BUILT ON SAND

MEMORY VERSE: And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. Matthew 7:26-27

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Job 4

Jesus, in Matthew 7:24-27, likened everyone who heard Him to a builder. Verse 24 says: “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock”. Verse 26 says: “And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand.” He likened those who built their lives, marriages, ministries, homes, etc, on the Word to a man who built his house on the rock (Matthew 7:25). He likened those who ignored His teachings to a man who built his house on the sand.

What type of builder are you? Are you building on the rock or on the sand? Many lives / marriages / ministries / businesses / relationships / homes are built on the “sand of human wisdom and philosophy”. Apostle Paul warns against building on human wisdom / common sense and philosophy. Colossians 2:8 says: “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Anything built on human wisdom or philosophy will crumble when the storm of life blows. Any marriage or relationship that is built on love-at-first-sight may crumble when the storm of life blows. Any ministry that is built on intellect, positive thinking and psychology will crumble when the forces of darkness attack. Apostle Paul built his ministry on the spirit of power (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). There is also the “sand of tradition of religion”. Over the years, the church has built up traditions which people base their lives on without asking whether they are scriptural or not. The Pharisees accosted Jesus several times about His disciples violating the “tradition of the elders”. Matthew 15:2 says: “Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.” What are some of the traditions of the elders we still practise today? Burning of candles and incenses. Other popular “tradition of the elders” is widows wearing black cloth and shaving their hair for life. All these are not scriptural. Friends, check whether what you are practising is the “tradition of the elders”  or God’s commandment. There is the “sand of fables”. Fables are stories and tales cleverly invented by the human mind. Paul, in his letter to his son-in-the-Lord Timothy, wrote: “Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.”

QUESTION: Are you building your life on the Word or philosophy? Are you building your life on the Word or nice phrases like “heaven help those who help themselves”?

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

THE BEREAN CHRISTIANS

MEMORY VERSE: And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Acts 17:10-11

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Job 3:1- End

The author of the book of Acts, Luke, compared two Jewish Christians in Acts 17 vs 10-11: The Christians in Berea and the Christians in Thessalonica. The Christians in Berea were nobler than those in Thessalonica. They received the word of God when it was preached to them. They listened with rapt attention. The brethren in Thessalonica, on the other hand, didn’t receive the word of God. They challenged everything. “Sir, you need to be born again to enter into the kingdom of heaven.” “What do you mean”, they’ll say, “how about those that died without hearing the gospel”. They literally challenged everything even when it was backed up with scriptures. Not only did the Berean brethren receive the Word, they did with it ALL readiness of mind. In other words, they received it with an open mind. They came to church with writing materials to took down notes. Whilst others were busy on Facebook during service, they listened and pondered on the Word. Many can’t receive the Word because although they are physically present in the church, their minds are far away. Some spend the whole service planning how to deal with their wives because of what happened on their way to church. You’ll be amazed to know that whilst the pastor is preaching on godly living and holiness, many are planning how to steal from the offering baskets in the same service.

Just as it was in the days of Luke, so it is today in our modern day churches. Many of us don’t receive the Word with readiness of mind because the brother teaching is an ordinary deacon. Ordinary deacon? Imagine calling the Lord’s anointed an ordinary deacon? Some only pay attention when the church pastor is preaching. Anyone doing that is proud. God can use anyone – big or small – to speak to you. “I gave my life to Christ before him so why should I listen to him”, some say. Brother, you are proud! The brethren in Berea went home after service and studied their notes. Also, they searched the scripture daily. There is a difference between reading and searching the scripture. You can read your bible anywhere even whilst standing in a crowd. You need to literally sit down to search the scriptures. You cannot search the scripture in two minutes. As you search the scriptures, you will begin to unearth nuggets that will transform your life and everything around you. The Berean brethren studied their bible daily whilst those at Thessalonica only read them on Sundays. The Berean brethren quote the bible whilst those at Thessalonica quote books and big men of God. We thank God for great men of God. We thank God for their lives. However, you still need to know the scripture for yourself. You need to know what the bible says on various issues. The bible is your standard for living not a ministry. Today, many are taking America to be “the” standard. Whatever we see them do there, we copy. That should not be so. If it is not scriptural please drop it.

NOTE: You need to search the scripture daily because: 1) it contains God’s standard; 2) It shows you how to get to heaven and; 3) you will be judged solely by the word of God.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

A HEART AFTER GOD II

MEMORY VERSE: ‘And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. Acts 13:22

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ezra 3-8

What qualified David to be king of Israel was not his military experience, his family background, his educational background, his years of service in the palace, or a special competency. What qualified him was the state and inclination of his heart. Acts 13:22 says: "And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will." There are some blessings that your academic qualifications, beauty, physical stature, money, experience, and achievements will not be enough to get for you- it will require a heart that is after God.

Before God, the state of your heart is more important that the state of your mind and hands. An educated mind and well-trained hands without a heart that desires after God, the things of God and building of character is nothing. As you educate your mind, acquire skills, build relationships with people, and spend even more time with God, desiring Him, knowing Him, and building Christ-like character. When you give God your heart, He will give you what man cannot give to you and qualify you for what man will not qualify you for. There are some things your educated mind and skilful hands will never get for you; it will take a heart that is leaned towards God, a heart of integrity, and character.

PRAYER POINT: Create in me a clean and pure heart.

Bro Samuel Oluwatoki

A HEART AFTER GOD

MEMORY VERSE: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Ezra 1-3

Acts 13:22 says: ‘And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.’ ‘I have found' implies that a search had already taken place; and, David was the product.

What qualified David to be the king of Israel was not his military experience. Saul said to David when he volunteered to fight Goliath, ‘Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth (1 Samuel 17:33)’. In other words, you lack military experience. What qualified David to be the king of Israel was not his (family) background. Bible scholars have told us that David was a product of fornication. David (himself) confessed and said, ‘Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me (Psalm 51:5)’. It was definitely not his educational background or his years of service in the palace or a spatial competency. What qualified him was the state and inclination of his heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 says: '...the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.'

QUESTION: What is the state of your heart? Is your heart after God or things?

Bro Samuel Oluwatoki

HE USES LITTLE THINGS TO ACHIEVE BIG THINGS

MEMORY VERSE: And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Matthew 17:2

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Job 1:1-2:13

The story of Jesus feeding five thousand men, not counting women and children, is a popular Sunday school story (John 6:1-13). Several lessons can be learnt from this story. The Lord uses whatsoever you put in His hands for His glory. He used that little boy's lunch - five bread and two tiny fishes - to do wonders. That 'miraculous feeding of five thousand' happened over 2000 years ago but we still talk about it today. Hannah put her little Samuel in the hands of God and He used him to appoint David - one of the greatest king in Israel. Also, He multiplies/ grows whatsoever you put in His hands. That boy's lunch was multiplied to feed five thousand able men not counting women and children and there were twelve baskets left (John 6:13).   Samuel, whom Hannah put in His hands, grew up to become one of the greatest prophets in Israel. Parents, ensure your wards attend Sunday school. They need to know the Lord at a young age so they can become the Daniels, Shadrachs, Meshachs and Abednegos of this generation. The Lord not only uses and multiplies whatsoever you put in His hands, He returns them back to you. Who do you think Jesus gave the twelve remaining baskets to? I believe the boy. Why? Ecclesiastes 7:11 says: “All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again.” Whatsoever you put in His hands is not lost. Actually, it is an investment. Hannah gave Samuel to the Lord and the Lord gave her five children – three boys and two girls - in return (2 Samuel 2:20). Besides, she still had Samuel. How about if you put nothing in His hands? You will get nothing back.

Another powerful lesson is God often uses little things to do big things. I am excited because I know God will use little people like me to do mighty things in this generation. I believe He will do the same with you. He used that little lunch to feed a multitude. He is doing great things with those little offerings, tithes, gifts to men and women of God, service in your church, etc. You will be amazed at the number of souls won and how His work had progressed and prospered because you gave yourself and your resources to His use. He often uses little obedient tasks to do big things. A pastor was sharing with us how a little hug saved a life. A woman wanted to commit suicide so she decided to come and see her pastor before taking her life. Before she got there, the Lord had ministered to the man of God to give her a hug. This was a strange instruction to this man especially after preaching against hugging the opposite sex . Thank God he recognised  the voice of God. He reluctantly hugged the lady when she arrived but then something happened. She burst into tears and told the pastor of her plan to hang herself. Had he disobeyed, she would have hanged herself. Is the Lord leading you to encourage anyone? Please do it, you could be saving a life. God often uses little people in little places to do big things. Goliath, the giant, was killed by little David (1 Samuel 17). God used a little girl in the house of Naaman to bring healing to a whole nation (2 Kings 5). In our bible reading, a little boy’s ordinary lunch that was obediently given to Jesus was used in an extraordinary miracle for a multitude. God can take our little efforts to do a lot. Jesus said that giving even a cup of water in His name could bring a reward which would last forever (Mark 9:41). He said even a little faith as small as a mustard seed can move a mountain (Matthew 17:20).

PRAYER POINT: Please make this year my best so far.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

HOPE FOR THE REJECTED

MEMORY VERSE: The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. Psalm 118:22

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Gen 10-11

BIBLE READING: John 1:43-50

Nathanael’s response when Philip (his friend) witnessed to him about Jesus of Nazareth (Jesus Christ) was, “can anything good thing come out of Nazareth?” Nathanael,although from Galilee, despised Nazareth. The Pharisees (religious leaders), at that time, disdained it. They rejected Jesus Christ as the Saviour because He came from Nazareth. According to them, no prophet had ever risen out of Galilee (Luke 7:52). Even outsiders called Nazareth a land of Cabul. Hiram King of Tyre, on returning from the twenty unnamed cities of Galilee King Solomon gave to him as a surety for supplying cedar, cypress and gold to build the temple of the Lord, said to Solomon, “what kind of cities are these which you have given me, my brother (1 Kings 9:12-13).” The bible records that he called them the land of Cabul. The name Cabul in Hebrew simply means “good-for-nothing”. Within minutes of meeting with Jesus of Nazareth, Nathanael said: “Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.” The Best had come out of Nazareth!

Friend in Christ, there is hope for you after that rejection. I don’t know who has rejected you; I don’t know what was said to you but one thing I know is there is hope for you. Psalm 118:22 says: “The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.” That little town of Nazareth that no one thought much of became the town of our Lord Jesus Christ. It does not matter who has rejected you, they will come back soon to glorify God in your life. Before the end of this year, in that name that is above every other name (Jesus), you are going to become a surprise. Human builders rejected that stone but God (the Greatest Builder) didn’t. Please don’t tie any result or any material to your sense of worth. The fact that you didn’t do well in that assessment doesn’t mean you are not good enough. A police officer, some years back, killed himself because he failed his Police Sergeant Exams. Why? He tied his sense of worth to the result of an examination. PLEASE, PLEASE and PLEASE, DON’T JUDGE YOURSELF BY ANY RESULT. As far as you have not written yourself off, there is still hope for you. The same God who turned that rejected stone to a head stone is with you. He has done it before and He will go it again.They told Oprah she was unfit for TV but today she owns a TV network. Poiter Syndey in his first audition was told by the casting director, “Why don’t you stop wasting people’s time and go out and become a dishwasher or something?” He later became the first African- American to win an Oscar. Beethoven’s music teacher described him as hopeless. He later became one of the most famous influential of all composers. Frank Winfield Woolworth was told by his dry Store Manager that he didn’t have enough common sense to serve customers. This man later became the founder of F.W. Woolworth Company. Not only that, he also introduced the common practice of buying merchandise from manufacturers and fixing prices on items, rather than haggling. If God can do it for the people of the world, why won’t He do it for you- His child?

CONFESSION: There is hope for me!

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world.

WHAT IS THY NAME?

MEMORY VERSE: And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob. And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed. Genesis 32:27-28

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Gen 9:1-28

Names are very important in the Bible because names represent the person. Take for instance, the name “Jacob”. It means “holder of the heel” or “supplanter”. If it were to be today, we would have called him a fraudster. He duped anyone dupe-able. Esau, after he was duped said to Isaac (his father),” Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me? (Genesis 27:36)” Names are not just a means of identifying a man; names speak volume about a man’s destiny. The name "Ishmael" means "God hears”. This by implication means a destiny whose success and fulfillment depends on the power of prayers. No wonder when his mother, Hagar, was driven out of Abraham’s house and there was no water for him to drink, God miraculously provided water when he cried. Genesis 21:17- 18 says: “And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he is. Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation.” Sadly, Ishmael did not capitalize on this. He stopped praying after that day. I think his descendants must have realized his mistake, hence they pray many times a day today. My surname used to be “Fatoki” (Ifa is worthy to be adored). Ifa is a Yoruba deity. Several years back, God spoke through a minister that my dad should change his surname. He obeyed and chose “Oluwatoki” (God is worthy to be adored). Not many years after he changed his surname, he built his first house. In my personal life, God is indeed worthy to be adored.

Genesis 32:27-28 says: “And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob. And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.” What is thy name simply means who are you? Might i ask you the same question this morning, what is thy name? Friend, who are you? Who are you when you are not in church? Who are you when the pastor or brethren from the church are not around? What is your name at work? What is your name when you go out of town? Is it kerb crawler (a person who drives around areas known for street prostitution soliciting prostitutes for sexual activity)? What is your name when you are alone in your room? Is it pornographer? Asides the fat salary, degree, houses and properties, big church title, who are you? When the angel said to Jacob, “what is thy name”, he responded saying “Jacob”. Jacob was the name people – his father, his mother, his brother, friends and family – were calling him. Whenever his father wanted to send him on an errand, he would say “Jacob do this for me”. Whenever his beloved mother wanted him, she would say, “Jacob come here!” Whenever Esau (his brother) wanted to check on him, he would say “Jacob how was your day?” Since everyone was calling him “Jacob”, he assumed that he was indeed a "Jacob". Thank God, the angel challenged that name and changed it. Today, you must challenge the names people have been calling you. Tell them, you are not a “dullard”. You are not who others say you are. Your bank balance does not determine who you are. You may be in red but that does not mean you are poor. You are more than your finances. You are more than you past failures. You may have failed an exam but you are not a failure. You may not have a child today but you are not barren. There is something good about you. You are unique in every way. The people around may not see your uniqueness but you are unique.

NOTE: You are not worthless. You are worth dying for because Jesus died for you! Don’t allow anyone to tell you anything different.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

KNOWN BY HIS NAME(S)

MEMORY VERSE: “And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name the LORD was I not known to them. Exodus 6:31

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Gen 6:9-8:22

God introduces Himself to people in different ways. One of the ways He introduces Himself is through His name. Exodus 6:31 says: “And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name the LORD was I not known to them”. In other words, I introduced Myself to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob by My name God Almighty (the One who is able to fulfill all His purposes, promises and covenant; One whom nothing is impossible with). He introduced Himself, to Abram, as a Protector by His name “Shield”. He introduced Himself, to the Israelite, as Great Physician by His name “the One who heals” (Exodus 15:26).

He introduces Himself to people through His attributes. For instance, He introduced Himself to the Israelite through His attribute, holy (Leviticus 20). In 1 John 4:8, He introduced Himself through His attribute, love. We see Him introducing Himself to Moses through His attributes - merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth (Exodus 34:6). James, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, introduced God to us through His attribute, Generous. James 1:17 says,” Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” Many a time, He goes extra mile to paint a picture of these attributes to us (Psalm 103:11). To help us understand His love, He said “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem” (Isaiah 66:13). He goes further still to demonstrate this attribute. In John 8:1-11, He took a woman caught in the act of adultery, someone condemned to death by stoning and forgave her. To demonstrate His love, He gave His only son, His Best, for our sins (John 3:16). Jesus demonstrated His love by giving Himself (John 15:13). To demonstrate His generosity, He told Solomon “Ask what I shall give thee” (2 Chronicles 1:7). He introduces Himself to people by telling them what He loves and what He hates. When He wanted to tell us that He is pro-marriage, He said “I hate putting away (divorce)” ( Malachi 2:16). Besides telling us what He hates, He rewards some actions to inform us that He loves them and punishes some actions to tell us He hates them. After warning Nebuchadnezzar repeatedly about his pride, He turned him into an animal for seven years.

NOTE: God has warned many of us through sermons, books, audiotapes, etc, but we have refused to listen. Why not repent before He takes action against you.

PRAYER POINT: Father, please have mercy.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

SOURCES OF PROPHECY

MEMORY VERSE: And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Colossians 3:15

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Gen 6:1-8

The gift of prophecy is manifested when believers SPEAK THE MIND OF GOD, by the INSPIRATION of the HOLY SPIRIT, and not from their own thoughts. There are three ways, the Scripture tells us, in which prophecy ministers to believers: edification (building up), Exhortation (urging on) and comfort (consoling). 1 Corinthians 14:3 says: “But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.”

Prophecies come from three major sources. Firstly, flesh. A lot of the “thus saith the Lord of Hosts” today emanate from the flesh or are informed by personal agendas. Prophesying from the flesh is not new; the Bible is littered with several examples of men who prophesied as led by their flesh. An example of a prophet who prophesied as led by his flesh i.e. out of jealousy can be found in 1 Kings 13.The Lord sent a young brother to Bethel to prophesy against a particular altar. He gave this brother three instructions: You shall not eat bread, nor drink water, nor return by the same way you came (1 Kings 13:9). On his way back from prophesying, an old prophet met him and shouted, “Thus saith the Lord of Hosts, Bring him back with you to your house, that he may eat bread and drink water.” This naive brother said, "yes sir" and went home with him. On his way home after dining and eating with the prophet, a lion mauled him to death. Beware of any prophecy that is not in line with the Word of God. Please ignore any prophecy to do anything contrary to the Scriptures e.g. marry a second wife. A man of God, with a big financial challenge, was praying sometimes back when a "prophet" turned up at his door and said, "God said I should tell you to buy me a car!" What a prophecy! This man of God at that time was struggling to feed his family. He told the prophet, "Tell God I don't have money to buy you a car". The prophet left in shame. A prophecy to sleep with any man other than your husband before you can conceive is not from God.

Secondly, evil spirits or demons. King Ahab wanted to war against Ramoth Gilead so he gathered 400 prophets to prophesy (1 Kings 22). Verse 6 says: “Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, about four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall I go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for the Lord shall deliver it into the hand of the king.” Unknown to him, these prophets were inspired by lying spirits (evil spirits). Thank God for men like King Jehoshaphat - a man with the Spirit of Discernment. He asked King Ahab “is there not here a prophet of the LORD besides that we might enquire of him?” You need the Spirit of Discernment to know the sources of a prophecy. Prophecies that come from evil spirits or demons are usually not in line with the Bible. Thirdly, Holy Spirit. Prophesies from the Holy Spirit are always IN LINE WITH THE BIBLE. Prophecies from God are either strengthening, encouraging or comforting (1 Corinthians 14:3).

NOTE: It is still present today, Christians are certainly given words for one another “in the Lord”, of knowledge or wisdom, and such words can be most refreshing and helpful, but there must be a WITNESS OF THE SPIRIT on the part of the person receiving the words, and extreme caution should be used in receiving any alleged directive or predictive prophecy. Never undertake any project simply because you were told to by presumed prophetic utterances or interpretation of tongues, or by a presumed word of wisdom, or knowledge. Never do something just because a friend comes to you and says: “The Lord told me to tell you to do thus and thus!” If the Lord has instructions for you, He will give you a witness in your own heart, in which case the words come from a friend, or through the gifts of the Holy Spirit in a meeting, will be confirmation to what God has already been showing you.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

THE AUTHOR OF PEACE

MEMORY VERSE: For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Gen. 4:16- 5:32

One of the names of our Lord Jesus Christ is 'Lord of Hosts' (Revelations 19:11-20). The 'Lord of Hosts' simply means the Commander in Chief i.e. the Supreme Commander of all the forces in heaven, on earth and underneath the earth. Philippians 2:10 says: "that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth." Even, Satan, the head of demons, bows at the mention of the name of Jesus. Another name of our Lord Jesus is the 'Prince of Peace'. Isaiah 9:6 says: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” The word 'Prince' means 'Ruler'. Therefore, Jesus is the Ruler of Peace or the Author of Peace.

The moment Jesus steps into a man's boat, peace steps into the man's boat. The moment Jesus departs from a man, peace departs from the man. What is peace? Peace is the absence of disturbance. In Mark 5:21-43, a woman with the issue of blood met Jesus. Not only was she sick, she was disturbed. She was of marriageable age and no brother had come to propose to her. Also, she was poor and had no food to eat. She didn't even know where her next meal was going to come from. Mark 5:26 says: “And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was noting bettered, but rather grew worse. bettered, but rather grew worse.” To make matters worse, her disease was incurable. One day, she met Jesus (Author of Peace) and she breathed a sigh of relief.

The impotent man at the pool of Bethesda was sick,sad, weak and stressed (John 5:1-15). The pool of Bethesda was like a war zone. The angel of the Lord comes once a year to stir the water. Anyone who steps into the pool first after it has been stirred will automatically be healed. As a result, people will start rushing to get into the pool when it is stirred.  This man had done this for 38 years;  someone stronger, faster and more powerful had always jump into the water first. John 5:7 says, “The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” What really disturbed him was he had no helper. There were opportunities but no means of taking advantage of the opportunities.  One day, he met Jesus (Author of Peace) and peace came. Nicodemus was not only confused, he was troubled ( John 3:1-5). He wanted to know about how to get to heaven. One night, he came to Jesus and that questioned was answered . Friend, only Jesus can give you peace. All you get outside Jesus is a temporary peace.

QUESTION: What is troubling you? What is causing you sleepless night? Take it to Jesus.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

THE STRIFE MUST CEASE

MEMORY VERSE: 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. Genesis 13:14

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 4:1-25

In Genesis 12:1-3, God gave Abram three instructions: “Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee”. The instructions were simple and basic. Obedience to these three instructions will bring about seven blessings: “And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.” Abram left his country, his relatives but did not leave his father’s house because he took Lot with him. He partially obeyed the Lord's instruction. Partial obedience is disobedience. God actually prefers disobedience to partial obedience. Revelations 3:15 -16 says: “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” You are either a believer or an unbeliever. Don't try to be in the middle because God hates that. If you want to fornicate, go ahead and fornicate. If you want to abstain from sex, go ahead and abstain from sex. Don't kiss and touch the opposite sex in a way you shouldn't and say, " I am keeping the marriage bed undefiled." No ! The marriage bed is already defiled. If you want to be a polygamist, go ahead and be a polygamist. If you want to be a monogamist, go ahead and be one. Don't commit adultery.

Later Abram began to reap the reward of his partial obedience. Genesis 13:7 says: “And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram's cattle and the herdmen of Lot's cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land.” Lot became a thorn in Abram’s side. What did you do when you were told to fast and pray before you embark on that journey?  You prayed for two minutes and hopped on the bus; that's partial obedience. Maybe that's why you misplaced your wallet on your way back. Before the strife got out of hands, Abram called a meeting. Friend, you need to do something about that misunderstanding that keeps occurring between your wife and the neighbor's wife. Problems don't just go. Someone has to take responsibility and resolve the misunderstanding once and for all. 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.” God stopped speaking to Abram when Lot's herdsmen and Abram's began to quarrel.  Anyone who regularly hears from God knows what it is to stop hearing from God; It is very frustrating. Not until the strife was resolved, God did not speak a word. Sir, God will not speak to you as long as you keep malice with your wife. Actually, there is no point praying because God will not answer. Make peace first and He will turn to you. Our God is a God of unity not a God of conflict. He takes His leave the moment strife begins. Once He leaves, the devil takes over and torment the people involved. He is a gentle Spirit. Sister, there is no point going to minister in songs when you have not resolved that conflict with your husband. Bro Prayer warrior, there is no point going to prayer warrior meetings when you have just beaten  your wife. Make peace. Ask God to forgive and she must forgive you too. If you and the brother/sister you are courting are always striving and quarreling, you better end the courtship and pray again.

NOTE: Strife will destroy your spiritual life. It will leave you deeply hurt and at times, it may leave you with an emotional scar. As such, it is better to avoid strife. You may even need to separate yourself from certain people. It could be your blood brother or sister. It could even be your big uncle or big aunt. If the strife is with your husband or wife, you know you can't divorce but you can seek counseling.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

PARASITES NOT WELCOMED

MEMORY VERSE: Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Matthew 7:19

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 3:1-24

In our elementary biology, we learnt about relationships between organisms. There are four basic types of relationships between living organisms: commensalism, endosymbiosis and ectosymbiosis, mutualism and parasitism. Commensalism is simply a relationship between two organisms where one receives a benefit or benefits from the other and the other is not affected by it. A typical example of commensalism is a spider building a web on a tree. Endosymbiosis is when one species lives inside another one and Ectosymbiosis is when one species lives on the surface of the other species. Mutualism is a close relationship where both parties benefit. For instance, mutualism exists between dogs and humans. Dogs supply protection and companionship, and humans provide food and shelter. In parasitism, one organism benefits from the relationship but at the expense of the other. A parasitic relationship can be found between ticks and dog. The tick sucks blood from the dog. The dog loses blood and may die. God bless our teachers.

These four basic types of relationships exist between humans too. Mutualism and parasitism are two obvious ones. You find mutualism between employers and employees. Employees work for their employers and employers paid them in return. Mutualism exists between couples - husband and wife. It exists between parents and children; leaders and followers; pastor and members, etc. Parasitism also exists between employers and employees. We have heard of employers who owe their employees ten months salary. Also, we have heard of employees who don’t work yet they get paid; they get their friends to clock in and out for them. Parasitism exists between couples; parents and children; pastors and members; leaders and followers, etc. We respond to these relationships in different ways. Mutualism? We grow them. We nurture them. Parasitism? We abhor. We move far away from parasites. An elderly man of God was travelling one morning, with a big bag on his head, when he met one of his son-in-the-Lord. The boy said, “Good morning sir" and the old man responded, "good morning son”. A minute later, the man met another son-in-the-Lord. The boy collected the heavy bag and carried it. The old man said, "God bless you my son." The other boy heard it and rushed back to get his own 'God-bless-you-my-son'. The old man literally told him that all he qualified for was a good morning not a God-bless-you. Mutualism between man and God brings blessings whilst parasitism brings curses. As you win souls and ensure that the souls remain in Christ, God will grant your petitions (John 15:16). However, if all you want to do is enjoy God's benefit and contribute nothing, He will cut you off. Matthew 7:19 says: “Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.”

QUESTION: How would you describe your relationship with God? Are you a parasite or a laborer with God? In your relationships with people, are you a parasite – always looking for how you can benefit from them and never thinking of how you can be of benefit to them?

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

JESUS IS THE WAY

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

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Gen 2:4b-25

A way is simply a path that takes you to a place or out of a place. It is the route you follow to a place or out of a place. There is a way that leads to my house. To visit me you need to follow the way that leads to my house. If you do otherwise you will end up at a different address. There is also a way that leads out of my house. There is a way that leads to success; it is diligence. Proverbs 22:29 says: “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.” There is a way that leads to poverty; it is oversleeping. Proverbs 20:13 says: “Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.” There is a way that leads to divine promotion; it is humility. James 4:10 says: “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” There is also a way that leads out of divine promotion; it is pride. James 4:10 says: “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”

According to John 14, Jesus is THE way. Verse 6 says: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” He is not “A” way but “THE” way. He is the path out of something or to something. According to John 5:1-15, He is THE way out of DEFEAT. The impotent man at the pool of Bethesda had experienced defeat on numerous occasions. He had been defeated so many times that he now expects defeat. John 5:7 says: “The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.” One day he met Jesus, The Way, and for the first time in many years he secured his first victory. Jesus is the WAY out of FAILURE (Luke 5:1-7). Peter had tried several times and failed several times. Actually, Jesus met him when he had given up. Verse 5 says: “And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.” After that day, Peter became a success. He cast his net only once and he caught so much fish that he had to beckon to his friends to help him. The same river he had fished all night and caught nothing, he tried with Jesus and caught so much fish that his net actually broke. Not only is He THE way out of DEFEAT and FAILURE, He is the way out of PAIN. Jesus was in the temple one day when He saw a woman that was bent double for 18 years (Luke 13:11-13). I don’t need to tell you she was in great pains. Jesus said a short prayer and her pain was gone. Today, I read the testimony of a woman who suffered from uterine fibroid, cramping and painful menstrual periods. She could not do much with her life because of the pains. She could not work or do business. She was in bed for at least 2-3 days, and then had digestive problems after that for the rest of the week. One day, she met Jesus, The WAY, and that pain disappeared. He is THE way out of UNHAPPINESS especially in marriage. Jesus was at a wedding in Cana when the wine finished (John 2:1-12). Wine symbolises celebration and joy. They told the matter to Jesus, The WAY, and He gave them brand new heavenly wine. A woman came to say goodbye to her neighbour as they had been evicted out of the house. The couple were hopeless alcoholics; all their money was gone, the marriage was on the rock. Every evil thing one could imagine was happening in their marriage. The neighbour used that opportunity to tell her friend about the WAY (Jesus). The woman accepted Jesus; two days later her husband too accepted Jesus. What happened? The alcohol problem disappeared. The home was not lost. The marriage did not break up. Friend, I don’t know what you are going through but Jesus is The WAY out of it.

NOTE: The WAY out of that terrible situation is to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour. If you have backslidded, then you need to return to Him today.

PRAYER POINT: Saviour, please save me.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

“PRAISE ME MORE”

MEMORY VERSE: And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten. 2 Chronicles 20:22

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Genesis 1:1 – 2:4a

READ: 2 Chronicles 20:1 – 26.

IN 2015

While waiting on the Lord in December 2014, asking Him what He intends to do in my life and in the life of His children in 2015, this phrase “MEANINGFUL ACHIEVEMENT” dropped in my spirit. The title of our message on 1st of January 2015 was MEANINGFUL ACHIEVEMENT. In that message, as led by the Spirit of God, i said, “This year God will remember many. This year many will succeed where they failed last year. This year many will become married. This year our testimonies will be many. A lot will pass their exams and many other things.” God fulfilled all He said. Recently, a sister in Christ, someone very close to me, shared her testimony of 2015 and as i read it, i saw that her testimonies were many - just like many of us. She said one thing that humbled me: “Indeed, this year, to the glory of God, we recorded the highest number of marriages in our midst -over 20 marriages. Many, indeed, became married. In my personal life, it has been testimony galore. Time may not permit but i will share one. In my place of work this year, God promoted me and i went three scales (positions) up in one single day!

LESSONS LEARNT
As someone from a project management background, PRINCE 2 (PRoject IN Controlled Environments), one thing we do at the beginning of every project is we capture lessons learnt in previous projects. In 2015, i learnt a lot of lessons but i will share one with you today (1st of January 2016). Am i calling 2016 a project? Well, looking at some of the characteristics of a project according to PRINCE 2 - something that is temporary in nature i.e. have a defined start and end, plagued by threats ( dangers) and opportunities , cross-functional i.e. working with people from different background, etc – we can call it a project. One of the important lessons i learnt in 2015 is IT PAYS TO BE OBEDIENT. From time to time, you will pray and make plans. The moment you sense God trying to change your plans don’t struggle with Him. Even if you are at the execution phase of the plan and He says stop, please stop. It may cause you some embarrassment, yes, but in the long run you will be happy that you did. I wanted to do a particular IT training to develop myself so I found a trainer. We agreed on the price and a date. Meanwhile i had been praying about this particular training even before i got the trainer. A day to the training, i sensed in my spirit that the Lord was not in it so I called off the training. As expected, the man got really angry and I was embarrassed. Few days later, the Lord led me to do another IT training course and i obeyed. On the first day of my training, i met a man who had already completed the training the Lord told me not to go for. After speaking with this man for 20 mins, i thank the Lord that i listened when He told me to stop. I pray that you will not waste your resources on a project that will not yield any benefits.

IN 2016
One question people kept on asking me in 2015 was, “are you a pastor”? My response hasn’t changed; I am not a pastor. I am just an ordinary brother - a worker in the vineyard of God. What work do I do? I am part of the SANCTUARY KEEPERS. However, God, out of His mercy, shares a thing or two with me. Whilst men look at titles and positions, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Looking back at all He did in 2015; the accuracy of His prophecies at the beginning of the year, i didn’t need anyone to tell me to wait again to hear what He has to say for 2016. This time, in few words, He said “PRAISE ME MORE”. To confirm this message - the bible says by the mouth of two or three witness shall every word be established ( 2 Corinthians 13:1) - during our end of the year revival, the pastor, on the 30th December 2015, preached a message titled “PRAISES GO BEFORE LAUGHTER”. He repeated the same thing during our watch night service. One of the texts he used is 2 Chronicles 20.

ACTION: Praise Him like never before this year.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

DELAYED GRATIFICATION

MEMORY VERSE: He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. Proverbs 21:27

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Psalm 143-145

There is a popular term in psychology called ‘Delayed Gratification’. It refers to the ability to put off something mildly fun or pleasurable now in order to wait for something that is greatly fun, pleasurable, or rewarding later. Delay Gratification simply means making a choice which limits the ability of getting something now, for the pleasure of being able to have something bigger or better later. For example, you could watch TV the night before an exam, or you could exhibit delayed gratification and study for the exam. The latter would increase your chances of getting an 'A' in the course at the end of a semester, which is much more satisfying long-term than a night of watching TV.

There are some pleasures you have to deny yourself now if you want to have a glorious future. 3 John 2 says: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” For this verse to be fulfilled in your life, there are some pleasures you have to deny yourself. Some of the pleasures are sweet and sugary food – food full of fats and sugars. Another pleasure is fizzy drink. Medical doctors have warned that sugary drinks increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. Water is cheaper and better. By delaying gratification and choosing the more healthy option, the glass of water over the glass of coca-cola, you will reap the rewards of delayed gratification by being more healthy in your life, have less illness and have more energy to live your life to its fullest. Do you want to have breakthroughs? Do you want to do well in life? Do you want to do well in your studies? Do you want to be strong at your old age? Do you want to have more than enough or prosper? You need to start delaying gratification from now on. Do you want to fulfil destiny? Do you want to finish that project you have started? Do you want to be filled with the Holy Ghost? If you are like me, you may want to raise the dead. Then, you have to cut down on food. First of all, eating cuts down your life; eat to live not live to eat. Your inability to fast will limit you. Mark 9:29 says: “And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”

Another pleasure you need to deny yourself of today if you want to have a glorious future is 'sleep'. How can you sleep 8 hours a day - 4 months a year - and expect to achieve much? Besides, those who love sleep are at the mercy of the enemy. Matthew 13:25 says: “But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.” That aside, poverty is not far from a man who loves to sleep. Proverbs 20:13 says: “Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.” Some battles are only fought at night, you will remain stagnant if you don't wake up to pray. The wrestling match that changed Jacob’s life forever took place at night (Genesis 32:22-32). The crossing of the Red Sea took place at night (Exodus 14). You have to work hard now so that you can rest later. Whilst everyone is going out to party and have fun, use that time to develop yourself.

ACTION: Make it a point of duty to develop an area of your life this year.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

WHAT DO YOU WANT?

MEMORY VERSE: When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? John 5:6

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Deuteronomy 26-28

Bible scholars told us that Jesus, while he was on earth, asked 307 questions. One of the questions He asked, time and time again, whenever people in need of a thing or the other come to Him is “what do you want Me to do for you?” For instance,in Matthew 20:30-34, two blind men heard that Jesus was passing by and they called on Him. Verse 32 says: “And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?” Jesus could see that these men were blind yet He asked them, what do you want Me to do for you? Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was passing by and he began to scream at the top of his voice “Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me” (Mark 10:46-52). Verse 51 says: “And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord, that I might receive my sight.” Again, Jesus was aware of the condition of this man's eye. He knew why Bartimaeus was persistent when people tried to shut him off. Yet, when Bartimaeus arrived He asked him, what do You want me to do for you? Jesus was at the pool of Bethesda one day when He saw a certain man who had been sick for thirty-eight years ( John 5:1-15). The bible records that Jesus knew that the man had been there a long time in that case. Jesus knew the man was at that pool to get healed and yet He asked him, "Wilt thou be made whole?" The question is why does Jesus ask people these questions?
The truth is you don't know what people need or want unless they tell you.

What you think they need is not always what they need even though the need is obvious. When Jesus asked that man at the pool of Bethesda “Wilt thou be made whole”? He said No! I don’t want You to heal me. All i want is a man to put me into the pool when it is stirred. John 5:7 says: “The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.” You really don’t know what people want until you ask them. I will never forget an incident that happened when I was still in the world - before I accepted Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. My girlfriend told me she had some problems. She mentioned the first problem; I told her what to do and she said "i know". She mentioned the second problem; again, i told her what do and she said "i know". I was baffled. She mentioned the third one; i told her what do and she said "i know". "If you know the answers to these problems why ask me", i asked. She said I am not looking for answer to the problems; i am looking for someone to sit quietly and listen to me. I thought she wanted solutions but she wanted someone to listen to her share what she was going through. Bro, maybe what sister wants is someone to share what she is going through with not someone to analyze her challenges and solve it in a second. Many many years ago, some pastors went to pray for a sick sister. She was a believer but her husband was not at that time. They prayed for days and the sister did not recover so these pastors went to the Lord to ask what the problem was. The Lord said to them, “have you asked her what she wants?” “Oh Lord, we know what she wants... She is sick... she is in pains.. She wants healing,” they responded. The Lord said to them , “ask her for what she wants.” To their shock, the sister said "i don't want to be healed". “My husband only gives me attention when i am sick; I will rather be sick and have his attention than be healed and lose his attention" she continued. I pray that you will not labor in vain in Jesus name.

NOTE: Don't be naive. Don't assume because a sister is friendly to you, she is interested in you. Don't assume because a brother is nice to you, he is trying to say something. He is not trying to say anything until he opens his mouth.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world

THE FINEST OF WHEAT

MEMORY VERSE: He should have fed them also with the finest of the wheat: and with honey out of the rock should I have satisfied thee. Psalm 81:16

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Acts 23-25

READ: Psalm 81:13-16

Psalm 81:16 says: “He should have fed them also with the finest of the wheat: and with honey out of the rock should I have satisfied thee.” The phrase “finest of wheat” implies there are at least three types of fine wheat and the “finest of wheat” being the best of the three i.e. the best of the best. The Psalmist, in our memory verse, reveals God’s intention to give His children the best of the best wheat (blessings). What a good Father we have! God knows the best of the best wheat. He knows where they are. The Lord wants you, His child, to have the best of the best. Is there a father who does not want his children to have the best of the best? Jesus, in a bit to drive home this point, said: “Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? (Matthew 7:9-11).” God has the best of the best single brothers and sisters –singles who will add value, colour and quality to anyone they marry. He has the best of the best business ideas to make your business prosper. He has the best of the best things and He wants you to have them all.

However, there is a condition you must meet before you can receive the best of the best and that is absolute obedience to His word. Anyone who is ready to receive God's best must be prepared to obey God at all times even when it is inconvenient. The problem is not with God or His words. The problem is always with the man. We suffer defeat, fail exams, and lose valuable things because of our disobedience to His Words. Psalm 81:13 -14 says: “Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways! I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries.” Many a time, the “best of the best” things don’t always appear as the best of the best initially. Many of us will walk past diamonds in their crude form because they don’t glitter in their crude form. They have to go through several processes before they come out glittering. Several years back, a young man, very thin with no real job, no car or good clothes, proposed to a lady. The family of this lady discouraged this sister. Even the brother’s family, although they were polite about it, told the sister to look somewhere else if she wants a bright future. The lady believed the Word of the Lord and married him. Today, the brother is one of the world leading worship leaders. He goes around the world to minister and takes the sister with him. There is no continent in the world she has not visited with her husband. The best of the best don’t always look like the best of the best initially. Whatever God gives to you is the best of the best for you; if you receive it from Him with joy you will not regret it. God has set a standard for Himself and He will not drop that standard for any man. It is either His way or no way. He can’t be bribed or anything. To receive His best (the best of the best), firstly you must give your life to Christ. Secondly, you must obey Him. Read your bible, see what He hates and run from them. Check what He likes and begin to do them. Thirdly, give generously to Him. Fourthly, worship Him.

NOTE: Worship causes one to experience God in a powerful way.

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Bro Samuel | Reaching the world