SHARE THE GOOD NEWS

MEMORY VERSE: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. 2 Corinthians 4:4

BIBLE READING: Number 21-23

The gospel of Christ is nothing to be ashamed of. Romans 1:16 says: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” The gospel is good news. It is one of the best news you will ever get. It is news which makes people happy and excited. If what you have heard about Jesus Christ does not make you happy and excited, then you have not yet truly heard and understood the gospel as it is meant to be understood. The basic outline of the gospel is Jesus Christ took your place in judgement, paid the penalty for all your sins, and gave you the blessing He deserved because of His perfect sinless life. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says: “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

The news that Jesus, the Alpha and Omega, loves you enough to die for you is good news! Not only that, He took what you deserved and gave you what He deserved. This is not limited to you alone, He died for all mankind. The deliverance from sin, its effects, and penalty is available to anyone who will accept Jesus as his personal Lord and Saviour. The news that God is for you, not against you, is good news. The news that Jesus has overcome the world for you is good news. John 16:33 says: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” The news that you are more than a conqueror is good news. The gospel is good news because it is news of hope. Colossians 1:27 says: “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:” The news that you have a glorious future is good news. The fact that Christ rose is a proof that you and I are going to rise. However, the enemy has an agenda to keep many from hearing the gospel. 2 Corinthians 4:4 says: “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” This is where you and I come in. We must share the gospel, the good news, with everyone.

QUESTION: How many people have you shared the gospel with this year? How many souls have you won for Christ this year?

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

THE BLESSINGS OF WALKING WITH GOD

MEMORY VERSE: And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's servants, and in the sight of the people. Exodus 11:3

BIBLE READING: Number 17-20

Contrary to what some believe, the Christain life is not a miserable life. I used to think that my life will become miserable, boring, and dry when I give my life to Christ. Today, I can confidently tell you that my life is the opposite of these.

Let us take a brief look at the life of Moses – before and after he began to walk with God. Pharaoh was his god before he met the Lord. Pharaoh decided what he could do and what he couldn’t do. Pharaoh decided how high he could rise in life. Pharaoh decided what he could have and what he couldn’t have. Pharaoh restricted where he could go and where he couldn’t go. His life was in the hands of Pharaoh. No wonder, he ran away when he fell out of favour with Pharaoh because he knew that death was imminent ( Exodus 2:10-15). However, everything changed after Moses met the Lord. For instance, he became a god to Pharoah. Exodus 7:1 says: “And the LORD said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and Aaron thy brother shall be thy prophet.” Moses now decided whether Pharaoh will have peace or not. God will make you a god to your enemies when you begin to walk with Him. Several years ago, I was invited to a gross misconduct interview. One of my team members made a false allegation against me.He was confident that I was going to get sacked so he began to blank me. God fought for me and I returned to work. He began to avoid me at work. To make matters worse for him, he was applying to become permanent and my recommendation will go a long way in determining his fate. I don’t need to tell you the state this person was in. I assisted him with his application, gave a good recommendation and he was made permanent. You become a god to your enemy when you walk with God.

Moses had one goal in life and the goal was to deliver his people from oppression. Before he met the Lord, he tried to deliver his people from oppression and everything went pear-shaped. Actually, he had to run away because Pharaoh wanted to kill him. After he met the Lord, without leading a rebellion, he delivered his people from oppression. Moses succeeded where he had failed forty years prior. When you walk with Lord, you succeed where you have failed in the past. Many years ago, a brother (before he met the Lord) did everything possible to become a professor but somehow it didn’t happen. Today, he owns a university after many years of walking with the Lord. When you walk with the Lord, He turns all the evil prophecies over your life to good prophecies. Someone, before I travelled abroad, said, “if Dayo (my African name) travels abroad, he will smoke weed, draw tattoos, joined a bad gang and pierce his ears.” By the special grace of God I did not do any of that. Not only that, today when I pray this person says a big amen. Why? I met the Lord and He changed everything.

NOTE: If you are yet to give your life to Christ please do so. God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.

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HE UNDERSTANDS

MEMORY VERSE: For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15

BIBLE READING: Number 12-16

Jesus is a priest. The role of a priest is to offer sacrifices. Hebrews 8:3 says: “For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.” What kind of priest is He? He is a priest after the order of Melchisedec. Hebrews 5:6 says: “As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.” He was not a levitical priest i.e. a descendant of Aaron. What kind of sacrifices does He offer? He offers prayers and supplications. Hebrews 5:7 says: “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared.” The three successive sacrifices of Jesus in His priestly role are: First, on earth, He offered prayers and supplications; Second, on the cross, he offered Himself; and, third, in heaven, he offers the continuing priestly ministry of intercession.

Jesus is also a high priest. A high priest is an individual who holds the office of the ruler-priest. According to Revelation 1:5-6, through the forgiveness of our sins and the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ, we have become kings and priests. As such, Jesus is our high priest. High priests are taken among men to represent them to God (Hebrews 5:1). The best person to represent you to God is one who knows what you are going through. What makes Jesus the perfect high priest is that He understands what you are going through. Hebrews 4:15 says: “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” He knows what it is like to be hungry, tired, lonely, hurt, hated, beaten, persecuted, misunderstood, mistreated, mocked, laughed at, betrayed by a friend, tempted to sin, responsible for employees, etc. He knows what it is like to feel forsaken or hopeless. He knows what it feels like to have no spouse or earthly father (there) to help. He knows what it feels like to loose a loved one. He knows what it feels like to pay taxes; have money stolen from you; have the responsibility to provide for a family; live under an oppressive government or experience extreme pain. This is why the author of Hebrew says, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need ( Hebrews 4:16).” Friend, don’t be afraid to talk to Jesus about any thing. Not only does He understand, He knows how to help you overcome and have victory. Remember, Jesus died for you because He loves you and He lives to intercede for you.

Father, please lead me to victory.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

A SOLUTION TO THE WORLD

MEMORY VERSE: And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is? Genesis 41:38

BIBLE READING: Number 9-11

Pharaoh had two disturbing dreams (Genesis 41). He saw seven (7) gaunt cows and seven (7) fat cows standing by River Nile. The gaunt cows ate up the fat cows. In the second dream, he saw seven (7) thin ears (of grain) and seven (7) plump ears (of grain). The thin ears devoured the plump ears. The next morning, he invited his wise men (astrologers,magicians,etc.) to interpret these dreams. Genesis 41:8 says: “And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled, and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream, but there was none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh.” On that day, everything failed - philosophy failed, astrology failed, astrophysics failed, even metaphysics failed. Human knowledge is limited.

I perceive in my spirit that the world is edging close to a time when the wisdom of men would fail. Already, economic policies, G8 arrangements, NATO arrangements are beginning to fail. God is going to humble man very soon because of his pride. Unless man repents and turns back to God, God is going to bring man to his knee using hunger. Deuteronomy 8:3 says: “And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.” Some countries have already begun to clone cows and sheep to meet their food demands.
On that day when everything failed, the Lord sent Joseph to solve the problem. As believers, we are called to be a solution to the problem of the world. Unfortunately, some of us are part of the problem. Pharaoh said after Joseph interpreted his dreams, “ Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is ( Genesis 41:38)?” Pharaoh recognised that Joseph had something no other man had. Although Joseph was not a graduate, the professors of economics at that time could not argue with his policies because they were divine. This is the level God wants His children to operate at. Pharoah handed his government to Joseph because of the wisdom God gave to him. A day is coming when organisations, banks, and governments will pass the running of their economies and businesses to children of God. At that time, Head of States will say, “according to thy word shall Great Britain, USA, Pakistan, etc., be ruled.” What will happen is that God will humble the world and put the solution in the hands of His children.

NOTE: Father, please make me a solution to this generation.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

“THEN I KNEW THAT THIS WAS THE WORD OF THE LORD”

MEMORY VERSE: So Hanameel mine uncle's son came to me in the court of the prison according to the word of the LORD, and said unto me, Buy my field, I pray thee, that is in Anathoth, which is in the country of Benjamin: for the right of inheritance is thine, and the redemption is thine; buy it for thyself. Then I knew that this was the word of the LORD. Jeremiah 32:8

BIBLE READING: Numbers 21-24

The spirits in the world are the Spirit of God and the spirit of Satan. The Spirit of God is the Spirit of truth and the spirit of Satan is the spirit of error. 1 John 4:6 says: “We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.” Satan has the ability to transform himself into angels. 2 Corinthians 11:14 says: “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.” As such, check every Word or divine guidance before acting on them. 1 John 4:1 says: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

Today, I will be talking about ways of checking the source of the Word you have received. Firstly, God’s Word is always in-line with the Scripture. Psalm 119:105 says: “NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” What you have received is most likely from God if it is in line with Scriptures. For instance, a strong impression on your heart to call a friend and pray with him or her is in-line with scriptures (Ezekiel 22:30 ). Secondly, watch out for confirmation of circumstances. Whenever God speaks, 9 out of 10, there will be confirmation of circumstances. Jeremiah, a prophet of God, received a Word from the Lord to buy Hanameel’s land. Meanwhile, he had earlier prophesied that will Isreal will be captured by Babylon. The land the Lord told him to buy will be worth nothing in terms of real estate since the land will soon be taking over. Instead of rushing to buy the land, he waited for a confirmation of circumstances and the Lord gave him one. Jeremiah 32:8 says: “So Hanameel mine uncle's son came to me in the court of the prison according to the word of the LORD, and said unto me, Buy my field, I pray thee, that is in Anathoth, which is in the country of Benjamin: for the right of inheritance is thine, and the redemption is thine; buy it for thyself. Then I knew that this was the word of the LORD.” Thirdly, God’s Word brings about God’s peace (Colossians 3:5). You will experience a peace of heart when God speaks to you. If you feel pressured to act hastily, 9 out of 10 times, it is not from God. Fourthly, God will confirm what He has told you through fellow believers. The Holy Ghost called Paul and Barnabas into ministry in the secret (Galatians 1:1). However, He confirmed their calls publicly in Acts 13:1-3. Our God is not an author of confusion.

NOTE: Three relationships you can expect to hear from God are the pastor and the people (Hebrews 13:7), husband and wife ( Ephesians 5:22-24) and parents and child (Ephesians 6:1). The Lord will confirm what He has told you in secret through your pastor , your marriage partner or parents (if they are believers).

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

THE SOURCE OF WEALTH

MEMORY VERSE: Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. Proverbs 13:11

BIBLE READING: Numbers 17-20

Wealth can come from the devil, get-rich-quick schemes, and God. There are several lessons to learn from the third temptation of Jesus (Matthew 4). Firstly, Satan is rich. Secondly, he gives riches to those who will bow down and worship him. Verse 8-9 says: “Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.” Satan still makes people rich. One of the disadvantages of taking things from Satan is that he gives a penny and takes back a billion in return. Someone once said, “An apple from the devil contains enough worms to kill a man.” Wealth can, and does, come through get-rich-quick schemes, e.g. drugs, frauds, internet scams, and so on. Wealth can come from God. Deuteronomy 8:18 says: “But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.” The power to get wealth consist of ideas, abilities, special skills, and so on. The bible is littered with examples of persons whom God prospered financially,e.g. Job, Abraham, King Solomon, King David, the great woman of Shunem, etc. One encouraging thing about the story of Job is that one can be rich and still be holy.

The wealth from God is sorrow-free. Proverbs 10:22 says: “The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” Wealth gotten from Satan or through get-rich-quick schemes come with sorrow attached. It comes with pain, embarrassment, shame, headache, etc. A story that comes to mind is that of a man who was caught trying to smuggle cocaine into the country . He was forced to pass out the cocaine wraps, he swallowed, as faeces. The wealth from God brings peace. Isaiah 48:22 says: “There is no peace, says the LORD, unto the wicked.” The wealth from God is protected by God. He will protect you and everything He has given to you. Job 1:10 says: “Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.” You can only take what you give to me. If it is given by God, you are only wasting your time trying to take it. Whatever God gives will last forever as far as you continue to obey Him and live holy. There is a popular saying, “nothing lasts forever.” Things (marriage, wealth, ministry, promotion, etc) given by God last forever. However, wealth gotten through get-rich-quick schemes does not last forever. Proverbs 13:11 says: “Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.”

NOTE: God will not prosper a lazy person. If you want divine wealth then you must be ready for work.
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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

FAMINE: RESPOND, DON’T REACT

MEMORY VERSE: And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. Deuteronomy 8:3

BIBLE READING: Numbers 14-16

One of the things the Lord hates with a passion is pride. Proverbs 6:16-19 says: “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.” As a result, He humbles the proud. One of the tools God employs in humbling the proud is famine. Deuteronomy 8:3 says: “And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.” The world, out of pride, thinks it does not need God. It has moved away from God; as such, the Lord has decided to bring it to its knee through famine. This explains why there are a lot of graduates with no job ( famine of jobs), lot of eligible bachelors and spinsters with no one to marry ( famine of marriage partner), lot of churches with few genuine shepherds and sheep ( famine of shepherd and sheep) and lot of church goers but few Christians ( famine of the Word).

Famine elicits a response. The three responses are: Do nothing, React and Respond. Doing nothing is not the best way to respond to a famine situation. Problems don’t just go away. They must be worked through or else they will remain forever a barrier to the growth and development of the spirit. Reacting to a famine situation is also not the best way to respond to a famine situation. Crying, moaning, playing the blame game will not solve the problem. The best thing to do in a famine situation is to respond. You can respond by doing what you think is good or seek the face of God and do what He tells you to do. Let me warn you against doing what you think is good (in your eyes) in a famine situation. The fact that something is good or make sense does not mean it is from God. It made perfect sense for Abram to go to Egypt, however, that was not the best course for his life. The following happened to Abram when he went to Egypt: Firstly, he went down (Genesis 12:10); secondly, he was forced to compromise his faith (Genesis 12:12-13); thirdly, he lost his wife (Genesis 12:15) and fourthly, he was embarrassed by a pagan king ( Genesis 12:18-20). Imagine an unbeliever accusing father Abram of telling lies.

NOTE: The best way to respond to a famine situation is to seek the face of God and do whatever He tells you to do. Also, praise God in a famine situation

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THE CHRISTIAN RACE

MEMORY VERSE: Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1

BIBLE READING: Numbers 11-13

Paul, the author of the book of Hebrews, likened Christianity to running in athletics. Hebrews 12:1 says: “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us. and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” Running events are divided by distance into sprints (short-distance), middle-distance, long-distance, as well as by type, which includes hurdles and relays or team races. The Christian race is a long- distance race as such it must be run with patience.

The Christian race and the marathon are similar. For instance, both have a start point and a finish point. We start the Christian race on earth and finish in heaven. There is a prize to be won in both. Revelations 3:21 says: “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” Both have organisers. Jesus is the organiser. Hebrews 12:2a says: “looking unto Jesus the author and the finisher of our race.” The organisers of both determine the track and the length of the track. Jesus sets the track on which Christians run. He designs the bends, the turnings, the hills, the slopes, etc.

Participants of both have to follow laid down rules. One of the laid down rules of the Christian race is "love your neighbour as yourself" . Mark 12:31 says: “And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these greater than these.” You will find it hard to lie to your neighbour if you truly love him. You will find hard to steal if love your neighbour . Do you know that if you truly love your neighbour as yourself you won’t fornicate, commit adultery, oppress people, delay your staff's salary, etc.? Another laid down rule is you must not harbour unforgiveness. Matthew 6:15 says: “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Most importantly, you have to register to participate in both. You have to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. John 3:3 says: “Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” “What if I don’t,” someone asked. If you don’t you will go to hell. This afternoon, a brother I had been witnessing to for months complained that I was too hard on him. I asked him a simple question, “you expect me to scream at the top of my voice and call you back if I see you walking towards fire don’t you?” He nodded. I told him that’s what I am trying to do. The rules have not changed. Jesus is the only way!

QUESTION: Have you accepted Jesus as your personal Lord and saviour?

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A SPIRITUAL DIET

MEMORY VERSE: He hath swallowed down riches, and he shall vomit them up again: God shall cast them out of his belly. He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him. Job 20:15-16

BIBLE READING: Numbers 8-10

READ: Job 20:12-19

Challenges are part and parcel of life. Christianity does not exempt you from challenges. Jesus said in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” In the world, ye SHALL have tribulation, not ye MAY have tribulation. The good news is Jesus has overcome the world for us. We are assured of victory over every challenge the enemy will send our way. How we respond to challenges matters, it will go a long way in deciding if and when we will overcome the challenges. One of the ways we respond to challenges or the loss of a loved one is we grief. Job, when his faith was tested, fed on his grief and could not eat. Job 3:24 says: “For my sighing cometh before I eat, and my roarings are poured out like the waters.” Another way we respond to challenges or trial of faith is we cry. David, when he faced challenges, fed on his tears. Psalm 42:3 says:“My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God?” One thing you must never do to anyone who is facing challenges is mock them. The friends of Job fed him with his sins when he was facing challenges ( Job 20:12-19). They accused him of sins instead encouraging him. Verse 15-16 says: “He hath swallowed down riches, and he shall vomit them up again: God shall cast them out of his belly. He shall suck the poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.”

Feed on God’s words when you face challenges. Jeremiah 15:16 says: “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.” Matthew 4:4 says: “But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” Feed on God’s will when you face challenges. John 4:34 says: “Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” One thing I try to do is I record every promise He has given to me in a book. From time to time, I go through them and my faith is strengthened. I am reminded, as I go through them, that all will be well. Also, I read through my dream book and I am greatly encouraged. Do you have a dream book? If you don't have one yet, get one today and start recording your dream.

NOTE: All suffering people need love, acceptance, patience encouragement not arguments.

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AND LOT ALSO, WHICH WENT WITH ABRAM

MEMORY VERSE: And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents. Genesis 13:5

BIBLE READING: Numbers 5-7

Walking with God brings prosperity. A look at Abram’s life, before and after he met God, glaringly shows that it is profitable to walk with God. All he had before he started to walk with God, despite the fact that he was a hardworking man, was a little substance. Genesis 12:5 says:“And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their possessions that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.” Within a short time, Abram went from a man with a little substance to become a man who was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold (See Genesis 13:2). There is a big difference between being rich and being very rich, just as there is a big difference between being a millionaire and being a billionaire. Abram was not just rich; he was very rich.You cannot please God, the Possessor of heaven and earth (Genesis 14:19), the Owner of silver and gold (Haggai 2:8), by obeying and serving Him in spirit and truth, and remain poor. I have a good news for everyone who is serving God in spirit and truth, very soon people will begin to refer to you as a rich brother or sister and you will use the wealth to promote the gospel and help the less privilege.

Lot, Abram’s relative who was living with him at the time, also prospered. Genesis 13:5 says:“And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents.” Lot was a young man who prospered as a result of his association with Abram (a man who walked with God). As a result of his association with Abram, he went from being a pagan to become a righteous man. 2 Peter 2:7 says: “And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked.” Let me ask, how many people presently read their Bibles daily as a result of their association with you? How many go to church regularly as a result of their association with you? How many have stopped fornicating as a result of their association with you? How many have stopped committing adultery as a result of their association with you? How many have given their lives to Christ as a result of their association with you? How many men have stopped beating their wives as a result of their association with you? How many wives submit to their husbands as a result of their association with you? How many have stopped accepting bribes or giving bribes as a result of their association with you?How many have stopped telling lies as result of their association with you? Someone said, “but am not a pastor.” You don’t have to be a pastor to make a difference in the lives of the people around you. Naaman, one of the military top brass in Syria, began to serve the God of Isreal because of a little slave girl in his house. Lot prospered as a result of his association with Abram. How many people have prospered as a result of their association with you? Abram gave Lot the opportunity to grow. Do you give the people around you the chance to grow? Brother in Christ, is your wife a better Christian as a result of her marriage to you? Sister in Christ, is your husband doing well as a result of your marriage to him?

QUESTION: What do you want to be remembered for?

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“BUT EVERYONE IS DOING IT”

MEMORY VERSE: I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Psalm 32:8

BIBLE READING: Numbers 1-4

A “way” is simply a path to a destination. The destination can be a physical one, a spiritual one, an emotional one, a mental one, etc. It can be one in your career, marriage, relationship, ministry, personal life, etc. Psalm 32:8a says: “I will instruct thee and teach thee in THE WAY which thou shalt go.” The phrase “the way” implies there are several ways. There are several ways before us; however, not all of the ways lead to God’s destination. There is a “way”, according to Proverbs 14:12, that seems right but the end of it is death. The flesh has its ways. It wants sugary drinks and processed foods. These leads to Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. The flesh hates discipline or exercise. The flesh does not like to pray or fast. This leads to a weak spiritual life. Romans 8:8 says: “So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.” The world has its ways; e.g., the world dress, talk, behave, raise children, treat husbands or wives, start a relationship and even serve God in a certain way. The Bible clearly teaches that our body is the temple of the living God; the Lord will destroy anyone who destroys His temple ( See 1Corinthians 3:17). You can not be a friend of the world and a friend of God at the same time (See James 4:4).

Some of the ways of the world; include, scheming, using what you have to get what you want, covering up sins, etc. The Bible says, “he that covers his sins will not prosper (Proverbs 28:13)”. Your friends have their ways and most of the time, they are at variance with the Scriptures. Your friends may be fornicating and committing adultery. There is also a popular way; viz, the reigning thing. You do things simply because everyone around is doing it. For instance, you play the lottery or bet on horses because everyone is doing it. Exodus 23:2 says: “Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment.” The fact that everyone is doing a thing does not make it right. Child bride is popular in certain parts of the world, does this mean that child bride is good? NO! The excuse many of us give is “but everyone is doing it.” You, as a sister, should not wear clothes that expose your cleavage because everyone is doing it. You, as a brother, should not engage in sex before marriage because everyone in the choir is doing it. The fact that it is popular does not mean it is right. Your parents may have their own ways. They may want you to put them before your wife which is against the Scriptures. They may even want you to put your brothers and sisters before your wife which is again against the teachings of the Holy Bible. Your manager probably has his ways: he probably wants you to dress in a way that will attract male customers to the bank or the restaurant. There are many ways (before us) but only one will take us to God’s destination for our lives. Psalm 32:8 says: “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Search the Scriptures to discover the way you should go. Also, seek Him in spirit and in truth.

NOTE: The fact that a practice is popular does not mean the practice is right.

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“LEAN NOT UNTO THINE OWN UNDERSTANDING”

MEMORY VERSE: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

BIBLE READING: Exodus 38-40

Two men lived in a land. Both were shepherds; they served the Lord and as a result, the Lord increased their substances to the extent that the land could no longer contain them. One day,they decided to part ways. The first man lifted up his eyes and chose what he saw. Genesis 13:10-11 says: “And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar. Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.” Lot leaned on his own understanding and as a result, he became a neighbour to God’s enemies (Genesis 13:12-13). He and his wife were taken captive shortly after their move (Genesis 14:11-12). Out of mercy, the Lord delivered him and he moved to Sodom. Many years later, the Lord destroyed Sodom and he lost all – his wife, home and properties (Genesis 19). Lot became homeless and began to dwell in rocks.

The other person, on the other hand, choose what he was shown. Genesis 13:14 says: “And the LORD said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward.” As a result, Abram became a deliverer – the Lord used him to deliver Lot. He had children; his lineage continued even to this day. Abram became a blessing to many generation. We cannot run from making decisions (if we want to continue to live). Even plants make decision – they bend towards sunlight when kept in a dark room. Decision-making is inevitable. Deuteronomy 30:19 says: “I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.” We have no other choice than to make decisions and face the consequences of our decisions. Many single brothers choose their wives based on sight. They married ladies who could cook, who appeared quiet, etc.; they were not led by God into those marriages. They discovered after marriage that these ladies cooked only when they were happy ( and they are rarely happy). They were quiet only when they had their ways. They (these brothers) discovered all sorts – these women argued a lot, never forgave and complained of everything – after marriage and wished they were single. The same with sisters, they married brothers based on their looks, bank balances and assets. They discovered after marriage that these brothers were wife-beaters, serial womanisers, drug addicts,unusually stingy,etc. Many of us choose careers, jobs, apartments, churches to attend, schools to send our children,etc. by sight. Make sure you are led by God because it is dangerous to choose by sight. Remember, not all that glitters is gold.

NOTE: Things always appear attractive until you move closer. The fig tree looked great until Jesus moved closer and discovered it had no fruit.

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“AND THE IRON DID SWIM”

MEMORY VERSE: And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. 2 Kings 6:6

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 33-37

2 Timothy 3:1 says: “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.” The perilous times Paul spoke about is here. As such, we must be careful. Guard the things God has given to you, jealously. Why? Firstly, it can be taken from you. Revelations 3:11 says: “Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” There are agents of the devil out there who want to empty you of everything the Lord has given to you. Secondly, it can be lost due to carelessness. You may lose your salvation if you play with it or buy into the "eternal salvation" theory. There are several examples of fervent brothers who lost their salvation in the bible e.g. Demas, Hymenaeus, etc. According to Holy Scriptures, a man is known by his fruits (Matthew 7:16). Paul would have selected a co-worker who showed lots of it. Paul instructed Timothy and Titus on how to go about appointing elders, by making sure the selected persons were truly qualified and had a high level of morality, so we can only expect that Paul obeyed his own instructions. For instance, in Acts 15:37, Paul rejected John Mark due to his past. I am sure, Paul would not have appointed Demas as a co-worker in the ministry if he was not saved and bearing fruits. This brother later lost his salvation and went back into the world. 2 Timothy 4:10 says: “For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.”

Thirdly, the Lord (who gave it) can decide to take it back if abuse it or don't use it. The master of the servant who failed to use his talent took it back from him and gave it to the servant with ten talents (Matthew 25:14-30). The Lord warned the children of Israel whilst on their way to the promise land to run from sin or else, He would drive them from the land like He did to those before them. Leviticus 18:28 says: “That the land spue not you out also, when ye defile it, as it spued out the nations that were before you.” Is it possible for one to lose his or her spiritual gifts? Yes, especially if one falls into the sin of fornication or adultery. An example that comes to mind is that of a sister who fornicated. After fornicating, she lost the gifts of praying in tongues and her spiritual life went down. She had hit rock bottom when we met her. Our of mercy, the Lord restored the gift after she repented and we prayed. Guard the things God has given to you, jealously. If you have lost something due to your carelessness or for any other reason, God can restore it. However, it is better not to have lost it in the first place. I pray that He will have mercy on you and restore what you have lost. The One who retrieved an axe head from the River Jordan, a muddy river, is alive and able to retrieve the irretrievable (2 Kings 6:1-6). Verse 6 says: “ And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim.”

NOTE: Don’t give up. If what you have lost is irreplaceable which is rarely the case, He will give you something better. Trust in the Lord. God wants you to be happy.

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THE POWER TO CREATE YOUR WORLD

MEMORY VERSE: And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. Genesis 2:15

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 29-34


Genesis 2:15 says: “And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof." The task of giving names to the creatures God created was not a small one. Firstly, it was a time-consuming task. As of today, according to BBC, there are 8.7 million species of animals. Secondly, it was a task that required a great knowledge of animals and divine wisdom because the names had to be in consonance with God’s purpose for the animals. The Lord brought these living creatures – animals, fishes, birds, etc. - to Adam to give them names for two main reasons: To distinguish one from another, (and point at something in them that was natural to them, and made them different from each other) and to put them into his hands, and give him authority over them.

There are few things I will like to point out in Genesis 2:15-16. Firstly, God gave Adam free hand to give names to the living creatures He was putting under him (See Genesis 2:15a).  Secondly, He didn’t interfere with the whole process. He allowed Adam to give them names that pleased him. Thirdly, the living creatures answered to the names that Adam gave to them (Genesis 2:15b). Just as God gave Adam free hand to give names to the living creatures He was putting under him, God has also given you a free hand to give names to the children He gave or will give to you. Not only that, He has given you a free hand to describe your life and give a name to your situation. God will not interfere with the names you give to your children, yourself, business, company or situation. Lastly, your children, business, company and situation will answer to the names you give to them. If I were you, I will never call a situation a hopeless situation because, as God lives and His Spirit lives, that is what that situation will be –it will definitely become a hopeless one. If I were you, I will never call my child a good-for-nothing boy or girl. You may have done it out of anger but you have also damaged the destiny of that young boy or girl. Thank God, you can reverse those names.

NOTE: The power to define your world is in your words so use it wisely.

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ONLY IN FULL MEASURE

MEMORY VERSE: And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 23-28

One of the names of our Lord Jesus Christ is Wonderful (See Isaiah 9:6). Wonderful simply means full of wonders. Another name of Jesus Christ is Merciful (full of mercy). Exodus 34:6 says: “And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.” He is also called Faithful (1 Thessalonian 5:24).

You will observe from His names mentioned above that He is full of good things. Hence, James said, “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from Him (James 1:17).” The Lord deals only in FULL measures. He gives His Spirit in FULL measures. He anointed the Psalmist with oil and his cup RAN OVER ( See Psalm 23:5). Jesus, BEING FULL of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, was led by the Spirit into the wilderness (Luke 4:1). Stephen, BEING FULL of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55). The Lord FILLED Bezalel with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship (Exodus 31:3).

He FILLS His children with blessings (See Proverbs 3:10).  He COMPLETELY heals; i.e., He makes whole. Luke 17:19 says: “And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.” He gives FULL protection to His children (See Psalm 125:2). He destroys ALL the enemies of His children. The Moabites, the Ammonites and the Meunites waged war against Judah ( 2 Chronicles 20). Verse 24 says: “And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.” He FILLS children with peace. Romans 15:13 says: “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” What does the Lord expect in return? He expects His children to love Him with ALL their heart, soul and mind ( See Matthew 22:37). He expects FULL service/ commitment from His children (1 Samuel 12:24).

NOTE: It is either you seek Him with everything in you or you don’t because you will only find Him when you seek Him with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

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PRAYER: A MASTER KEY

MEMORY VERSE: Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. James 5:14-15

BIBLE READING: 1 Kings 5-8

There is a song we used to sing back in Nigeria: ‘Prayer is the key. Prayer is the key. Prayer is the master-key. Jesus started with prayer and ended with prayer. Prayer is the master-key.’ How true are the lyrics of this song? Jesus started His ministry with prayer (in the desert) and ended it with prayer (on the cross). One of the secrets of Jesus' success whilst He was on the earth was prayers. He prayed regularly. Prayer is a prerequisite for greatness.

Anyone who wants a change of story, a change of circumstances, victory, a breakthrough, etc., must pray. By praying for the sick, God can heal them. James 5:14-15 says: ‘Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.’ Fervent prayer can turn a situation around. James 5:16 says: ‘Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.’ There was a conspiracy at work to get rid of me some years back. At a point, it was certain that I was going to be sacked because they recruited someone to replace me. I reported the matter to God and He turned the table around. The person that led the conspiracy was demoted and she left out of shame. Others were sacked. Prayer draws angels closer to you. Jesus prayed and angels came to minister to Him (Luke 22:39-43). Prayer diffuses fear and imparts unshakeable confidence. Acts 4:31 says: ‘And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.’ However, one thing is required for your prayer to be answered and that is faith. Hebrews 11:6 says: ‘But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.’

NOTE: Prayer draws you closer to God.

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HE DELIGHTS IN THE PROSPERITY OF HIS CHILDREN

MEMORY VERSE: Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant. Psalm 35:27

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 19-22

Matthew 19:24 says: “And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” 1 Timothy 6:10 says: “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” Many read Matthew 19:24 and 1 Timothy 6:10 and concluded that riches is bad for Christians. Some actually believe that no rich man will enter heaven. As such, they hate money and do everything possible to ensure that they do not become rich. Jesus did not say riches will take you to hell neither did He say that poverty will take you to heaven. The only condition to get to heaven is be born again (John 3:3-5).

The Bible teaches that God delights in the prosperity of His servants (See Psalm 35:27).  Why would God delight in the “prosperity” of His servants if wealth/prosperity is bad – if prosperity will take them to hell? God wants you to prosper. Abraham, a man described in James 2:23 as the Friend of God, was a rich man. Abraham’s servant said, “And the LORD hath blessed my master greatly; and he is become great: and he hath given him flocks, and herds, and silver, and gold, and menservants, and maidservants, and camels, and asses (Genesis 24:35).” David, a man God described as a man after His own heart (Acts 13:22), gave close to a billion dollars towards the building of the temple (1 Chronicles 29:1-30). Bible scholars valued the gold and silver he gave to the tune of $867.5 million. After Job passed the test, God greatly prospered him. God wants His children to prosper and as such, He gives them the power to get wealth ( See Deuteronomy 8:18). We have established that God wants you to prosper; however, there is a caveat to it. If you want divine prosperity you must live holy. Isaiah 1:19 says: “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:” You must be a giver. Proverbs 11:25 says: “The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.” You must be diligent. Proverbs 12:24 says: “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” Lastly, you must not be a lover of pleasure. Proverbs 21:17 says: “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.” Many of us are not rich simply because we love pleasure – flashy things.

CONFESSION: I prophesy that this year will be my best year so far.

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GUIDANCE BY PROHIBITION

MEMORY VERSE: After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. Acts 16:7

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 14-18

Divine guidance is something the Lord promised all His children. Several verses of the Holy Scriptures allude to this fact; e.g. Proverbs 3:6 says: “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths”; Isaiah 30:21 says: “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.”

One of the ways God guides His children is through open doors. Isaiah 45:2 says: “I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron.” John 10:4 says: “And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.” No door can be shut against The Door (Jesus Christ). Doors automatically open before Him as He leads the way (Psalm 24:9) and you go through easily. One of the ways to know that God is in a matter is things just happen without forcing them. You achieve things without stress because the Holy Bible says, “it is not by power or by might but by my spirit says the Lord.” An instance that comes to mind was when I wanted to travel abroad to study. Due to lack of money, everyone was against the idea and I quite understand. Out of the blue, everyone that was against the idea suddenly bought into it and I was on my way to attend a visa interview. At the interview, I was nervous because I had never seen a white man before in my life. To make matters worse, I could barely hear him when he asked me questions. All through the interview, I was shaking and stammering. The next thing I knew was he asked for my passport and motioned to me to go and wait outside. When God is in a thing, I have learnt with the little time I have spent with Him that things go smoothly - so smoothly that one may think it is that easy. Another way He guides, although many are not used to, is through prohibition or closed doors. Paul wanted to go and preach in Mysia but the Lord did not want him to go so He shut the door at him. Acts 16:7 says: “After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.” Many a time, God speaks to us and we pretend as if we can’t hear Him so He deliberately shuts the door to us- out of love. Friend, what God denies and keeps us away from is as much divine guidance as what He permits and opens to us.

NOTE: Every door that didn’t open, every opportunity you didn’t get and every call that didn’t come, is as much God’s guidance as those that did.

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CAUGHT IN A THICKET BY HIS HORNS

MEMORY VERSE: And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. Genesis 22:13

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 7-13

BIBLE READING: Genesis 22:1-13

Genesis 22:1 says: “And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am.” God does not tempt. According to Noah Webster’s dictionary 1828 edition, to tempt means “To incite or solicit to an evil act; to entice to something wrong by presenting arguments that are plausible or convincing, or by the offer of some pleasure or apparent advantage as the inducement.” It is not in God’s character to tempt people – He will never incite a man to do evil. It is Satan that tempts not God (James 1:13). The right translation, I believe, is tried. God tried Abraham not tempt him. If you feel like fornicating with a colleague at work or commit adultery, it is the devil tempting you. I pray you won’t fall so that you don’t lose valuable things in your life.

The story in Genesis 22:1-13 is a popular one. It is one we have heard at one time or the other and if you have not heard or read it, I will encourage you to get a bible and read it. Abraham loved God and Isaac. God wanted to see who he loved more so He tried him by telling him to sacrifice Isaac. Abraham demonstrated his love for God by deciding to sacrifice his only son (Isaac). After all, the God who gave him Isaac is able to give him another one. Abraham was about to sacrifice the young boy when God stopped him and gave him a ram to use instead. Genesis 22:13 says: “And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son.” I want us to pay a close attention to this phrase: “caught in a thicket by his horns.” You see, when God prepares a blessing for a man, He secures it so that no one can steal it. He secures it so that it is almost impossible to lose it. That ram would have walked away had the angel of the Lord not secured by tying it down. Friend, no man can take a position or what God has given to you. This is not a license to be lazy. This is not a license to relax in the place of prayer or stop praying. If you stop praying, the enemy will delay your blessing like the Prince of Persia delayed the angel God sent to Daniel. The point here is stop scheming – stop playing games. If it is yours no man can take it. Worse still, stop manipulating or stop trying to influence situations / people to get results.

NOTES: God does not do a “half job”. No man can take what He has decided to give to you. However, you can lose it as a result of your laziness. The angel secured the ram for Abraham; he didn’t kill or offer it for Abraham.

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ARE YOU WALKING WITH GOD?

MEMORY VERSE: And Methuselah lived an hundred eighty and seven years, and begat Lamech: And Methuselah lived after he begat Lamech seven hundred eighty and two years, and begat sons and daughters: And all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred sixty and nine years: and he died. Genesis 5:25-27

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 2:11 – 6


The author of Revelation, John the apostle, spoke about a particular book in heaven that contains a record of how you lived on earth. Revelations 20:12 says: “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” A record is opened in this great book the day a child is born and closed the day he dies. His activities, words, etc., are closely monitored and recorded in this great book. On the last day, this book will be opened and every man will be judged from this book.

In Genesis 5, we see the record heaven kept on some people of old. Looking at the record, many of them lived a wasted life. The oldest man that ever lived was Methuselah (see Genesis 5:25-27).  His life, his achievements, was summarized in four (4) lines. All the Bible had to say about his life was he lived and begat sons and daughters. He may have built houses, bought horses, had a big farm, probably pursued a political post, attended a good school or gotten some education but as far as heaven is concerned, all these things are zero because none of them are of eternal value! This brings me to the question, what are you doing with your life? What will heaven record against your name? In how many lines will your life be summarized on judgment day? Is it the usual ‘he lived and begat’? Thank God for men like Enoch. Although he lived a very short life compared to the people at that time, he achieved much (see Genesis 5:24). Heaven testified that Enoch walked with God. When you return to be with the Lord, will heaven testified that you walked with God? Friend, are you walking with God? Before you say yes, let me explain the question to you. I am not asking if you were born into a Christian family or if you go to church or if you are a worker in the church, the question is are you walking with God? It is possible to be a worker in the church and not walk with God after all we have seen workers in the church, even choir members, who commit abortion. Be honest with yourself, are you walking with God?

NOTE: If you know that you are not walking with God, repent today and start walking with Him. Ask Him to forgive you and don’t return to a life of sin.

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SPEAK TO THAT MOUNTAIN

MEMORY VERSE: For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Mark 11:23

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 1:1-2:10

Anything that stands between you and the fulfilment of God’s plan and purpose for your life is a mountain (See Matthew 17:20). A mountain can be defined as a barrier standing in your way. One of the things we do with mountains (problems) is we pretend they don’t exist. An example that comes to mind is the Shunammite woman (2 Kings 4:8-37). This woman had everything except one thing, a child. When Elisha asked her, “Ma, is there any problem in your life you want God to solve?” – she responded and said,” No sir!” She pretended as if she didn’t have a problem getting pregnant. To solve any problem, you must first admit that you have a problem and you need help. That problem you are facing will not be solved until you admit that you have a problem and seek help from God. Remember, it is not weakness to admit that you have a problem or seek help. Thank God for Gehazi (Elisha’s attendant) who told Elisha about her problem. Elisha prayed and God answered.

Another thing we do with mountains is we ignore them hoping they will somehow disappear. Let me be frank with you, problems do not go away. They must be worked through or else they remain forever a barrier to your growth and the development your spirit. Some take pleasure in talking about their mountains and some cry about them. Crying about your mountains (problems) will not bring solutions. I have come to realise (and I must confess that I learnt this the hard way) that talking about problems only make them bigger. I have met people who personalize their mountains. They say things like, “my headache”, “my leg pain”, “my migraine”, etc. It is the devil’s migraine, not yours! Christ commands us to speak to our mountains in faith. Mark 11:23 says: “For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.” Everything God created has ears and they hear when we speak to them. Jesus, whilst He was on the earth, spoke to the trees (Mark 11:12-25) and the wind (Matthew 8:23-27) and they obeyed Him. Joshua spoke to the sun and the moon and they obeyed (Joshua 10:12). There are several examples in Scriptures of people speaking to lifeless objects and they obeyed.

ACTION: Speak to your mountain by faith and it will obey you.

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“AND YE SHALL FIND THEM” 2

MEMORY VERSE: In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood from the books the number of the years, of which the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. Daniel 9:2

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 45-50

Daniel 11:32 says: “And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” We can glean several truths from this verse. For instance, knowledge ,wisely applied, gives a man influence. In addition, a man who knows (His God) will do exploits and a man who doesn’t will be exploited. A story that comes to mind is that of a lazy brother who paid a false prophet to fast on his behalf. One evening, he passed by the prophet's house and saw him eating when he should be fasting on his behalf. “Sir, aren’t you fasting,” he asked the prophet - “I am fasting my son, I hung the fast to eat this pounded yam; I’ll resume in few minutes,” the prophet replied.

God has invited us to call Him and He has promised to answer and reveal great things to us. This brings us to the question, how? Firstly, He will reveal things to us when we pray ( See Jeremiah 33:3). Secondly, He will reveal mysteries to us when we meditate on the Scripture. The following are benefits of meditating on Scriptures: it reduces blood pressure, lessens heart and brain problems, increases mental strength and focus, increases memory retention and recall, better information processing, better decision making & problem solving, etc. In addition, God will reveal deep things to us when we meditate on the Scripture. The Lord revealed the duration of the desolations of Jerusalem to Daniel whilst he was meditating on the Scripture ( See Daniel 9:2). The desolations of Jerusalem would have gone beyond seventy years had Daniel not discovered it from meditating on Scriptures. Thirdly, He will reveal or speak to us through sermons, tapes, seminars, books written by anointed men and women of God, etc. What we hear on tapes, in seminars and read in books written by anointed men of God are secrets God shared with the authors. Get books written by anointed men of God and you will be amazed at the number of things God will reveal to you as you read them.

NOTE: Develop a habit of reading. There are things God wants to reveal you through books so read.

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“AND YE SHALL FIND THEM”

MEMORY VERSE: To morrow go ye down against them: behold, they come up by the cliff of Ziz; and ye shall find them at the end of the brook, before the wilderness of Jeruel. 2 Chronicles 20:16

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 39-44

Wisdom, the correct application of knowledge, is profitable to direct (See Ecclesiastes 10:10).  Since wisdom is profitable to direct, knowledge, also, is profitable to direct. Wisdom, the right application of knowledge, is the principal thing (See Proverbs 4:7). Again, if wisdom is the principal thing, it then follows that knowledge is the principal thing. Knowledge is invaluable. Our lack of knowledge can lead to untimely death (See Hosea 4:6). Note: A Christian without knowledge may end up as lunch for the enemy. Divine knowledge is key to successful living (See Daniel 11:32). The lack of knowledge makes one vulnerable. Also, the lack of knowledge makes one a prime candidate for exploitation.

One may end up as a captive due to lack of knowledge (See Isaiah 5:13). The Lord wants the best for His children; you’ll agree with me that captivity or untimely death is not God’s plan for His children. As such, He invited us to call on Him with the promise to answer and show us things we don't know. The reveal things in several ways. You don’t decide how God speaks to you. He decides when, where, what, and how He wants to speak. Jeremiah 33:3 says: “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” From this verse, you will observe that prayer is linked to revelation. In other words, many a time prayer precedes revelation. If you want God to show you things, you must call on Him; viz, pray. Three major countries – Ammonites, Moabites and inhabitants of Mount Seir- came together to fight Judah (2 Chronicles 20). Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, gathered his people and they prayed to God. As they prayed, the Lord revealed the location of their enemies. 2 Chronicles 20:16 says: “To morrow go ye down against them: behold, they come up by the cliff of Ziz; and ye shall find them at the end of the brook, before the wilderness of Jeruel.” Victory is not too far away the moment a man knows the location of his enemies.

NOTE: The Lord releases secrets during prayer. If you talk to Him (in prayer), He will respond back with mysteries – greats things you don’t know.

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GETTING RID OF TORMENTORS

MEMORY VERSE: And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. Matthew 18:34

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 35-38

Who is a tormentor? A tormentor is he or that which torments; one who inflicts penal anguish or tortures. For instance, fear (groundless fear), anxiety, obsession, depression, marital discord, addictions, etc. Tormentors limit our lives and prevent us from living comfortably and effectively.

One of the things that open us to tormentors is un-forgiveness. Jesus illustrated this with a parable (Matthew 18:23-35). A servant owed his master 10, 000 talents ($10,000,000) and could not pay. The master ordered him to be sold, with his wife, children and everything that he possessed, and payment to be made. This servant fell on his knee and begged the master and the master cancelled his debt. The same servant went out, found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii (about $20); he caught him by the throat and said, “Pay what you owe!” The servant begged him earnestly but he was unwilling and he put him in prison. His fellow-servants saw what was done and were very sorry and reported him to his master. His master went ballistic when he heard what this servant had done to his fellow servant. “I forgave your $10,000,000 and you could not forgive a fellow servant’s $20 debt”, he said (See Matthew 18:34 -35).   Asides from the fact that the Lord will hand us over to tormentors if we refuse to forgive, He will neither answer our prayers nor accept our offerings (Matthew 5:23-24).

Some sisters went to pray for a young girl who was maimed by rifle shots from a disgruntled neighbour. This girl had been hospitalized for many months and had undergone surgery numerous times to repair the internal damage done to nearly every organ of her body. When she was asked if she was willing to forgive her assailant, she replied very forcefully and very negatively against such action. This person had caused too much heartache to her and her family and she would go to her grave hating him. The sisters prayed for guidance from the Holy Spirit and the Lord impressed it on the heart of one of the sisters to ask her if she could pray to become willing to be willing to forgive the neighbour. This was acceptable and she quietly made such a request. The Holy Spirit touched her and she received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Not only that, her body began to heal.

NOTE: If you are finding it difficult to forgive someone who has wronged you, pray to become willing to be willing to forgive the person.

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DESTROYING DEVOURERS

MEMORY VERSE: And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. Malachi 3:11

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 31-34

What is a devourer? According to Noah Webster’s dictionary 1828 edition, a devourer is one who devours; he or that which eats, consumes or destroys; he that preys on. Devourers come in different shapes, sizes and forms. There are some in the form of insects; viz, locusts, cankerworms, caterpillars, palmerworms, etc (See Joel 2:24). These horrible creatures eat up herbages, corns, and fruits of the trees planted by farmers thereby impoverishing them year after year. These farmers ,at the end of the day, have nothing to show for their hard work. A devourer can be a car or machine that breaks down regularly. You spend money that could have been saved fixing the car or machine when it breaks down. Parking fines are a type of devourer in this part of the world. What is left of your salary when you spend £240 out of your £1000 on parking fines? A devourer could be things that go wrong whenever you save money for a project. Most illnesses, if not all, are devourers. The woman with the issue of blood spent all she had trying to get a cure for her illness ( See Mark 5:26).

One of the ways to put an end to devourers is tithing (See Malachi 3:11). A story that comes to mind is that of a brother who refused to tithe after giving his life to Christ. Whenever he took his car for repairs or servicing, his wicked mechanic would take out a working part and replace it with a faulty one. A week or two later, the car would break down and the brother would take it back to him for repairs. He would fix it and replace a working part with a faulty again. This he did every time this brother took his car for repair. The Lord exposed this wicked mechanic when he began to tithe. His car broke down and he decided to use another mechanic. From that day, he observed that his car stopped developing faults. Tithing drives away devourer from one’s life.

NOTE: To put an end to some devourers, you need to go beyond tithing: Discipline and wisdom need to be applied. For instance, you may need to start disciplining your children when they act like devourers; i.e., when they destroy their textbooks or home appliances. You may need to apply wisdom when certain people e.g. those who borrow and don’t pay back, come to borrow money from you.

PRAYER: Father, please open my eyes to recognize devourers in my life and give me the wisdom to deal with them.

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THE PATH OF THE UNWISE

MEMORY VERSE: The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools. Proverbs 3:35

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 26-30

Wisdom addresses three (3) kinds of people; namely, the simple, the scorner, and the fool. The simple believe everything. Proverbs 14:15 says: “The simple believes every word: but the prudent man looks well where he is going.” The Word of God says: “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good (1 Thessalonian 5:21).” It is not rude to ask questions especially when you are in doubt. Remember, how you ask questions matter. The simple have no understanding. Proverbs 7:7 says: “And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding.” Also, the simple cannot see the road ahead. Proverbs 22:3 says: “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.”

Scorners think they know everything. Proverbs 21:24 says: “Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.” Scorners are your typical Mr or Ms. “Know It-All”, hence, they never attain wisdom. Proverbs 14:6 says: “A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.” Also, they never profit from rebuke because they get offended when they are rebuked. Proverbs 15:12 says: “A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.” Scorners are great trouble-makers. Proverbs 22:10 says: “Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.” A scorner that comes to mind is Ishmael. Genesis 21:9 says: “And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne unto Abraham, mocking.” Scorners will not go unpunished. Proverbs 21:11 says: “When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.” The Bible says “when” the scorner is punished not “if” the scorner is punished.

Fools are over-confident. Proverbs 12:15 says: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.” Proverbs 28:26 says: “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.” Fools hate instruction. Proverbs 1:7 says: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:22 says: “How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?” Proverbs 23:9 says: “Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.” Fools speak proudly. Proverbs 14:3 says: “In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.” Fools love to fight. Proverbs 18:6-7 says: “A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.” Fools meddle into matters that don’t concern them. Proverbs 20:3 says: “A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. Proverbs 20:3 says: “It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.” They speak without thinking. Proverbs 18:13 says: “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” Fools are not helped by discipline. Proverbs 17:10 says: “A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.” Fools always fall. Proverbs 10:8 says: “The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.”

NOTE: The simple, scorner and fool will perish (and God does not want any of His children to perish). The path to take is the path of wisdom. The wise fear the Lord (Job 28:28) and depart from iniquity (Proverbs 16:6). Proverbs 3:35 says:" the wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools."

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“OUT OF THE MOUTH OF BABES”

MEMORY VERSE: And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise? Matthew 21:16

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 23-25

It is impossible for God to be stranded. How can the Creator of the heavens and the earth be stranded? He can create something out of nothing. For instance, He created light out of darkness. Genesis 1:2 says: "And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." Out of this darkness, God called out light. Verse 3 says: " And God said, Let there be light: and there was light." He called land out of the water. Verse 9 says: “And God said, Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so." He can make a way where there is no way. For instance, He made a way in the Red Sea (Exodus 14). Verse 21 says: "And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided." I pray that God will make a way for you where you least expect in Jesus name, amen. In 1 Kings 17, God employed ravens to feed Elijah. Anyone who knows about birds will tell you that ravens are the stingiest of God's creation – they are even stingy with their children. Job 38:41 says: "Who provideth for the raven his food? when his young ones cry unto God, they wander for lack of meat." Yet, God used ravens to feed Elijah.

The Lord will never run out of options (to help you). Why? Isaiah 55:9 says: "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” The Lord will never run out of people to use for His glory; He always has substitutes. Elijah, in 1 Kings 19, tried to brag about his love and commitment to God. "I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away," he said. The Lord responded and said, "Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him (1 Kings 19:18)." He can create substitutes where there are none. Jesus, after resurrection, tasked His disciples with taking the gospel to the uttermost part of the earth . What did they do? They remained in Jerusalem because to them, gentiles are unclean. God had to literally use Saul- through persecution - to get them out of Jerusalem. Saul later became Paul, the Apostle, and was sent to the gentiles.

NOTE: Some of us are, now, too big to praise God. We are too big to dance before God or even clap our hands. Matthew 21:16 says: "And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?" If the adults refuse to praise Him little boys like us will praise Him.

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THE GOD OF ORDER

MEMORY VERSE: How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. 1 Corinthians 14:26

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 21-22

READ: 1 Corinthians 14:26 -36

God is a God of order. By the special grace of God, I have met one or two people who have been to heaven. These are matured Christians who are sold out to Christ and His purposes on earth, not those who claim that they went to heaven and saw baby angels. There are no baby angels in heaven. Firstly, angels are genderless and secondly, they don't reproduce. Those little creatures are demons, not angels. In addition, I have read several accounts of people who went to heaven. They all said that heaven is beautiful. This chimes with John’s revelation of heaven. Revelations 21:21 says: “And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.”

Also, they said that heaven is a place of order. Several portions of the Scripture allude to this. For instance, Ezekiel described the four living creatures he saw in a vision (Ezekiel 1). These creatures moved in an orderly manner. Verse 21 says: “When those went, these went; and when those stood, these stood; and when those were lifted up from the earth, the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.” John described the twenty-four elders he saw worshipping God in a vision (Revelations 4). Verse 10-11 says: “The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” Everything they did oozed of order. They knelt, took off their crowns, laid it before God and spoke at the same time. He also spoke about some angels in Revelations 15-16. These angels spoke in an orderly manner - they spoke in turns. The second angel spoke after the first angel, the third angel spoke after the second angel and so on.

God loves order. Wherever there is order, there you will find peace, love, growth, progress, happiness, fruitfulness, prosperity, spiritual growth, etc. Hence, Paul encourages orderliness during worship in the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 14). Verse 26 says: "How is it then, brethren? When ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying." Disorderliness appals Him. No wonder He cast out Satan from paradise when he tried to break the order in heaven. Wherever there is disorderliness, there you will find hatred, rebellion, animosity, stagnancy, anger, bitterness, even at times - death.

NOTE: If you are going to enjoy a walk with God, then you must be an orderly person.

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GUARD YOUR HEART

MEMORY VERSE: Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Proverbs 4:23

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 11-20

According to Dictionary.com, the word “guard” means to keep safe from harm or danger; protect or watch over. We guard things that are precious or of value to us. For instance, wise women guard their marriages jealously. Unfortunately, some go to extreme length to guard their marriages. They go through their husbands’ mobiles when they are sleeping or check their computers/I-pads to see what they have been up to. Some foolishly employ diabolical means; i.e., charms, love portion, etc., to guard their marriages. Using diabolical means is like seeking help from your enemy. You dare not ask a lion to watch over a goat except you want to lose the goat. Women do these funny things; i.e., spy on their husbands or employ diabolical means because their marriages are precious to them. I pray that the Lord will give such women peace in Jesus name, amen. One of the reasons why I advocate looking to God for a life partner is because He takes responsibility for keeping the man and the marriage. The sister also has to submit to her head, her husband (Colossians 3:18). The primary way to guard your marriage is to pray. Many business owners employ beautiful ladies and ask them to dress in a sexy way; i.e., wear short skirts and tight blouses to keep existing male customers and attract new ones. I don’t subscribe to such practices. Only God through the power of prayer can keep your customers. Besides, your customers will be loyal to you if you render quality service to them.

Proverbs 4:23 says: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” We have to keep/guard our hearts with all diligence because it is the most important part of us. Our hearts literally control our lives. Our hearts inform our confessions. Luke 6:45 says: "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh." Our confessions inform the quality of our lives. What you confess is what you are going to have. Numbers 14:28 says: "Say unto them, As truly as I live, saith the LORD, as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you." A brother confessed to me that he falls sick whenever he pulls a sickie. (To pull a sickie means to take a day off work saying that you are ill when, in fact, you are not.) Our hearts are so important that God asked for it. Proverbs 23:26 says: "My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways." God has us once He has our hearts. The human heart is like a soil. Anything you plant on it will germinate. If you plant the wrong seeds it will grow and bring forth the wrong fruits. However, if you plant the right seeds it will bring forth the right fruits. Hence, watch what you plant on it. You can guard what you listen to or read.

REMEMBER: Your eyes and ears are the windows to your hearts.

NOTE: Watch the type of books you read. Ungodly books; viz, novels with erotic contents, will pollute your heart.

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DIVINE GUIDANCE

MEMORY VERSE: I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Psalm 32:8

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 26-30

It is God’s will to guide His children. The Bible is littered with several promises concerning divine guidance;e.g., Proverbs 3:6 says: “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths”, Isaiah 30:21 says: “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left”, Psalm 32:8 says: “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.”

How does God instruct? One of the ways He instructs is through Scriptures. 2 Timothy 3:16 says: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” God’s general will for all people in all places in all circumstances is revealed in Scriptures. He has told us what He thinks about a whole range of issues. From the Bible, we know that certain things are wrong. Therefore, we can be quite sure that He will not guide us to do these things. He will not guide any man to marry a second wife. Sometimes a single person says, “I have fallen in love with this man/woman who is not a Christian. We love each other so much. I feel God leading me to start a relationship with him/her." But God has already made His will clear. He has said, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness (2 Corinthians 6:14)?” We can be quite sure that God will not guide any Christian to marry an unbeliever. In this particular case and many other cases, God has revealed His general will. We do not need to ask for His guidance because He has already given it. If we are not sure, we may need to ask someone who knows the Bible better than we whether there is anything on that issue. Although God’s general will is revealed in Scriptures, we cannot always find His particular will for our lives there. The Lord also instructs through sermons and books written by anointed men and women of God.

NOTE: If the Lord tarries we will discuss the four ways in which God reveals His will to us. In the meantime, I want you to know that the voice may be many, the message can be but one. If God tells me in one voice to do or to leave undone anything, He cannot possibly tell me the opposite in another voice. If there is a contradiction in the voices, the speakers cannot be the same. Therefore, the rule for distinguishing the voice of God would be to bring it to the test of harmony. Always check whatever you heard with Scriptures first. If it does not agree with Scriptures, I appeal to you to pray again and ask others to pray along with you.

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“AND THEY SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH”

MEMORY VERSE: For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. Genesis 2:24

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 21-25

Genesis 2:24 says: “For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.” There are several lessons to learn from this verse; for instance, marriage – as recorded in the Holy Scriptures - is a union between a man and a woman not a man and several women, Steve and Steve, Mary and Mary or man/woman and an animal. Also, marriage is a union between a man and a woman not a man and a girl or a boy and a woman or worse still, a boy and a girl. There are many brothers with full grown beards who are still boys. Someone once threatened to kill himself because a lady dumped him. You know for a fact that such fellow is a boy. Also, there are many sisters with full developed bodies who are still girls. A man has to leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife.

 Unfortunately, many cultures frown at this. It is seen as a sign of weakness for a man to cleave to his wife.
“They shall become one flesh”, what does this mean? Man (and woman) is tripartite in nature. In other words, man has three parts; namely, spirit, soul and body. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The spirit is the part of man that relates to the unseen spiritual world; viz, God and Satan. The soul is the part of man that relates to the mental realm; viz, his reasoning and intellectual powers. The body is the part of man that deals with his physical environment . In a nutshell, man is a spirit who possesses a soul and lives in a body. To become one in flesh means to become one in spirit, soul and body. What does it mean to be one in spirit? It simply means to agree in matters relating to spirituality and God; i.e. biblical doctrine and practices. It is advised that husbands and their wives attend the same church, listen to the same sermons, read the same books, attend the same seminars, have the same spiritual parents or disciplers, etc. 1 Corinthians 7:5 says: “Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.” Some deliberately fast to punish their husbands or wives. This is not a good practice. Besides,such fast is a hunger strike and nothing worthwhile will come out of it. To be one in soul means to agree in matters relating to vision, purpose, ambition, goals, etc. To be one in body is quite straight forward. Many marriages fail because the man and the woman that are joined in Holy Matrimony refuse to become one in flesh; viz, spirit, soul and body. The husband is heading north and the wife, south. The husband has his goals and the wife has her goals too. They are not united in their vision, purpose or goal. Some couple agree on everything except finances. The husband has his money and the wife has hers.

NOTE: Dear single brother/ sister, if you are not one in spirit with the person you want to marry; i.e. you disagree in matters relating to spirituality and God, please seek counselling before you go to the altar. If you believe in holiness, righteousness or tithing and the person you want to marry does not believe in them, I will advise you tread carefully.

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ARE YOU PRECIOUS IN HIS SIGHT?

MEMORY VERSE: Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life. Isaiah 43:4

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 11-20

Please ignore anyone who tells you that God loves everyone equally. That is not true. The Lord said concerning Esau and Jacob, long before they were born, “Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated (Romans 9:13).” The same God who created Esau and Jacob said to Rebekah whilst she was pregnant, “Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger (Genesis 25:13).” One will be deluding himself or herself if he or she thinks that God loves everyone equally. He said in Isaiah 43:4, “Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life.” You will realize from meditating on Isaiah 43:4 that some are precious in His sight and some are not. Many years ago, some men were travelling from Okenne, Kogi State, to another part of Nigeria. As they were about to set off, one of the men who sat in the back seat requested to swap seats with a young man who sat in the front passenger seat. The young man agreed and they swapped seats. Two minutes later, their vehicle was involved in a ghastly motor accident and the man who sat in the front passenger seat died instantly because of the injury he sustained. The man who swapped seats with him (and sat at the back) escaped with a mark to the side of his face.

Isaiah 43:4b says: “therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life”. The question is this, who created the men He promised to give for your life and my life? He created them. Proverbs 11:8 says: “The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead." Whenever trouble opens its mouth to swallow a child of God, the Lord will replace him or her with the wicked. An example that comes to mind is the incident that happened to a Christian brother at his place of work some years back. Whilst he was on holiday, someone drove one of the company vehicles without signing it out and was fined for over-speeding. The police contacted the organization and when they could not produce the fellow who drove the vehicle, they decided to take the organization to court. In other to save their image, the company decided to sacrifice someone and the person they decided to sacrifice was this Christian Brother, the fleet manager. On the day they were going to sack him, the Lord delivered him and the manager, his manager, who wanted to sacrifice him was sacrificed instead. This brings us to the question, are you precious in His sight? Proverbs 8:17 says: “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.” Do you love the Lord? Firstly, only believers, born-again Christians, are precious in His sight. If you hate Jesus you are not precious in Lord's sight. Secondly, only those who love Him are precious in His sight. John 14:23 says: “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” Thirdly, only those who fear Him are precious in His sight. Proverbs 16:6 says: “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.”

NOTE: You cannot claim to fear God and accept bribe. You cannot claim to love God and fornicate.
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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.