OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: BREAKING COVENANTS, PART 2 MEMORIZE: "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world" 1 John 4:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17-19 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. MESSAGE: Years ago, one of my daughters in the Lord came to me and said, "Daddy, a young man approached me and said he wants to marry me." I congratulated her, but she replied, "Daddy, my father told me that I was dedicated to a river goddess when I was born, and a covenant was made that whoever I marry is going to die on our wedding day. I don't want the young man to die." I told her that I know someone stronger than the river goddess. We prayed a simple prayer, and she left. The next time I saw her, she was happily married and already had a baby. I declare that any evil force that might be hindering your progress is destroyed today, in Jesus' name. A new and greater covenant can cancel a previously existing one. For instance, if you want to break a covenant with someone, all you need to do is enter into a covenant with someone greater; the greater fellow can release you from the lesser person's covenant by force. If a person enters into a covenant with the devil, the moment he or she enters into a covenant with God, He will wipe out all evil covenants from the fellow's life. God's covenant is superior to any other covenant. Our God is stronger than the strongest; therefore, once a person enters into a covenant with Him, He will bind any strong man who was previously in charge of the fellow's life and throw him out. It is also important to note that the devil still seeks to retain his strongholds in the lives of people even after they have become born again. A stronghold is a deeply entrenched evil pattern that the devil has instilled in a person, and it must be addressed. Otherwise, the person will continue to operate under its influence even after he or she has become born again. Such strongholds typically include bitterness, pride, generational curses, anger, and other similar issues. Beloved, (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) urges us to pull down strongholds and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. If you are a party to any evil covenant or are under the influence of any demonic stronghold, cry out to God today to deliver you by His mighty power. I join my faith with yours and decree that you are completely free from any evil covenant or demonic stronghold that might be in your life, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Having a covenant with God annuls every evil covenant in a person's life. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 1 - 2 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 10 - IN CHRIST ALONE 1 In Christ alone, my hope is found He is my light, my strength, my song This Cornerstone, this solid ground Firm through the fiercest drought and storm What heights of love, what depths of peace When fears are stilled, when strivings cease My Comforter, my All in All Here in the love of Christ I stand 2 In Christ alone, who took on flesh Fullness of God in helpless babe This gift of love and righteousness Scorned by the ones He came to save 'Til on that cross as Jesus died The wrath of God was satisfied For every sin on Him was laid Here in the death of Christ I live, I live 3 There in the ground His body lay Light of the world by darkness slain Then bursting forth in glorious Day Up from the grave He rose again And as He stands in victory Sin's curse has lost its grip on me For I am His and He is mine Bought with the precious blood of Christ 4 No guilt in life, no fear in death This is the power of Christ in me From life's first cry to final breath Jesus commands my destiny No power of hell, no scheme of man Can ever pluck me from His hand Till He returns or calls me home Here in the power of Christ I'll stand ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SATURDAY, 22ND AUGUST, 2026 *BREAKING COVENANTS II* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for making me a new creature in Christ Jesus. 2.Father, thank You for destroying the covenant of death and hell over me, and bringing me into a new covenant of life through the death and resurrection in Christ Jesus. 3.Father, because greater is Jesus is in me than the devil in the world, I declare that any evil force that might be hindering my progress be destroyed today, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, because I am in covenant with You, I decree that any evil covenant entered into on my behalf is destroyed by the power in the blood of Jesus. 5.Father, by the new covenant in the blood of Jesus, I terminate every negative effect of any evil covenant in my life, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, by the power of the new covenant in the blood of Jesus, I bind any strong man previously in charge of any area of my life and I throw them out of my life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, I break and destroy every evil stronghold of the devil over any area of my life today, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, I break every evil pattern of bitterness, pride generational curses, anger, and every demonic stronghold in my life and family, and I terminate its influence over my life, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, I pull down every stronghold and cast down imagination and every high thing that exalts itself against Your knowledge in my life and family, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, as many of Your children that are under the influence of any demonic stronghold, deliver and set them completely free from any evil covenant in their lives, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Let Your anointing be on in the increase in his life and establish every decree from his mouth, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SATURDAY, AUGUST 22, 2026. TOPIC: BREAKING COVENANTS 2 MEMORISE Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. - (1 John 4:4) READ: 2 Corinthians 5:17-19 (KJV) 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. MESSAGE Years ago, one of my daughters in the Lord came to me and said, "Daddy, a young man approached me and said he wants to marry me." I congratulated her, but she replied, "Daddy, my father told me that I was dedicated to a river goddess when I was born, and a covenant was made that whoever I marry is going to die on our wedding day. I don't want the young man to die." I told her that I know someone stronger than the river goddess. We prayed a simple prayer, and she left. The next time I saw her, she was happily married and already had a baby. I declare that any evil force that might be hindering your progress is destroyed today, in Jesus' name. A new and greater covenant can cancel a previously existing one. For instance, if you want to break a covenant with someone, all you need to do is enter into a covenant with someone greater; the greater fellow can release you from the lesser person's covenant by force. If a person enters into a covenant with the devil, the moment he or she enters into a covenant with God, He will wipe out all evil covenants from the fellow's life. God's covenant is superior to any other covenant. Our God is stronger than the strongest; therefore, once a person enters into a covenant with Him, He will bind any strong man who was previously in charge of the fellow's life and throw him out. It is also important to note that the devil still seeks to retain his strongholds in the lives of people even after they have become born again. A stronghold is a deeply entrenched evil pattern that the devil has instilled in a person, and it must be addressed. Otherwise, the person will continue to operate under its influence even after he or she has become born again. Such strongholds typically include bitterness, pride, generational curses, anger, and other similar issues. Beloved, (2 Corinthians 10:3-5) urges us to pull down strongholds and cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. If you are a party to any evil covenant or are under the influence of any demonic stronghold, cry out to God today to deliver you by His mighty power. I join my faith with yours and decree that you are completely free from any evil covenant or demonic stronghold that might be in your life, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT Having a covenant with God annuls every evil covenant in a person's life. AUTHOR: Pastor E. A. Adeboye BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Lamentations 1 - 2 HYMN 10 - IN CHRIST ALONE 1. In Christ alone, my hope is found He is my light, my strength, my song This Cornerstone, this solid ground Firm through the fiercest drought and storm What heights of love, what depths of peace When fears are stilled, when strivings cease My Comforter, my All in All Here in the love of Christ I stand 2. In Christ alone, who took on flesh Fullness of God in helpless babe This gift of love and righteousness Scorned by the ones He came to save 'Til on that cross as Jesus died The wrath of God was satisfied For every sin on Him was laid Here in the death of Christ I live, I live 3. There in the ground His body lay Light of the world by darkness slain Then bursting forth in glorious Day Up from the grave He rose again And as He stands in victory Sin's curse has lost its grip on me For I am His and He is mine Bought with the precious blood of Christ 4. No guilt in life, no fear in death This is the power of Christ in me From life's first cry to final breath Jesus commands my destiny No power of hell, no scheme of man Can ever pluck me from His hand Till He returns or calls me home Here in the power of Christ I'll stand

📖 TODAY'S BIBLE READING Monday, August 17 📜 OLD TESTAMENT JUDGES 18 — The Danites and Micah's Idol ✝️ NEW TESTAMENT 2 PETER 2 — Warning Against False Teachers 🌿 MAJOR PROPHETS ISAIAH 28 — The Cornerstone of Zion 🌿 Today's Reflection 📜 Judges 18 The Danites take Micah's idols and establish their own form of worship. The chapter shows the danger of spiritual compromise and reminds us that God's people must not replace His truth with what simply seems right in their own eyes. ✝️ 2 Peter 2 Peter gives a strong warning about false teachers who distort the truth and lead others into sin. Believers are called to remain grounded in God's Word, recognize deception, and pursue holy living. 🌿 Isaiah 28 Isaiah confronts the pride and false security of Israel's leaders, but also points to God's sure foundation: the precious cornerstone laid by God in Zion. Our confidence should rest on God's truth rather than human wisdom or temporary security. ✨ KEY VERSE "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation." — Isaiah 28:16 🙏 PRAYER Heavenly Father, establish our lives firmly upon Your truth. Give us discernment to recognize false teaching and the courage to reject anything that draws us away from You. Keep us humble, faithful, and rooted in Christ, our sure foundation. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. WE STUDY. WE PRAY. WE OBEY. WE GROW. UNTIL WE ARE TOTALLY TRANSFORMED. 📖✨🙏 🌿 TODAY'S CHALLENGE Check your foundation today. Let God's Word—not popular opinion, feelings, or human wisdom—guide your decisions, beliefs, and actions.

THE CALVARY MINISTRY ONLINE The Gospel From Calvary MONDAY 10TH AUGUST, 2026 THE REJECTED STONE BECAME THE CORNERSTONE ✝️🪨👑 📜 TEXT: MARK 12:1-44 📜 🔑📖 KEY VERSE: "And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner: This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?" (MARK 12:10-11). In Mark 12, the chief priests and elders tried to trap Jesus, but He exposed their hearts with truth. In three powerful scenes, He shows us who He truly is. First, He told the parable of the vineyard. The owner sent servants and finally his beloved son, and the husbandmen killed the son to seize the inheritance. Jesus was that beloved Son. Men rejected Him, killed Him at Calvary, but God raised Him up to become the Cornerstone of our salvation. Second, they asked about tribute to Caesar. He said, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." We have duties to men, but our soul, our worship, and our all belong to God. Third, He was asked for the greatest commandment. He answered, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God... and thy neighbour as thyself." All the law hangs on love — love for God and love for men. Without love, religion is empty. The chapter ends with a poor widow who cast in all she had — two mites. Jesus said she gave more than all the rich. God does not measure your giving by amount, but by heart. Three truths from Mark 12: One, Jesus is the Rejected Stone who became the Cornerstone. Men may reject Him still, but there is no salvation outside Him. Two, true faith loves God wholly and loves man sincerely. Three, God sees the heart of the giver, not the size of the gift. ✍🏽 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The builders rejected Him on earth, but God made Him the Cornerstone of eternity — what will you do with Jesus? 📜 THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: PSALMS 76-78

Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀🎀💝🎁🌺🌹MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY WEDNESDAY AUGUST 5, 2O26. "YOU CAN CARRY GOD’S PRESENCE WITH YOU (1)" ‘The poles…are not to be removed.’ Exodus 25:15 NIV THE ARK of the Covenant represented the presence of God in the midst of His people. When the Philistines captured it, they were smitten with tumours. When they placed it in their temple, their god Dagon fell to the ground (1 Samuel 5). The moral of this story is—don’t mess around with the things of God! Even if you are not prepared to serve God; at least be wise and revere Him. When Israel conquered the Philistines, David decided to bring the Ark, the symbol of God’s presence, back home to Jerusalem. Now, when God designed the Ark, He put rings on the side of it, and poles through those rings, saying it must only be carried on the shoulders of special priests. But somebody thought of ‘a better way,’ so they put it on a new cart pulled by an ox. And that’s when everything went wrong. When the Ark started to slip off the cart, a well-meaning bystander decided to steady it. And he died for it! You say, ‘That’s pretty extreme.’ There’s a lesson here for those who want to package God’s presence, market it, and ‘take it on the road.’ Who is qualified to carry God’s presence? Only believer-priests who have been cleansed by the blood of the Lamb, are washed by the Word at the laver, who fellowship with God at His table, who worship Him at the altar of incense, and who walk in the light of truth represented by the seven-branched lampstand. Away with newfangled carts! ‘…the Lord added to the church…’ (Acts 2:47 NKJV). If we are going to carry God’s presence and build His church, we’ve got to do it His way. Bible In A Year: Deut 32:29-34:12; Matt 14:13-21; Ps 119:17-24; Pro 27:7-10. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation 🌹🎀 *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*🌷🎀💝🌹. MD.ii. [04/08, 9:31 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) WEDNESDAY 5TH AUGUST, 2026``` *DEFILEMENT DETESTED* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🖤❌🩸🤍🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:LEVITICUS 11:13-28```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And he that beareth the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: they are unclean unto you" (LEVITICUS 11:28).*_ *Leonard Syme, a professor of epidemiology at the University of California at Berkeley, indicates the importance of social ties and social support systems in relationship to mortality and disease rates. He simply underscores the saying that attack is the best defence. Defiant posture to defilements regardless the form or the size is the panacea for living holy.* *This is the gem in the seemingly extensive and meticulous dietary regulation outlined in our passage, which serves a crucial purpose beyond maintaining physical health. To the Israelites, it was a constant reminder to their distinct identity and calling on one hand and a perpetual prompt to seek holiness and live in constant obedience to God in all aspects of life on the other hand. In the same way, believers today are called to maintain a distinct identity in the world. Our lives must be marked by holiness, obedience, and respect for God's commandments.* *Our text, on the surface, sets forth the dietary restrictions on fowls or birds (Leviticus 11:13b-19) and flying insects (Leviticus 11:19-23), but at a deeper level they are part of a larger tapestry of holiness and obedience to God's laws.* *The hallmark of this dietary law is the indelible imprint of God's work in them and the call to live lives directed by God. The regulation constantly reminds the Israelites that they are a different and separate people who should by no means live the same way or share common values with the surrounding nations. As the distinction exists between clean and unclean animals, birds or creeping creatures so is there an uncompromisable difference between the Israel of God and other nations. Their food choices reflect this consecrated, holy identity.* *How this speaks to you, the "ecclesia", called out one today. If you are saved, your only option is to be separated to live holily before the Lord Who saved you: "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15, 16). These detailed and seemingly complicated instructions underscore the place of God's amazing grace and the unmerited favour He shows to us by His covenant loving-kindness.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Passion for heaven necessitates strict separation and unqualified obedience to the word.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *JOHN 10-12*📜📜 Defilement Detested https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 190: "CALLED UNTO HOLINESS"; GHS 219: MORE HOLINESS GIVE ME, MORE STRIVING WITHIN; AND GHS 188: TAKE TIME TO BE HOLY* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna5thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [04/08, 9:31 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```WEDNESDAY 5TH AUGUST, 2026``` *LIFT UP JESUS* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🆙🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️📢📣🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:JOHN 12:30-36```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me" (JOHN 12:32).*_ *Jesus is the Saviour of the world. Life here and in eternity will be worthless without Him. Thus, everything concerning the redemption and restoration of man after his unfortunate fall in the Garden of Eden revolves around His ultimate price for the propitiation of our sins.* *Since Christ is the cornerstone of our existence, we must lift Him up for the world to see and be saved because without salvation through His blood, a soul will be damned in hell forever.* *Modern technology has made it easy to lift up Jesus for the world to see. The social media platforms have made it very easy to preach to thousands of people without stress. Serve the Lord in the days of your youth; lift up the flag of Jesus with all your strength and vigour to draw all men to Him for their salvation.* *God has rewards for those who faithfully carry out the work of evangelism. However, for you to lift up Christ for those to see, you must allow Christ to lift you out of your sinful lifestyle first.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Lift up Christ for others to see.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Serve the Lord.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, help me to lift up Christ every day.*_ Lift Up Jesus https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday5thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [04/08, 9:31 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```WEDNESDAY 5TH AUGUST, 2026``` *A HELPER TO OTHERS* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️👥🤝🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```GALATIANS 6:1-3```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 Helping others is an important aspect of Christian fellowship. Jesus set the perfect example by healing the sick, comforting the brokenhearted and providing for those who were in need. Christ's life was dedicated to serving others, showing us that true love is found in selfless acts of kindness and compassion. When we help others, we are following Christ's command to love our neighbours as ourselves. Serving others does not always require big gestures. Sometimes, it is the small things that matter most; like a kind word, a listening ear, or sharing what we have. These simple acts can make a big difference in someone's life and show Christ's love in powerful ways. *By helping others, we not only fulfill God's command, but we also make the world a better place. Our service becomes a living example of God's love, drawing others closer to Jesus. Through these actions, we share the hope and grace that He offers, and in doing so, we become vessels of His love in the world.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, guide me to help others, showing Your love through my actions and words.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Matthew 25:35-40* A Helper To Others https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk5thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [04/08, 9:32 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* WEDNESDAY, 5TH AUGUST, 2026. *BEYOND GOOD AND BALANCED DIET* *TEXT:* LEVITICUS 11:13-28. 13 And these are they which ye shall have in abomination among the fowls; they shall not be eaten, they are an abomination: the eagle, and the ossifrage, and the ospray, 14 And the vulture, and the kite after his kind; 15 Every raven after his kind; 16 And the owl, and the night hawk, and the cuckow, and the hawk after his kind, 17 And the little owl, and the cormorant, and the great owl, 18 And the swan, and the pelican, and the gier eagle, 19 And the stork, the heron after her kind, and the lapwing, and the bat. 20 All fowls that creep, going upon all four, shall be an abomination unto you. 21 Yet these may ye eat of every flying creeping thing that goeth upon all four, which have legs above their feet, to leap withal upon the earth; 22 Even these of them ye may eat; the locust after his kind, and the bald locust after his kind, and the beetle after his kind, and the grasshopper after his kind. 23 But all other flying creeping things, which have four feet, shall be an abomination unto you. 24 And for these ye shall be unclean: whosoever toucheth the carcase of them shall be unclean until the even. 25 And whosoever beareth ought of the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even. 26 The carcases of every beast which divideth the hoof, and is not clovenfooted, nor cheweth the cud, are unclean unto you: every one that toucheth them shall be unclean. 27 And whatsoever goeth upon his paws, among all manner of beasts that go on all four, those are unclean unto you: whoso toucheth their carcase shall be unclean until the even. 28 And he that beareth the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: they are unclean unto you. *Timeless Truth:*_"Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ"_ (Colossians 2:16,17). *INTRODUCTION* It is doubtful if there is any generation different from ours who is better exposed to the principle of healthy living through a good and appropriate diet. This is possible through newest and advanced, though progressive, scientific discoveries especially, from nutritional scientists. Ignoring their advise and instructions is suicidal against healthy living and longevity. A healthy spirit in an unhealthy and weak body cannot be at its best spiritually. Does God care about what we eat? God is the greatest nutritional scientist since He created those animals and knows them more than anybody else. The dietary laws in the text were primarily directed to Israel as part of the Mosaic law which are not binding for those in the new covenant. However, beyond dietary rules, these rules are meant to pass across deeper truths as they are shadows of things to come in the New Testament (Colossians 2:16,17). *1. Dietary Laws* a. In order to get honey from the rock, there must be willingness and determination to pay the price of diligently digging hard. The same with the old covenant which is a shadow of the new. Due diligence must be given so as to eat and digest the meat of the Word which is beyond the milk of the Word. b. The chapter can be categorized for better understanding. i.Land-living mammals that can be eaten and those that cannot be eaten are given in Leviticus 11:1-8. God gave these laws to the children of Israel. Did God create any animal to be unclean? The New Testament says NO. *"I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean."* God just decided to make that temporary classification to teach some lessons as divine revelations were evolving. When God created animals, *"God saw that it was good"* (Genesis 1:25). Would something unclean be good to God? The classification was revealed in the days of Noah when there was a distinction between clean and unclean animals (Genesis 7:2, 8:20) for the purpose of sacrifice. The first law God gave to humanity had to do with what could and could not be eaten. Was the fruit that was not to be eaten unclean. NO. It was a good fruit from a good tree, but God classified it as forbidden to test their obedience. So these laws were given to Israel as a test of their obedience and separation to God. ii.Water creatures that cannot be eaten and those that cannot be eaten are listed in Leviticus 11:9-12. Under these dietary laws given to Israel, the unclean water creatures were to be regarded as an abomination and could not be eaten. iii.Birds and other flying things that can and cannot be eaten are listed in Leviticus 11:13-19. There was no rule given to determine if a bird was clean or unclean. Instead, specific birds (twenty in all) are mentioned as being unclean and therefore forbidden for eating.The common thread through most of these birds is that they are either predators or scavengers which, apart from killing fellow creatures, have the tendency to drink their blood. iii. Insects that can and cannot be eaten are listed in Leviticus 11:20-23. Good examples of clean insects include the locust, the cricket and the grasshopper. All these unclean creatures can be touched when they are alive except that they must not be eaten. We can relate with sinners without getting polluted with their sins. If the carcass of any of the unclean is touched either deliberately or accidentally, the person and their clothes become unclean and must perform some ceremonially purifying rituals. *"And for these ye shall be unclean: whosoever toucheth the carcase of them shall be unclean until the even"*. The evening was referring to the time of their evening sacrifice. *"And whosoever beareth ought of the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even"*. *Question* Check the list for those animals and birds that were unclean then, but are freely eaten now by believers and man in general. *2. Definite Lessons* a.It has been established that no creature of God is created unclean. The classification was temporary to pass across some eternal messages. Eternal divine messages are difficult to comprehend by the natural man. The concept of the innocent coming to die for the wicked is not natural. It is the other way around. A kind of mercy that will declare the guilty not just forgiven and stands before God as though he had never sinned and a saint is beyond human comprehension. This is called justification. How do you reconcile justice and mercy? What about the concept of grace that will make God forget committed sins to the point that He would not be able to remember again? God in His wisdom decided to use natural and visible things in the Old Testament to shadow reality in the New Testament so that those concepts will be readily understood by mankind. And it worked. b. The emphasis in the text is more of moral uncleanness rather than medical uncleanness. It teaches that there is moral cleanness and moral uncleanness and they cannot mix. Moral uncleanness is not just divine hatred, it is an abomination to God of which the judgment is capital or eternal damnation. The fact that unclean animals cannot be sacrificed is indicative of the fact that God only accepts the sacrifices and the services of those that are holy and clean. *"Be ye holy for I am holy"*. This is reasonable. If you have a delicious meal, but notice a small and an "insignificant" quantity of human excreta in the food, will you eat it? If you are very hungry and you see an exposed loaf of bread in a dustbin of all kinds of rotten things, will you pick the bread and eat? If you are interviewing a person for a good job and you notice the person tells "small, small lies", will you employ the person? At times man pushes to God what he himself cannot accept or tolerate. Will you blame God if He is angry at your unholy sacrifice, service and actions? There is also the law of "don't touch" a dead animal or you become unclean. This is the law of total separation from uncleanness and peddlers of uncleanness. *"Come out from among them and be ye separate"*. Jesus Christ, in mind, motive and every area, was separate from sinners. Even when He physically interacted, it was to shine the light to them and minister the truth to them. *"Abstain from all appearance of evil"*. The defiled shall be unclean till the even or evening sacrifice.It was time an innocent animal was slain for the sin of the whole nation on a daily basis. It shows that forgiveness comes through atonement by the blood. The fact that he must also wash himself with water is an indication that there must be personal responsibility in addition to the atonement. The sinner must apply the washing of water by the Word of God to wash his mindset, heart, attitude and actions and be presentable to God as a holy vessel. The fact that some food is forbidden is a test of our obedience and self control. It is not everybody we befriend or relate with. There must be self discipline. *Question* What other lessons can you learn? Do you depart from uncleanness and all unclean people? In addition to the atonement, do you do your part by opening up your heart and mind for the Word of God to clean on a daily basis? *Prayer Points* 1.Praise God for His wisdom in making spiritual truths to be comprehensive to all seekers 🙏. 2.Ask God for more understanding of deep mysteries of the Word of God and the gospel 🙏. 3.Offer your heart and life to God afresh and ask for total cleansing from all defilements 🙏. 4.Pray that the messages of holiness will go beyond our heads, but permeate through our hearts to true holiness 🙏. *HYMN:* Wash Me O Lamb of God. *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* JOHN 10-12. 2. Morning prayer for today. MD.ii. Morning Prayer To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. ⏤ Psalm 46:1 God does nothing but by prayer, and everything with it. ⏤ John Wesley Gracious Father, we come to You at the start of this new day, seeking Your blessing. We thank You for the rest we’ve had through the night. We laid down, slept, and woke up again because You sustained us. We will not fear any opposition because You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. Now, our Father, send us out into the new day on new missions. We want to take our directions from You. Help us to keep Your commandments. Cleanse us from hidden faults and sins; keep us from falling into willful sin. You are able to keep us from falling—we commit our souls to Your holy care. Deliver us from the Evil One. We have no power to stand against his cunning attacks, so we trust our souls to You, our faithful Creator and Friend. Save us from the Tempter. We ask that You make us strong for our duties today. We have many things to do that will require wisdom and perseverance. Give us the strength that comes from victory in struggle. Equip us to do good at home—showing love and care for one another. May our home be filled with Your rich blessings. Let nothing disrupt our love for each other or harm our fellowship. Help us to grow in love that is sincere, patient, thoughtful, and kind. May we continue to learn the lessons of love better and better. May the light from our home shine out, showing others how to live more sweetly. May Your grace be upon us in proportion to our need, filling our hearts and lives, and preparing us for every experience we may face today. We ask all this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/31/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 1 Kings 7–8 | 2 Corinthians 1📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 1 Kings 7 Building for God's Glory and Serving with Excellence 1 Kings 7 continues the account of Solomon's building projects. After describing the construction of the temple, the chapter records the completion of Solomon's palace and the many furnishings created for the house of the Lord. Although much attention is given to architecture, craftsmanship, and beautiful design, the deeper focus remains on honoring God through faithful stewardship and excellence. The chapter reveals that great care was taken in every aspect of the work. Skilled craftsmen were selected, valuable materials were gathered, and every detail was completed according to the plans that had been established. The work required patience, wisdom, and dedication. Nothing associated with the worship of God was treated as ordinary or insignificant. Particular attention is given to Huram, a gifted craftsman whom God used to fashion many of the temple's bronze furnishings. His abilities remind us that God gives different gifts to different people for the building up of His work. Not everyone serves in the same way, but every gift has value when surrendered to the Lord. Whether leading, designing, building, or serving, every role contributes to God's greater purpose. The furnishings of the temple also carried spiritual significance. They pointed to God's holiness, cleansing, provision, and the necessity of worship. Every object reminded Israel that approaching a holy God required reverence, sacrifice, and obedience. The beauty of the temple was never meant to glorify human achievement but to direct attention to the majesty of the Lord. Although Solomon's own palace required many years to complete, the temple remained the central focus of Israel's spiritual life. This balance reminds us that earthly responsibilities are important, but God's presence must always remain our highest priority. Theologically, 1 Kings 7 teaches that God deserves our very best. Excellence in serving the Lord is not motivated by pride but by worship. The chapter also demonstrates that God equips His people with different gifts to accomplish His work together. Every act of faithful service contributes to His kingdom. This chapter points to Christ, who perfectly fulfills everything the temple represented. Jesus is both the Master Builder and the cornerstone of God's spiritual house. Through Him, believers are joined together as living stones, each uniquely gifted to serve the body of Christ. The beauty of the Church is not found in buildings but in lives transformed by His grace. For believers today, 1 Kings 7 reminds us to serve God with excellence, humility, and faithfulness. Whatever gifts the Lord has entrusted to us should be used for His glory rather than our own recognition. In Christ, every act of service becomes an offering of worship, and every believer has a meaningful place in the work God is building for eternity. 1 Kings 8 The Glory of God Fills the Temple 1 Kings 8 records one of the most significant moments in Israel's history—the dedication of Solomon's temple. After years of preparation and construction, the Ark of the Covenant is brought into the Most Holy Place, and the people gather to celebrate God's faithfulness. The completion of the temple is not simply the end of a building project; it is the fulfillment of God's promise to establish a permanent place for worship in Israel. As the priests place the ark in its appointed location, the glory of the Lord fills the temple in such a powerful way that they are unable to continue ministering. God's presence confirms His approval and reminds the nation that He alone is the true King of Israel. The temple is magnificent, but its greatest treasure is the presence of God dwelling among His people. Solomon responds with humility and praise. He recognizes that no earthly building can fully contain the infinite God, yet he marvels that the Lord has chosen to reveal His presence among His covenant people. Solomon's prayer repeatedly acknowledges God's faithfulness to every promise made to David and to the nation of Israel. The king also intercedes for the future. He prays that whenever God's people turn to Him in repentance, whether because of sin, defeat, drought, famine, or exile, the Lord would hear from heaven, forgive them, and restore them. Solomon understands that Israel's greatest need will never simply be prosperity or protection but a restored relationship with God whenever they fail. The dedication concludes with joyful worship, sacrifices, and celebration. The people leave encouraged because they have witnessed both God's glory and His covenant faithfulness. Yet beneath the celebration is an important reminder: the temple itself cannot guarantee God's blessing if the people abandon His ways. God's presence is enjoyed through covenant faithfulness, not merely through religious ceremonies. Theologically, 1 Kings 8 reveals God's desire to dwell among His people while also emphasizing His holiness, majesty, and covenant faithfulness. The chapter teaches that worship is centered on God's presence, repentance, and dependence upon His mercy. It also demonstrates that prayer remains the pathway through which God's people seek His forgiveness and guidance. This chapter points powerfully to Christ. Jesus is the true meeting place between God and humanity. Through His life, death, and resurrection, God's presence is no longer confined to a physical temple. Christ has opened the way into the Father's presence, and through the Holy Spirit, every believer becomes a dwelling place of God. The glory that once filled Solomon's temple now dwells within those who belong to Christ. For believers today, 1 Kings 8 reminds us that God's greatest gift is His presence. Buildings, ministries, and programs have value only when they point people to Him. We are called to approach God with humility, worship, repentance, and confidence in His faithfulness. In Christ, we have continual access to the Father, and our lives become living temples where His glory is displayed to the world. 2 Corinthians — The Sufficiency of the Christ in Weakness and Ministry The book of 2 Corinthians provides one of the most personal and pastoral letters in the New Testament. While 1 Corinthians addressed many problems within the church, this letter reveals the heart of a shepherd who longs to see believers fully devoted to the Christ, the Son of God. Throughout the letter, the focus remains on God's grace, the comfort He provides, the integrity of Christian ministry, and the transforming power of the gospel. A major theme is that God's strength is displayed through human weakness. The world celebrates power, influence, and self-sufficiency, but the redemptive plan reveals a different path. The Christ accomplished salvation through humility, suffering, and sacrificial love, and His followers are called to embrace that same pattern. Christian living is not about projecting strength but about depending upon the Son of God in every circumstance. The letter also emphasizes the ministry of reconciliation. Through the Christ, God has restored sinners to Himself and entrusted believers with the message of reconciliation. Every follower of the Son of God becomes an ambassador of His kingdom, representing His grace and truth to a broken world. Throughout the book, Paul defends the authenticity of true spiritual leadership. Genuine ministry is measured not by outward appearance or worldly success, but by faithfulness to the Christ. The redemptive plan advances through servants who walk in humility, integrity, and dependence upon God's grace. Another central theme is generosity. The grace received through the Christ naturally produces generosity toward others. Giving becomes an act of worship and an expression of the transforming work of God within the believer. The book concludes by calling believers to examine themselves, remain faithful, and continue growing in the grace of the Lord. The Son of God is sufficient for every weakness, every trial, and every challenge faced by His people. For believers today, 2 Corinthians reminds us that God's greatest work is often accomplished through ordinary people who completely depend upon the Christ. Christian living is marked by humility, perseverance, integrity, and joyful confidence that His grace is always sufficient. As we rely on the Son of God, His redemptive plan is displayed through our lives, bringing glory to Him in both our strengths and our weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 1 — Comforted by the Christ to Comfort Others 2 Corinthians chapter 1 opens by revealing the compassionate heart of God and the sustaining grace of the Christ, the Son of God. From the very beginning, the focus is not on avoiding suffering but on discovering God's faithfulness in the midst of it. The redemptive plan does not promise a life free from hardship, but it does promise the constant presence and comfort of the Christ through every trial. The chapter begins by presenting God as the source of all comfort. Every encouragement, every strengthening, and every sustaining grace flows from Him. This comfort is never meant to end with the believer who receives it. Instead, those who have been comforted by the Christ become instruments of comfort to others. Christian living is marked by receiving God's grace and extending that same grace to those who are suffering. Paul speaks openly about severe affliction and overwhelming difficulty, showing that faithful servants of the Christ are not immune to hardship. Yet these trials accomplish something deeper—they teach complete dependence upon God rather than self-reliance. The Son of God uses suffering to draw His people into greater trust and to demonstrate His power through human weakness. The chapter also emphasizes God's faithfulness to His promises. Every promise God has made finds its fulfillment in the Christ. There is no uncertainty or inconsistency in Him. The redemptive plan is built upon the unchanging character of God and fully accomplished through His Son. Because the Christ is faithful, believers can live with confidence even when circumstances are uncertain. Paul then explains his own integrity in ministry. His decisions are not driven by selfish motives or changing opinions but by a sincere desire to honor the Christ and strengthen the church. Christian living calls believers to the same consistency, allowing their words and actions to reflect the truth of the Son of God. Another beautiful truth emerges as the chapter describes the security believers have in the Christ. God establishes, anoints, seals, and gives His Spirit as the guarantee of what is to come. The redemptive plan is not fragile or temporary. Those who belong to the Son of God are held securely by His grace and empowered by His Spirit. Throughout the chapter, suffering and comfort remain closely connected. God never wastes the trials of His people. Instead, He uses them to deepen faith, strengthen character, and equip believers to serve others more effectively. The Christ transforms pain into ministry and difficulty into testimony. 2 Corinthians 1 emphasizes the faithfulness of God, the comfort of the Christ, and the purpose that God accomplishes through suffering. The Son of God meets His people in their weakness and strengthens them to continue serving Him with hope and confidence. For believers today, this chapter calls us to trust the Christ during every season of life. Christian living does not mean freedom from hardship, but confidence in the presence of the Son of God through every trial. We are reminded that the comfort we receive is meant to be shared with others and that every promise of God remains secure in the Christ. As we depend upon Him, even our greatest struggles become opportunities for His grace to be displayed and for His redemptive plan to be revealed through our lives. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone. Ephesians 2:19-20 🎁 Download Urdu_Bible: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ns.Nazareth.Bible_GNV_English

Don't grieve over human rejection. The God who created you will never reject you. Human rejection is painful, but it cannot determine your identity or the purpose God has for your life. Some people may misunderstand you, some may overlook you, and others may fail to recognize the value God has placed within you. But the God who created you knows you completely. He loves you with an unconditional love and never abandons those He has called. David experienced rejection within his own family. When the prophet Samuel came to anoint the next king, David's father did not even call him. Instead, he presented his other sons before Samuel. Yet God rejected every human choice and chose David, the one everyone else had overlooked. The one whom people rejected, God honored. God does not look at outward appearance or human opinion; He looks at the heart. Even if the world rejects you, remember that God's acceptance is far greater than human approval. If God has accepted you, no human rejection can cancel His purpose for your life. "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." — Psalm 118:22 "People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." — 1 Samuel 16:7 — Hepsi Sam ✍️

The Power of a Faith-Fueled Mindset in Life and Business In the heart of a bustling city, where the hum of ambition creates a symphony of hopes and dreams, lived a young entrepreneur named Sarah. Ever since her childhood, Sarah had been captivated by stories of people who overcame challenges and achieved success through sheer will and determination. Among her favorite quotes was one from the automotive pioneer Henry Ford: “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” This quote resonated deeply with her as she ventured into the unpredictable world of business. Each day brought new challenges, from securing investors to navigating the complexities of supply chains. Yet, Sarah believed that her mindset would play a pivotal role in her journey. Inspired by Ford's wisdom, Sarah turned to her faith for guidance. One verse that profoundly shaped her outlook was Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." These words became her mantra, an affirmation of her belief that, through faith, she could rise above any obstacle. Every morning, as dawn broke and sunlight filtered through her window, Sarah would sit quietly with her Bible. She would reflect on Philippians 4:13, allowing the promise of divine strength to wash over her. This ritual not only filled her with courage but also set the tone for her day. Rather than viewing challenges as insurmountable barriers, she began to see them as opportunities for growth and learning. One morning, as she prayed and meditated, Sarah received a phone call that would change everything. A major investor had shown interest in her startup, but the catch was the need to present a well-prepared pitch within twenty-four hours. Many would have buckled under such pressure, but Sarah felt an inner calm wash over her, rooted in her faith and positive mindset. With each slide she prepared for her presentation, she affirmed her belief in her abilities and in the power of Christ working through her. She didn’t just rehearse her pitch; she infused it with the passion and vision she had for her business. When the time came, she walked into that boardroom with confidence, not because she was without fear, but because she was empowered by faith. The presentation was a success, and the investor was not only impressed by her business model but also inspired by her unwavering conviction. “What drives you?” he asked, intrigued. With a bright smile, Sarah replied, “I believe that with faith and the right mindset, we can achieve the impossible.” This moment became a cornerstone of her journey. Sarah learned that success in business—and in life—wasn't merely about skills or knowledge, although those were certainly important. It was about cultivating a mindset of faith and positivity, one that reflected Philippians 4:13. As Sarah continued to grow her business, she made it a priority to encourage others in her team. She often shared Bible verses during their meetings, emphasizing the importance of belief and resilience. “Together,” she would say, “we can face any challenge, because we draw strength from faith. Remember, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Years later, Sarah’s business flourished, not merely as a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, but as a vibrant community centered around faith, empowerment, and encouragement. The success she experienced could be traced back to that vital mindset that Henry Ford elucidated—the very mindset anchored in the promises of Scripture. In the journey of life and business, the attitude we carry is everything. Whether we think we can or can’t achieve our dreams may well shape our realities. Yet, as we ground ourselves in faith, as Sarah did, we can transform our challenges into stepping stones. So, let us remember, as we navigate our paths, that with God’s strength and a positive mindset, we truly can rise to meet any obstacle. Each day is a new opportunity to embrace the belief that we can, to affirm our strength through Christ, and to inspire those around us. After all, when we align our mindset with faith, the journey of life unfolds in beautiful, success-filled ways.