2 Things You Don’t Know About The Word ‘Friendship’

by Mayowa Adeniyi

This is why I don't subscribe to boyfriend and girlfriend relationship because of their negative influence.“Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend” – Proverbs 27:17
Before now, I thought I had all the understanding of what friendship meant. But trust me, I’m not a novice in relationship, not because I write about it often, at least I have some empirical facts I had known over the years.
But there are many who do not understand what friendship meant. The likes of boyfriends or girlfriends is an understanding of what many thought to be the essence of friendship. Is that the whole purpose of having friends?
That scripture above made me to have a different understanding of having friends. It’s not new to me but the light of God’s word just dawn afresh on me relating to it.

Friendship is the condition of being friends with a person. They could be friends of the same-sex or opposite sex. The depth of friendship is more than being class mate, course mate, room mate or other types of ‘mate’ people have.
There’s a bond of intimacy in friendship, a knitting of souls just as it is with the case of David and Jonathan in the Bible. Friendship is often term as the spice of life but these days, it no longer seem true.

There are now friends for benefits, one party becomes the prey while the other becomes the host. Benefits in such friendship aren’t mutual and some believe that sex between opposite sex relationship is needed to keep the relationship aglow. However, two things happen when you maintain friendship. 1. A good one sharpens your life
This is why I don't subscribe to boyfriend and girlfriend relationship because of their negative influence.A good friend doesn’t wear a wristband bearing ‘good’ on it but the influence they exert on your life makes them so. Many people do not know that there’s an influence your friend would have on you if you are weak willed. Whether consciously or unconsciously, you’ll imbibe some of their trait.

Good friends are rare to find because they won’t tell you what you want to hear but the truth that your life needs. They’re not timid to correct your errors because they are blunt and realistic.
They keep you on your toes and ensure that you’re up and doing. They’re not intimidated by your success but would ensure you don’t allow it get into your head. They exert positive influence on your life which you can attest to.
When they come into your life, they improve the condition of your life in virtually all aspect. With them, you’d learn one or two things that you’d never forget in your life.

Do you have such friend?

2. A bad one will ‘blunt’ your life
Lots of singles are into a relationship with a bad friend or friends. They don’t appear as evil but their influence on their life makes them so.
This is why I don't subscribe to boyfriend and girlfriend relationship because of their negative influence.Sometimes ago when I was in the university, I remember a room mate and course mate of mine who mingled with another friend of ours. One night, they came back from a party and they were drunk. The following night he came back to his senses, he was complaining bitterly how the guy was a bad influence in his life.

Many of the boyfriend and girlfriend relationship that many keep is a friendship that has ‘whet’ their sword. Once he comes into your life, he puts your life in a mess, makes you lose interest in the things of God unlike before or un-learn some of your good values. And the same thing happens to the female folks too.
Because of the emotional grip they have on your life, they are difficult to let go. The longer they stay, the terrible it becomes for you.
I can go on and on to give you their characteristic but I am sure now that a part of you is telling you about the one that’s exerting a bad influence on your life. Wouldn’t you rather take the bull by the horn to unfriend them before your life gets to an irreparable stage?

Take a cursory look at your present relationship, what influence does it have on your spiritual, mental, academical, financial, emotional or social life? If all you enjoy is social or emotional bliss while other departments of your life suffer a retrogress, then it calls for a rethink.

Any friend you have that doesn’t sharpen your countenance (life) would definitely blunt your life. This is why I don’t subscribe to boyfriend and girlfriend relationship because of their negative influence. It is not by how many friends you have, it’s about their quality and influence.

And if perhaps you find it difficult to get a good one, have you found a friend in Jesus? He’s everything you need in a friend – a confidant, a counselor, a comforter, name it! I treasure my friendship with Him than anyone. I’d rather advice that you first make Him your friend because one alone with God is better than majority. He will make your life better than what you think you could ever become in life.
Remember, you are a reflection of the kind of friends you have. Show me your friend and I will tell you who you are.

Topic: Effective Tracking Device [Tuesday 29 December, 2015]

Memorise: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: - Matthew 7:7

Read: Daniel 10:10-14 (KJV)

10 And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands.

11 And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.

12 Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.

13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.

14 Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.

Bible in One Year: Ecclesiastes 8:14-12:14; 2 John 1

MESSAGE:

From the experience of Daniel in our Bible reading today, we understand that praying effectively makes it impossible for your blessings to pass you by. When you pray, your blessings are branded with your name, and as you continue in prayer, a heavenly courier is sent with your package. When you pray some more, the courier will deliver the package to you. Do you know that there are blessings which were released from Heaven but which never got to their owners? One likely way of losing your blessing is to stop praying about them. If you stop, by the time they are being sent, they could get missing in transit. So many blessings have been lost due to a lack of follow-up prayers.

Let us look at Daniel's experience. He had a burden to unravel a particular mystery; so he set out to fast and seek God's face on the matter. A day passed, a week passed, and another week passed, but he kept on praying. It was after three weeks that the answer came. The angel who brought the answer told him that from the day the request was made, it was heard and an answer was sent, but certain forces of darkness delayed him until Angel Michael came to assist him. This tells us that the battles in heavenly places are real. No wonder Ephesians 6:12 says:

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

These forces exist and they are out to delay or deny you your blessings. If you lose faith and stop praying, the enemy might divert them.

It is one thing to pray and have the answer released, but it is another thing to receive the answer. Today, it is possible to send something by post and track its movement from country to country up to its destination through the internet. Prayer is the spiritual tracking device you need to track your blessing from Heaven until it arrives in your hands. Once you start praying on a particular issue, don't stop. Keep on praying until the answer gets to you. In addition, it is necessary to specifically pray against every spiritual agent of hindrance. Paralyse every diversionary agent of darkness. Pray against blessing thieves and hijackers, and envelope your blessing in the Blood of Jesus.

Key Point: Prayer is like a hook with a rope tied; with it you can catch your blessing, and pull it until it gets to you.

The Agony of Premarital Sex: The Pre And Post-Wedding Night Experience

by Mayowa Adeniyi

The Agony of Premarital Sex: Pre And Post-Wedding Night ExperienceApart from looking up to the wedding day that most people envision, the joy of the wedding night is also a memorable experience that lovers look forward to having provided they’re not burned out due to the stress of the day.
Apart from that, it is a night that the marriage is consummated through sex. To some, it is a journey to sexual adventure while to others, it’s a journey to more sexual escapades outside marriage.
Whether you believe it or not, those who have abstained from sex till marriage are mostly excited about their wedding night experience. It’s going to be a night of sexual adventure when the gift of oneness would just be unwrapped. It is this night that God intended that a man and his wife would be both ‘naked and unashamed’. Although, you may have other meanings to that phrase but that’s a fact about it. But to some, they’re naked and ashamed sexually because of their past sexual encounter.

There’s a picture of premarital sex that I want to paint for you to understand the evils in it. If you have had sex before marriage, here are the likely things that would happen to you in marriage.

1. An unfulfilled sex life
There’s nothing exciting about the icing on a cake when you have tasted it over and over. In fact when you taste several icing, you’ll discover that there’s nothing special about them when you’re giving a new one. The same happens with sex. All of the sexual encounter you have had would damage your experience in marriage. You know why? Lots of sexual images, soul tie, experience and excitement of the past would affect your spouse. It’ll make them inexperienced for you because you’d imagine the person with whom you had it best.
This is where comparison would begin. “I wish he did it like…”, “She wasn’t great in bed like…”; all of these would surface on your wedding night or the first time you’d have sex as ‘experienced’ couples.
This is why abstinence pays off. Aside the consequence of premarital sex on your life, it would also affect your marriage because sex can’t be fulfilling. When you shun sex before marriage, you’ll treat sex as important in marriage, it becomes a new thing to you and you’ll have an awesome experience you have never had unlike those who have had it over a thousand times. It’s a lie from the pit of hell that would make you believe that sex before marriage will make you enjoy great sex in marriage. Never! Don’t buy into the lies that the society would sell over to you! Deception comes with consequences!

2. Lack of a deeper bond with your partner
How can you be bonded to your partner when you have had several soul ties before marriage? It’ll will be difficult to maintain except you become a new creature in Christ. And that doesn’t overrule the past experience, it’ll just keep you contented with whatever sexual gift you unwrap in marriage.
When you have sex with someone, a part of you is given to them, this is where becoming ‘one flesh’ comes into play. Now imagine what would happen if you have had multiple sex before marriage.
When you abstain till marriage, it implies that you’re giving your whole self to your partner and this would create a deeper bond between you two especially when it’s mutual. No thought of divorce will likely spur up because you’ll feel more like one person. But having premarital sex over and over before marriage will only weaken the bond that sex is meant to be formed when you get married. You’ll be susceptible to extramarital affairs because you’d be looking for sexual fulfillment outside marriage.

3. A bad legacy It’ll become difficult for you to train your child in the way he should go because you didn’t lived the legacy. Even if a part of you tell them to do the right thing, an inward witness in you would remind you of your past.
Quite a lot of people do not know that sowing the seed of sexual immoralities would have its effect on their offspring. Yorubas would say, “Owu ti ya gbon na ni omo ran“, meaning that it was the legacy that the mother trod that the daughter too embraced.
How would you have all the effrontery to tell you child that sex before marriage is bad? And you know some children could be funny. They could just throw a question at your face: “what did you do when you were my age?” Will you boldly answer? Shun premarital sex as much as you can. And to those who have become victims of it in the past, ask God for mercy because His mercy prevails over judgment but doesn’t remove some consequence. Repent from the sins of the past and prayerfully deliver yourself from the soul ties you have had which would affect your marriage.

There’s nothing exciting about premarital sex, it’ll only create pre and post-marital issues if you don’t desist now

Whom to Marry: Do You Know The Best Matchmaker?

by Mayowa Adeniyi

Whom to Marry: Do You Know The Best Matchmaker? When it comes to choosing a life partner, who you marry has a lot to do with what your life becomes. It’s either they help you become better or make your life worse.

In the process of choosing whom to marry, many result to the use of matchmakers to get whom they feel they’re okay with in marriage. Is that enough to have a successful marriage?

Many have settled for several matchmakers and the results of their marital life has been laden with blame, regrets and woes. Who do we blame for this?

A matchmaker is a person who decides or orchestrate the coming together of a man and woman in becoming husband and wife. Whether you take cognizance of it or not, they exist.

In case you don’t know, there are three types of matchmakers in life and they exert their influence on the type of person you marry.

1. You
i want Yes, you! You are the first matchmaker you could ever think of. When you allow what you see to influence your decision on whom to marry and you go ahead to act on it, you’ll bear the consequence of such outcome yourself.

Let me tell you this, you can’t know the right person for you in marriage even if you seem to be hundred percent compatible. Do you know what would happen in the future?

A man that seems loving today can end up becoming a beast tomorrow. And a woman too can decide to walk out of her matrimonial home for no reason.

Oftentimes many choose whom they want through dating, which is ungodly, whether you call it Christian or secular dating. Some even go the length of cohabiting – living couples life with the premonition of getting married. Most of these often lead to frustration, failure and wasting of time and life.

Don’t let people brainwash you into believing that you can choose yourself.

2. People
In olden days, parents do give out their sons and daughters to people whom they feel would be suitable for their children. It has been proven to be effective in those times but unfortunately, it doesn’t work in this age anymore.

Your marriage may not be successful if you allow people to match make you two. Chances are slim that it would work because you’re uncertain about what the future holds.

And that a man seem to be anointed doesn’t give them the authority in deciding who is suitable for you in marriage.

It is better to hold on to God’s word than to hold on to what pastors say concerning you two. Don’t allow people orchestrate your coming together as husband and wife.

The role of the men of God is to guide you and not to enforce a particular person on you. Anyone that enforces his authority or wish on you is evil and a bully.

Do not allow people to match make a partner for you, either by coercion or through suggestive measures. There’s no guarantee that the person would remain the person you knew. Why? It takes a strong conviction to weather the storms that could arise in marriage together.

Although people have match make in the past and it worked but in this perilous time, you need God because the heart of men and women are desperately wicked.

3. God
One thing many people ignore or care less to know is that God is still at the business of matchmaking His sons and daughters together in marriage.

He did it in the garden of Eden, although Adam blamed Him but in this era of grace, He has promised us to ask and it shall be given unto us.

Are you in need of a marital partner? I’d rather advice you to trust God to help you because only Him knows the right man and suitable help meet for you.

Aside that, it takes a mutual conviction that comes from God to stay put in a marriage when there’s every signs of quitting the union, you’re safe if God orchestrate the coming together of you two and it’s based on mutual conviction.

No matter how you’d draw up a compatibility test or preferences, they’ll amount to failure when the eventualities of life happens.

If you’d trust God, then you must do away with your own options or game plan in choosing a partner for yourself. You need to ask, trust and wait patiently on God.

That you’re ready for marriage doesn’t mean God is ready and at the same time He might be ready while you’re not ready for Him. God rules the affairs of those who choose to submit their will to Him and He’ll give them nothing but His best.

Marriage, is seen to be a complex institution but I tell you this: when God becomes the Alpha in your search and the Omega in your union coupled with the fact that you two are willing to make it work, success is inevitable.

Are you ready to match make yourself or allow people to influence your decision on whom to marry? I’d rather advice you not to lean on your understanding.

Pay the price to allow God bring you the right partner so that you can earn His best.

The only successful marriage in life is one that God orchestrates the coming together of His sons and daughters in holy matrimony and their mutual conviction coupled with their willingness to make it work.

Topic: Debtors of Gratitude [Thursday 24 December, 2015]

Memorise: Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: - Psalm 103:2

Read: Psalm 103:1-14 (KJV)

1 (A Psalm of David.) Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.

7 He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.

8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

9 He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.

10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

11 For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

13 Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.

14 For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

Bible in One Year: Proverbs 21:2-24:22; 1 John 1:1-2:6

MESSAGE:

Everyone on earth is indebted to the Almighty God. Irrespective of your many needs that are yet to be met, you must still remember that the breath of life you have is not a function of your power. If you can think deeply within you, and look at all that is happening around you, you will give ceaseless praise to God. The reason why some people do not think they should thank God is because they are looking at those things they do not yet have, but they forget to look at those things they have right now.
Some would even say they have nothing. Such people are unmindful of the fact that it is with life that things are produced, and when you have life you have all things. The Scripture in Psalm 68:19 says:

"Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."

The implication of this is that there is nothing we need that the Lord has not provided for. What to eat, what to drink, where to live, the car to drive, the person to marry are all examples of His benefits.

When the Psalmist followed the multitude into God's house, he went with joy without being forced (Psalms 42:4). Why then do we wait for people to motivate us to praise God? Why do we behave as if there is nothing in our life to thank God for? The mercy of the Lord towards us is everlasting (Psalms 100:5). With this assurance, we should be singing and praising His Name. You are to bless the Lord for all He has done in the past, all He is doing in the present and all He is yet to do. As you do this, He is committed to doing more.
One of the greatest lessons on gratitude I learnt was from my mother. Any time my mother wanted to collect my school fees from my father, she would draw up a strategy of praising and eulogising my father. She would call him great names he did not bear. She would mention great feats and achievements far above his profile and credit him with them. Even before she was done, he would give her what she wanted. This strategy worked every time.
If this can work for a mortal man full of limitations, how much more the immortal God who has no limitations? For all the blessings and protection of the Almighty God, you can never praise Him enough. When you praise God adequately and magnify His various Names, He is moved, and once God moves on your behalf, you can expect the miraculous. You can also expect Him to ambush your enemies and open doors in all aspects of your life.

Action Point: Praise the Lord that you are alive.

Topic: Not Ordinary Hands [Monday 21 December, 2015]

Memorise: I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. - 1 Timothy 2:8

Read: Exodus 17:8-13 (KJV)

8 Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.

9 And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to morrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand.

10 So Joshua did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill.

11And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.

12 But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.

13 And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.

Bible in One Year: Proverbs 11:16-14:25; 2 Peter 1 MESSAGE:

Several people at one point or the other have drawn God's attention to themselves by lifting up their hands to Heaven. This is a symbolic way of saying, "Lord I trust you totally with my life." You are telling God that unless He helps you, there is nothing you can do about your situation. One person who did this several times was Moses. At the Red Sea, God commanded him to lift his hands, and you know the end of the story. There is something highly significant about the hands of Moses; they were very special. Even in the battle between the children of Israel and the Amalekites, the war was won simply by Moses raising his hands up to heaven. Anytime you lift up your hands to God, you are showing your reliance and total dependence on Him. There are people struggling through life. They wake up very early and return home very late, and yet there is nothing significant to show for all their efforts.
It requires more than human effort to succeed in life. You need the divine support of the Almighty God. Never trust in your position, because position is never permanent. Never trust in your intellect, because no matter how much you know, your intellect is too small to comprehend the ways of God. Never trust in your money, because money can develop wings and fly away. Put your total and absolute trust in God.

The more you look up to God, the more victories He will deliver into your hands on a platter. If anyone who is of God raises his hands to bless you, you can rest assured that you are blessed.
You need to also pray to God that through your hands, there will be manifestation of signs and wonders. Apostle Paul did so many exploits with his hands. Your hands are very significant to the fulfilment of your destiny. This is why you cannot afford to toy with sin. You must be willing to engage your hands in doing things that are pleasing to God. When you serve a man of God with your hands, you are automatically transferring grace to yourself. Don't allow your hands to be lazy. Engage your hands in soul-winning and setting the captives free. Anytime you need empowerment from God, go to His presence as an empty vessel that is waiting to be filled and empowered.
Lift up your hands to him so that He will know you have come to exchange your weakness for His strength. Never go before the Almighty God with the notion that you have it all.
Expose all your frailties, weaknesses and failings to Him and you can be sure that before you leave His presence, you would have been filled, and whatever you lay your hands upon will begin to prosper. May that be your portion in Jesus' Name.
Prayer Point: Father, as I present my hands to You, let every dead thing my hands touch begin to receive life.

LET GOD LEAD YOU LIFE

I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses; therefore choose life. - Deuteronomy 30:19
In John 16:8, Jesus said the Holy Spirit would "convict and convince" the world about sin and righteousness. He didn't say anything about the Holy Spirit bringing condemnation. He said He brings "demonstration . . . about sin and about righteousness." The Holy Spirit reveals the results of sin and the results of righteousness so people may understand which path to follow. He makes clear distinction between right and wrong, between blessings and curses, between life and death so people can ask God to help them choose life.
People who live in sin have wretched, miserable lives. I occasionally run into people I knew years ago and haven't seen in quite some time. Some of these people have not been living for God and the rough, rugged lifestyles they have chosen have taken a toll on them. The sour, sad, miserable choices they have made are visible because sin has left them looking sad and often older than they are. They are unhappy, negative, and discontent individuals often filled with bitterness because their life has not been a good one. They fail to realize that their life is the direct result of bad choices they made.
The result of sin may be observed everywhere. The line between those who love and serve God and those who don't is becoming quite clear. God pleads with us to make right choices, ones that will lead us into the life He desires for us to enjoy. There are two paths before each of us; a broad path that leads to sin and destruction and a narrow path that leads to life (see Matthew 7:13-14). I encourage you to choose life today and every day

I Want To Marry: When Does It Become Right?

by Mayowa Adeniyi

WHEN TO MARRYThere has been several school of thoughts regarding what time it feels right to get married. Some projected age twenty-five and above for ladies while men, twenty-eight and above. Is there a fixed age that makes it absolutely right?
Although my opinion may not fit into what you must have known over the years but the truth is this, age is just a number and how old you are doesn’t make you ready if certain things aren’t ready in your life or that it is right in His timing.

For those who wants to get married, do you feel you have reached a particular age that makes marriage inevitable? Or perhaps because you’ve been told that you’re old and you feel marriage is the next thing to do, does that make it right?
I know you have read lots of books and articles regarding marriage and all of that but you need to know these truths I’ll share with you before the quest for marriage.
And these truths are self-evaluation questions. Are you ready to face reality? Ask yourself these questions!

1. Have I found the right partner?
Marriage is not difficult if one could marry the right partner. And there’s no one specific person you must marry, anyone could be right for you so far He endorse him or her.

And you can’t know the right person with your discretion except He guides you. But if you care less about it, and you go pick anyone and marry them off, such marriage hardly last.

It’s not proper to marry if you haven’t found the right person. Being right isn’t a function of looks, swags, possession and the likes, all lies in God’s confirmation and conviction. What is right in your eyes isn’t the right thing before God.

God gave you a brain, yes He did! But you still need to depend on Him for guidance in knowing the right person, but if you go your way, you’ll never get it right – but you might be lucky to get His good, permissive will or you miss it completely.

2. Am I a right partner?
Marrying the right partner is one step towards a successful marriage. But you can’t get it right if you’re not the right partner.
When a right partner marries the wrong partner, the marriage can never be successful. If you want God’s best or His will in marriage, you must be His best and do His will.
You must ensure you work on yourself in becoming the right partner otherwise you’ll impact whosoever you marry negatively. Work on your mind, develop every aspect of your life that would affect your marriage such as your spiritual, emotional, financial and moral life.
Having evaluate yourself, this would then take you to the last question. 3. Has God given me the go ahead?
This fact would be so much argued. What has God have to do with my life or with me getting married? Some Christian singles also neglect the place of God in their relationship but would only involve Him when they’re in a fix.

You may feel you’re ready: having a good job, enviable character, furnished apartment and so on but God may not have granted you the go-ahead. It’s better to start a journey with God than to involve Him when issues comes up in the future.

The latter is mending and the former is having His guidance. It is better to have God journey with you from the beginning to the end than to invite Him when the foundation has been destroyed. Allow God speak to you and don’t allow the voices of pressure or internal ones push you into marriage when you are not thoroughly prepared and doing it right in His time.

When Adam was made, it got to a point in his life before God discovered that it was not good for him to be alone. Have you gotten to that point?

That point is a situation you get to in life in your walk with God that He personally endorse you for marriage. Don’t get it twisted, not everyone would be bothered about it. In fact you can by-pass the creator of marriage and move ahead on your own.

It’s a point of purpose fulfillment. Some hasn’t discovered their purpose let alone fulfill it. Some has discovered theirs but unwilling to submit to His lordship because of their personal ambition.

The best marriage you can ever have in life is the one in which God becomes the Alpha and the Omega in the course of the journey. Any challenges you face there would become His but if reverse becomes the case, it becomes your problem.

Is it now right right for you to get married? Think on these!

Topic: Mission Discovered [Friday 18 December, 2015]

Memorise: And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? - 1 Samuel 17:29

Read: 1 Samuel 17:28-30 (KJV)

28 And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle.

29 And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause?

30 And he turned from him toward another, and spake after the same manner: and the people answered him again after the former manner.

Bible in One Year: Proverbs 1-3; 1 Peter 2:13-3:7

MESSAGE:

In today's Bible reading, we see what seems to be a subtle undertone in Eliab's unprovoked anger against David. Let's take a closer look at what was actually going on. David happened on the battle scene by accident, because he was only there on an errand to deliver his father's message to his brothers and the captain of their unit. It is therefore interesting that David was able to identify his mission in the midst of an affair which appeared to be none of his business. He found his purpose in a remote and indirect call to duty. This is a very good example of how the purpose of God becomes manifest in a person's life. Despite the fact that Eliab railed accusations of pride and naughtiness of heart against David, he did not deny them or defend himself; he only asked this rhetorical question: "Is there not a cause?" A cause is a very important element of purpose, which usually develops into a passion for an objective, making it worth dying for. David so quickly reached the conclusion that confronting Goliath was a cause he was prepared to die for (1 Samuel 17:32).

Looking at the sequence of events in this story, I have a feeling that David was acting under the influence of a power that was far beyond his control. I sincerely believe that he was very conscious of this fact, and he yielded himself to the control of the awesome power of God. The power that moved David to overcome Goliath is the same power that moved Samson to tear up a lion with his bare hand. I pray that you will receive that power now in the Name of Jesus. David did not only discover his assignment, he also quickly identified with the One who predetermined the whole process. Let's consider a few of the steps taken by David. First of all, He ignored and discarded all forms of discouragement that came his way through his brother, Eliab, and through King Saul (1 Samuel 17:28 & 33). In addition, he testified and boasted in the Lord of all the wonderful things God had accomplished in his life (1 Samuel 17:34-37). Furthermore, being sure of God's support, he refused to rely on human technology (1 Samuel 17:39). Beyond all this, he went ahead to identify with God by presenting himself as an emissary of the Lord of hosts. 1 Samuel 17:45 says:

"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied."

Are you pursuing a cause? Are you a man or a woman with a purpose? If you are ready to identify with the Lord of hosts and employ the same strategy David used, success will be yours.

Prayer Point: Father, I don't want to wander through life without a mission; guide me to the cause in life which You have created and equipped me for, in Jesus' Name.

Topic: All For Good [Wednesday 16 December, 2015]

Memorise: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. - Romans 8:28.

Read: Ephesians 1:3-6 (KJV)

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:

5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,

6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Bible in One Year: Psalm 137-143; 1 Peter 1:1-12

MESSAGE:

The words of today's Bible reading should bring joy to the heart of every believer in Christ. They reveal that everything about God's plan for your life has been settled long before the foundation of the world was laid. If this is true, it means that the things you have experienced in the past, all you are currently going through and everything you will experience in the future are no accidents; rather, they are designed to help you fulfil God's purpose for your life. No wonder Romans 8:28 says:

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

If God has called you to fulfil His plan for your life, everything He allows to come your way, both good and bad, will work in your favour, even though on the surface, they may not appear to be working in your interest. In fact, some situations might appear so contrary and terrible, but in God's overall plan for your life, they are adding up to something great for you.

Let's look at the example of Joseph. He was born quite late by his beloved mother, and so he became his father's favourite son. His father made him a coat of many colours, which was a prophetic connotation of where God was taking him. God gave him a dream for his life, and his envious brothers hated him for it. Joseph's dream was not just a desire or a goal he set for himself; it was God's plan for his life. Do you know that some people can be envious of you because of God's plan for your life? If every believer knew what God had planned for each of them, and accepted His plan, there would be no room for envy. Furthermore, notice that even though God had a great plan for Joseph's life, he still experienced great troubles. His troubles even started right from home.
Nevertheless, if you take a look at his life, you will see how all the experiences of his life helped to take him to God's destination. If his brothers were not envious of him, they would not have sold him into slavery. If he was not sold into slavery, he would never have become Potiphar's servant. If he was not Potiphar's servant, he would never have met Potiphar's wife. If he had not met Potiphar's wife, she would never have lied against him. If she had not lied against him, he would not have gone to prison. If he did not go to prison, he would not have met Pharaoh's imprisoned servants, and if this had not happened, nobody would have recommended him to Pharaoh. Beloved, like Joseph, everything is working out for your good! Go ahead and thank God for this.

Prayer Point: Father, grant me grace to recognise the presence or absence of Your hand in any situation I'm confronted with, in Jesus' Name.

Topic: Comprehensive Insurance [Tuesday 15 December, 2015] Memorise: Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in in his season. – Job 5:26 Read: Psalm 91:10-16 (KJV) 10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. 11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. 12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. 13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. 14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. 15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation. Bible in One Year: Psalm 127-136; James 5 MESSAGE: All-round security is of utmost importance to human beings. From a human viewpoint, the issue of security starts from concerns over the inner peace of an individual, to security issues within the family, and then to the safety of life and property in the larger society. In every society, people invest huge amounts of money on security and insurance, as a means of guaranteeing protection or safety. Some even invest in expensive offerings and sacrifices to appease the devil for protection and security. Yet, man has not been able to check the tide of natural disasters and tragedies of different categories for two major reasons. First, Revelation 12:12b says: “Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.” The vicious anger of the devil is clearly seen in his determination to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). I decree that as the devil continues to unleash his wrath on the earth, you will be securely protected under the shadow of the Almighty in the Name of Jesus. Secondly, security is of the Lord, the Omnipotent and Omniscient God, the Lord of hosts himself. That is why Psalm 127:1 says: “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.” All power belongs to God, and He has deployed His power to watch over his people. God is ever ready and nothing can escape His notice or happen with His knowledge (Psalm 121:4). God’s promises regarding security and insurance are so vast that they cover virtually every area of life (Psalm 121:8). Besides protection against natural disasters, weapons of your enemies and plans of the devil, God’s promises on security also guarantee longevity for your life (Psalm 91:10-11). This season, the Lord will keep your soul, and every plan of your enemies shall be frustrated in Jesus’ Name. The Lord will satisfy you with long life and you will not die before your time. However, you must meet with certain conditions in order to claim these wonderful promises for your life. You must first be born-again; this puts you on the same side with God (John 3:3). You must continually dwell under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1). Also, you must love Him above every other thing and obey Him completely in all things. Prayer Point: Father, please let Your wonderful promises of peace and security be fulfilled in my life.

Winning the Battle

by Joyce Meyer

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that the more intimate we are with Him, the more powerful our lives will be. That’s because we begin to resemble and act like those we spend time with. So, if we “hang out” with Christ, we will eventually become more like Christ. The trouble is many of us don’t spend a whole lot of time with Him. Intimacy Takes Time—and Truth

It’s seems like so many people are afraid to make time to get to know Him, to study His character. Or we’re scared to seek wisdom and guidance from Him because of what we think He might tell us. It looks as if we’re terrified of simply being with Him. And so that kind of power—the kind that makes the devil nervous when we wake up in the morning—often doesn’t develop very much in our lives.

God’s Word tells us that the truth will make us free. And in the book of Psalms, it says that David sought one thing of the Lord and basically, that was time with Him.

So, to develop intimacy that cultivates power with God, we have to face the truth that God reveals to us about ourselves. We must get a hold on our thoughts—thoughts about ourselves, our past or future, even thoughts about God. God loves us very much, but He is not willing to leave us in our mess. He is always ready and waiting to change us from the inside out. “ He is always ready and waiting to change us from the inside out. ”

It takes time for that to happen because we first need to be able to see the truth about ourselves, and many times, that is the hardest part of growing because we don’t like what we see. We may pray for God to change our circumstances, but we need to be able to face the fact that He wants to change us—regardless of the circumstances. So many times the Holy Spirit will reveal things that we just don’t want to see about ourselves. But remember, the truth will set us free! So don’t be afraid to change; be more afraid of staying the same! How God Really Sees You

But God is not mad at us. If you’re a parent just think of this: Can you love any of your children more than you do right now? Do you still want to see changes in their behavior? Well, it’s the same way with our heavenly Father. He loves us—period. He loves us now as much as He ever will. That will not change. But He still wants to see us grow and mature and experience the best He has planned for us.

God really does love us, and He always has our best interest in mind. The more we trust Him, the more we’ll want to spend time with Him. The more time we spend with Him, the more we change and the more His power develops in our lives. And the more powerful our lives are, the more nervous the devil will be when we open our eyes and get out of bed in the morning!

So, schedule a few private meetings with God. Talk to Him about your problems. Face the truth He reveals to you about yourself. Trust that He is always working for you to live an abundant, fruitful, powerful life!

Topic: Limitless Possibilities [Monday 14 December, 2015]

Memorise: Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. – Isaiah 43:19

Read: Isaiah 43:15-19 (KJV)

15 I am the LORD, your Holy One, the creator of Israel, your King.

16 Thus saith the LORD, which maketh a way in the sea, and a path in the mighty waters;

17 Which bringeth forth the chariot and horse, the army and the power; they shall lie down together, they shall not rise: they are extinct, they are quenched as tow.

18 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.

19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

Bible in One Year: Psalm 119:113-126:6; James 3:13-4:17

MESSAGE:

Jesus is the way into the very presence of God (John 14:6). Though Him, we have access to the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant (Galatians 3:14). How much of these blessings have you received? Jesus Christ is also the way forward in life; He is the way where none exists. After the children of Israel left Egypt, at God’s command, they stopped at the Red Sea. While they were by the Red Sea, the Egyptians came chasing hard after them. From the look of things, they had reached their wits’ end. They could not go into the sea, and they could not turn back either (Exodus 14:1-18). They began to cry to Moses, and Moses cried to God. The Lord told them to go forward. He became the way across the sea, and they went through.
Are you stuck like the Israelites? Do you feel you have exhausted all known avenues and possibilities? Does it appear there is no other way into your destination? Rejoice! There is still a way in! Jesus is the way that can take you to your destination where all else has failed. He will surely take you into your place of joy, blessing and favour.

It is amazing to know that the Lord can go as far as creating new things in old situations in order to make a way that takes you to your place of desire. He gave His word of assurance on this in Isaiah 43:19:

“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.”

As long as the Way works in your favour, be prepared to see new things. If you desire to access promotion, but all existing seats on your next level are occupied, invite the Way in. He can create a new position for you. He can give you superiors the idea of a new department and move you into it.
There is no limitation to the new things He can create just to make a way for you. Have the enemies blocked the way into your expected desire? The Lord will create a fresh way for you. He will do a new thing that will accommodate your good desires.
As long as you have the Way with you, there are limitless possibilities for you.

Prayer Point: Father, I thank You for the limitless opportunities at my disposal, and for always making a way for me in all situations

DONT FEEL AMONG, STAND OUT

“All my mates are all having boyfriends, I’m the only odd person among them” – she expressed in displeasure. “Guy, why do dey dull yourself, fine boy like you, girlfriend you no get? Come make we organize fine babe for you” – they echoed amusingly.

We are in a competitive world where people in their different classes are struggling to gain recognition and acceptance. Lots of people are sweating it out just to prove a point that they are able to do what others are doing.
In relationships, competition has eaten deep into the lives of men. Men are keeping girlfriends so that they won’t be isolated from the world of fun and pleasure. They do it to keep tabs with their friends in other to gain ‘experience’. Ladies too are also caught up in this competitive quest. The race to look like the most beautiful, best dressed, best couple and so on has engrossed their lives to the extent that they forget who they are. ladies, stand out

This battle has now become a must-do for many people. They live with the philosophy that if you can beat them, join them!
Do you need to feel among? Many who felt the need to ‘feel among’ are among those who face the consequence of relationship issues such as fornication, adultery, sexual immoralities, unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. You don’t need to feel among in life because life is not defined by what everyone is doing but by what one person does outstandingly.

That everybody is having boyfriends or girlfriends doesn’t mean it’s the right thing to do. In fact, it’s not the right thing to do because it will distract you and hinder your progress in life. Many don’t know that the demands of these kind of relationship is much and burdensome. The time, resources, effect, attention and its demand will affect your life and destiny.

Don’t feel among because there are too many people who are living the common life. The world is in need of extraordinary men and women who have not defiled themselves with the vanities of life. Men and women who defy all odds such as youthful exuberance and peer pressure to carve out a name for themselves.

Daniel and the three Hebrew boys choose not to feel among, though they were humiliated but in the long run, it paid off. They could have done what the Babylonians are doing but they knew who they were. It is lack of vision that would make you to do what your mates are doing such as having boyfriends or girlfriends that would destroy your life and to abuse substance such as drugs and the likes. Those who knew where they’re going to or who they are don’t engage in destructive pleasure such as drinking, partying or living today as if there’s no tomorrow. determine to stand outYou need determination to stand out and not to feel among. You’ll be enticed with all the pleasures of what to ‘feel among’ will do for you but when you see the prize of standing out, you’ll despise the temporal for the lasting benefits.

Stand out among the circle of your friends and colleagues. Don’t do what others are doing because everyone is doing it. There are few people at the top but too many people at the lower cadre of life.
Just in case you don’t know, God is interested in the remnants of the land than in the multitude who have corrupted themselves. To my single brothers, sisters and teenagers who chose not to do what others are not doing, I write this to encourage you that you are not alone. Though it would seem as if you’re the only odd person but the truth is this, there are many out there who are surviving without engaging in destructive relationship or in the abuse of substance. i say no To those who are saying No to sex until marriage, I celebrate you and encourage you to remain steadfast and unmoved, God is really proud of you and would reward you.

Stand out for God and for good. Don’t associate yourself with vain persons with no future ambition. Don’t associate with those who call sin fun or being smart, God will not lower His standard to conform to man’s imperfection.

Are you feeling as if you should join them? No, it’s dangerous to do so! The world is waiting for your shine. Remember, your story and your success is all that the world needs. Don’t be among those who sow terrible seeds to the world. Stand out and stand for God!

Topic: Bearing False Witness I [Sunday 13 December, 2015]

Memorise: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. – Exodus 20:16

Read: Deuteronomy 19:15-21 (KJV)

15 One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.

16 If a false witness rise up against any man to testify against him that which is wrong;

17 Then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the LORD, before the priests and the judges, which shall be in those days;

18 And the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, behold, if the witness be a false witness, and hath testified falsely against his brother;

19 Then shall ye do unto him, as he had thought to have done unto his brother: so shalt thou put the evil away from among you.

20 And those which remain shall hear, and fear, and shall henceforth commit no more any such evil among you.

21 And thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.

Bible in One Year: Psalm 119-112; James 2:14-3:12

MESSAGE:

“Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?” - Isaiah 58:6

This Scripture summarises the fundamental nature of restitution. Restitution is the undoing of an evil deed. Bearing false witness against a person, family, community, institution, state or nation is an evil deed that can have devastating effects. If you have been involved in this, you need to restitute your ways.

Some time ago, a man died under some mysterious circumstances in a polygamous setting. Driven by hatred for the deceased’s first son, the deceased’s younger brother compelled the deceased’s daughter to falsely accuse her step-brother (the first son) of killing their father, before a magistrate court. She yielded to this evil uncle because he had threatened her, saying that if she did not tell the lie, the whole family would desert her. In spite of this evil frame-up, the accused was discharged. However, his uncle did not let the matter rest; he had his nephew arrested again. Following this, the matter was escalated to the high court. Again, the step-sister of the accused was among the witnesses called against him. In fact, she was the prime witness of the prosecution.

Shortly before the commencement of proceedings in the case, those connected to the case were asked to step outside. The lady went out, and her uncle met her to rehearse the lies she should say before the judge. Thereafter, her step-brother, who was her age mate and a born-again Christian, also came outside the courtroom, and they got talking. He used this opportunity to lead her to Christ. After she had accepted to receive Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour, and as he was about to lead her through the sinner’s prayer, the judge sent for her to return to the courtroom and give her sworn testimony. However, contrary to the plans made with her uncle, she told the truth that the accused was innocent to the death of his father, because she was under the conviction of the Holy Spirit. That is restitution. Although she faced a lot of persecution from those who wanted her to sustain the lie, she stood firm and straightened her crooked path. Do you know that a lot of innocent people are languishing in prison because a false witness testified against them? if you have testified falsely against anybody in the past, you need to undo that wrong. If it is a sensitive matter, seek God’s face by praying and fasting, and see your pastor for counselling and guidance on the best way to go about it.

Action Point: Pray that God will cause confusion in the camp of those planning evil against God’s people. -

The Good Shepherd

by Joyce Meyer

Once when I was doing a study of the 23rd Psalm, I read a book about shepherds. In it I learned a lot about the special relationship between a shepherd and his sheep. A shepherd is a manager and a caretaker. He is the owner of his sheep…and he loves them. Earmarked

One thing I learned is that a shepherd marks his sheep with an instrument called a “killing knife.” Now, it may not sound very loving, but understand that sheep do not instinctively take care of themselves. It may hurt them, but the shepherd knows the temporary pain is ultimately good for the sheep. So, he makes a distinct mark in their ear that identifies them as his own and cares for them almost like children.

As Christians we are “marked” by the Holy Spirit. In much the same way, many of the trials and tests we go through can be quite painful while “killing” the flesh. However, the Holy Spirit knows what He is doing in us is working toward our spiritual maturity. The question is, which do you think is worse: the pain of change or the pain of never changing?

In John 10:11(AMP), Jesus says, I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd risks and lays down His [own] life for the sheep. There is so much we can learn about our relationship with Christ from the lesson about shepherds and sheep. The Lord Is My Shepherd

In the first verse of Psalm 23, David says, The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing (NIV). He lacked nothing because he knew that God was with him, always working in his life, changing and maturing him. It doesn’t mean that we will always have every little thing we want. But while we are waiting on things we’re praying and believing God for, we can be content knowing that He is always with us and will provide exactly what we need.

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters. This is talking about entering the rest of God. Not resting from activity…but resting in activity. In other words, there is a peace that comes from trusting in the ability and power that God gives us to do what He’s called us to do. It is this rest that causes us to step out in faith and do great things in His name. It’s faith in God’s faithfulness. Are you asking God to do great things through you? Then learn to rest in Him.

He will lead you along the right paths for his name’s sake. As we rest in God, He works in our lives, renewing our minds through His Word. The Word of God has the power to change us. Here is where people sometimes get caught up. One of the things I read in the book about sheep is that they will choose the soft ground, the comfortable and easy places to wander into. But they can get into trouble and become easy prey for other animals. They will stay in the same pasture forever unless the shepherd moves them. And he will move them regularly so they can stay healthy.

Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you in a comfort zone you could easily stay in? Be open to change, a challenge…a new pasture. This could mean a new church, a different job, or maybe even other friends. But trust the Holy Spirit to “move” you when you need to move. On the path of righteousness, He will lead you to the right place or to do the right thing at the right time.

Even when you walk through the darkest valley… The Amplified Bible says, Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me. These are words of great trust and peace.

Correction and Protection

A shepherd carries a rod and a staff, which he uses in different ways for different reasons. The rod is just a big, long stick with a little knob or bud at the top of it. A staff has more of a hook at the end of it.

The shepherd will practice endlessly so that he’ll be able to accurately chuck that rod at a predator or even at an unruly sheep to keep it in line. Sometimes an animal will wander off too far from the others. The staff is used to hook a wayward sheep and lead it back into the fold. At other times, it’s used as an examining tool to check the animals for parasites or other ailments.

The Holy Spirit sometimes has to use a rod of correction on us, doesn’t He? And it’s good to know that whenever we lose our way, He will use His staff to lovingly and gently guide us back onto the right path.

Those are just some of the ways a shepherd takes care of his sheep. And to think we have the Good Shepherd who takes care of us. What are you asking God to do in your life? Whatever it is, know that He will always be with you…and He will always provide just what you need. He is the Good Shepherd and He has already laid down His life for yours!

Topic: The Way into His Presence [Monday 7 December, 2015]

Memorise: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. - John 14:6

Read: John 14:1-6 (KJV)

1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Bible in One Year: Psalm 88-91; Hebrews 11:4-22

MESSAGE:

The Lord Jesus is the way out of every unpleasant situation that anyone can ever experience. He is the way out of sorrow, sickness, death and embarrassment. He is Heaven's approved lifeline to those who are sinking. In any negative situation you find yourself, Jesus Christ will make a way out for you this season.

Moreover, besides being the way out, Jesus is also the way in. He is the way into the presence of God. No wonder He told Thomas in John 14:6 that:

".....I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

One place you should long to be often is the presence of God. Every time you access God's presence, something good comes your way. The more you enter into God's presence, the more He causes His will in Heaven to prevail over your situation or circumstance on earth. As you enter His presence and stay there, a part of His glory rubs off on you; covering your shame and bringing you joy and laughter. God's presence is the place where you can find all the joy you need. In fact, your joy is made full in His presence (Psalm 16:11). These are just some of the many reasons why you should ensure you access God's presence daily.

To go into the presence of earthly kings and presidents is not an easy thing. By the grace of God, I have had the opportunity of visiting a few heads of states and presidents of nations. The first time I visited the head of a particular African nation, it was a very instructive experience. I had to go through multiple security checks. At the point of entry, there was security check. At the general reception, there was another security check. At the special reception, another check. Getting to the presidential reception, I underwent the final screening before accessing the presence of this head of state. After going through all these checks, I concluded that it was much easier getting into God's presence. Thank God that all I have to do to get into the presence of God is to say "In the Name of Jesus". How often do you enter into God's presence with boldness by the Blood of Jesus? We are encouraged to do so in Hebrews 4:16:

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

Action Point: The Blood of Jesus has made it easy to access God's presence; be thankful and give Him glory for it.

Topic: The Holy God [Thursday 3 December, 2015]

Memorise: But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. - Psalm 22:3

Read: Exodus 15:9-11 (KJV)

9 The enemy said, I will pursue, I will overtake, I will divide the spoil; my lust shall be satisfied upon them; I will draw my sword, my hand shall destroy them.

10 Thou didst blow with thy wind, the sea covered them: they sank as lead in the mighty waters.

11 Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?

Bible in One Year: Psalm 69-72; Hebrews 8

MESSAGE:

Holiness is an intrinsic part of God's nature; it is His very essence. Everything about Him is wrapped up in holiness. His love, mercy, power, justice, glory and all of His character reflect His holiness. Every action of God is designed to perpetuate His holiness. When He exhibits love, it is borne out of His holiness. If He is angry, it is because of His holiness. When He judges sin, it is out of His holiness. In His dealings with all His creatures, whether in Heaven, on earth or beneath the earth, one theme rings out: holiness. No wonder the seraphs in His presence keep repeating "Holy, Holy, Holy". Isaiah 6:3 says this about them:

"And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory."

Similarly, Apostle John reports of the four beasts in Heaven who do not rest day and night as they chant:

"...Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." - Revelations 4:8

In the same vein, Psalm 48:1 says God's mountain is the mountain of holiness, while Psalm 93:5 says God's house is holiness. His glory also is reflective of His holiness, hence in Exodus 15:11, He is said to be "glorious in holiness". Furthermore, in Isaiah 35:8, His way is called the way of holiness. As a result of these, it is very easy to trace God's address in Heaven.
If you want to visit Him, simply ask for holiness way, mountain of holiness, holiness house, holiness throne, glory of holiness, and you will meet God Himself who is holiness personified! If you understand how holy God is, then you will appreciate why He cannot stand sin in any form. When God called you out of sin, He called you into holiness. Jesus understands the Father perfectly, hence He used His Father's measure of perfection as the standard we should follow (Matthew 5:48). In other words, we should blend into God to the extent that His holiness will flow through us. You cannot be holy on your own. Nobody can. But if you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, you are at the starting point. From there, God will give you the grace to be holy as you submit to Him, obey Him and flee from sin.

Prayer Point: Father, let Your nature of holiness flow seamlessly through me every second from today.

A BETTER LIFE IN CHRIST

Introduction
Are you looking for a better life? You are not alone. People everywhere today are looking for a better life. Politicians know this, because in every presidential election, candidates declare how they will lead our country so we can all have a better life. Marketing advisors know this, for it seems that every commercial we see tries to convince us that if we just had this or that product we’d have a better life. Our colleges are filled with people looking for a better life.

However, the way to a better life is not found in politicians, money, success, or any other temporal thing. A better life has nothing to do with the homes in which we live or the cars we drive. The only way to a better life is found in Jesus Christ and in understanding whom we are, what we have in Him, and how to acquire it.

Jesus very clearly said, "I am come that ye might have life, and that ye might have it more abundantly." A man one time tried to convince me that this meant Jesus wants us to have all the stuff we want. Jesus clearly taught that the abundant life is not about things, but rather is about a quality of life found only in Him. It is not enough to know we are Christians. There is so much more. Our lives are a journey, and on our journey to a better life we must understand three basic facts about ourselves.

In Christ you are a saint. (1-3)

What is a saint? The dictionary defines a saint as one who is a very holy person; one who is pure in heart and upright in life. While the world around us freely uses this definition, we need to understand how misleading it is. The Bible writers chose a word that means "holy ones, righteous ones, those who have been separated from the rest."

A saint is any and every born again child of God. The moment you repent of your sin and place your faith in Christ you are clothed in the righteousness of Christ, you are set apart and are holy in the eyes of God. Though we have been born again we still have a sin nature, we still mess up, and we still fail. There are days and times when we don’t feel saved, we don’t feel like saints, but your being a saint has nothing to do with your feelings. It has everything to do with your eternal position in heaven.

You may say, "I don’t feel holy; I don’t feel worthy to be a saint." What you need to question is whether you really are. Are you sure of your salvation? Are you living like a saint? You may have these feelings because you are living in sin and need to do something about it. But you may have these feelings when there is nothing really the matter. None of us is worthy, but God has made us worthy. That’s why Paul wrote of us as being in Christ Jesus. The devil will try to tell you otherwise. "You’re so bad, you’re so unworthy, God can’t love you, and He can’t use you...Don’t believe it! They’re lies from the pits of hell!

God bought you with the precious blood of His only begotten Son; He saved you from the wrath

Ladies, See The Signs Before You Say “I Do”
by Mayowa Adeniyi

The rate at which the female folks are complaining bitterly about men and marriage in this age is so alarming. Many have come to the conclusion that all men are the same, they’re wicked and all sort and have also transferred this mentality into the upcoming generation.

Many, because it’s often believed by them that love is ‘blind’, has ignorantly accepted the proposal they’re not meant to accept. Few years into the marriage, they’ll see that love isn’t blind.

That he has a promising future, handsome look or seem compatible with all your preference is not enough to make him the right person for you. See the signs!

It’s often true that change is inevitable in life but there are some signs that could have given you a hint of what the future would look like if you did not ignore them. If your physical eyes can’t see them, then engaging your inner eyes would greatly help.
What are the signs to be on the lookout for before you say ‘I do?’ 1. Abusive
A man can’t know the worth of a woman in his life if he doesn’t know her purpose. Owing to this, he’d abuse her physically or verbally.

Any man that gets annoyed when you both talk and bangs the table or hits the wall would someday turn you to a punching bag in marriage.

No man in his right sense should slap you or hit you. But it’s quite unfortunate that some ladies ignore signs like this, believing that he’ll change in marriage, my dear, it’ll only get worse.

Verbal abuse is another sign you should look out for. If he shouts, yell or name call you, then there’s no indication that he’ll stop that when you get married. You don’t have the power to change him, only God can!

2. Cheating
Cheating is a lifestyle. You cannot reduce the effect of a poisonous substance by changing its container.

A man that cheats before marriage will remain a cheat after marriage except God works in him. Don’t think marrying him would make him change, not even his promise is enough to change him.

If he cheats on you emotionally and sexually, it’s best you take a step out of the relationship before you seal up your life with him. If he can’t embrace sexual fidelity, nothing will make him faithful to you in marriage.
Look before you leap! If he does it once, it’s a mistake; but when it’s more than once, it’s an habit.

3. Lies
A liar is next to a thief according to a Yoruba saying (Eni toba paro ma jale).
It’s highly intolerable to live with a liar because your life is not safe with him. In fact, marriage built on lies cannot stand the test of time nor will it thrive.
If you know next to nothing about his his life, vision, past, fears and purpose then it’s advisable not to journey with him in marriage.

Seek to know the truth by making your findings. It’s not lack of trust to verify information in a relationship. Remember, in the mouth of two or more witness, the truth is established.
Don’t be carried away by his flattering or sweet talks. Marriage thrives better on truths rather than on lies. How can you see the signs?

One thing remains inevitable in life, the heart of men (women) is desperately wicked, who can know it? Before you fall head over heels in love with him, see the signs before you get trapped.

It’s best to see warning signs before marriage than to see it in marriage.

1. See through counsel
“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety” – Proverbs 11:14.

You don’t need a counselor to get counsel, there are times the voice of men could seem the voice of God. Do you listen to the voice of your parents, friends or peers?

Don’t be blinded by ‘love’. There are some things you’ll never see because you’re in love, reflect on their observation before it gets to late to revert from the journey you should have not embarked on.

2. Prayerfully see
I often get amaze when I hear that some people consider prayers as their last option when they’re taking major decisions in life such as whom to marry.

Have you prayerfully considered his proposal before you accept it? If he tries to play smart and trickier, there’s a God that can reveal the secret intent of the heart of men.

It would be better you pray to God to show you the man and your future with him. Once He reveals what you need to know about the journey, you’ll know if it’s safe to say ‘I do’ or back out from the relationship.

It’s never late to carry out a litmus test on your relationship with him. See the signals! Don’t allow ‘love’ or love to becloud your emotional senses. Listen to counsel than ignore warning signs. Above all, pray!

What is good needs prayer and the reverse needs prayer. Let God reveal what you don’t know about him and the fate of the relationship to you so that you can have His backing before you step in.

Spring of Hope

by Chad Trafton

Nestled in the Peruvian jungle, Zungaro Cocha is one of hundreds of villages you may not find on a map but populate much of the Amazon River coastline.

Although it’s Autumn, it feels a lot like Summer, with temps in the 90s bolstered by high humidity from frequent showers. Makeshift wood and cement houses with simple metal roofs line the muddy roads of this community.

Zungaro Cocha literally means “big fish, small lake,” named for its once-booming fishing industry. But it’s been years since the lake was productive, and now most residents depend on selling corn, bananas and whatever food they can grow in their yards.

Here, the average man makes barely enough to scratch out an existence. Most families have little more than a table and a few chairs, along with a wood-burning stove and a place to sleep. Many don’t even have this. And until recently, almost no one had access to clean water.

Quantity of water is not the issue; they are literally surrounded by the Amazon’s tributaries…and within walking distance of the river itself. It’s the quality that proves dangerous, with dirty water from these sources bringing parasites and other diseases into the community.

Through the support of our friends and partners, Joyce Meyer Ministries missions outreach, Hand of Hope, recently joined with Camino de Vida Ministries in Peru to build a church and install a fresh-water well in Zungaro Cocha…bringing physical and spiritual help to thousands.

Gilberto Ahuanari is the pastor of the church. For the past three years, the congregation held services in a dilapidated house, which eventually deteriorated due to the rain and intense climate.

“We didn’t have a home and people began to leave,” says Pastor Ahuanari. “My tears began to roll. I prayed to God, ‘If you have brought me here, then hold out Your hand—bring the time and the moment.’”

The Lord immediately spoke to his heart and gave him Zechariah 6:15: And those who are far off shall come and help build the Temple of the Lord….

“I didn’t know where it would come from,” says Pastor Ahuanari. “But its you—God used you to build this. It’s a gift from God.”

The day of our visit, the congregation gathers to welcome us…and share stories of how things have changed.

“Since I was a kid, I saw suffering from water,” says Ester Yahuarcani. “Kids would suffer from carrying it. We’d have to go down to the river with buckets and bring it back on our heads. Our knees would hurt, and kids had a lot of diarrhea. Now they don’t—now God has blessed us.”

It’s a blessing that runs deep. This church congregation of fifty people now finds themselves sharing Christ with hundreds who benefit from the fresh-water well.

“Things have changed because the town believes in God and believes in us,” says Ester. “They come to us for difficulties and come to church to ask for prayer. The whole town is really happy about that.”

Just miles down the Amazon River, the stories continue. You are making a difference in the Puerto Almendra village, where we have installed another new church and water well.

Nadiesta Acho recently gave her life to the Lord when the congregation went house to house offering prayer. She’s grateful for the new beginning…and for the safety the new well brings.

“When I used to get water at night, there was a lot of danger,” says Nadiesta. “My daughter was even bit by a serpent.” That bite caused her teenager’s leg to swell, and they feared the worst. She was rushed to a doctor and eventually recovered. Thankfully, they no longer have to place themselves in harm’s way.

“I thank the Lord for bringing this blessing from so far away,” says another resident Lidia Altamirano. “Water is one of the elemental substances in life—to cook, to bathe, to drink, everything. We can live without light, but we cannot live without water.”

Topic: Overcoming By Prayer [Tuesday 1 December, 2015]

Memorise: And when he was at the place,he said unto them, pray that ye enter not into temptation. - Luke 22:40

Read: Luke 22:39-41 (KJV)

39 And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.

40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.

41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,

Bible in One Year: Psalm 57-63; Hebrews 6:13-7:10

MESSAGE:

The moment you gave your life to Jesus Christ, a battle line was drawn between you and the kingdom of darkness. Unhappy that he has lost you to God’s kingdom, Satan’s main goal is to secure your return to his kingdom. One major tool he tries to use in accomplishing this mission is temptation. The devil and his agents will bring temptations your way to make you to do things that would break your relationship with God. This is where prayer comes in. prayer is one veritable tool that prevents you from falling into Satan’s traps. This is why Jesus urged His disciples at the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Luke 22:40 says:

“And when he was at the place, he said unto them, pray that ye enter not into temptation.”

When you pray, the strength to overcome temptations is released to you. A Christian who fails to pray will sooner or later become a victim of the tempter. The extent to which you will overcome temptations is determined by how robust your prayer life is. If you have been raising and falling so often, check your prayer life and the way you study God’s word. If you can improve on both, you will experience more stability in your faith.

One of the modus operandi of Satan is to show you dazzling sights that could tempt you to follow him. In other words, he presents an object of temptation in a bright and attractive way; repainting an evil thing in brilliant and attractive colours. For instance, a prostitute is labelled a commercial sex worker, in order to support the excuse that he or she is simply trying to earn a living, whereas the essence of prostitution is fornication and adultery. In tempting people, the devil and his agents make sin look attractive and inviting, almost with an air of irresistibility. Prayer deadens these illusions by painting sin in its real colours.
Every time you pray over an object of temptation, it becomes less inviting and less attractive. As you pray, the desire to sin is brought under subjection. Through prayer, we obtain grace to walk in the reality of the truth that our flesh has been crucified (Galatians 5:24). Prayer strengthens our spirit man and keeps the flesh where it belongs: crucified and dead on the cross of Calvary (Romans 6:6). It connects your spirit with the Holy Spirit and separates you from the devil, by moving your focus towards Heaven and away from the allure of the world. How prayerful are you? No believer in Christ can triumph without using the weapon of prayer.

Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace to pray like Jesus prayed while on earth.

YOUR TALENT DISCOVERY AND USAGE

What’s your talent? There’s nobody in life that God ever created without depositing one thing or the other in them that they’re naturally endowed with. There are no ’empty’ persons created but many are blessed but living empty. You have something I don’t have and no one has the same talent. By His grace, I can pen down words to make meaningful sentence or pass a message across. If you too have this gift, ability or talent, you can’t write like me neither can I write like you.

Quite a number of people usually confuse their talent with their vocation or something they learn somewhere.

Talent is a marked natural ability or skill that a person has. ‘Marked’ in the sense that it’s unique and significant. When you have it, you’ll know and it’s not a thing you’ll doubt. It is not learned but naturally endowed. Talent isn’t acquired through formal education but it can be sharpened through informal education.

There are several kinds of talents which God has endowed people with. I’ll only share the ones I can think of. There’s the ability to write, draw, sing, lead, make people laugh, dramatize, create designs, talk, play with sound or musical instruments amongst others.

Nobody is created empty, it’s the failure to discover one’s talent that makes people empty. All of the aforementioned or more are what God has deposited in people. You may have multiple talents but there’s one that’s marked (significant) in your life.

Every talent that God created in man is an unwrapped gift. If you don’t use it, you can’t get the best of it. How can a person become a great singer if he or she doesn’t sing or rehearse songs?

Take a close look at yourself, what can you do naturally which you do not acquire or learn in school? What do you like or enjoy doing? What’s that thing that you can spend the whole night doing? You have something in you, it’s different from your career or the skill you learned. If it’s so hidden that you can’t see it, pray that God should open your eyes to see the hidden treasure in you (Jer. 33:3).

Now that you have discovered it, there’s more to it because it’s in its raw form. Gold can’t be appreciated when it’s in its ore, unless it’s refined. The more you work on that gift, the more you become good at it.
It’s of no use if you can write, whether songs, poem, short plays, drama or articles and you hardly write on daily or weekly basis. There must be time in the midst of no time for what you enjoy doing. It is the more you work on your talent that it becomes refined and it’s only a refined talent that become gifted in.

And here’s what the scripture says about a gift. A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men (Proverbs 18:16). Your gift can’t make room for you if you haven’t sharpen it. It is when preparation meets performance in the face of opportunity that elevation comes.

How often do you write, sing or sharpen your natural skill? If there’s no opportunity for you, create or find one. Who knows the time when opportunity would come to showcase what you’re made?

Hence, to what purpose are you or will you be using your talent? God gave you the talent and He expects that you use it for His glory. Any talent that doesn’t advance God’s kingdom on earth will serve the devil’s purpose in hell.

David had the ability to lead his father’s sheep. It was in doing it that he had the opportunity of killing the predators and when opportunity came, coupled with the fact that he was anointed, he lead the whole tribes of Israel rather than sheep.

There’s also the place of God’s anointing on your natural endowments. Seek for it! Don’t be carried away by the fame, prestige, luxuries and wealth that comes with the use of your talent. Don’t allow people talk you into doing it the world’s way so as to serve the god of this earth.

Use your talent to populate the kingdom of God rather than send more souls to hell. You’ll account for the latter on the last day. If you use it for God, it’ll bring both earthly and eternal gain but if you use it for the god of this earth, you’ll have all the earthly gain your soul craves for and become cast away in eternity.

Have you discovered your talent? Get up and do something about your talent! Your talent is irrelevant in the grave, neither is it useful in heaven or in hell. Use it for God, although it might seem irrelevant doing so but it’s worth it!