Topic: Take Correction [Thursday September 14, 2017]

Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man and he will be yet wiser; teach a righteous man…and he will increase in learning. – Proverbs 9:8-9, The Amplified Bible

There is one thing you can do that will accelerate your spiritual growth more than almost any other thing: Learn to take correction—from the Spirit of God and from His people.

So few believers seem to be able to do that. When their preacher gets in the pulpit and preaches about something they already know, about some aspect of life they’ve already submitted to the Lord, they think he’s great. They like him because he makes them feel good. But the moment he stands up and begins to preach about something they’re doing wrong, they take offense.

God says that’s foolish. He says in Proverbs 1:7, only fools strike out at, or despise, correction.

So don’t be like that. When your pastor or anyone else in the Body of Christ has a word of correction for you, receive it gratefully. Appreciate those who share the wisdom of God with you. When someone points out somewhere that you’ve missed it, instead of reacting against them, examine yourself and say, “Is that right? Does that agree with the Word? Do I need to make a change there?”

If the answer to those questions is yes, then make the changes you need to make to get your life in line.

I know that’s not easy. None of us likes to be corrected. But if you’ll make up your mind you’re going to receive that correction anyway, that you’re going to remain teachable, you’ll be able to go on and grow in spiritual things much more quickly.

One man said, “If you think you’ve already arrived, you aren’t going anywhere.” Remember that next time someone corrects you. Love that person and thank him for speeding along your spiritual progress. If you’ll do that, you’ll come out ahead every time.

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 3:11-24

This message was written by Kenneth and Gloria Copeland, the leader of the Kenneth Copeland Ministries (www.KCM.org) that specializes in teaching principles of bible faith – prayer, healing, salvation and other biblical topics.

Topic: You Are Wired For Glory — Thursday September 14, 2017.

“And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,” (Romans 9:23 KJV)

When you refuse to see yourself as God sees you, you are failing to appropriate what God has done for you in Christ. Whenever you see yourself as flesh, you are limited and you miss the point. God does not see you as you are. He does not see you as a sinner or failure. No! He sees you in Christ because you have been “in-Christed!” When you made Jesus your Lord and Master, you became one with him in the spirit. Colossians 1:27 (KJV) says that “…Christ in you is the hope of glory.”

Simply put, Christ in you is the end of shame and embarrassment. Christ in you is the end of frustration, disappointment and failure. The problem is that you are not looking at the inward man. I come to remind you that God will do anything for the sake of Christ that is in you. Remember he quickened you, raised you up and made you sit with Christ in heavenly places far above principalities and powers. That is why you can never fail.

Child of God, you need to end the life of struggle now. There is a glory that God has reserved for you that will put you ahead of your contemporaries. God has deposited so much in you and until you come to terms with who you really are, you can’t enjoy his abundance. When Peter stepped on water, he achieved a feat that no man had ever done before. The glory of God upon your life is meant to showcase you to your world. Go out there and shine.

Further Reading: Romans 5:17

Daily Bible Reading: Morning- Proverbs 19-21; Evening- 2 Corinthians 7

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: We Have a King! — Thursday September 14, 2017.

Read: Judges 2:11–23, Bible in a Year: Proverbs 19–21; 2 Corinthians 7

In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit. Judges 21:25

After attacking my husband with hurtful words when a situation didn’t go my way, I snubbed the Holy Spirit’s authority as He reminded me of Bible verses that revealed my sinful attitudes. Was nursing my stubborn pride worth the collateral damage in my marriage or being disobedient to God? Absolutely not. But by the time I asked for forgiveness from the Lord and my spouse, I’d left a wake of wounds behind me—the result of ignoring wise counsel and living as if I didn’t have to answer to anyone but myself.

There was a time when the Israelites had a rebellious attitude. After the death of Moses, Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land. Under his leadership, the Israelite’s served the Lord (Judg. 2:7). But after Joshua and the generation that outlived him died, the Israelites forgot God and what He’d done (v. 10). They rejected godly leadership and embraced sin (vv. 11–15).

Things improved when the Lord raised up judges (vv. 16–18), who served like kings. But when each judge died, the Israelites returned to defying God. Living as if they didn’t have anyone to answer to but themselves, they suffered devastating consequences (vv. 19–22). But that doesn’t have to be our reality. We can submit to the sovereign authority of the eternal Ruler we were made to follow—Jesus—because He is our living Judge and King of Kings.

Prayer: Jesus, please help us remember You are our living King of Kings and Lord of Lords, almighty and worthy of our loving obedience and trust.

God gives us the power and the privilege to enjoy the rewards of doing things His way.

This message was written By Xochitl Dixon [Our Daily Bread Ministries.]

Topic: A Message for Careless Women — Thursday September 14, 2017.

Text: Isaiah 32:9-20

Key Verse: “Rise up, ye women that are at ease; hear my voice, ye careless daughters; give ear unto my speech” (Isaiah 32:9).

The world has passed through many ages ranging from primitive age also referred to as stone age, to the age of industrial revolution, which transformed Europe, down to the age of scientific and technological advancement and finally to this millennium, the age of Information and Computer Technology (ICT), the age of Internet, cable television, the Global System of Mobile Communication (GSM), and the social media. The resultant effect is manifest constant and fast changing dressing styles and fashions.

From the text, Isaiah’s attention was turned to the careless women of Jerusalem. He had spoken against their impiety and immodesty in dressing and comportment in chapter three, and now rebuked them again for their carelessness and lack of zeal for righteousness and holiness. The consequences of their sins could be seen in the wrath of God on the productivity of their nation. The chapter closes with a message of hope for the nation of Israel; especially the coming kingdom of righteousness and the peace and prosperity that will follow when Israel eventually returns to their God.

From the tone of this prophecy, it appears the women of Jerusalem had not taken any warnings from the previous chapters. Isaiah reminded them that God detests all sins whether big or small. Their carelessness in dressing and their coldness in religion contributed greatly to Israel’s condemnation.

Daughters of God should avoid the current media coloration of immodest dressing that young women display for adverts and pleasure but rather live to fulfill God’s eternal purpose which is to reflect His glory and praise. Priority should be given to inward beauty over outward dressing. The virtues or ornaments of meekness and quietness of spirit are priceless in the sight of God (1 Peter 3:3,4).

Thought for the day: Little sin begets great regrets.

Bible Reading in one Year: Numbers 14-15

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.

Topic: True Friendship [Thursday September 14, 2017]

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. — John 13:35

The human soul is a lonely thing. It must have the assurance of companionship. Left entirely to itself, it cannot enjoy anything. God said in the beginning, “It is not good that man should dwell alone” (Genesis 2:18). The creation of Eve was the beginning of human companionship. God’s people are a body, not intended to function separately, not intended to be unconcerned for one another. The only true body in the world is the Church. The world may talk grandly of brotherhood, but in reality its philosophy is “each man for himself.”

God’s children are guaranteed the richest and truest friendship, both here and hereafter. Only in a true friendship and a true love do we find a genuine basis for peace. Only God can break down the national and racial barriers that divide men today. Only God can supply that love that we must have for our fellowman. We will never build brotherhood of man upon earth until we are believers in Christ Jesus. The only true cohesive power in the world is Christ. He alone can bind human hearts together in genuine love.

Prayer for the day: Father, teach me true brotherhood in Jesus Christ.

Written by Billy Graham, Founder of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association(BGEA). BGEA exists to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ by every effective means and to equip the church and others to do the same.

Topic: Forgiving Others Is To Your Advantage – Thursday September 14, 2017.

Mark 11:25 “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”

Text: Matthew 21:20-22; Mark 11:20-26

There are qualifications for believing and receiving as well as restrictions for receiving answers to prayer. Unforgiveness in our hearts will keep our prayers from being answered.

We should forgive others as quickly as it takes to make the decision to pray. The Greek word for “when” means “whenever, as soon as, or while.” When we stand praying, we must forgive if we have ought (“anything at all, the least little part; whatsoever”) against anyone.

When we are offended or hurt, we often feel justified in holding a grudge.

The Old Testament law expressed this when it stated, “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth” (Ex. 21:23-25). Until the offense was paid, we did not feel free to forgive. However, God dealt with all men’s offenses by placing sin upon the perfect Savior who was judged in place of every sinner of all time. To demand that others must earn our forgiveness is not Christlike. Jesus died for every man’s sins, extending forgiveness to us while we were yet sinners, and we should do the same.

It is doubtful that a person who refuses to forgive has ever experienced forgiveness himself. This is comparable to the servant that Jesus talked about in Matthew 18:23-35. He was forgiven a debt of over $3,000,000,000 and yet he refused to forgive his fellow servant who owed him $3,000. The forgiveness that we have received from the Lord is infinitely greater than any forgiveness we will ever be asked to extend to others. Freely forgive as you have been forgiven.

This message was written by The Association of Related Ministries International (ARMI) is an extension of Andrew Wommack Ministries (AWM). ARMI is a unique partnership committed to providing resources to help like-minded ministers succeed in a spirit of excellence and to draw from the experience and expertise of both the AWM and Charis Bible College staff. (www.awmi.net).

Driving in the rain can be very stressful and dangerous because it will be very difficult to see the road and conditions may be terrible. Hence, you have to be extremely careful so that you do not get your car stuck in a ditch or involve in an auto-crash. This is because the wetter the road, the more the accident. In line with this, Jumia Travel, the leading online travel agency highlights tips for driving safely in the rain.

Slow down

Like earlier said the road condition worsens when it rains. As such, slow down no matter how late you are to your destination. This is safer because you are less likely to be involved in an accident if you slow down.

Check your wipers

Many Nigerian drivers do not check their wipers until it rains. This is really unsafe. The wiper is important as it helps you to get rid of water on the windshield. So, ensure that all your wipers are working and in good condition.

Turn on your headlights

It is not only in the night you turn on your headlights. You also need it when it rains to help improve visibility.

Dry the brakes

Wet roads mean wet brakes, and the four wheel discs on most cars can be coated with water just when you need them most. This can result in the malfunction of your car. Luckily, some cars automatically touch the pads to the rotors to remove water but you can do this too by gently touching the brakes after splashing through a wet spot.

Don’t charge into ditches at high speed

Charging at high speed into ditches can get your car stuck, allow water to find its way into your engine and you can splash water on pedestrians. If your car gets stuck or water finds its way into your engine, you are on your because nobody will be ready to help except you will offer money. As for splashing water, Nigerians will simply reign curses on you.

Inspect your tires

You cannot say when it will rain but you can spot obvious signs it will. Check your tire to ensure that it is not overinflated. The rule is to ensure that the tire is in a good state so that it won’t become slippery since the road is likely to be so when it rains.

Sent In By Adeniyi Ogunfowoke
PR Associate at Jumia Travel
+2348090747241

Topic — Sustainable Family 4: Domestication [Thursday, 14th September 2017]

For this cause I bow my knees unto God…of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. Ephesians 3:14-15

He is a fantastic minister of the word, but his family is a mess. She is growing in her career, but her children are disrespectful and wayward. That’s the consequences of lack of planning how to take care of the home front while giving your all to your career, business, job, ministry, etc, in a bid to make enough cash to meet the needs of the family. This is where most parents miss it. Your family is more important than your job, career, ministry etc. Some ministers will say “it is God’s work first before any other thing”, which may lead to the abandonment of his or her family. We often forget that scriptures say a bishop or deacon or pastor must be able to first take care of his house before he or she can take care of God’s people (1 Timothy 3:4-5). But all these can be taken care of with proper planning.

Couples must settle down to plan how they would take care of the home front, while still going about their life’s pursuits. Here are certain things to put into consideration if both partners are working: how are we going to make sure there is cooked food? Do we cook during weekends and refrigerate the food? When do we start having kids? Is it immediately we get married or some years later? When our kids arrive, how do we make sure they are well catered for, while we are still pursing our careers? Is one of us going to quit his or her job to take care of the children for a specific period of time? Or are we going to have a house help doing the domestic work, including taking care of the children, while we both face our work?

Other considerations include accommodation. Are we to have our parents or relatives live with us permanently, if we are responsible for them, or they should only visit us while we send money for their upkeep? What about our friends, either male or female, are they allowed to come live with us, in the event of accommodation issues, or they should only visit us? All these issues must be planned and settled before any couple gets married. If not, they might bring serious challenges later for them. Wisdom is profitable to direct. And it is wise to plan these aspect of your family before tying the nuptial knot or during the first few months of your marriage. May God’s wisdom direct us rightly.

Keep winning daily.

Wise Action:

Make these issues raised in today’s devotional part of your plans before getting married and make sure they are sorted out with God’s wisdom as your guide. Even if you are married, and you notice these issues creeping up in your home, you can start talking it out with your spouse and have a plan in place. God bless our homes.

A Promise For You From Bible Promises:

Topic — Prayer: Most Vital Weapon To Delivery [14/09/17]

And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint. Luke 18:1. Read: Lk 4:1, 14-21

It’s believed today that every thriving ministry has an engine room called “PRAYER”. When you pray, power is generated to deliver you your enviable destiny in a grand style. A prayer-less christian would be at the mercy of the enemies. When you fail to pray, you will become a prey for the devouring devil who is hunting after precious destinies to destroy. Prayer is one of the potent weapons that put the devil to flight, it drives away calamities from a man. You might have a great destiny but when you are lukewarm, you May die unfulfilled in life. When you pray, miracles happen. It was at the hour of prayer and as Peter and John had learnt from the ministry of Jesus Christ, they were on their way to the temple when they encountered the lame man at the beautiful gate. Act 3. Signs and wonders always follow the man of prayer. Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises to God, their chains fell off their hands.

The earthly ministry of Jesus was characterised with prayer. He prayed all through – even on the cross, He still prayed. He had time for prayers precisely night time. And in the morning, signs and wonders happen during His preaching. If the enemy can get your prayer life quenched, he has gotten you. When the enemy used this trick for Daniel, he refused to fall for it, rather, he intensified his prayer life. Dan 6:1-10. To manifest in your place of destiny, you must engage the weapon of fervent prayers.

#BiblePromisesPrayer

* Father Lord, baptise me with unquenchable spirit of prayer to deliver my glorious destiny in Jesus Mighty Name

Topic: When Robbers Visited That Home! -1 [Wednesday 13 September, 2017]

(1 CORINTHIANS 10:6-14).

I got this from a brother and it is appreciated. It is about a popular video of robbers entering a house, asking for all the money and valuables. After they collect what they can, they give the man of the house a gun with instructions to shoot his wife or else he would be shot himself. The man gets the gun, points it at his wife and hesitates. He was thinking of what he had gone through in life with his wife and how she had suffered and sacrificed for him. He hands back the gun and says, “I am sorry I can’t do this……”

The boss of the robbers silently grabs the gun from him and passes it on to the wife with the same instructions. The wife gets the gun and without any single hesitation, points to her husband’s head and pulls the trigger. But at last, the gun had no bullets in it. The robbers get their gun and walk out of the house laughing. Now if you were the man in that house, how would you react towards your wife? If you were the wife, what explanation would you give to your husband? The truth is that in the Lord’s prayer from today’s scripture, we are asked to pray not to be led into temptation.

Indeed, this temptation was a big one for the wife or the husband. No wonder today’s scripture verse 13 says: “God will never allow the temptation greater than you come your way.” Decree that the battle greater than you, the battle you cannot handle, the battle that will consume your marriage, your ministry, your integrity, your family, your children shall pass over you! Tomorrow we shall discuss what the man or the woman should have done! But please pray seriously now concerning temptations not sent by God!

Pray for me, Dr Chris, against a blackmailing syndicate that is determined to “Pull down” this vision if I don’t give them money and a house. The battle is the Lord’s! Also some journalist who claim to be from Sahara Reporters and other sites send me daily texts asking for money or they would publish “sensational stories” about me! SOME HAVE STARTED PLEADING FOR FORGIVENESS! PRAY FOR ME DAILY! SCATTER THEM AND ANY GANG-UP AGAINST MY LIFE/ ODM! See page 53 and read more!

Get my new books: “Blasting Down Your Walls of Jericho” and “My Womb Must Open by Fire” from any bookshop nationwide.

Prayer Points: Take any song of worship now.

1. Thank God for today’s word and pray as you are led!

2. Lord, lead me not into any temptation that is bigger than me (Pray it for 7 days).

3. My Father! My Father!! Every temptation that You have not sent, let it pass over me and my family in Jesus Christ name.

4. Pray about today seriously and any other issue(s) affecting your peace.

By Bishop (Dr) Chris E. Kwakpovwe (Cek)
Publisher/Writer Of ODM And

Rev (Mrs) Flora E. Kwakpovwe (Fek)
Co-Publisher/Writer Of ODM.