Topic: The Written Word of God [Joyce Meyer Devotional 6 January 2019]
Give, and [gifts] will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will they pour into [the pouch formed by] the bosom [of your robe and used as a bag]. For with the measure you deal out [with the measure you use when you confer benefits on others], it will be measured back to you. — Luke 6:38 (AMPC)
In order to know God—what to expect from Him and what He expects from you—you must know His Word. It’s not possible for God to say one thing but do another. He cannot lie, and He’s always faithful to perform what He has promised.
I know many people who have studied God’s Word diligently and whose lives have been changed, but I also know many who, although they would like their lives to improve, won’t discipline themselves to study and learn the Word or to speak the Word.
Spending time with God by studying the Word is your choice, and only you can make it. When you make that choice to seek Him with your whole heart, it won’t take long before the desire to really know God and His Word becomes a natural response.
Prayer Starter: Lord, help me to take steps today to make Your Word a priority in my life. As I move forward, give me a true hunger and desire to know You more intimately. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Fitting the Pieces to Form a Whole (Part 4) By Pastor Faith Oyedepo
Topic: Fitting the Pieces to Form a Whole (Part 4)
Dear Reader,
Happy Christmas in advance! It is my pleasure to welcome you to a wonderful time of encounter with the Word of God today. I stated earlier in the first edition that all through the month’s teaching, I will be looking at vital aspects that, if paid attention to, will lead to a glorious family life. I have considered being joyful as a major catalyst to family peace and an atmosphere for attracting God’s blessings into your home. I have also stated that when you understand and do what would attract your husband or wife to you continuously, it creates togetherness and lasting peace in the home. Last week, I discussed on major challenges to family finance and this week, I want you to free your home from anxiety. Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. The enemy always uses anxiety to steal your joy, kill your peace and destroy your confidence in God. The Word of God says: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10).But as he comes, Jesus also comes to supply more joy, more peace and more confidence in God! Anxiety-causing situations will arise, but what it takes to overcome them is already deposited within you. Jesus has given you power and authority over all situations and circumstances! Since anxiety has its roots in the spiritual, its remedy is also spiritual. To overcome anxiety, you need the following keys:
1. The Word of God: The Word of God being the manufacturer’s manual is the all-time cure for anxiety. Jesus, our example, was able to judge situations, circumstances and crisis by the Word. He was able to deal with everything that would have caused anxiety. The Word of God says: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32). This scripture can be paraphrased thus, “And you shall know what to do when anxiety strikes and the knowledge of what to do, when applied, shall make you free from anxiety’s grip!” Most often, anxiety arises as a result of concern of what to eat, drink or wear, but God has made in His Word how to receive them. For instance, the Word of God says: Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things (Matthew 6:31-32).You may be wondering about what your family will eat and wear; the Lord says you should not think about them. When anxiety knocks on the door of your heart, speak the Word of God that is relevant to that situation. Here is a testimony on anxiety:
“After my first child in May, 1981, I went from church to church in search of another child, not really knowing the word of God. I was anxious, desperate, worried and lacked good relationship with people. This almost caused me my marriage, because my husband did not believe. However, I got another baby in December 1991, (10 years later), and I thought peace had come to the home. But no! Until I started coming to this church in July 1994. I gave my life to Christ in October 1994. I started hearing the Word of God in a way I had never heard it before! I started seeing changes in my home and in the relationship between my husband and I. Peace, joy, harmony and great love were restored to me. Then I was still anxious for another child, since my baby was now over four years old. Then, I read the book You Can Overcome Anxiety. Anxiety died in me, because I now know God is able to do all things. My husband, by His grace, is now a man, husband and father. There is now peace in my home and office and my relationship with other people in excellent.” –Hart, C. I.
2. Put your Trust in God: Anxiety does not increase anyone; it only reduces your confidence in God. If you lose confidence in the One who is for you, you open the door for all that are against you. The Word of God says: Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward (Hebrews 10:35). Confidence is an uncompromising trust in God. Be confident that He will supply all your needs as He has promised in Philippians 4:19; His Word does not fail. Since you know the origin of the truth that Jesus has dealt with it, you should be confident that you have what it takes to be absolutely free from it.
3. Cast your Cares on Him: I want you to know that God cares about all your needs as a family. He wants to reach out to you, but there is a door which must be unlocked if you want Him to intervene in your situation. Cast all your care upon Him. The Word of God says: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you (1 Peter 5:7).The way to cast your cares on Him is through prayer. The Word of God says: Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not (Jeremiah 33:3). When you call out in prayer, God answers with a solution to the anxiety causing-situation. Prayer is necessary for anxiety to be uprooted.
You can’t however, walk in agreement without accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. The grace to walk in agreement and dominion come from God and is readily available to His children. If you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and personal Saviour, then say this prayer in faith:
Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me my sins and cleanse me with Your Blood. I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Make me a child of God today. Thank You for delivering me from sin and satan to serve the living God and thank You for accepting me into Your Kingdom. Congratulations!
If you prayed this simple prayer of faith with me, you are born again and you are now a child of God. He loves you and will never leave you. Read your Bible daily, obey God’s Word and seek Christian fellowship (John 14:21). With this, you are guaranteed all-round rest and peace in Jesus’ name! Call or write to share your testimonies with me through [email protected], 07026385437 OR 08141320204.
For more insight, these books authored by me are available at the Dominion Bookstores in all Living Faith Churches and other leading Christian bookstores: Marriage Covenant, Making Marriage Work, Building a Successful Home and Success in Marriage (Co-Authored).
Pastor Faith Oyedepo is the wife of Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide a.k.a. Winners’ Chapel, and Senior Pastor of Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria.
Engaging the Power of Sanctification for Fulfilment of Destiny! By David Oyedepo
Topic: Engaging the Power of Sanctification for Fulfilment of Destiny!
Happy New Year! I believe 2018 was indeed a New Dawn year for you and your family? My prayer is that 2019 shall be your year of Dominion in all areas of life in Jesus’ name! To start with, this week, we shall examine the topic: Engaging the Power of Sanctification for Fulfilment of Destiny!
From scriptures, we understand that every child of God is ordained a global and mountaintop citizen. As it is written: And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise (Galatians 3:29; see also Matthew 5:14; Deuteronomy 28:1; Genesis 28:14). That means we are ordained to bless and not to be a burden to our world. However, to fulfil that glorious, colourful and enviable destiny, certain things must be in place. Among these is sanctification; which is living to please God. Please understand that sanctification is a spiritual catalyst for the fulfilment of destiny. The Bible says: Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people (Proverbs 14:34).In other words, it takes sanctification to go up and stay up. Samson went up by sanctification; but came down by desecration (Judges 13:3-5, 16:1-30). Also, remember Solomon loved many strange women and he ended up in a shrine (1 Kings 11:1-6).That establishes the fact that, destiny is at a risk without sanctification. We must understand that sanctification is the will of God for us. For it is written: For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: that every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4).
How, then does Sanctification enhance the Fulfilment of Destiny?
1. It is required for Answered Prayers: To fulfil our glorious destinies, prayers are required. It is important to know that we need sanctification to qualify for answers on the prayer altar (Isaiah 59:1-2; Psalm 66:18). However, one interesting thing about our God is that, any time we repent of our sins, He forgives us as if we never did it (Psalm 66:19-20).
2. It enhances our access to Revelations: Access to revelation requires sanctification and revelation is buying into the heart of God on the issues of the hour (Psalm 25:14).Joseph had abundant access to the secrets of God and he had an enviable destiny. It was said of him that forasmuch as God has shown him all these things, he was in another class (Genesis 41:37-40). After he had revealed himself to his brethren, he said, ‘But I fear God’ (Genesis 42:18). Also, his reverence for God’s laws prevented him from sleeping with Potiphar’s wife.
3. For Next-Levels of Anointing: Anointing is a requirement for the fulfilment of destiny and access to it is by sanctification. Furthermore, anointing that is not regularly topped up will culminate in loss of impact. This requires daily desperation for sanctification. Also, it takes fresh Oil to command fresh impact (Psalm 92:10; Luke 5:37-38). As we all know, if we don’t change the oil in our car, the engine will soon knock. It is walking in the newness of life that guarantees access to fresh Oil (Proverbs 1: 23; Psalm 45:7).
4. For Security of Destiny: Many great destinies in scriptures crashed for lack of sanctification. Think of Achan, who saw a wedge of gold, coveted and took it into his tent, dug the ground and kept it there. That singular act of lack of self-control ended his destiny, and that of his entire family (Joshua 7:19-26). However, there are three forces that truncate destinies (1 John 2:15-17). a. The lust of the flesh (1 Kings 11:1-6; Genesis 39: 7-12, 41:38-44). b. The lust of the eyes (2 Kings 5:22-27). c. The pride of life (Proverbs 16: 18).
5. For Security of Posterity: Our uprightness is the security of our generation (Psalm 112:1-2). Our walk today determines the blessings that follow our children tomorrow (Proverbs 20:7). So, stop playing games!
6. To Secure Eternity with Christ: We need sanctification, so we can make heaven (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
Channels through which the Holy Ghost sanctifies us
1. By the Impartation of the Spirit of Holiness: This impartation could come to us directly, as we crave and thirst for Him (Luke 11:13).We can also access impartation of that Spirit through apostolic and prophetic ministries (Romans 1:11).
2. By the Revelation of the Truth: It is so important to know that revelation empowers for sanctification and the Holy Ghost is our access to revelation. That means He enhances our access to sanctification (John 17:17; Psalm 19:7-9, 119:9-11).
3. By the Release of the Spirit of Prayer and Supplications: Prayer is a channel for overcoming temptations. In Matthew 26:41-44, the disciples could not pray because their flesh was weak. So, the Holy Ghost empowers us on the prayer altar, so we can overcome temptations, day and night. And He also empowers us to pray the transfiguration prayer (Ephesians 6: 18; Romans 8:26-27).
In conclusion, please understand that destiny is at a risk without sanctification. Solomon lost it all. Samson became a toy in the hands of his enemies; they plucked out his two eyes and asked him to dance for them. Judas, a disciple also lost it. Achan lost his entire lineage. Gehazi became leprous. In weakness, they all crashed; but we shall not crash! We shall all fulfil destiny in grand style in Jesus’ name!
However, you must be born again to experience sanctification. Are you born again? If you are not, this is an opportunity to do so. Simply say the following prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me my sins. Cleanse me with Your precious Blood. Today, I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Thank You Jesus for saving me! Now I know I am born again!”
For further reading, please get my books: Walking in the Newness of Life, Conquering Controlling Powers, The Blood Triumph and Dynamics of Holiness. I invite you to come and fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have four services on Sundays, holding at 6:00 a.m., 7:50 a.m., 9:40 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. respectively. I know this teaching has blessed you.
Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 01-4548070, 01-4548280; or E-mail:[email protected]; Face book: www.facebook.com/davidoyedepoministries/; Twitter: @DavidOyedepoMin
David O. Oyedepo is a Nigerian Christian author, architect, preacher, and the founder and presiding bishop of the mega church, Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners’ Chapel
Many believers are caught in what I will call ‘prayer-paralysis.’ They are so hung up to prayer that they leave everything to God and then fold their hands and expect a miracle. I feel a strong sense of responsibility as we start this year to call you to take responsibility for your life.
One truth that I have repeated often, but still bears repetition is: Any prayer that puts 100% responsibility on God is an irresponsible prayer. What exactly is prayer? Prayer in the simplest form is, fellowshipping with God. In the place of prayer, you are not just talking to God; it is a dialogue (not a monologue), He is also talking to you. When you go to God concerning an issue, listen to hear what instructions He will give you, and then get up and do it.
Imagine someone praying for a job, who stays at home, refuses to write a CV, applies to no organization; he only stays in the room praying and expects the job offer. No! It does not work like that. When you pray concerning a job, put your CV together, attend the employability program where you are trained on writing your CV, preparing for interviews and other necessary skills. Look out for openings – through adverts (online and offline) and one-on-one contacts. Apply job for the job and keep praying. That is how to pray actively. You are in a partnership with God; you have your role and He has His. He will not do for you what He has equipped you to do, no matter how long you pray.
When praying concerning that need, listen to the Holy Spirit for instruction and when He gives you the instruction, no matter how silly it looks to you, obey it and watch God do the rest. Faith and work must go hand in hand.
Further Reading: James 2: 17-23
Daily Bible Reading: Morning- Gen. 16,17 / Evening- Matt. 5:27-48
Written by Dr. Mike Okonkwo; Is the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM); a versatile man of God with over 30 years of dedicated service unto the Lord.
Topic: The Greater Glory [Our Daily Bread 6 January 2019 Devotional]
Read: John 17:1–5, 20–24, Bible in a Year: Genesis 16–17; Matthew 5:27–48
In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. Luke 2:1
Caesar Augustus is remembered as the first and greatest of the Roman emperors. By political skill and military power he eliminated his enemies, expanded the empire, and lifted Rome from the clutter of rundown neighborhoods into a city of marble statues and temples. Adoring Roman citizens referred to Augustus as the divine father and savior of the human race. As his forty-year reign came to an end, his official last words were, “I found Rome a city of clay but left it a city of marble.” According to his wife, however, his last words were actually, “Have I played the part well? Then applaud as I exit.”
What Augustus didn’t know is that he’d been given a supporting role in a bigger story. In the shadow of his reign, the son of a carpenter was born to reveal something far greater than any Roman military victory, temple, stadium, or palace (Luke 2:1).
But who could have understood the glory Jesus prayed for on the night His countrymen demanded His crucifixion by Roman executioners? (John 17:4–5). Who could have foreseen the hidden wonder of a sacrifice that would be forever applauded in heaven and earth?
It’s quite a story. Our God found us chasing foolish dreams and fighting among ourselves. He left us singing together about an old rugged cross.
Prayer: Father in heaven, please help us to see through and beyond the passing glory of everything but Your love.
The glory we need is the glory of the cross.
INSIGHT The word glory (or glorify) is very prominent in John’s gospel. In John 17 alone it’s used nine times. It’s derived from the base word doxa, which means “glory,” “honor,” or “praise.” Our word doxology (a short hymn of worship) comes from this term. In John, the word glory surfaces first in chapter 1, verse 14. The second time is in John 2:11 where at Cana we read that Jesus “revealed his glory” by turning water into wine. Through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, God was and is honored or glorified. Arthur Jackson
Topic: Give God The Glory [DCLM Daily Manna 6 January 2019 Daily Devotional by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi]
Text: Nehemiah 7:5, 6 (KJV)
Key Verse: “And my God put into mine heart to gather together the nobles, and the rulers and the people, that they might be reckoned by genealogy. And I found a register of the genealogy of them which came up at the first, and found written therein” (Nehemiah 7:5).
MESSAGE:
From the time of the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar to the time of Nehemiah, the city of Jerusalem had been depopulated. The approximately fifty thousand returnees who came with Zerubbabel on the first return in 536 BC settled primarily in the rural areas of Palestine. The four thousand who came to Ezra in 457 BC settled in Jerusalem and the immediate area. Because of the small population in the city, special measures were taken in order to make those in the city safe. Thus, the gates were closed at night and not opened until everyone was up and alert in the morning. Following the divine permission he got, Nehemiah planned to repopulate the city. He said: “And my God put into mine heart to gather together the nobles, and the rulers, and the people, that they might be reckoned by genealogy”. Nehemiah had the habit of giving credit to God who had put it in his heart to accomplish any task in reference to the re-establishment of Israel in Palestine.
Nehemiah said that God put “into mine heart”. The major problem many people have today is that they do their own will, not God’s. They do not hear from God before they embark on projects . Whether in our individual lives, family life, corporate engagement, church, work or whatever it is that we want to do, we must endeavour to seek the approval of God.
Many people have burnt their fingers by venturing into businesses and careers that God did not plan for them. Nehemiah had a habit of listening to God and following through to whatever He has laid in his heart, and that was the secret of his success in the ministry God gave him.
Thought For The Day: The secret of success in life and ministry is doing God’s will.
DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.
Flatimes’ Notice Board: Until you are born again, God ever abiding presence will never be with you. You must be born again to enjoy continuous victory. Please say the displayed prayer below in faith:
Lord Jesus, come into my life. I accept You as my Lord and Personal Saviour. I believe in my heart You died and rose from the dead to save me. Thank You Lord for saving me, in Jesus name Amen.
If you just prayed the prayer of salvation online please send your testimonies and prayer request to [email protected], 07026385437 OR 08141320204.
TOPIC: Jesus’ Prayer (Mountain Of Fire and Miracle Ministries, MFM Daily Devotional 6 January 2019)
FIRE SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:41-46
MEMORY VERSE: “And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.” – Luke 5:16
The MESSAGE:
Jesus’ prayer life and method produced so many great results so much so that His disciples said to Him, “Master teach us how to pray”. Some of the disciples had been John the Baptist’s followers and had seen John pray. Some also knew about fasting while they were with John, yet Jesus’ style of prayer produced amazing results that they had never seen before. His prayer raised Lazarus to life. His prayer cast out demons and set the oppressed free. His prayer multiplied five loaves of bread and two pieces of fish which fed over five thousand people by the Galilean sea. His prayer brought total and permanent healing to the sick. Why was Jesus’ life and ministry so phenomenal? His food was to do the will of the Father who sent Him (John 4:34). In addition, Jesus’ prayers were all in line with the will of the Father. A prayer that lacks this characteristics cannot guarantee answer from heaven.
In the Garden of Gethsamane, Jesus faced the greatest trial of all times. He must decide whether to do His own will (according to the demand and dictate of the flesh) or to do the will of His Father. He chose the latter. He first asked the Father to let the cup pass over Him, then He added, “Not my will, but Your will”. In other words, Jesus told the Father to let His will prevail. He said, “In this matter, have Your way, Father”. That statement brought Jesus more grace and strength to face and endure the challenge ahead of Him: going to the Cross and laying down His life for sinful mankind. By so doing, the Son of God fulfilled His divine assignment.
Those who don’t pray according to God’s will pray amiss. The Bible says, “This is the confidence that we have in Him that whatever we ask according to His will, we get the answer.”
Beloved, always pray according to God’s will. In all things, align your will with God’s and you will get Jesus’ kind of results.
MOTIVATIONAL QUOTE: WHEN YOU PRAY ACCORDING TO THE WILL OF GOD, HE WILL ANSWER YOU.
PROPHETIC WORD: Your prayer arrows shall hit their targets!
PRAYER POINTS:
MORNING
My Father, arise by fire and defend my portions, in the name of Jesus.
Father, make my prayer as result-oriented as Jesus’, in the name of Jesus.
Every commandment of darkness against my destiny, scatter, in the name of Jesus. EVENING
Any satanic intermediary assigned against me, catch fire, in the name of Jesus.
Let every arrow assigned against me catch fire, in the name of Jesus.
Let the power of the emptier surrounding my breakthrough, die, in the name of Jesus.
Any power assigned to demote my destiny, die, in the name of Jesus.
MOUNTAIN TOP LIFE is a daily devotional by Dr. D.K Olukoya (General Overseer, Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries, Worldwide)
Flatimes Notice Board: Until you are born again, God ever abiding presence will never be with you. You must be born again to enjoy continuous victory. Please say the displayed prayer below in faith:
Lord Jesus, come into my life. I accept You as my Lord and Personal Saviour. I believe in my heart You died and rose from the dead to save me. Thank You Lord for saving me, in Jesus name Amen.
If you just prayed the prayer of salvation online please send your testimonies and prayer request to [email protected], 07026385437 OR 08141320204.
Topic: Revelation For A Lift And Shift In Life [Seeds of Destiny 6 January 2019 Devotional]
Scripture:He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant: Whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron: Until the time that his word came: the word of the Lord tried him. The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free. Psalms 105:17-20.
Thought For The Day: When your word comes, your lift comes; when your word comes, your world changes.
As children of God, we are children of His Kingdom, and in the Kingdom, possibilities happen for people who take responsibilities. There are people who have yearned for a lift and shift in life and destiny for many years but they are yet to experience it. This is because they have not taken the responsibility or meet the demands for a lift and shift in life. Beloved, there are demands a person must meet in order to experience a lift and shift in life.
Previously, we saw desperation and supplication as demands for experiencing God’s lift and shift in life. Today, another demand for a lift and shift in life is REVELATION.
This refers to the revelation of the Word of God (Psalms 105:17-20). Beloved, when your word comes, your lift comes; when your word comes, your world changes. And when your word comes, everything changes around your life. In Isaiah 60:1, we understand that light is fuel for lift. Anywhere you get light, there you experience a lift. Light sponsors flight. You cannot carry light and crawl in life (Isaiah 60:8). Light makes for flight. Revelation brings elevation (Gal 2:2).
Now, what do you do in order to get the revelation of God’s Word?
i. Ask God for revelation that will bring you elevation (Psalm 119:18).
ii. Embark on a diligent search for light in God’s Word (Joshua 1:8, 2 Timothy 2:15).
Beloved, if you combine asking God at the place of prayer for the revelation of His Word with a diligent search for light from His Word, He will lift and shift your life and destiny to the next level.
Remember this: When your word comes, your lift comes; when your word comes, your world changes.
Assignments: i. Ask God for a revelation that will bring you elevation. ii. Embark on a diligent search for light from God’s word.
Prayer: O Lord, I ask that You open my eyes to behold wondrous things out of Your Word (Psalm 119:18). I ask for the discipline to study Your Word, Lord, in Jesus’ Name.
FOR FURTHER UNDERSTANDING, GET THIS MESSAGE: COME UP HITHER-SUPERNATURAL LIFTS AND SHIFTS.
Today In History: 06/01/1930 – The first diesel engine automobile trip was completed after a run of 792 miles from Indianapolis, IN, to New York City, NY.
Daily Reading: Genesis 13:5 to 15:21, Matthew 5:27 to 48, Psalm 6:1 to 10, Proverbs 1:29 to 33.
Amazing Fact: The world’s fastest airplane is the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, flying at 2,193 miles per hour. It has held the record for nearly 40 years.
Quote: By the process of praying in the spirit, you transfer spiritual information and revelation into your spirit and they become a part of your life. Culled from GO IN THIS THY MIGHT by Dr. Paul Enenche.
Today’s devotional was written by Pastor Paul Enenche of the Dunamis International Gospel Centre (DIGC), headquartered at Abuja, Nigeria, with Pastor Paul and Becky Enenche, as the Senior Pastors. It is a power-packed arena where God’s Presence, Principles and Power are at work for the salvation, healing and restoration of human destinies and dignities
Flatimes Notice Board: Until you are born again, God ever abiding presence will never be with you. You must be born again to enjoy continuous victory. Please say the displayed prayer below in faith:
Lord Jesus, come into my life. I accept You as my Lord and Personal Saviour. I believe in my heart You died and rose from the dead to save me. Thank You Lord for saving me, in Jesus name Amen.
If you just prayed the prayer of salvation online please send your testimonies and prayer request to [email protected], 07026385437 OR 08141320204.
Open Heaven 6 January 2019 Sunday Daily Devotional By Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Lessons from the Fig Tree I
Topic: Lessons from the Fig Tree I (Open Heaven 6 January 2019)
Memorise: “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.”– Proverbs 31:30
Read: Matthew 21:18-22 (KJV)
18 Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.
19 And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.
20 And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away!
21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.
22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
Bible in One Year: Matthew 13, Isaiah 5:8-23
Open Heaven 6 January 2019 Sunday MESSAGE:
For the next two days, we shall be reflecting on some lessons from the fig tree which Jesus condemned to death for being fruitless. Fruitlessness is a grievous deviation from God’s purpose and should be a source of concern to all children of God. From our Bible reading, we see that our Lord Jesus Christ was attracted to the fig tree because everything about it told Him that it had the capacity to bear fruit, but alas, He was disappointed (Matthew 21:19). For this reason, the first lesson we need to learn from the fig tree is that physical appearance can be very deceptive. This lesson is stated very clearly in today’s memory verse. In 1 Samuel 16:7b, when Samuel went to anoint another king to replace King Saul from the house of Jesse, God explained to him:
“For the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”
These words should speak to young people who are waiting on the Lord for a godly spouse.
Another lesson to be learnt from the fig tree is that it is dangerous for you to portray yourself to be what you are not. The appearance of the fig tree was such that anybody would expect it to possess some fruit. One can reasonably assume that the fig tree was cursed, not necessarily because it did not bear fruit (Mark 11:13 clearly says it was not its season to bear fruit), but rather it deceptively appeared to bear fruit. Unfortunately, these days, people pretend a lot. To their shame and peril, many people fail to get the help they need from potential helpers because of the fake lifestyle they portray to the world. They ride in borrowed cars to show off wealth that they do not possess. When such people ask for financial assistance from their closest friends, it is assumed that they are just joking or trying to hide their real worth. Also, many marriages have broken down irreparably because of deceitful lifestyle. During courtship, some couples conceal many things from each other only for the truth to be discovered on the first night of marriage. Some men appear to be gentle during courtship only for them to show their true colours as wife-beaters after the woman says “I do”. Sadly for them, a fellow who sows deceit will also reap deceit. An adage in my mother-tongue says, “The wife you choose from a dancing floor will sooner or later dance away from your house.” Beloved, the antidote for a life of deceit is to be in Christ, who is the Truth. Accept Him as your personal Lord and Saviour today, and the shame that follows a deceitful life will cease in your life. When you have the Truth in your life, you will not be a victim of deceit, because you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).
Open Heaven 6 January 2019 Sunday Action Point:
Repent of all appearance of deceitful living, and be truthful to God, your neighbour and to yourself.
Open Heaven 6 January 2019 Sunday Hymn 5: Let Others See Jesus In You
1. While passing thro’ this world of sin, and others your life shall view, Be clean and pure without, within; Let others see Jesus in you.
Chorus:
Let others see Jesus in you,
Let others see Jesus in you.
Keep telling the story, be faithful and true;
Let others see Jesus in you.
2. Your life’s a book before their eyes, They’re reading it thro’ and thro’ Say, does it point them to the skis, Do others see Jesus in you?
3. Then live for Christ both day and night, Be faithful, be brave and true, and lead the lost to life and Christ. Let others see Jesus in you.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer’s Ministries. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.
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Lord Jesus, come into my life. I accept You as my Lord and Personal Saviour. I believe in my heart You died and rose from the dead to save me. Thank You Lord for saving me, in Jesus name Amen.
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TOPIC: Practical Love In Marriage (Part 2) [RCCG Sunday School STUDENT Manual 6 January 2019]
MEMORY VERSE:“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” – 1 John 4:18(scroll down for RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL 6 January 2019 HYMN)
BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (RCCG Sunday School STUDENT Manual 6 January 2019)
1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
INTRODUCTION:
In the previous lesson, we learnt about erotic/sexual love and friendship love as being crucial for a successful marriage. We shall further consider two other types of love that must be practiced in godly marriages. These are ‘affectionate’ love and ‘sacrificial/charitable love.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. Storge” – Affectionate love
2. “Agape” – Sacrificial/Charitable love
1. “STORGE” – AFFECTIONATE LOVE
Another Greek word for love is “storge”, translated as affectionate love .
It relates to natural, familial love that must be shown practically among couples, children and extended family members. (Genesis 13:8-9, Ruth 1:16)
It is the care and concern that binds families together do that no matter what external forces come against them, the unity of the group remains unbreakable. (Genesis 14:14-16; Genesis 34:1-7, 25-27; Exodus 2: 2-8). Even though suffering and heartache may come into their experience, storage love binds the family together and strengthens its ties (1Samuel 1:4-8). It is also a supportive love which must be demonstrated in the lines of losses or victory, failure, or success, sickness or sound health, sadness and joy, disappointment or achievement, etc.(Luke 8:41-42, 49-55). It creates a heaven for trust and safety in marriage.
2. AGAPE” – SACRIFICIAL/CHARITABLE LOVE
Agape is used to describe the love that is of and from God whose very nature is love itself: “God is love” (1John 4:8). He demonstrated His own love(agape) towards us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)
Agape love is also used to describe our love for God (Luke10:27), a servant’s faithful respect to his master (Matthew 6:24), and man utmost love for his wife. God commands all husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church (Ephesians 5:25-31). Agape love is unconditional love which stands and remains when other types of love quits, and cares when there is no apparent reason to care.
It is beautifully described as charitable love in 1Corinthians 13:1-13. The agape love of God goes past surface, enabling us to look deep into the hearts of others and love them for whom God has made them to be despite the shortcomings or faults. It is love that seeks to give sacrificially (1John 3:16). This is the climax of love that holds the couples together forever “till death do them part”.
CONCLUSION
A marriage without the presence and commitment of Storge (support and care) and Agape love may be on the express lane to heartbreak.
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