• DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS?
    Knowing His Name Is Not the Same as Knowing Him!

    Key Scripture — Acts 19:14–16 (KJV)
    “And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.”

    Thought Of The Day...
    There is a tremendous difference between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Jesus.
    Acts 19 gives us a powerful and sobering picture of this truth. The seven sons of Sceva had heard about the miracles taking place through the Apostle Paul. They had witnessed or heard reports of demons being cast out and lives being transformed through the name of Jesus.
    They saw the results, but they did not understand the relationship behind the results.
    They wanted the authority Paul demonstrated without possessing the relationship Paul had.
    They attempted to use the name of Jesus almost like a spiritual formula. Earlier in the passage they said:
    “We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.”
    — Acts 19:13 (KJV)
    Notice their language.
    They did not say, “Jesus whom we know.”
    They said, “Jesus whom Paul preacheth.”
    Jesus was Paul's testimony, but He had not become their personal testimony.
    And that raises a serious question for every believer:
    Do you know Jesus for yourself?
    It is possible to grow up in church and still only know about Jesus.
    It is possible to know Scripture and still not truly surrender to Jesus.
    It is possible to sing about Jesus, preach about Jesus, teach about Jesus, shout about Jesus, and even use the name of Jesus—yet lack a genuine relationship with Him.
    Christianity was never intended to be secondhand.
    You cannot survive spiritually forever on your mother's relationship with God, your father's prayers, your pastor's anointing, your bishop's revelation, your spouse's faith, or your grandmother's testimony.
    Eventually, you must know Him for yourself.
    Paul could say:
    “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings…”
    — Philippians 3:10 (KJV)
    Paul wasn't satisfied merely knowing facts about Christ. His desire was, “That I may know Him.”
    “JESUS I KNOW, AND PAUL I KNOW; BUT WHO ARE YE?”
    These may be some of the most sobering words in Acts.
    The evil spirit responded:
    “Jesus I know.”
    There was no confusion in the kingdom of darkness concerning Jesus.
    The demons knew exactly who He was.
    During Jesus' earthly ministry, an unclean spirit cried:
    “I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.”
    — Mark 1:24 (KJV)
    James gives us another sobering reminder:
    “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.”
    — James 2:19 (KJV)
    Simply acknowledging that Jesus exists is not the same as belonging to Him.
    But then the spirit said something else:
    “Paul I know.”
    Why was Paul recognized?
    Because Paul's life demonstrated that he belonged to Jesus.
    Paul wasn't borrowing somebody else's faith. He had encountered Christ for himself. His authority did not come from merely repeating Jesus' name; it flowed from his relationship with and commission from Jesus.
    Then came the devastating question:
    “BUT WHO ARE YE?”
    In other words, You are using the name, but where is your relationship with the One whose name you are using?
    The sons of Sceva discovered that the name of Jesus is not a magical phrase.
    There is power in the name of Jesus because of who Jesus is.
    Jesus declared:
    “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.”
    — Matthew 28:18 (KJV)
    His name represents His person, His authority, His victory, His lordship and His kingdom.
    We must never reduce the name of Jesus to something we merely shout when we are in trouble. His name belongs to the Savior to whom we surrender our lives.
    DO YOU KNOW THE JESUS YOU CALL ON?
    Jesus is more than a name mentioned at the end of a prayer.
    He is the Son of God.
    “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
    — Matthew 16:16 (KJV)
    He is the Savior.
    “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
    — Luke 19:10 (KJV)
    He is the Way to the Father.
    “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
    — John 14:6 (KJV)
    He is the Resurrection and the Life.
    “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.”
    — John 11:25 (KJV)
    He is Lord.
    “And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
    — Philippians 2:11 (KJV)
    The question is not merely, “Have you heard about Him?”
    The question is:
    Have you trusted Him?
    Have you surrendered to Him?
    Are you following Him?
    Are you walking with Him?
    Does your life belong to Him?
    YOU CANNOT BORROW SOMEBODY ELSE'S ANOINTING
    The sons of Sceva tried to imitate what they saw Paul doing.
    But spiritual authority cannot be copied like a technique.
    You can imitate someone's preaching style.
    You can imitate someone's prayer language.
    You can imitate someone's worship.
    You can repeat someone's favorite Scriptures.
    But you cannot imitate their relationship with God.
    Jesus said:
    “Abide in me, and I in you… for without me ye can do nothing.”
    — John 15:4–5 (KJV)
    Our strength comes from abiding in Christ.
    The greatest danger is not weakness that drives us toward Jesus. The greater danger is trying to operate spiritually while disconnected from Him.
    The seven sons discovered this painfully.
    The possessed man “overcame them, and prevailed against them.”
    They entered believing they had authority they did not possess and left “naked and wounded.”
    There is a warning here:
    Never attempt to substitute religious activity for genuine relationship with Christ.
    YOUR PRIVATE WALK MATTERS
    Before Paul stood publicly in authority, he had privately surrendered his life to Jesus.
    Our public Christianity must be supported by a private relationship with God.
    Who are you when there is no microphone?
    Who are you when there is no congregation?
    Who are you when nobody sees you praying?
    Who are you when temptation comes?
    Who are you when life becomes difficult?
    Do you still trust Jesus when there is nobody around to applaud your faith?
    Jesus said:
    “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.”
    — John 8:31 (KJV)
    Real discipleship is demonstrated through continued fellowship, obedience, faith and dependence upon Christ.
    KNOW HIM BEFORE THE BATTLE COMES
    Don't wait until trouble arrives to try to discover who Jesus is.
    Know Him now.
    Know Him in prayer.
    Know Him through His Word.
    Know Him in worship.
    Know Him through obedience.
    Know Him when everything is going well so that when everything begins falling apart, you already know where your help comes from.
    David could face Goliath because David already knew God before Goliath appeared.
    Daniel could face the lions because Daniel knew God before he entered the den.
    The three Hebrew boys could face the fiery furnace because they knew God before Nebuchadnezzar heated it.
    Paul could endure persecution because he knew the Christ for whom he suffered.
    And when your day of testing comes, you need more than something somebody told you about Jesus.
    You need to be able to declare:
    I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF!
    Job said:
    “For I know that my redeemer liveth…”
    — Job 19:25 (KJV)
    There are some storms where somebody else's testimony will not be enough.
    You need your own history with God.
    You need memories of prayers He answered.
    You need moments when His Word carried you.
    You need times when you experienced His grace.
    You need the confidence to declare:
    I know who Jesus is because I have walked with Him for myself!
    THE QUESTION STILL STANDS
    Acts 19 leaves us with a question that should cause every believer to examine his or her heart:
    DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS?
    Not just the Jesus your pastor preaches.
    Not just the Jesus your parents taught you about.
    Not just the Jesus you heard about in Sunday School.
    But Jesus Christ for yourself.
    And perhaps an even deeper question is:
    DOES YOUR LIFE SHOW THAT YOU KNOW HIM?
    Jesus said:
    “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
    — John 10:27 (KJV)
    Knowing Jesus should produce following Jesus.
    Following Jesus should produce obedience.
    Obedience should produce transformation.
    And transformation should cause our lives to testify that we have been with Jesus.

    PRAYER...
    Father, in the name of Jesus,
    Thank You for revealing Your Son to us. Lord, forgive us for every time we have been satisfied with simply knowing about Jesus instead of developing a deeper relationship with Him.
    We don't want secondhand faith. We don't want borrowed convictions. We don't want to depend solely upon somebody else's prayers, testimony or relationship with You.
    Lord Jesus, we want to know You for ourselves.
    Draw us closer to You. Give us a hunger for Your Word, a desire for prayer, a heart of worship and a spirit willing to obey Your voice.
    Search our hearts and remove everything that has created distance between us and You.
    Teach us not merely to speak Your name but to honor Your name with the way we live.
    When temptation comes, remind us who You are.
    When storms arise, remind us who You are.
    When fear attacks, remind us who You are.
    When the enemy challenges our faith, help us stand firmly upon the authority of Your Word.
    May our lives testify that we belong to Jesus Christ.
    And Lord, let our greatest desire always be the cry of Paul:
    “That I may know him.”
    We want to know You more deeply, love You more completely, trust You more confidently, obey You more faithfully, and represent You more boldly.
    In the mighty, matchless, powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray.
    Amen.

    DECLARATION...
    I DECLARE that I will not live on borrowed faith!
    I know who Jesus is!
    Jesus is my Savior.
    Jesus is my Redeemer.
    Jesus is my Lord.
    Jesus is my Deliverer.
    Jesus is my Rock.
    Jesus is my Strength.
    Jesus is my Hope.
    Jesus is my King!
    I will seek Him, follow Him, obey Him and grow deeper in my relationship with Him.
    I refuse to merely know about Jesus.
    I WILL KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF!
    And when life asks me, “Do you know who Jesus is?”
    My faith, my testimony, my obedience and my life will answer:
    YES! I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF!
    “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV)

    Enjoy your Sunday Church Services and God Bless!
    DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS? Knowing His Name Is Not the Same as Knowing Him! Key Scripture — Acts 19:14–16 (KJV) “And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.” Thought Of The Day... There is a tremendous difference between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Jesus. Acts 19 gives us a powerful and sobering picture of this truth. The seven sons of Sceva had heard about the miracles taking place through the Apostle Paul. They had witnessed or heard reports of demons being cast out and lives being transformed through the name of Jesus. They saw the results, but they did not understand the relationship behind the results. They wanted the authority Paul demonstrated without possessing the relationship Paul had. They attempted to use the name of Jesus almost like a spiritual formula. Earlier in the passage they said: “We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.” — Acts 19:13 (KJV) Notice their language. They did not say, “Jesus whom we know.” They said, “Jesus whom Paul preacheth.” Jesus was Paul's testimony, but He had not become their personal testimony. And that raises a serious question for every believer: Do you know Jesus for yourself? It is possible to grow up in church and still only know about Jesus. It is possible to know Scripture and still not truly surrender to Jesus. It is possible to sing about Jesus, preach about Jesus, teach about Jesus, shout about Jesus, and even use the name of Jesus—yet lack a genuine relationship with Him. Christianity was never intended to be secondhand. You cannot survive spiritually forever on your mother's relationship with God, your father's prayers, your pastor's anointing, your bishop's revelation, your spouse's faith, or your grandmother's testimony. Eventually, you must know Him for yourself. Paul could say: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV) Paul wasn't satisfied merely knowing facts about Christ. His desire was, “That I may know Him.” “JESUS I KNOW, AND PAUL I KNOW; BUT WHO ARE YE?” These may be some of the most sobering words in Acts. The evil spirit responded: “Jesus I know.” There was no confusion in the kingdom of darkness concerning Jesus. The demons knew exactly who He was. During Jesus' earthly ministry, an unclean spirit cried: “I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.” — Mark 1:24 (KJV) James gives us another sobering reminder: “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” — James 2:19 (KJV) Simply acknowledging that Jesus exists is not the same as belonging to Him. But then the spirit said something else: “Paul I know.” Why was Paul recognized? Because Paul's life demonstrated that he belonged to Jesus. Paul wasn't borrowing somebody else's faith. He had encountered Christ for himself. His authority did not come from merely repeating Jesus' name; it flowed from his relationship with and commission from Jesus. Then came the devastating question: “BUT WHO ARE YE?” In other words, You are using the name, but where is your relationship with the One whose name you are using? The sons of Sceva discovered that the name of Jesus is not a magical phrase. There is power in the name of Jesus because of who Jesus is. Jesus declared: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” — Matthew 28:18 (KJV) His name represents His person, His authority, His victory, His lordship and His kingdom. We must never reduce the name of Jesus to something we merely shout when we are in trouble. His name belongs to the Savior to whom we surrender our lives. DO YOU KNOW THE JESUS YOU CALL ON? Jesus is more than a name mentioned at the end of a prayer. He is the Son of God. “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” — Matthew 16:16 (KJV) He is the Savior. “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” — Luke 19:10 (KJV) He is the Way to the Father. “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” — John 14:6 (KJV) He is the Resurrection and the Life. “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.” — John 11:25 (KJV) He is Lord. “And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” — Philippians 2:11 (KJV) The question is not merely, “Have you heard about Him?” The question is: Have you trusted Him? Have you surrendered to Him? Are you following Him? Are you walking with Him? Does your life belong to Him? YOU CANNOT BORROW SOMEBODY ELSE'S ANOINTING The sons of Sceva tried to imitate what they saw Paul doing. But spiritual authority cannot be copied like a technique. You can imitate someone's preaching style. You can imitate someone's prayer language. You can imitate someone's worship. You can repeat someone's favorite Scriptures. But you cannot imitate their relationship with God. Jesus said: “Abide in me, and I in you… for without me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:4–5 (KJV) Our strength comes from abiding in Christ. The greatest danger is not weakness that drives us toward Jesus. The greater danger is trying to operate spiritually while disconnected from Him. The seven sons discovered this painfully. The possessed man “overcame them, and prevailed against them.” They entered believing they had authority they did not possess and left “naked and wounded.” There is a warning here: Never attempt to substitute religious activity for genuine relationship with Christ. YOUR PRIVATE WALK MATTERS Before Paul stood publicly in authority, he had privately surrendered his life to Jesus. Our public Christianity must be supported by a private relationship with God. Who are you when there is no microphone? Who are you when there is no congregation? Who are you when nobody sees you praying? Who are you when temptation comes? Who are you when life becomes difficult? Do you still trust Jesus when there is nobody around to applaud your faith? Jesus said: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.” — John 8:31 (KJV) Real discipleship is demonstrated through continued fellowship, obedience, faith and dependence upon Christ. KNOW HIM BEFORE THE BATTLE COMES Don't wait until trouble arrives to try to discover who Jesus is. Know Him now. Know Him in prayer. Know Him through His Word. Know Him in worship. Know Him through obedience. Know Him when everything is going well so that when everything begins falling apart, you already know where your help comes from. David could face Goliath because David already knew God before Goliath appeared. Daniel could face the lions because Daniel knew God before he entered the den. The three Hebrew boys could face the fiery furnace because they knew God before Nebuchadnezzar heated it. Paul could endure persecution because he knew the Christ for whom he suffered. And when your day of testing comes, you need more than something somebody told you about Jesus. You need to be able to declare: I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! Job said: “For I know that my redeemer liveth…” — Job 19:25 (KJV) There are some storms where somebody else's testimony will not be enough. You need your own history with God. You need memories of prayers He answered. You need moments when His Word carried you. You need times when you experienced His grace. You need the confidence to declare: I know who Jesus is because I have walked with Him for myself! THE QUESTION STILL STANDS Acts 19 leaves us with a question that should cause every believer to examine his or her heart: DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS? Not just the Jesus your pastor preaches. Not just the Jesus your parents taught you about. Not just the Jesus you heard about in Sunday School. But Jesus Christ for yourself. And perhaps an even deeper question is: DOES YOUR LIFE SHOW THAT YOU KNOW HIM? Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27 (KJV) Knowing Jesus should produce following Jesus. Following Jesus should produce obedience. Obedience should produce transformation. And transformation should cause our lives to testify that we have been with Jesus. PRAYER... Father, in the name of Jesus, Thank You for revealing Your Son to us. Lord, forgive us for every time we have been satisfied with simply knowing about Jesus instead of developing a deeper relationship with Him. We don't want secondhand faith. We don't want borrowed convictions. We don't want to depend solely upon somebody else's prayers, testimony or relationship with You. Lord Jesus, we want to know You for ourselves. Draw us closer to You. Give us a hunger for Your Word, a desire for prayer, a heart of worship and a spirit willing to obey Your voice. Search our hearts and remove everything that has created distance between us and You. Teach us not merely to speak Your name but to honor Your name with the way we live. When temptation comes, remind us who You are. When storms arise, remind us who You are. When fear attacks, remind us who You are. When the enemy challenges our faith, help us stand firmly upon the authority of Your Word. May our lives testify that we belong to Jesus Christ. And Lord, let our greatest desire always be the cry of Paul: “That I may know him.” We want to know You more deeply, love You more completely, trust You more confidently, obey You more faithfully, and represent You more boldly. In the mighty, matchless, powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. DECLARATION... I DECLARE that I will not live on borrowed faith! I know who Jesus is! Jesus is my Savior. Jesus is my Redeemer. Jesus is my Lord. Jesus is my Deliverer. Jesus is my Rock. Jesus is my Strength. Jesus is my Hope. Jesus is my King! I will seek Him, follow Him, obey Him and grow deeper in my relationship with Him. I refuse to merely know about Jesus. I WILL KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! And when life asks me, “Do you know who Jesus is?” My faith, my testimony, my obedience and my life will answer: YES! I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV) Enjoy your Sunday Church Services and God Bless!
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2O26.
    "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (3)"

    ‘…All these things I will give you...’ Matthew 4:9 NKJV

    THE ATTACK over the cross. Let’s look at the third temptation Jesus faced: ‘…The devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me’’’ (Matthew 4:8-9 NKJV). Satan’s third attack was over a cross-less life. In essence, he told Jesus, ‘You don’t have to carry the cross. Just bow to me and you can have it all.’ Jesus said, ‘…“Away with you, satan!...”’ (Matthew 4:10 NKJV). ‘Away’ with any teaching that says God is your porter and He has to wait on you! Or that He’s like a vending machine; all you have to do is put in a few coins and whatever you want will come out. Paul writes, ‘I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me’ (Galatians 2:20 NKJV). Has God promised to bless you? Absolutely! But that doesn’t mean you’ll never get hurt, or face lack, or fatigue, or be betrayed and disappointed by others. Jesus said, ‘…unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies [to self], it remains alone; but if it dies [to self], it produces much…’ (John 12:24 NKJV). Have you ever heard the expression, ‘Dead man walking?’ To do God’s will, you have to die to your own will, and do it daily. But if you’re willing to, God will take you to a new level of blessing.

    Bible In A Year: Amos 5:18 – 9:15, Matt 20:29-34, Ps 119:145-160, Pro 19:1-2. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing

    *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. [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

    SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2026

    *THE REWARD OF SACRIFICIAL DISCIPLESHIP*

    *Text:* Matthew 19:27–30

    27. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?
    28. And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
    29. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
    30. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.


    *Timeless Truth:*
    _For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister"_ (Hebrews 6:10)

    *INTRODUCTION*

    During the Second World War, Desmond Doss, an American Army medic and committed Christian, served without carrying a weapon because of his convictions. During the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, he repeatedly entered a dangerous battlefield to rescue wounded soldiers. He is credited with saving approximately 75 men, lowering each wounded soldier to safety while under enemy fire. Doss later received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary courage.
    His story reminds us that genuine commitment often involves sacrifice. A person who is committed to a worthy cause may surrender comfort, safety and personal advantage because he believes the cause is greater than himself.
    Peter's question in Matthew 19:27 comes from this same concern. The disciples had left much to follow Jesus, and Peter asked, “What shall we have therefore?” Jesus did not condemn the question. Instead, He taught them that sacrifice for God's kingdom is never wasted.*For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.* (Hebrews 6:10).
    The passage teaches us that Christ calls His followers to sacrificial discipleship, promises them spiritual reward and warns them against measuring God's kingdom by worldly standards.
    Perhaps you have sacrificed time to serve God. Perhaps you have endured rejection because of your faith. Perhaps you have given financially when it was difficult. Perhaps you have chosen obedience over personal ambition. Perhaps you have remained faithful in a ministry where nobody seems to notice your work. Jesus' answer in this passage is an encouragement: God sees, God remembers and God rewards. But Christ also corrects our understanding of reward. The Christian life is not primarily about asking, “What can I get from following Jesus?” It is about asking, “How can I faithfully serve the One who gave everything for me?”
    The disciples left much, but Jesus promised that their sacrifice would not be wasted. There are three great challenges before us:
    (i) Surrender your life completely to Christ.
    (ii) Serve faithfully without demanding immediate recognition. *(iii)* Stand firm when sacrifice becomes difficult.
    The world may celebrate those who appear to be first. God's kingdom operates differently. The person who quietly serves, humbly gives, faithfully prays, patiently suffers and continues obeying Christ may be accomplishing something of far greater eternal value than the person receiving public applause.
    Therefore, do not give up because your service is unnoticed. Do not stop serving because your sacrifice is costly. Do not measure God's faithfulness by your immediate circumstances. Your labour for Christ is never wasted.
    *Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.* (1 Corinthians 15:58)
    One day, the Lord Himself will reveal what truly mattered. And on that day, the faithful servant will discover that nothing surrendered to Christ was ever truly lost.


    *1. The Surrender of Sacrificial Discipleship*

    a. Peter reminded Jesus that the disciples had left their possessions and livelihoods to follow Him. Following Christ involves surrender. Christianity is not merely receiving blessings; it is also yielding our lives to the Lord. We must ask whether Christ truly has first place in our lives. Following Him may require us to surrender habits, relationships, ambitions, possessions, or personal preferences that compete with His will.
    b. The disciples did not merely admire Jesus; they left their former way of life and continued with Him. Christian commitment is not measured by how enthusiastically we begin, but by how faithfully we continue.

    *Questions*

    (i) What am I unwilling to surrender to Christ?
    (ii) Does my daily lifestyle demonstrate that following Jesus is more important to me than personal comfort?


    *2. The Reward of Kingdom Service*

    a. Jesus assured His disciples that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed. Jesus spoke of the future when He would sit on His glorious throne and the disciples would share in His kingdom.
    Our present service must be viewed in light of eternity. What we sacrifice for Christ now has eternal significance.
    b. Jesus promised that those who had sacrificed houses, family relationships or possessions for His name would receive abundant blessings. This does not mean that discipleship is a scheme for material prosperity. Rather, Jesus assures His followers that nothing surrendered to Him is ultimately lost. Jesus concludes His promise with: *"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters... for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.”*

    *Questions*

    (i) Do I serve God for His glory or mainly for recognition and earthly rewards?
    (ii) When sacrifice becomes difficult, do I remember the eternal reward promised by Christ?


    *3. The Reversal of Kingdom Standards*

    a. Jesus concludes with a statement that challenges human ideas about success and reward.
    Human society often measures greatness through wealth, position, influence, education and recognition. But God's measurement is different. We should not measure our spiritual worth by comparing ourselves with other people.
    b. God values humble service rather than self-promotion. A disciple should be willing to serve even when nobody applauds, notices or rewards the work. The world's ranking system will not determine the final outcome. God will ultimately reveal the true value of every person's service.

    *Questions*

    (i) Do I become discouraged when others receive recognition while my service remains unnoticed?
    (ii) Am I willing to serve faithfully even when I receive no immediate reward?

    *Prayer Points*

    1. Lord Jesus, help me to surrender every area of my life completely to You and place Your kingdom above my personal interests.
    2. Father, give me grace to remain faithful in serving You even when the work is difficult or unnoticed.
    3. Lord, deliver me from comparing myself with others and help me to value eternal rewards above temporary recognition.
    4. Holy Spirit, remove pride and selfish ambition from my heart and make me a humble servant who seeks God's glory rather than human applause.


    *Hymn:* Take My Life and Let It Be

    *THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 9-10
    [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026```


    *BEYOND HUMAN MEASURE* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

    ```TEXT:MATTHEW 19:27-30```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first" (MATTHEW 19:29, 30).*_

    *Brother Andrew, a humble Dutchman, began smuggling Bibles into communist countries during the _Cold War,_ risking his life to serve believers behind the Iron Curtain. He didn't seek fame; he just obeyed God's quiet call. That small, faithful beginning grew into _Open Doors,_ a global ministry that continues to help persecuted Christians today. Though little known on earth, Andrew is surely honoured in heaven.*

    *His story perfectly illustrates the timeless principle Jesus lays out in today's passage: that all faithful, sacrificial service done for Him, however hidden or risky, will attract heaven's reward. In the text, Apostle Peter poses a question many believers still echo today: "We have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" It is a question laced with hope but also with the subtle implication of comparison with others and transaction with God. Considering the context, Peter's question implies that if we have given up much for God, in contrast to the rich young ruler who didn't, surely we are due a proportionate reward. In His answer, Jesus affirms that sacrifice in His name is never forgotten. Certainly, we shall receive astounding rewards, yet He closes with a warning wrapped in a paradox: "But many _that are_ first shall be last; and the last _shall be_ first."*

    *This final line holds the key to understanding divine reward, not as a salary earned but as a gift bestowed in Sovereign wisdom. God's kingdom does not run on human logic or worldly meritocracy. Instead, it operates based on grace, faithfulness, and sincerity of heart. When we serve God with a mere transactional mind-set, doing in order to receive, we risk missing the heartbeat of discipleship. And to correct this misunderstanding, Jesus immediately follows His statement with the parable of the workers in the vineyard. There, those who worked a full day were shocked to receive the same wages as those hired last. Then Jesus concluded with the same warning: "So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen". The point is clear: God's rewards are not based on length of service or human measure, but on His gracious prerogative. Faithfulness, not fame, draws heaven's attention.*

    *This ought to challenge and comfort us. We are not in competition in God's kingdom. We are simply called to be faithful. Whatever the sacrifice our calling may demand, the measure of our reward is not in the scope of our task but in our fidelity to it. So, as the "prize-giving day" draws near, let us serve with joy, not calculation, remembering that the One who called us is no man's debtor but a just and faithful Rewarder.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*When you serve in silence, heaven echoes your labour with eternal applause.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 9-10*



    Beyond Human Measure
    https://dailymanna.app//
    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 54: I AM READY FOR SERVICE; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON; AND GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED*
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    [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*HIGHER EVERYDY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_

    ✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

    ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026```

    *ATTITUDE TO WORLD AFFAIRS* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:1 JOHN 2:15-17```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 JOHN 2:15).*_

    *The hands of the clock has been used to describe three categories of believers. Twelve-o'clock-Christians are so heavenly conscious, but of no earthly use. Half-past-six-o'clock-Christians are buried in the world and have lost the vision of heaven. The six-o'clock-believers are Christians who are of significance on earth and are heavenly minded.*

    *The significance of salt as flavour is not felt when it is isolated from other ingredients. It is not eaten as food all on its own. The worth of salt is acknowledged when it is used as flavour. So are believers. We are the salt of the earth. While we insulate ourselves from the pollutions of the world and live with the consciousness of heaven, we should equally exact positive influence in the world.*

    *Christian youths can influence their world in various clubs in school - like the Press Club, Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists, Young Farmers Club, Red Cross Society - to shine the gospel light. Qualified youths should exercise their franchise during elections as responsible citizens. We should not contaminate ourselves with the evils of the society; instead, impact it positively.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*Youths can influence their world.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't isolate but insulate against the world.*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to be a blessing to the world.*_



    Attitude To World Affairs
    https://dailymanna.app//

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    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣)*_

    🏼🏼🏼🏼🏼‍

    ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026```

    *FIRST ON THE LIST* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```PSALM 103:1-5```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:3).*_



    A list always starts with number one (1). In most cases, the first thing is the most important. For example, in an examination result, the first position is given to the child that scores the highest mark. The first always opens the list for other items to follow.

    As shown in our Bible passage, the first opens the door for all other benefits to come through. The blessings of God seem to be arranged in a divine, logical order in the lives of God's children. We do not have to rush for the second if we have not yet received the first. Sins (iniquities) block our way to receiving God's many benefits or blessings.

    Sin must first be removed out of our lives if we want to have God's blessings. For, *"if I regard* (allow) *iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me"* - and bless me (Psalm 66:18). In our Bible passage, the first benefit stated there is *"forgiveness of sin"*.

    It is after you have received this first benefit, by turning away from your bad ways, saying sorry to God, and making Jesus your Saviour and friend, that you are qualified to enjoy the other benefits like healing, deliverance, love and mercy of God, provision and long life.

    *If you desire God's blessings in your life, do the first thing first: repent and turn away from your sins, and the needed blessings will come into your life.*



    ```rayer:``` _*Lord, I am sorry for every bad thing I have done. Forgive my sins, be merciful to me and bless me.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *Psalm 32:1, 2*



    First On The List
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    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]

    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. ⏤ Hebrews 10:22

    He who kneels the most, stands the best. ⏤ D.L. Moody

    Most gracious God, in Your good providence You have allowed us to see the light of another Sunday—draw near to us in mercy. May the Sun of righteousness arise upon us with healing in His wings. May our fellowship this day be with You, the Father, and with Your Son, Jesus Christ. May all unworthy thoughts be suppressed, and may our hearts be filled with holy desires. Be a guest in our home today. Abide with us and sanctify our home life.

    We ask You to bless all the gatherings of Your people who will worship today in any part of the world. May Your Spirit be with all who preach and teach in the name of Jesus, and with all who love You. May Your word have great power. May lost sinners be convicted and led to repentance. May Christians be strengthened and encouraged. May those who are sorrowful be comforted. May children and young people receive holy and heavenly guidance and be blessed. May this be a day of the power of the Most High, and may its influence be deep and lasting.

    We ask You, O God, to give us a good Sunday in our own home. Help us to remember the day and keep it in a way that pleases You and brings blessings into our lives. May our love for each other grow as we worship together. May Your love be poured out in our hearts more abundantly. May we stay close to Your heart all day. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/49/morning

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2O26. "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (3)" ‘…All these things I will give you...’ Matthew 4:9 NKJV THE ATTACK over the cross. Let’s look at the third temptation Jesus faced: ‘…The devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me’’’ (Matthew 4:8-9 NKJV). Satan’s third attack was over a cross-less life. In essence, he told Jesus, ‘You don’t have to carry the cross. Just bow to me and you can have it all.’ Jesus said, ‘…“Away with you, satan!...”’ (Matthew 4:10 NKJV). ‘Away’ with any teaching that says God is your porter and He has to wait on you! Or that He’s like a vending machine; all you have to do is put in a few coins and whatever you want will come out. Paul writes, ‘I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me’ (Galatians 2:20 NKJV). Has God promised to bless you? Absolutely! But that doesn’t mean you’ll never get hurt, or face lack, or fatigue, or be betrayed and disappointed by others. Jesus said, ‘…unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies [to self], it remains alone; but if it dies [to self], it produces much…’ (John 12:24 NKJV). Have you ever heard the expression, ‘Dead man walking?’ To do God’s will, you have to die to your own will, and do it daily. But if you’re willing to, God will take you to a new level of blessing. Bible In A Year: Amos 5:18 – 9:15, Matt 20:29-34, Ps 119:145-160, Pro 19:1-2. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing 💝🎀 *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. [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2026 *THE REWARD OF SACRIFICIAL DISCIPLESHIP* *Text:* Matthew 19:27–30 27. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28. And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. 30. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. *Timeless Truth:* _For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister"_ (Hebrews 6:10) *INTRODUCTION* During the Second World War, Desmond Doss, an American Army medic and committed Christian, served without carrying a weapon because of his convictions. During the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, he repeatedly entered a dangerous battlefield to rescue wounded soldiers. He is credited with saving approximately 75 men, lowering each wounded soldier to safety while under enemy fire. Doss later received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary courage. His story reminds us that genuine commitment often involves sacrifice. A person who is committed to a worthy cause may surrender comfort, safety and personal advantage because he believes the cause is greater than himself. Peter's question in Matthew 19:27 comes from this same concern. The disciples had left much to follow Jesus, and Peter asked, “What shall we have therefore?” Jesus did not condemn the question. Instead, He taught them that sacrifice for God's kingdom is never wasted.*For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.* (Hebrews 6:10). The passage teaches us that Christ calls His followers to sacrificial discipleship, promises them spiritual reward and warns them against measuring God's kingdom by worldly standards. Perhaps you have sacrificed time to serve God. Perhaps you have endured rejection because of your faith. Perhaps you have given financially when it was difficult. Perhaps you have chosen obedience over personal ambition. Perhaps you have remained faithful in a ministry where nobody seems to notice your work. Jesus' answer in this passage is an encouragement: God sees, God remembers and God rewards. But Christ also corrects our understanding of reward. The Christian life is not primarily about asking, “What can I get from following Jesus?” It is about asking, “How can I faithfully serve the One who gave everything for me?” The disciples left much, but Jesus promised that their sacrifice would not be wasted. There are three great challenges before us: (i) Surrender your life completely to Christ. (ii) Serve faithfully without demanding immediate recognition. *(iii)* Stand firm when sacrifice becomes difficult. The world may celebrate those who appear to be first. God's kingdom operates differently. The person who quietly serves, humbly gives, faithfully prays, patiently suffers and continues obeying Christ may be accomplishing something of far greater eternal value than the person receiving public applause. Therefore, do not give up because your service is unnoticed. Do not stop serving because your sacrifice is costly. Do not measure God's faithfulness by your immediate circumstances. Your labour for Christ is never wasted. *Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.* (1 Corinthians 15:58) One day, the Lord Himself will reveal what truly mattered. And on that day, the faithful servant will discover that nothing surrendered to Christ was ever truly lost. *1. The Surrender of Sacrificial Discipleship* a. Peter reminded Jesus that the disciples had left their possessions and livelihoods to follow Him. Following Christ involves surrender. Christianity is not merely receiving blessings; it is also yielding our lives to the Lord. We must ask whether Christ truly has first place in our lives. Following Him may require us to surrender habits, relationships, ambitions, possessions, or personal preferences that compete with His will. b. The disciples did not merely admire Jesus; they left their former way of life and continued with Him. Christian commitment is not measured by how enthusiastically we begin, but by how faithfully we continue. *Questions* (i) What am I unwilling to surrender to Christ? (ii) Does my daily lifestyle demonstrate that following Jesus is more important to me than personal comfort? *2. The Reward of Kingdom Service* a. Jesus assured His disciples that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed. Jesus spoke of the future when He would sit on His glorious throne and the disciples would share in His kingdom. Our present service must be viewed in light of eternity. What we sacrifice for Christ now has eternal significance. b. Jesus promised that those who had sacrificed houses, family relationships or possessions for His name would receive abundant blessings. This does not mean that discipleship is a scheme for material prosperity. Rather, Jesus assures His followers that nothing surrendered to Him is ultimately lost. Jesus concludes His promise with: *"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters... for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.”* *Questions* (i) Do I serve God for His glory or mainly for recognition and earthly rewards? (ii) When sacrifice becomes difficult, do I remember the eternal reward promised by Christ? *3. The Reversal of Kingdom Standards* a. Jesus concludes with a statement that challenges human ideas about success and reward. Human society often measures greatness through wealth, position, influence, education and recognition. But God's measurement is different. We should not measure our spiritual worth by comparing ourselves with other people. b. God values humble service rather than self-promotion. A disciple should be willing to serve even when nobody applauds, notices or rewards the work. The world's ranking system will not determine the final outcome. God will ultimately reveal the true value of every person's service. *Questions* (i) Do I become discouraged when others receive recognition while my service remains unnoticed? (ii) Am I willing to serve faithfully even when I receive no immediate reward? *Prayer Points* 1. Lord Jesus, help me to surrender every area of my life completely to You and place Your kingdom above my personal interests.🙏 2. Father, give me grace to remain faithful in serving You even when the work is difficult or unnoticed.🙏 3. Lord, deliver me from comparing myself with others and help me to value eternal rewards above temporary recognition.🙏 4. Holy Spirit, remove pride and selfish ambition from my heart and make me a humble servant who seeks God's glory rather than human applause.🙏 *Hymn:* Take My Life and Let It Be *THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 9-10 [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *BEYOND HUMAN MEASURE* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽👑🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:MATTHEW 19:27-30```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first" (MATTHEW 19:29, 30).*_ *Brother Andrew, a humble Dutchman, began smuggling Bibles into communist countries during the _Cold War,_ risking his life to serve believers behind the Iron Curtain. He didn't seek fame; he just obeyed God's quiet call. That small, faithful beginning grew into _Open Doors,_ a global ministry that continues to help persecuted Christians today. Though little known on earth, Andrew is surely honoured in heaven.* *His story perfectly illustrates the timeless principle Jesus lays out in today's passage: that all faithful, sacrificial service done for Him, however hidden or risky, will attract heaven's reward. In the text, Apostle Peter poses a question many believers still echo today: "We have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" It is a question laced with hope but also with the subtle implication of comparison with others and transaction with God. Considering the context, Peter's question implies that if we have given up much for God, in contrast to the rich young ruler who didn't, surely we are due a proportionate reward. In His answer, Jesus affirms that sacrifice in His name is never forgotten. Certainly, we shall receive astounding rewards, yet He closes with a warning wrapped in a paradox: "But many _that are_ first shall be last; and the last _shall be_ first."* *This final line holds the key to understanding divine reward, not as a salary earned but as a gift bestowed in Sovereign wisdom. God's kingdom does not run on human logic or worldly meritocracy. Instead, it operates based on grace, faithfulness, and sincerity of heart. When we serve God with a mere transactional mind-set, doing in order to receive, we risk missing the heartbeat of discipleship. And to correct this misunderstanding, Jesus immediately follows His statement with the parable of the workers in the vineyard. There, those who worked a full day were shocked to receive the same wages as those hired last. Then Jesus concluded with the same warning: "So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen". The point is clear: God's rewards are not based on length of service or human measure, but on His gracious prerogative. Faithfulness, not fame, draws heaven's attention.* *This ought to challenge and comfort us. We are not in competition in God's kingdom. We are simply called to be faithful. Whatever the sacrifice our calling may demand, the measure of our reward is not in the scope of our task but in our fidelity to it. So, as the "prize-giving day" draws near, let us serve with joy, not calculation, remembering that the One who called us is no man's debtor but a just and faithful Rewarder.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*When you serve in silence, heaven echoes your labour with eternal applause.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 9-10*📜📜 Beyond Human Measure https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 54: I AM READY FOR SERVICE; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON; AND GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *ATTITUDE TO WORLD AFFAIRS* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️❤️🌍❌🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:1 JOHN 2:15-17```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 JOHN 2:15).*_ *The hands of the clock has been used to describe three categories of believers. Twelve-o'clock-Christians are so heavenly conscious, but of no earthly use. Half-past-six-o'clock-Christians are buried in the world and have lost the vision of heaven. The six-o'clock-believers are Christians who are of significance on earth and are heavenly minded.* *The significance of salt as flavour is not felt when it is isolated from other ingredients. It is not eaten as food all on its own. The worth of salt is acknowledged when it is used as flavour. So are believers. We are the salt of the earth. While we insulate ourselves from the pollutions of the world and live with the consciousness of heaven, we should equally exact positive influence in the world.* *Christian youths can influence their world in various clubs in school - like the Press Club, Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists, Young Farmers Club, Red Cross Society - to shine the gospel light. Qualified youths should exercise their franchise during elections as responsible citizens. We should not contaminate ourselves with the evils of the society; instead, impact it positively.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Youths can influence their world.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't isolate but insulate against the world.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to be a blessing to the world.*_ Attitude To World Affairs https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *FIRST ON THE LIST* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️🖤🩸🤍🙏🏽 📜📜```PSALM 103:1-5```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:3).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 A list always starts with number one (1). In most cases, the first thing is the most important. For example, in an examination result, the first position is given to the child that scores the highest mark. The first always opens the list for other items to follow. As shown in our Bible passage, the first opens the door for all other benefits to come through. The blessings of God seem to be arranged in a divine, logical order in the lives of God's children. We do not have to rush for the second if we have not yet received the first. Sins (iniquities) block our way to receiving God's many benefits or blessings. Sin must first be removed out of our lives if we want to have God's blessings. For, *"if I regard* (allow) *iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me"* - and bless me (Psalm 66:18). In our Bible passage, the first benefit stated there is *"forgiveness of sin"*. It is after you have received this first benefit, by turning away from your bad ways, saying sorry to God, and making Jesus your Saviour and friend, that you are qualified to enjoy the other benefits like healing, deliverance, love and mercy of God, provision and long life. *If you desire God's blessings in your life, do the first thing first: repent and turn away from your sins, and the needed blessings will come into your life.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, I am sorry for every bad thing I have done. Forgive my sins, be merciful to me and bless me.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Psalm 32:1, 2* First On The List https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. ⏤ Hebrews 10:22 He who kneels the most, stands the best. ⏤ D.L. Moody Most gracious God, in Your good providence You have allowed us to see the light of another Sunday—draw near to us in mercy. May the Sun of righteousness arise upon us with healing in His wings. May our fellowship this day be with You, the Father, and with Your Son, Jesus Christ. May all unworthy thoughts be suppressed, and may our hearts be filled with holy desires. Be a guest in our home today. Abide with us and sanctify our home life. We ask You to bless all the gatherings of Your people who will worship today in any part of the world. May Your Spirit be with all who preach and teach in the name of Jesus, and with all who love You. May Your word have great power. May lost sinners be convicted and led to repentance. May Christians be strengthened and encouraged. May those who are sorrowful be comforted. May children and young people receive holy and heavenly guidance and be blessed. May this be a day of the power of the Most High, and may its influence be deep and lasting. We ask You, O God, to give us a good Sunday in our own home. Help us to remember the day and keep it in a way that pleases You and brings blessings into our lives. May our love for each other grow as we worship together. May Your love be poured out in our hearts more abundantly. May we stay close to Your heart all day. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/49/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • The best way to understand God's Word is through God's Word. Study the Scriptures. Strengthen your faith. Discover what the Bible reveals.

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    📖 The best way to understand God's Word is through God's Word. Study the Scriptures. Strengthen your faith. Discover what the Bible reveals. 🌐 Read Bible Study: www.thedisciplewhomjesusloved.com #BibleStudy #StudyTheScriptures #BiblicalTruth #ChristianBooks #FaithJourney #Scripture #GrowInFaith #Discipleship #TrustInTheLord #BibleResources
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  • At Potter’s Field Ministries, we focus on meeting the greatest needs, whether through soccer tournaments or lending a helping hand.

    Learn more at: www.pottersfield.org

    #PottersFieldMinistries #SportsMinistry #FaithInAction #Uganda #SoccerForGood #GreatCommission #YouthEmpowerment #PFM #GlobalMinistry #Mudcup #Gospel #Discipleship #Outreach #FaithDriven
    ✝️ 🏆 At Potter’s Field Ministries, we focus on meeting the greatest needs, whether through soccer tournaments or lending a helping hand. 🌐 Learn more at: www.pottersfield.org #PottersFieldMinistries #SportsMinistry #FaithInAction #Uganda #SoccerForGood #GreatCommission #YouthEmpowerment #PFM #GlobalMinistry #Mudcup #Gospel #Discipleship #Outreach #FaithDriven
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  • SAINTS REVIVAL COMMITTEE - SRC SOUTH SUDAN
    SOLIDIFY. UNIFY. MULTIPLY

    CALL TO ALL INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIANS, CHURCHES & BIBLE SCHOOLS
    TO PARTNER FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE GOSPEL IN AFRICA

    Greetings in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior!

    The Saints Revival Committee - SRC South Sudan is sending out this global call to partnership.

    We believe God is raising a Revival Movement in Africa, and South Sudan is at the center of it. The time to act is NOW.

    WE ARE CALLING YOU TO PARTNER WITH SRC FOR:

    1. The Advancement of the Gospel
    Together we will take the Good News of Jesus Christ to unreached communities, villages, and cities across South Sudan and Africa.
    Go therefore and make disciples of all nations_ Matthew 28:19

    2. Equip Pastors and Church Leaders
    We have thousands of called men and women who need training, mentorship, and resources. Partner with us in Leadership Training, Discipleship Schools, and Apostolic Equipping to strengthen the Church.

    3. Uplifting and Reviving the Churches
    Many churches need spiritual revival, prayer power, and unity. Let us work together for Revival Meetings, Crusades, and Peace & Unity Campaigns that will bring healing to our nation.

    WHY PARTNER WITH SRC?
    - We have the field - 84 Apostolic workers in every State ready to serve
    - We have the structure - State Coordinators, County Teams, and Church Networks
    - We have the heart- To Solidify believers with the Word, Unify them in Prayer, and Multiply disciples
    - We will host and coordinate all visiting teams, trainings, and mission programs

    Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor Ecclesiastes 4:9
    “Here am I. Send me!” *Isaiah 6:8*

    WHO WE ARE CALLING:
    International Christians - Men and women with a mission heart
    Churches- To send teams, resources, and prayer support
    Bible Schools & Seminaries - To partner in curriculum, teachers, and scholarships for African leaders

    Let us build the Church together. Let us see Africa Revived!

    To partner, visit, or support:
    Elder Daniel Deng
    Executive Director - Saints Revival Committee SRC South Sudan
    [+211921163669/Email saintsrevivalcommitteeAnderson Mwila.com

    Signed,
    Elder Daniel Deng
    Executive Director
    Saints Revival Committee - SRC South Sudan
    SAINTS REVIVAL COMMITTEE - SRC SOUTH SUDAN SOLIDIFY. UNIFY. MULTIPLY CALL TO ALL INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIANS, CHURCHES & BIBLE SCHOOLS TO PARTNER FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE GOSPEL IN AFRICA Greetings in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior! The Saints Revival Committee - SRC South Sudan is sending out this global call to partnership. We believe God is raising a Revival Movement in Africa, and South Sudan is at the center of it. The time to act is NOW. WE ARE CALLING YOU TO PARTNER WITH SRC FOR: 1. The Advancement of the Gospel Together we will take the Good News of Jesus Christ to unreached communities, villages, and cities across South Sudan and Africa. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations_ Matthew 28:19 2. Equip Pastors and Church Leaders We have thousands of called men and women who need training, mentorship, and resources. Partner with us in Leadership Training, Discipleship Schools, and Apostolic Equipping to strengthen the Church. 3. Uplifting and Reviving the Churches Many churches need spiritual revival, prayer power, and unity. Let us work together for Revival Meetings, Crusades, and Peace & Unity Campaigns that will bring healing to our nation. WHY PARTNER WITH SRC? - We have the field - 84 Apostolic workers in every State ready to serve - We have the structure - State Coordinators, County Teams, and Church Networks - We have the heart- To Solidify believers with the Word, Unify them in Prayer, and Multiply disciples - We will host and coordinate all visiting teams, trainings, and mission programs Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor Ecclesiastes 4:9 “Here am I. Send me!” *Isaiah 6:8* WHO WE ARE CALLING: International Christians - Men and women with a mission heart Churches- To send teams, resources, and prayer support Bible Schools & Seminaries - To partner in curriculum, teachers, and scholarships for African leaders Let us build the Church together. Let us see Africa Revived! To partner, visit, or support: Elder Daniel Deng Executive Director - Saints Revival Committee SRC South Sudan [+211921163669/Email saintsrevivalcommittee[gmail].com Signed, Elder Daniel Deng Executive Director Saints Revival Committee - SRC South Sudan
    Like
    1
    0 Comentários 0 Compartilhamentos 25 Visualizações
  • We concluded our last Discipleship training week of the year
    Thanks to everyone for the prayer and financial support Alpha Worship Connection is humbled for trust.
    To our connectors that we continue to train every week and they were able also to teach in this conference thanks. Betty and Amuge Angela
    Now our eyes get to focus on the #worshipleadersgathering!
    #africaworshipmissions
    #empoweringworshipleadersandpastors
    #equippingthelocalchurchhttps
    We concluded our last Discipleship training week of the year Thanks to everyone for the prayer and financial support Alpha Worship Connection is humbled for trust. To our connectors that we continue to train every week and they were able also to teach in this conference thanks. Betty and Amuge Angela Now our eyes get to focus on the #worshipleadersgathering! #africaworshipmissions #empoweringworshipleadersandpastors #equippingthelocalchurchhttps
    Like
    1
    0 Comentários 0 Compartilhamentos 25 Visualizações
  • INVITATION TO JOIN SAINTS REVIVAL COMMITTEE - SRC
    "SOLIDIFY. UNIFY. MULTIPLY

    Greetings in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ!

    The Saints Revival Committee - SRC warmly invites Christian Leaders and Believers across South Sudan and African countries to *register and become members* of this God-given ministry.

    The Lord has called us to *take the Gospel forward* with one message and one heart.
    _“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations Matthew 28:19
    _“Here am I. Send me! Isaiah 6:8

    WHY JOIN SRC? BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING WITH US:

    1. Participation in Outreach Program - Join evangelism, crusades, and community outreaches in towns and villages
    2. Access to Trainings Nationally and Internationally - Be trained in discipleship, leadership, prayer, and ministry skills
    3. Get Equipped - Receive teaching, mentorship, and tools to grow in the Word and in service
    4. *Certificate and ID of Membership* - Be officially recognized as a member of SRC
    5. *Ordination into Apostolic Position* - Faithful and called workers will be ordained and sent for ministry
    6. Interaction and Preaching Opportunities - Preach, teach, and fellowship with believers across churches and nations
    7. Work in Available Projects - Serve in health, women empowerment, youth, and community projects of SRC & CWFCA

    This is your time to stand, to be trained, and to be sent!
    Let us Solidify believers with the Word, Unify believers in Prayer, and Multiply disciples across Africa.

    HOW TO JOIN:
    Fill the SRC Membership Form and submit to SRC Office Aweil, or contact: +211921163669

    Together we can reach more together as Christians. Please submit your application to this WhatsApp +211921163669
    INVITATION TO JOIN SAINTS REVIVAL COMMITTEE - SRC "SOLIDIFY. UNIFY. MULTIPLY Greetings in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ! The Saints Revival Committee - SRC warmly invites Christian Leaders and Believers across South Sudan and African countries to *register and become members* of this God-given ministry. The Lord has called us to *take the Gospel forward* with one message and one heart. _“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations Matthew 28:19 _“Here am I. Send me! Isaiah 6:8 WHY JOIN SRC? BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING WITH US: 1. Participation in Outreach Program - Join evangelism, crusades, and community outreaches in towns and villages 2. Access to Trainings Nationally and Internationally - Be trained in discipleship, leadership, prayer, and ministry skills 3. Get Equipped - Receive teaching, mentorship, and tools to grow in the Word and in service 4. *Certificate and ID of Membership* - Be officially recognized as a member of SRC 5. *Ordination into Apostolic Position* - Faithful and called workers will be ordained and sent for ministry 6. Interaction and Preaching Opportunities - Preach, teach, and fellowship with believers across churches and nations 7. Work in Available Projects - Serve in health, women empowerment, youth, and community projects of SRC & CWFCA This is your time to stand, to be trained, and to be sent! Let us Solidify believers with the Word, Unify believers in Prayer, and Multiply disciples across Africa. HOW TO JOIN: Fill the SRC Membership Form and submit to SRC Office Aweil, or contact: +211921163669 Together we can reach more together as Christians. Please submit your application to this WhatsApp +211921163669
    0 Comentários 0 Compartilhamentos 18 Visualizações
  • TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

    SERMON TOPIC:

    DOES READING THE BIBLE ON YOUR PHONE A SIN?

    A Powerful Sermon for Young and Mature Christians.

    The Phone Is Not the Problem.

    Imagine this:
    You wake up in the morning. Before your feet touch the floor, your hand reaches for your phone.

    You check WhatsApp.
    You scroll through Facebook.
    You watch a few videos.
    You check notifications.
    You laugh at a few posts.

    Then someone asks you:

    “Did you read your Bible today?”

    You say, “Yes, I read it on my phone.”

    But another person says, “Reading the Bible on your phone is not spiritual. You need a physical Bible!”

    So, who is right?

    Is reading the Bible on your phone a sin?

    The answer is NO.

    The Bible does not teach that reading God's Word from a phone is sinful. The issue is not whether the Bible is printed on paper or displayed on a screen. The greater issue is whether God's Word is entering your heart and transforming your life.
    Your phone can be a tool for temptation—or a tool for transformation.
    The same device that can carry pornography can carry Scripture.
    The same phone that can waste three hours can also help you spend thirty minutes with God.
    The question is not simply:
    “What device are you using?”
    The deeper question is:
    “What are you using the device for, and what is God's Word producing in your life?”
    1. GOD'S WORD IS WHAT MATTERS, NOT THE MATERIAL IT IS PRINTED ON

    Key Scripture:
    2 Timothy 3:16–17

    «“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”»
    Paul does not say God's Word becomes powerful only when printed on paper.
    The authority of Scripture comes from God, not from the material on which the words appear.
    Whether you read:
    - a physical Bible,
    - a Bible app,
    - an ebook,
    - a Bible website,
    - or listen to an audio Bible,
    the important question is whether you are receiving and obeying the truth of God's Word.

    Consider this:
    If you read Psalm 23 on paper, God can speak to you.
    If you read Psalm 23 on your phone, God can speak to you.
    The paper does not make the Word powerful.
    God makes His Word powerful.
    The Bible says:
    «“The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword.”
    — Hebrews 4:12»
    The power is in the Word, not in the paper.
    2. JESUS TAUGHT US TO CARRY GOD'S WORD IN OUR HEARTS

    Key Scripture:

    Psalm 119:11

    «“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”»
    Notice what the psalmist says:
    “I have hidden Your Word in my heart.”
    He doesn't say, “I have hidden Your Word in my leather Bible.”
    The ultimate goal of Bible reading is not merely to own a Bible.
    It is to allow the Bible to own your heart.
    You can carry a beautiful Bible everywhere and never obey it.
    You can have 20 Bible apps installed and never open one.
    You can underline hundreds of verses and still refuse to forgive somebody.
    You can listen to sermons every day and remain unchanged.
    Therefore, Bible possession is not the same as Bible transformation.
    Jesus said:
    «“If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
    — John 14:15»
    The real evidence that we are receiving God's Word is not merely that we read it.
    It is that we obey it.
    3. YOUR PHONE CAN BECOME A TEMPLE OF DISTRACTION OR A TOOL OF DISCIPLESHIP
    This is where we need wisdom.
    Reading the Bible on your phone is not a sin.
    But allowing your phone to constantly distract you from God's Word is a spiritual problem.
    You open your Bible app to read Matthew 5.
    A notification appears.
    You check WhatsApp.
    Someone has posted something interesting.
    You open Facebook.
    Then you see a video.
    Then another video.
    Twenty minutes later, you have forgotten why you opened the phone.
    The problem was not the phone.
    The problem was lack of spiritual discipline.
    Jesus said:
    «“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.”
    — Matthew 26:41»
    We must learn to control our devices rather than allowing our devices to control us.
    Your phone can help you:
    - read Scripture every morning;
    - memorize Bible verses;
    - listen to Scripture while travelling;
    - study different Bible translations;
    - search for related passages;
    - take spiritual notes;
    - listen to Christian teaching;
    - share Scripture with others;
    - follow a Bible reading plan.
    But it can also become a major source of distraction.
    The same phone can take you closer to God or farther from Him.
    The difference is how you use it.
    4. DON'T CONFUSE A PHYSICAL BIBLE WITH SPIRITUALITY
    There is nothing wrong with loving a physical Bible.
    In fact, many Christians find it easier to concentrate, underline passages, make notes, and remember where verses are located when using a printed Bible.
    That's wonderful.
    But we must be careful not to create spiritual rules that God did not create.

    If someone says:
    “You are sinning because you read the Bible on your phone,”
    ask respectfully:
    “Where does Scripture teach that?”
    We must distinguish between:
    Biblical commands
    Things God actually commands.
    Personal preferences
    Things that may help us spiritually but are not universal commands.
    A physical Bible can be an excellent spiritual tool.
    But it is not a requirement for salvation.
    It is not the paper that makes someone spiritual.
    It is their relationship with Christ and their submission to God's Word.
    5. THE GOAL OF BIBLE READING IS TRANSFORMATION

    Key Scripture:

    James 1:22

    «“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”»
    This is one of the most important truths in this entire message.
    You can read the Bible on your phone and become spiritually mature.
    You can read the Bible from a physical Bible and remain spiritually immature.
    Why?
    Because reading is the beginning—not the destination.
    The Word should change:
    - how you speak;
    - how you think;
    - how you treat people;
    - how you handle money;
    - how you respond to temptation;
    - how you conduct relationships;
    - how you forgive;
    - how you work;
    - how you raise your children;
    - how you use technology.
    If your Bible reading does not affect your life, something is missing.
    The purpose of Scripture is not simply to fill your head with information but to transform your heart and direct your life.

    BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

    JESUS IN THE WILDERNESS

    Consider Jesus' temptation in Matthew 4.
    When Satan came to tempt Him, Jesus responded repeatedly:
    “It is written…”
    Jesus knew the Word.
    He remembered the Word.
    He trusted the Word.
    He used the Word.
    And He obeyed the Word.
    The lesson is powerful:
    The Bible is not merely something we read during peaceful moments. It is truth we carry into spiritual battles.
    When temptation says:
    “You cannot overcome this.”
    The Word says:
    “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man…”
    — 1 Corinthians 10:13
    When fear says:
    “You are alone.”
    The Word says:
    “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
    — Hebrews 13:5
    When anxiety says:
    “Everything is going to collapse.”
    The Word says:
    “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication…”
    — Philippians 4:6
    When condemnation says:
    “You are finished.”
    The Word reminds you:
    “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.”
    — Romans 8:1
    That is why we must not merely read the Word.
    We must know the Word.

    DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHT

    Your phone is neither holy nor sinful by itself.
    It is a tool.
    A knife can prepare food or cause harm.
    Money can support ministry or become an idol.
    A car can take you to church or take you somewhere sinful.
    A phone can spread the Gospel or spread ungodliness.
    The issue is the heart of the user.
    Jesus taught:
    «“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
    — Matthew 6:21»
    Therefore, examine your heart.
    If you use your phone to read Scripture, praise God.
    If your phone constantly distracts you from Scripture, establish boundaries.
    If a particular app repeatedly pulls you into sin, have the courage to remove it.
    Don't protect an app at the expense of your spiritual life.

    PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS

    1. Choose a Bible-reading time
    Don't wait until you “feel spiritual.”
    Set a time and keep it.
    2. Turn off notifications
    When studying Scripture, silence unnecessary notifications.
    Give God your attention.
    3. Use your phone intentionally
    Before opening your phone, know why you are opening it.
    If you are reading Scripture, read Scripture.
    4. Keep a physical Bible if it helps you
    There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a printed Bible.
    Use whatever helps you engage deeply with God's Word.
    5. Don't only read—meditate
    Ask:
    What is God saying?
    What does this reveal about Him?
    What must I change?
    What must I obey?
    6. Memorize Scripture
    A phone can disappear.
    A battery can die.
    A network can fail.
    But God's Word hidden in your heart remains with you.
    7. Put Scripture into practice
    Forgive.
    Love.
    Serve.
    Give.
    Pray.
    Speak truth.
    Resist temptation.
    Live holy.
    That is when Scripture becomes visible in your life.

    QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

    1. Am I reading the Bible to know God or simply to complete a reading plan?
    2. Does my phone help my spiritual life more than it harms it?
    3. What usually distracts me when I try to read Scripture?
    4. Do I obey the Bible or merely quote it?
    5. Is there an app or online activity that is consistently pulling me away from God?
    6. What Scripture am I currently hiding in my heart?
    7. If someone observed my phone activity for one week, would they see evidence of Christ?

    POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

    1. Prayer for Hunger
    Father, give me a deep hunger and thirst for Your Word. Let me desire Scripture more than entertainment, in Jesus' name.
    2. Prayer for Understanding
    Lord, open my spiritual understanding. Help me not only to read Your Word but to understand what You are saying to me.
    3. Prayer Against Distraction
    Father, deliver me from every distraction that steals my attention from You. Give me discipline and spiritual focus.
    4. Prayer for Obedience
    Lord, give me grace to practice what I read. Let Your Word transform my thoughts, character, decisions, and relationships.
    5. Prayer for Technology
    Father, teach me to use technology wisely. Let my phone become a tool for Your glory and not an instrument of spiritual destruction.
    6. Prayer for Young People
    Lord, raise a generation of young people who love Your Word, understand Your truth, resist temptation, and boldly represent Christ in this digital age.
    7. Prayer for Spiritual Growth
    Holy Spirit, make me spiritually mature. Let Scripture become deeply rooted in my heart and visible in my daily life.

    STRONG CLOSING:

    WHAT IS YOUR PHONE DOING TO YOUR SPIRIT?

    Let me leave you with this question:
    When you pick up your phone, what usually gets the first part of your attention?
    Social media?
    Entertainment?
    Messages?
    News?
    Or God?
    Your phone is not your master.
    Your notifications are not your master.
    Social media is not your master.
    Jesus Christ is Lord.
    So, if reading the Bible on your phone helps you encounter God, read it.
    If listening to an audio Bible helps you stay in God's Word, listen.
    If a physical Bible helps you concentrate, use it.
    The goal is not to worship the format.
    The goal is to know the Author.
    Don't become a Christian who owns a Bible but doesn't know the God of the Bible.
    Don't become someone who can quote Scripture but refuses to obey it.
    Don't allow a smartphone to become smarter than your spiritual life.
    Use technology—but don't let technology use you.
    Read the Word.
    Study the Word.
    Meditate on the Word.
    Memorize the Word.
    Obey the Word.
    Live the Word.
    And most importantly:
    Live for Jesus.
    Final Declaration
    My phone will not control me.
    My distractions will not control me.
    God's Word will guide me.
    The Holy Spirit will lead me.
    Jesus Christ will remain my Lord.
    And everything I use—including my technology—will be used for the glory of God.
    Amen!

    If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do so by joining a Bible believing Church.
    You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below

    https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1

    https://selar.com/m/umoedem

    https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks

    CONTACT - Whatsapp +2349024173027, +2349055447540,

    Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
    TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: DOES READING THE BIBLE ON YOUR PHONE A SIN? A Powerful Sermon for Young and Mature Christians. The Phone Is Not the Problem. Imagine this: You wake up in the morning. Before your feet touch the floor, your hand reaches for your phone. You check WhatsApp. You scroll through Facebook. You watch a few videos. You check notifications. You laugh at a few posts. Then someone asks you: “Did you read your Bible today?” You say, “Yes, I read it on my phone.” But another person says, “Reading the Bible on your phone is not spiritual. You need a physical Bible!” So, who is right? Is reading the Bible on your phone a sin? The answer is NO. The Bible does not teach that reading God's Word from a phone is sinful. The issue is not whether the Bible is printed on paper or displayed on a screen. The greater issue is whether God's Word is entering your heart and transforming your life. Your phone can be a tool for temptation—or a tool for transformation. The same device that can carry pornography can carry Scripture. The same phone that can waste three hours can also help you spend thirty minutes with God. The question is not simply: “What device are you using?” The deeper question is: “What are you using the device for, and what is God's Word producing in your life?” 1. GOD'S WORD IS WHAT MATTERS, NOT THE MATERIAL IT IS PRINTED ON Key Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16–17 «“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”» Paul does not say God's Word becomes powerful only when printed on paper. The authority of Scripture comes from God, not from the material on which the words appear. Whether you read: - a physical Bible, - a Bible app, - an ebook, - a Bible website, - or listen to an audio Bible, the important question is whether you are receiving and obeying the truth of God's Word. Consider this: If you read Psalm 23 on paper, God can speak to you. If you read Psalm 23 on your phone, God can speak to you. The paper does not make the Word powerful. God makes His Word powerful. The Bible says: «“The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword.” — Hebrews 4:12» The power is in the Word, not in the paper. 2. JESUS TAUGHT US TO CARRY GOD'S WORD IN OUR HEARTS Key Scripture: Psalm 119:11 «“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”» Notice what the psalmist says: “I have hidden Your Word in my heart.” He doesn't say, “I have hidden Your Word in my leather Bible.” The ultimate goal of Bible reading is not merely to own a Bible. It is to allow the Bible to own your heart. You can carry a beautiful Bible everywhere and never obey it. You can have 20 Bible apps installed and never open one. You can underline hundreds of verses and still refuse to forgive somebody. You can listen to sermons every day and remain unchanged. Therefore, Bible possession is not the same as Bible transformation. Jesus said: «“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” — John 14:15» The real evidence that we are receiving God's Word is not merely that we read it. It is that we obey it. 3. YOUR PHONE CAN BECOME A TEMPLE OF DISTRACTION OR A TOOL OF DISCIPLESHIP This is where we need wisdom. Reading the Bible on your phone is not a sin. But allowing your phone to constantly distract you from God's Word is a spiritual problem. You open your Bible app to read Matthew 5. A notification appears. You check WhatsApp. Someone has posted something interesting. You open Facebook. Then you see a video. Then another video. Twenty minutes later, you have forgotten why you opened the phone. The problem was not the phone. The problem was lack of spiritual discipline. Jesus said: «“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.” — Matthew 26:41» We must learn to control our devices rather than allowing our devices to control us. Your phone can help you: - read Scripture every morning; - memorize Bible verses; - listen to Scripture while travelling; - study different Bible translations; - search for related passages; - take spiritual notes; - listen to Christian teaching; - share Scripture with others; - follow a Bible reading plan. But it can also become a major source of distraction. The same phone can take you closer to God or farther from Him. The difference is how you use it. 4. DON'T CONFUSE A PHYSICAL BIBLE WITH SPIRITUALITY There is nothing wrong with loving a physical Bible. In fact, many Christians find it easier to concentrate, underline passages, make notes, and remember where verses are located when using a printed Bible. That's wonderful. But we must be careful not to create spiritual rules that God did not create. If someone says: “You are sinning because you read the Bible on your phone,” ask respectfully: “Where does Scripture teach that?” We must distinguish between: Biblical commands Things God actually commands. Personal preferences Things that may help us spiritually but are not universal commands. A physical Bible can be an excellent spiritual tool. But it is not a requirement for salvation. It is not the paper that makes someone spiritual. It is their relationship with Christ and their submission to God's Word. 5. THE GOAL OF BIBLE READING IS TRANSFORMATION Key Scripture: James 1:22 «“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”» This is one of the most important truths in this entire message. You can read the Bible on your phone and become spiritually mature. You can read the Bible from a physical Bible and remain spiritually immature. Why? Because reading is the beginning—not the destination. The Word should change: - how you speak; - how you think; - how you treat people; - how you handle money; - how you respond to temptation; - how you conduct relationships; - how you forgive; - how you work; - how you raise your children; - how you use technology. If your Bible reading does not affect your life, something is missing. The purpose of Scripture is not simply to fill your head with information but to transform your heart and direct your life. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: JESUS IN THE WILDERNESS Consider Jesus' temptation in Matthew 4. When Satan came to tempt Him, Jesus responded repeatedly: “It is written…” Jesus knew the Word. He remembered the Word. He trusted the Word. He used the Word. And He obeyed the Word. The lesson is powerful: The Bible is not merely something we read during peaceful moments. It is truth we carry into spiritual battles. When temptation says: “You cannot overcome this.” The Word says: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man…” — 1 Corinthians 10:13 When fear says: “You are alone.” The Word says: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” — Hebrews 13:5 When anxiety says: “Everything is going to collapse.” The Word says: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication…” — Philippians 4:6 When condemnation says: “You are finished.” The Word reminds you: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1 That is why we must not merely read the Word. We must know the Word. DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHT Your phone is neither holy nor sinful by itself. It is a tool. A knife can prepare food or cause harm. Money can support ministry or become an idol. A car can take you to church or take you somewhere sinful. A phone can spread the Gospel or spread ungodliness. The issue is the heart of the user. Jesus taught: «“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” — Matthew 6:21» Therefore, examine your heart. If you use your phone to read Scripture, praise God. If your phone constantly distracts you from Scripture, establish boundaries. If a particular app repeatedly pulls you into sin, have the courage to remove it. Don't protect an app at the expense of your spiritual life. PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. Choose a Bible-reading time Don't wait until you “feel spiritual.” Set a time and keep it. 2. Turn off notifications When studying Scripture, silence unnecessary notifications. Give God your attention. 3. Use your phone intentionally Before opening your phone, know why you are opening it. If you are reading Scripture, read Scripture. 4. Keep a physical Bible if it helps you There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a printed Bible. Use whatever helps you engage deeply with God's Word. 5. Don't only read—meditate Ask: What is God saying? What does this reveal about Him? What must I change? What must I obey? 6. Memorize Scripture A phone can disappear. A battery can die. A network can fail. But God's Word hidden in your heart remains with you. 7. Put Scripture into practice Forgive. Love. Serve. Give. Pray. Speak truth. Resist temptation. Live holy. That is when Scripture becomes visible in your life. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. Am I reading the Bible to know God or simply to complete a reading plan? 2. Does my phone help my spiritual life more than it harms it? 3. What usually distracts me when I try to read Scripture? 4. Do I obey the Bible or merely quote it? 5. Is there an app or online activity that is consistently pulling me away from God? 6. What Scripture am I currently hiding in my heart? 7. If someone observed my phone activity for one week, would they see evidence of Christ? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer for Hunger Father, give me a deep hunger and thirst for Your Word. Let me desire Scripture more than entertainment, in Jesus' name. 2. Prayer for Understanding Lord, open my spiritual understanding. Help me not only to read Your Word but to understand what You are saying to me. 3. Prayer Against Distraction Father, deliver me from every distraction that steals my attention from You. Give me discipline and spiritual focus. 4. Prayer for Obedience Lord, give me grace to practice what I read. Let Your Word transform my thoughts, character, decisions, and relationships. 5. Prayer for Technology Father, teach me to use technology wisely. Let my phone become a tool for Your glory and not an instrument of spiritual destruction. 6. Prayer for Young People Lord, raise a generation of young people who love Your Word, understand Your truth, resist temptation, and boldly represent Christ in this digital age. 7. Prayer for Spiritual Growth Holy Spirit, make me spiritually mature. Let Scripture become deeply rooted in my heart and visible in my daily life. STRONG CLOSING: WHAT IS YOUR PHONE DOING TO YOUR SPIRIT? Let me leave you with this question: When you pick up your phone, what usually gets the first part of your attention? Social media? Entertainment? Messages? News? Or God? Your phone is not your master. Your notifications are not your master. Social media is not your master. Jesus Christ is Lord. So, if reading the Bible on your phone helps you encounter God, read it. If listening to an audio Bible helps you stay in God's Word, listen. If a physical Bible helps you concentrate, use it. The goal is not to worship the format. The goal is to know the Author. Don't become a Christian who owns a Bible but doesn't know the God of the Bible. Don't become someone who can quote Scripture but refuses to obey it. Don't allow a smartphone to become smarter than your spiritual life. Use technology—but don't let technology use you. Read the Word. Study the Word. Meditate on the Word. Memorize the Word. Obey the Word. Live the Word. And most importantly: Live for Jesus. Final Declaration My phone will not control me. My distractions will not control me. God's Word will guide me. The Holy Spirit will lead me. Jesus Christ will remain my Lord. And everything I use—including my technology—will be used for the glory of God. Amen! If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do so by joining a Bible believing Church. You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks CONTACT - Whatsapp +2349024173027, +2349055447540, Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
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  • 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐌𝐞
    “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳; 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯—
    𝘠𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦.”

    The call to follow Jesus is not casual—it is costly. It is more than a mere invitation; it demands submission. Yet many want the blessing without the burden, the destination without the sacrifice, and the crown without the cross. Whether discipleship feels costly or comfortable, the question is not whether we call ourselves Christians—but whether we have surrendered ourselves to Christ.

    Jesus declared in 🕮 𝐋𝐮𝐤𝐞 𝟗:𝟐𝟑, “𝘐𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦.” He did not promise an easier life but a call to surrender. Denying ourselves means abandoning self-rule for Christ’s authority. Taking up the cross means dying to our will and embracing obedience. This call is non-negotiable, not optional.

    Think of a prisoner offered freedom, but only if he leaves his chains behind. He cannot cling to his captivity and walk into the sunlight. To follow the Master, we must drop the heavy, rusted chains of our self-will and step into the liberating yoke of His grace. It means His Word and will govern all our concerns.

    Scripture makes the cost of discipleship unmistakable. Jesus said, “𝘞𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦” (𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝟖:𝟑𝟒). Paul declared, “𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘤𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵” (𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟐:𝟐𝟎), and reminded believers to “𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦” (𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟐:𝟏). True discipleship is not merely changing our destination—it is surrendering who holds the steering wheel.

    Paul counted “𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴” (𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟑:𝟖). Following Christ demands surrender, not negotiation. Don’t carry a cross with one hand while holding tightly to your old life with the other. Jesus calls us not to add Christianity but to surrender our lives fully. Though the path includes sacrifice, rejection, and suffering, He is worth every step.

    Christ never asks us to walk a road He refused to walk. He humbled Himself, becoming “𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴” (𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟐:𝟖). He died, was buried, and rose again as the Scriptures declare (𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟓:𝟑–𝟒). Our surrender doesn’t earn salvation; Christ’s finished work purchased us. We follow Him not to earn grace, but because His grace has already saved us.

    What are you still holding that Christ is asking you to surrender? What preference, ambition, comfort, or habit competes with His lordship? You don't need Christ merely to improve your life—you need Him because He is your Lord, worthy of your whole life. Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow Him. When Christ is Lord, surrender is not losing—it is finally knowing whom we belong to.

    𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫: Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have wanted Christ without the cost of discipleship. Teach us to deny ourselves, surrender our desires, and follow Jesus faithfully each day. Give us grace to obey when the road is difficult and courage to follow wherever You lead. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

    Remember, a dose of God’s Word a day will keep you going all day!
    𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐝...
    _____________________________________________________
    All scripture references were taken from the KJV Bible.
    Thank you for allowing this ministry to be a part of your day…

    If my posts speak to your heart, you may be blessed by the full devotional series created for deeper reflection and journaling:
    FREE FlipBook Previews:
    https://heyzine.com/flip-book/ae17998766.html
    Also available now on Amazon (Kindle & Paperback)
    Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
    https://www.amazon.com/author/dennislastimoso

    Also, just in case you need a reliable, dedicated online Bible Study Tool, I created one for you.
    Try it here for FREE, anytime at your hand: https://www.baptistry.app

    Your support helps us continue this ministry, edifying the believers around the world.
    May God bless you more abundantly…
    𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐌𝐞 ✍️ “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳; 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯— 𝘠𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦.” The call to follow Jesus is not casual—it is costly. It is more than a mere invitation; it demands submission. Yet many want the blessing without the burden, the destination without the sacrifice, and the crown without the cross. Whether discipleship feels costly or comfortable, the question is not whether we call ourselves Christians—but whether we have surrendered ourselves to Christ. Jesus declared in 🕮 𝐋𝐮𝐤𝐞 𝟗:𝟐𝟑, “𝘐𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦.” He did not promise an easier life but a call to surrender. Denying ourselves means abandoning self-rule for Christ’s authority. Taking up the cross means dying to our will and embracing obedience. This call is non-negotiable, not optional. Think of a prisoner offered freedom, but only if he leaves his chains behind. He cannot cling to his captivity and walk into the sunlight. To follow the Master, we must drop the heavy, rusted chains of our self-will and step into the liberating yoke of His grace. It means His Word and will govern all our concerns. Scripture makes the cost of discipleship unmistakable. Jesus said, “𝘞𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦” (𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝟖:𝟑𝟒). Paul declared, “𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘤𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵” (𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟐:𝟐𝟎), and reminded believers to “𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦” (𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟐:𝟏). True discipleship is not merely changing our destination—it is surrendering who holds the steering wheel. Paul counted “𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴” (𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟑:𝟖). Following Christ demands surrender, not negotiation. Don’t carry a cross with one hand while holding tightly to your old life with the other. Jesus calls us not to add Christianity but to surrender our lives fully. Though the path includes sacrifice, rejection, and suffering, He is worth every step. Christ never asks us to walk a road He refused to walk. He humbled Himself, becoming “𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴” (𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟐:𝟖). He died, was buried, and rose again as the Scriptures declare (𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟓:𝟑–𝟒). Our surrender doesn’t earn salvation; Christ’s finished work purchased us. We follow Him not to earn grace, but because His grace has already saved us. What are you still holding that Christ is asking you to surrender? What preference, ambition, comfort, or habit competes with His lordship? You don't need Christ merely to improve your life—you need Him because He is your Lord, worthy of your whole life. Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow Him. When Christ is Lord, surrender is not losing—it is finally knowing whom we belong to. 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫: Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have wanted Christ without the cost of discipleship. Teach us to deny ourselves, surrender our desires, and follow Jesus faithfully each day. Give us grace to obey when the road is difficult and courage to follow wherever You lead. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. Remember, a dose of God’s Word a day will keep you going all day! 𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐝... _____________________________________________________ All scripture references were taken from the KJV Bible. Thank you for allowing this ministry to be a part of your day… If my posts speak to your heart, you may be blessed by the full devotional series created for deeper reflection and journaling: 👉 FREE FlipBook Previews: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/ae17998766.html 📚 Also available now on Amazon (Kindle & Paperback) ✨ Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited! https://www.amazon.com/author/dennislastimoso Also, just in case you need a reliable, dedicated online Bible Study Tool, I created one for you. 👉 Try it here for FREE, anytime at your hand: https://www.baptistry.app Your support helps us continue this ministry, edifying the believers around the world. May God bless you more abundantly…
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  • The Story Behind the Hymns
    THE STORY BEHIND " WHO IS ON THE LORD'S SIDE? "

    “Who Is on the Lord’s Side?” is a stirring Christian hymn written by Frances Ridley Havergal, the English poet, hymn writer and devotional author whose words often called believers to deeper commitment and wholehearted service to Christ.

    The hymn was written in 1877, during a period when Havergal was deeply involved in Christian ministry and devotional writing. Its central question is direct and searching: “Who is on the Lord’s side?” Rather than simply asking believers to identify themselves as Christians, the hymn challenges them to consider whether they are truly willing to stand with Christ and serve Him.

    The hymn’s inspiration is closely connected with the biblical language of choosing whom one will serve. Its message echoes Joshua’s declaration in Joshua 24:15: “Choose you this day whom ye will serve,” while also drawing on the New Testament call to follow Christ faithfully.

    Each verse develops the theme of surrender and allegiance. Havergal speaks of giving oneself fully to the Lord, following His leadership, enduring hardship and remaining faithful to His cause. The hymn therefore moves beyond a declaration of faith to a call for action, courage and consecration.

    The familiar opening asks:

    “Who is on the Lord’s side?
    Who will serve the King?”

    The “King” is Christ, and the question is presented as an invitation to make a deliberate choice. The hymn reminds worshippers that Christian discipleship involves more than words; it calls for a life placed at the service of God.

    Havergal became known for hymns that expressed personal devotion, consecration and commitment to Christ. Among her other well-known hymns are “Take My Life, and Let It Be” and “Like a River Glorious.” Her writings continue to be sung and read by Christians around the world.

    “Who Is on the Lord’s Side?” has endured because of its timeless challenge. Generations of Christians have sung it as a hymn of dedication, especially in worship services where believers are encouraged to renew their commitment to Christ and His work.

    More than a century after it was written, its question remains just as powerful: when the call to serve the King comes, where do we stand?
    The Story Behind the Hymns THE STORY BEHIND " WHO IS ON THE LORD'S SIDE? " “Who Is on the Lord’s Side?” is a stirring Christian hymn written by Frances Ridley Havergal, the English poet, hymn writer and devotional author whose words often called believers to deeper commitment and wholehearted service to Christ. The hymn was written in 1877, during a period when Havergal was deeply involved in Christian ministry and devotional writing. Its central question is direct and searching: “Who is on the Lord’s side?” Rather than simply asking believers to identify themselves as Christians, the hymn challenges them to consider whether they are truly willing to stand with Christ and serve Him. The hymn’s inspiration is closely connected with the biblical language of choosing whom one will serve. Its message echoes Joshua’s declaration in Joshua 24:15: “Choose you this day whom ye will serve,” while also drawing on the New Testament call to follow Christ faithfully. Each verse develops the theme of surrender and allegiance. Havergal speaks of giving oneself fully to the Lord, following His leadership, enduring hardship and remaining faithful to His cause. The hymn therefore moves beyond a declaration of faith to a call for action, courage and consecration. The familiar opening asks: “Who is on the Lord’s side? Who will serve the King?” The “King” is Christ, and the question is presented as an invitation to make a deliberate choice. The hymn reminds worshippers that Christian discipleship involves more than words; it calls for a life placed at the service of God. Havergal became known for hymns that expressed personal devotion, consecration and commitment to Christ. Among her other well-known hymns are “Take My Life, and Let It Be” and “Like a River Glorious.” Her writings continue to be sung and read by Christians around the world. “Who Is on the Lord’s Side?” has endured because of its timeless challenge. Generations of Christians have sung it as a hymn of dedication, especially in worship services where believers are encouraged to renew their commitment to Christ and His work. More than a century after it was written, its question remains just as powerful: when the call to serve the King comes, where do we stand?
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