His interests above ours. God gave Solomon all he needed but didn't ask for, all because he was more concerned about the Father's business. He was not overwhelmed by his new position and seek what an average person will wish for, but sought for wisdom to excel as a leader of God's people. God gave him wisdom and all the blessings anyone could ever pray for.

If you put your relationship with God first above your needs, be rest assured you will recieve multiple of your heart desires. Before you pray, make sure you have settled your position as a son to the Almighty Father, your soul, your love, your being with Him is more important than all the earthly treasures and sacrifices. Return to your Father first like the prodigal son and you will be surprised by the kind of party He will throw in your celebration. Seek a cordial relationship with the giver not just run desperately only after His gifts.

Readings: IKgs 3:1-15; Matt. 6:1-18; Luk. 15:11-32; James 4:1-11

Prayers:

Oh Lord, my Father, help me to seek You first before my wants and worries. Teach me to trust You and relate with You like a son to His Father. Thank You Lord for Your Fatherly love and care. I will remain in this covenant all my days in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

Knowing How to Pray

 Knowing How to Pray

Luke.11.1 - Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."

Prayer is worship. Worship is all about prayer. Prayer is having a communion or communication with God. An act of conversing in the Spirit with God. Prayer is a spiritual act that involves physical expressions and spiritual understanding.  Understanding the act of praying is essential to building an effective and efficient Prayer life. 

One of the reasons we are often frustrated and tired of praying is because we really do not understand what prayer is. Many of us misconstrue the act of prayer as something noisy, a verbal or vocal expression of our desires to God which could sometimes be overly  mechanical or stereotyped exercise done in a particularly organised sacred place to a distanced, inaccessible deity.  Many people do not feel they have prayed until it involves some dramatic actions, utterances and hidden codes. 

Like Jesus taught His disciples, I want to say the act of praying is quite simple and personal. The act of prayer and worship encompasses every aspect of our lives.  A simple act of fellowship and communication with God which can be done anywhere, at any time and without any strict particular (how) posture. Prayer is spiritual because God is a Spirit and it will take sincerity of heart to communicate with Him. Prayer is firstly a thing of the heart and mind before connecting our bodies. Our physical dramas and organised acts like the Pharisees matter little without the true sincerity of our souls and spirits.  

Jesus says, “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." John 4:23-24.

Readings: Luke 11:1-14; James 4:1-17;  John 4:19-24; 

Prayers:

Oh Lord open our hearts to understand how to pray in Spirit and in Truth.  Teach and help us to pray as we ought to.  I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen.

Praying Without Ceasing

 Praying Without Ceasing 

1Thess.5.17 -18-  Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

One thing that is very pertinent to our vision and mission is consistency.  God is delighted in us and in our consistent walk with His. Like the breath we breathe, it's secret is consistency.. The moment your heart stop pumping that's death.  Studying the word of God is like our daily meal, the human body never cease to ask for food and water,  so our spiritual life will never survive without the word of God and prayer.

Jesus emphasizes this in Luke 18:1-8 with the story of the widow who got her request from the ungodly judge because of her persistency. We are encouraged never to give up regardless of how we feel per time. Prayers is not about when it feels comfortable.  Men ought to pray always and never faint. Our God is consistent and persistent.  He has never taken a break or got a leave from being God. Even though as humans, we might have been created weak and vulnerable, there are some things that cannot be compromised because they hold and control our lives and existence. 

Prayer is never to stop. The fire on the Altar is meant to burn 24/7. It's the symbol of life and power. We must keep breathing non-stop as long as we live.  The day you give up on reading and studying the word of life, our spiritual man begin to die. The day our prayer life and meditation begin to dwindle, we start to depreciate spiritually.  These acts are knitly connected to the sustainability of our lives and faith. They are mandatory and necessarily important for all believers to scale through this turbulent world.

1Tim.2.8 - I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;

 

Readings: Daniel 10:1-13; Luke 18:1-8; 1 Thess. 5:14-28

Prayer:

Oh Lord my Father give me grace to be consistent in prayers, never to faint until I get the desired results for all my prayers in Jesus name.  Amen 

Meditating on the Word

 Meditating on the Word 

Josh.1.8 - This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

Our thought pattern is very important to God. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. No wonder Paul advocates that our hearts should be renewed. Rom. 12.:2. Guide your heart with all diligence for out of it flow the issues of life. Prov. 4:23. Spending time mediating is one important act of religion but what we meditate on is an issue to give all attention. 

As believers, we are expected to meditate on the Word of God day and night. Apart from taking time to read or do thorough studies on the Word, we are expected to commit time alone with God, meditating on the Word. This is the time when our hearts and minds are opened to divine instructions and deep spiritual revelations. Reading the word of God is very good but meditating on it makes it more personal and revelational. Because this is when the interpretation goes beyond the general to specific and particular understanding 

The word of God becomes a living entity in the life of believers when it reaches the realm of meditation. It helps to make us fruitful and have good success. When you meditate on the Word of truth everything around us is influenced by it. 

Phil.4.8 - Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things.

Readings: Psalm 1, 19; Josh 1 :6-9: Pro. 3:1-8; Phil 4:4-9

Prayers:

 Oh Lord my God, help me to keep my heart focused in meditation on your words daily and for the rest of my life in Jesus name. Amen. 

Study Diligently

Study Diligently 

2Tim.2.15 - Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

One of the criteria for a graduate degree is an indepth study and research which will be documented as a long essay.  This usually comes after several diligent sessions and years of thorough studies and examinations.  After which research works and seminars are expected to be done and presented in defence of your opinions and inferences on the chosen topic. In the same way, every believer is expected to do diligent study of the word to be able to present its essence and defend its message correctly against every error and manipulation of darkness.  You are supposed to be the custodian of the message, correct errors and misinterpretations by infidels,  teach the novices and disciple the nations through it. 

Many believers today who are supposed to be teachers of the word are still groping around looking for teachers. Some believers after many years in the faith still find the word of God hard to preach or interpret to unbelievers.  Many have been in the Church for many years and yet to have or establish a personal revelation of the scriptures.  Many are being intimidated by heretic theologians and philosophers, yet could not defend themselves but succumb to various waves of doctrines and human philosophy.  No wonder many pray in error,  and run from prophets to prophets seeking visions and miracles. So many so called believers are still being deceived for lack of simple knowledge and understanding of biblical principles. 

The devil came to Jesus to tempt him using scriptures but Jesus being discerning and a Master of the Word Himself was able to use a superior understanding of the scripture to counter and defeat the devil.  We can only defeat the devil with the knowledge of the word we have diligently studied.  Then you can unfold the revelation therein through the help of the Holy Spirit. Studying the word of God is reading under a guidance.  The guidance of the Holy Spirit.  He is the author and giver of every inspiration therein. He knows the contextual understanding and the timely applications of every word in the scriptures. If there's a time for need of the revival of reading and studying the word of God,  it is now. There are too many fallacies out there for a child of God not to know his or her onions in the scriptures. 

Readings: Matt. 4:1-11; 2Tim. 3:13-4:1-5; Psalm 119:96-100. Heb. 5:11-14.

Prayers:

Oh Lord God of Knowledge,  help me to know Your words and rightly unravel it's meanings that I may grow thereby and also impact the same to others around me. I pray through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

Read to Learn and Observe

Read to Learn and observe 

Deut.17.18-19 "Also it shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book, from the one before the priests, the Levites. it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God and be careful to observe all the words of this law and these statutes, 

God gave His instructions and guidelines for would be kings in Israel long before they got to the promised land.  God had presept and instructions for every stage and category of men especially the leaders.  One of His instructions is that novices should not be made kings or leaders. Kings should marry many wives and shouldn't accumulate wealth for themselves at the expense of their citizens. 

Leaders should be readers, they should have personal copies of the Law and read daily all the days of their lives.  Anyone who can't read can't lead. Because,  according to the word of God,  they will learn  to fear God and be careful to observe His words when they read.  Reading broadens our horizon. It helps deep thinking and wise observation. Reading brings information. The word of God is available that we might read it and thereby learn to fear God and observe His ways. 

The idea of writing came that we might read and re-read for us never to forget any important message.  As good as it is to memorise and learn to store the word of God at heart,  writing and reading is much more effective because of the limitations of the human brain. There's a limit to what can be memorised and for how long our brain can store information. What we memorise can be distorted but the written word can't be manipulated. 

God command regular reading of the word in the temple by the scribes to the people during worship, He also mandated kings and leaders to read the book of the law. This is the first reason God gave the written laws that His people might not forget his word.  One of our Sunday School lyrics says 

'Read your bible,  pray everyday, if you want to grow'. 

Our growth and development depends on how much time you have to read the scriptures. This is to be done daily and for the rest of our lives. Only a dead man stops reading. Pick up a book today and read. Give more time to reading each day and you will become a better version of yourself. 

Readings: Deut. 17:14-20; Neh. 8:1-18; Acts 8:27-40.

Prayers: 

I re-dedicate myself to reading Your words daily that I may learn to fear You and that I may be careful to observe Your word all the days of my life.  Amen 

Feeding on the Word

 Feeding on the Word 

Moreover He said to me, "Son of man, eat what you find; eat this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel." So I opened my mouth, and He caused me to eat that scroll. And He said to me, "Son of man, feed your belly, and fill your stomach with this scroll that I give you." So I ate, and it was in my mouth like honey in sweetness. Ezek.3.1-3

God's law is food for our belly. We are meant to eat it daily, digest and allow it nourish our bodies unto maturity before we can adequately declare it to the world. For a child to grow physically, mentally and do all he needs to do as a human being, he needs to be properly nourished. What he or she is being fed with matters a lot to how his or her growth will be. The word of God is the balanced diet for the nourishment of our spiritual body. For a believer to grow and survive the rigour of spiritual journey and warfare, we need to eat the scroll, consume and digest properly. 

In other word, for us to do the works of the master we need to first of all consume the word sufficiently. We can only vomit what we swallow. You cannot give what you don't have. We are what we eat. You become what you consume. God asked Ezekiel to consume the scroll and it was sweet in his mouth. 

The word of God is our delicious food meant for regular consumption. Eat it first, feed your belly and fill your stomach with the Word. This is essential before reaching out to the world. The world may not be ready to receive it but it brings sweetness to our stomach. 

 - Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2Tim.2.15

Reading: Ezekiel 3:1-9; Psalm 1; 119:92-105; John 6:29-35.

Prayers: 

Oh Lord, feed me with Your bread of life, that I may feed as many that are ready around me. Let your word bring me joy and help me share this joy to the ends of the earth. Amen.

God's Law is a Lamp

 God's Law is a Lamp

Prov.6.23 - For the commandment is a lamp, And the law a light; Reproofs of instruction are the way of life,

The new testament is a testament of grace and mercy. We celebrate grace as if the dispensation of law was evil. On the contrary, the Law was never evil. It came into being in other to help humanity control themselves. The Law put checks on our attitudes and inter-relations . It helps us to channel our freedom and egos rightly. The law of God is a way shower. It is a light to illuminate the path of everyone governed by it. Where there is no Law people do whatever they like. A lawless environment is a society in darkness. A place where people do whatever they deem right. Where there is no law, there is no sin. Sin is made known by the Law. 

So, Law is never evil, but a good instrument for orderliness and control. It is the system of rules that govern the behaviour of people in a society. Before law came into place, humanity were lost in lawlessness and impunity. For instance, Cain murderred his brother without fear. Even when his brother's blood cried for Vengeance to God, and God confronted him about the whereabouts of his brother, Cain was still defending himself Gen. 4. The so called children of God, came and committed sexual immorality with the daughters of men, all because there was nothing to checkmate any act among men as at then Gen. 6. 

If Laws and constitutions had not been put in place in societies like Nigeria of today, can you imagine how the society would be? Despite the several promulgation of Laws and established constitutions we can still see the level of decadence in our societies and the world at large. Law brings orderliness and direction. It is a light to every organisation or society. When it is obeyed and diligently observed it helps humanity to preserve His own life as well as that of others around Him but when it is ignored, it carries weighty consequences. One of the major challenges in a nation today is lawlessness. In countries where laws are made, implemented and enforced, they have better societies for themselves. 

Readings: Gen. 4: 3-24; 6:1-6; Prov. 6:1-24; Rom. 7:1-16.

Prayers: 

Oh Lord of truth and justice, help me to keep your laws in my heart. Let me find light and direction for my life and destiny in it. This I ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Human's or Divine Approval

 Human's or Divine Approval 

Matt.3.17 - And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

The hallmark of Christ's Ministerial approval was demonstrated at His baptism.  Several prophesies preceded His coming but the greatest testimony was the Father's attestation to His Sonship at His baptism. The water baptism by John and his testimony was like the last human witnessing that Jesus was the expected Messiah. But beyond all of this, seeing heaven opened on Him, and the three personalities in the Trinity manifesting at once was to establish the real identity of Christ as the Only Begotten of the Father whom we must listen to.

Our focus today is about the two dimensional witnessing around the personality and nature of Christ. Of a truth, whoever is approved by God finds favour with men. 

Prov.16.7 - When a man's ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Notwithstanding,  human favour is never to be trusted.  The same John, the chief witness to Christ doubted Him when he (John) was imprisoned.  The same people that shouted hosanna in the highest at His triumphant entry were there to echo and re-echo crucify him few days later. Jesus had multitude following him everywhere until crucifixion when He was left all alone in death. 

It will be a  great error if your life is based only on human approval. It's in the nature of man to praise you when all is going well and also natural for them to spite you when it's otherwise.  So, if you rely on their praise and recommendation,  be prepared for disappointments and frustrations.  The only reliable,  unchanging and dependable support and approval that matters is that of God. Are you approved of Him. It will be a total disaster for a believer to live or embark on anything at all when God hasn't sanctioned it. Seek God's approval first before considering any human opinion. 

Readings: Isa.42:1-13; Psalm 19; John 1:6-37. 

Prayers:

Oh Lord my Father, let my life and and all I do be approved of You. I depend on Your touch and stamp. Open Your heaven over my life, business,  career and ministry.  Let it be all about You and You alone in Jesus Christ’s mighty name I pray.  Amen. 

Having a Name in Heaven

 Having a name in Heaven 

Luke.10.20 - Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven."

One of the major ways to immortalise any important person in the society is by naming important sites or institutions after them. This is to keep the name in remembrance for as long as the world exists. Today we have many institutions,  streets, villages, cities and even countries named after men. If the world knows how to celebrate heroes by immortalising their name among the people,  how beautiful will it be if one's name is written in heaven. Do you know,  that apart from having one's name written in the book of life, many will have streets,  gates, and pillars named after them in heaven.  The twelve tribes of Israel and the Twelve Apostles take the lead for every believer to follow.  Rev. 21:12. 

The question here today is,  Has your name been written in heaven?  Jesus told the 70 disciples after a successful witnessing experience that they should not rejoice because of the miracles that happened through them. Not because demons were subjected to them or that they won a lot of souls to the Kingdom.  But that they have their names written in heaven.  Do you know,  it is possible to be named among the Prophets like Saul and yet have no personal relationship with God?  Do you know it's possible to be famous and known all over the world for miracles, sign and wonders and yet no heavenly recognition. There are those christened saints who might not be recognised so in Heaven.  The pertinent question remains,  do you have a name in Heaven? 

What shall it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and loses his soul?  What will it profit a man immortalised on earth,  only to burn in the fire of Hell.  If there's one thing for everyone to resolve as soon as possible,  it is the issue of salvation.  The rate at which young people including believers are dying this days means everyone should take their eternity more serious.  The world is a temporal place,  heaven is eternal.  Therefore,  having a name in heaven is more important than earthly recognition,  fame, and rewards. Do not let your happiness depend on your success on earth,  rejoice only when you're sure your name is written in heaven. If not examine yourself,  repent and let Jesus mould you. 

Reading.  Psalm 8:1-9; Luke 10: 17-24; Rev. 21:1-27.

Prayers:

Oh gracious Lord,  make my life pure and acceptable in Your eyes.  Accept me as Yours completely and write my name boldly in Your kingdom.  I rejoice in the fact that I belong to You and that You know my name.  Thank You for writing my name in Heaven.  In Jesus name I pray.  Amen 

He Calls His own by Name

He Calls His Own by Name

John.10.3 - To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

Every parent identifies his or her child by name. The major reason for naming a child is for proper identification. Everything created and owned by God is distinguished by name. So the Lord Jesus as the good shepherd nurtures and relates with His sheep like a Father, to the extent that each of them has a name by which He identifies them. God relates with all His children on a personal individual level. No intermediary, we all have equal and direct access as sons and daughters to Him. Being jealously protected from every external incursions.

John.10.28 - And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.

The good shepherd cares for the sheep with His life. He never gives up on any of them.  He searches for the lost ones until they are restored from destruction. He won't give up on one because He has so much,  one out of hundred is as important as the ninety nine. You are important to God like any other believer. Do not let anyone make you think less of yourself before God. God doesn't have any other special child apart from the Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ. The rest of us are children through grace and adoption. Gal. 4:6-9.

Men may give up on you, Christ will not. Your pastor and brethren may give up on you, even your parents and friends may give up on you.  There is a Man who will not give up on any soul.  He keeps searching until He finds any lost sheep, Matt. 18:12-14. He knows each of us by name,  He knows your worries and pain. He sees each tear that falls on your eyes, He cares with His life and will not give up until everyone given to Him is saved. You are never an orphan, with Christ in your life you can't be stranded. He knows your name. He cares for you. He will surely come to save you. Trust Him!

Reading: Isa. 49: 8-16; Psalm 9:1-10; John 10:25-29; Rev. 3:7-13; 20: 12-15.

Prayers:

I surrender my life to you, oh Lord. May I be Yours forever and ever. Keep me like the apple of Your eyes. Do not let the evil one snatch me out of Your hands. Write my name in Your book of life and let Your grace and mercy keep me safe till the end. I pray in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

I know my Sheep

Sunday 2, March 2025

 I know my Sheep

John.10.14 - I am the good shepherd ; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.

Multitude, Multitude are the number of men in the world. I believe the world's population which is said to be around 7 billion people can only be an approximation and not the accurate number of people on our planet right now. Whether accurate or approximate,  billions of people have lived on earth and have gone, billions are still living now, and more in the future. Considering this enormous number of people who have and will still pass through the Earth, each person had or has his/her peculiar beliefs,  religion or philosophy. Some Atheistic, some others Theistic while some Pantheistic . 

The 2022 world religious demography shows that around 31.6 percent of the global population identify as Christians,  about 25.8 percent as Muslims,  while 15.1 percent were Hindus, the forth largest world religion was Buddhism with about 7 percent of the world population. From those 31.6 percent  which could be approximated to about 2.2 billion people who confess to Christianity, there are those whose identities are still not known to the Lord. Although, they might be loyal and committed in one way or the other through religious activities. The Lord said, ‘I know my sheep’, even though many people confess Him, yet very few people know Him or are known by Him.

It will be a great tragedy for anyone to have the kind of confidence shown by those people in  Matt. 7:21, who could protest to Lord that they prophesy in his name and did all sort of miracles in His name, yet Christ will deny any knowledge of them. Yes! Many are called but few are chosen. Yes! Many are called but not all has a name in the book of life. There can be no mistake or mix up with God, ‘cause He knows those who are His. He can identify them even by their names. That's why Matt. 24:31 affirms this when He says that He will gather His elect from the four corners of the world. Are you one of His few sheep? Do you know or recognise His voice? 

Readings: Matt. 7:21-28; John 10:11-16; Ps. 23; 100.

Prayers: 

Oh Lord the good shepherd,  make me a worthy sheep in your flock. Help me to know You as I ought. May I  never walk away from your grace and mercy. Help me to remain in You and faithful to Your Lordship all the days of my life in Jesus most precious name I pray.  Amen 

Let Both Grow Together

Let Both grow together 

Matt.13.30 - Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.'

The parable of the wheat and weeds is a typical description of the state of corruption the world brought into the original plan and purpose of God for all His creatures.  God's purpose for all is good but corruption came as an intrusion brought by the evil one. While men slack evil weeds found it ways into the story and corrupt the process. Why do we have so much corruption in the land and even among the saints and God allows it to continue? Why is He not punishing sin again like in the Old Testament era? Why did He allow the persistent growth of the wrong seed subtly planted to destroy His tender crops?  

There are many wolves in sheep's clothing.  They are sent to carry out the agenda of their master,  to steal the salvation of many, to kill their passion and commitment to God and to destroy completely.  They are the source of the corruption,  worldliness, immorality,  conflict, wrong doctrines, depression among believers and spiritual coldness that seem to pervade the fold. The wheat will definitely struggle in this scenario because this conflicting situation is actually the pleasure of the mixed multitude. The saints might feel sad by some of the development in the Church while it's actually to the pleasure of the devil and his own. The servants of the owner requested if they should uproot the weeds.  This is a normal thing to do in every farming system but surprisingly,  the LORD said they both should grow together until harvest. Why?

This is why both the good testimonies of the good people and the shameful experiences of the bad people often heard in the world and the Church on earth will never cease. They are there to make us stronger and help us see reasons for consistent relationship with God. They are like thorns which sometimes choke the wheat but His Spirit helps us build perseverance and love for even our enemies. The faithful judge knows each one's work. He's only waiting for time. Check yourself today, are you one of His? 

2Thess.2.3 - Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition,

Readings: Matt. 13:24-30; 2 Peter 3:9-18; Matt. 5:38-48

Prayers:

Oh gracious Father,  You are the Master of all. Help me to stay strong and faithful to You till the end.  May I never be choked by the activities of the evil seeds of darkness.  Help me to stay steadfast and unmovable servant of God.  This I ask through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen