THE POWER OF UNITY

Together We Are Stronger

ANCHOR SCRIPTURE

Psalm 133:1 (KJV) “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”

1. UNITY BRINGS STRENGTH

Unity produces peace, strength and progress.

Where there is unity, there is strength.

2. UNITY DOESN'T MEAN UNIFORMITY

We may have different opinions and gifts, but we can still have one heart and one purpose.

You don't have to agree on everything to walk together.

3. AVOID DIVISION

Pride, gossip, jealousy and unforgiveness destroy relationships.

Proverbs 16:28 (KJV) “A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.”

Don't be the source of division.

4. UNITY ATTRACTS BLESSING

Psalm 133:3 (KJV) “...for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.”

Where God's people walk in unity, God commands blessing.

5. BE A BUILDER OF UNITY

1. Forgive.
2. Love.
3. Communicate honestly.
4. Pray for others.
5. Promote peace.

KEY LESSON

1. Unity brings strength.
2. Division brings weakness.
3. Forgiveness protects relationships.
4. Love overcomes differences.
5. Unity creates room for blessing.

FINAL CHARGE

Be a bridge, not a wall. Be a peacemaker, not a troublemaker.

Build unity.
Protect relationships.
Walk together in love.

SHORT PRAYER

Father, give me a heart that values unity and peace. Remove pride, jealousy, bitterness and unforgiveness from me. Help me to love, forgive and respect others. Make me a builder of unity wherever I go. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Prepared by Rev Frank Fabian Aidoo +233544295158

Daily Bible Lesson.
WE ASK GOD FOR MORE LIGHT—THEN MAKE EXCUSES WHEN HIS LIGHT REQUIRES CHANGE

“Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” — 1 Samuel 15:22

We pray:

“Lord, show me Your will.”

Then His light touches something we love—

our time, appetite, appearance, character, location, or tongue—

and suddenly:

“My situation is different.”
“Everyone does it.”
“I'm not convicted.”

Perhaps our greatest problem is not always lack of light.

IT IS THE HUMAN HEART'S AMAZING ABILITY TO EXPLAIN AWAY THE LIGHT IT DOES NOT WANT TO OBEY.

Jesus asks:

“Why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” — Luke 6:46

So here is the question beneath every reform:

ARE WE SEEKING GOD'S WILL—OR ASKING GOD TO APPROVE OURS?

---

① SABBATH REFORM—WHO OWNS YOUR TIME?

THE EXCUSES:

“I have to work.”
“Most Christians worship Sunday.”
“God knows my heart.”

Yes—God knows the heart.

And Jesus says:

“If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” — John 14:15

God's command still reads:

“The seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God.” — Exodus 20:10

Obedience may cost convenience, approval, opportunity—even income.

But faith asks something deeper:

WHAT IS JESUS WORTH?

“We ought to obey God rather than men.” — Acts 5:29

Do not merely argue for the Sabbath.

KNOW THE LORD OF THE SABBATH—and ask Him for faith to walk in His footsteps.

---

② HEALTH REFORM—HAS APPETITE RENAMED ITSELF “NECESSITY”?

THE EXCUSES:

“My body needs it.”
“I've always eaten this way.”
“We're all going to die anyway.”

But this body is not ours to abuse.

“Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20

“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink… do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31

Health reform is not salvation by menu.

It is stewardship of a body purchased by Christ.

Inspiration warns of those who “frame excuses and make necessities which have no existence” while resisting health light. — Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 399

What a warning:

APPETITE IS A TERRIBLE COUNSELOR WHEN ASKED TO JUDGE ITS OWN HABITS.

Stop asking only:

“Do I enjoy it?”

Ask:

“WILL THIS KEEP MY BODY AND MIND FIT FOR CHRIST'S SERVICE?”

---

③ DRESS REFORM—WHO ARE WE TRYING TO PLEASE?

THE EXCUSES:

“It's only fashion.”
“God only looks at the heart.”
“I don't want to look different.”

Yes:

“The LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7

And Scripture also calls for:

“Modest apparel.” — 1 Timothy 2:9

The issue is not ugliness.

Not neglect.

Not a religious uniform.

The question is:

WHO IS SHAPING MY APPEARANCE—CHRIST OR THE WORLD?

Christian dress should reflect modesty, simplicity, health, dignity, and good taste without making self the attraction.

CLOTHING CANNOT SAVE THE HEART—BUT THE MASTER OF THE HEART WILL INFLUENCE THE CLOTHING.

Let your appearance quietly testify:

“I BELONG TO CHRIST.”

---

④ CHARACTER REFORM—“THAT'S JUST HOW I AM.”

Perhaps no excuse protects cherished defects more effectively.

Anger becomes “my personality.”
Pride becomes “confidence.”
Bitterness becomes “what they deserve.”

Then comes the universal shield:

“Nobody is perfect.”

True.

But Jesus never made imperfection an excuse for refusing transformation.

“If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 2:5

Christ does not merely forgive us in the old life.

HE BEGINS MAKING US NEW.

“When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 69

Stop defending your defect with:

“THAT'S WHO I AM.”

Bring it to Jesus:

“LORD, MAKE ME LIKE YOU.”

---

⑤ LOCATION REFORM—WHY DID INSPIRATION CRY, “OUT OF THE CITIES”?

Here excuses become painfully practical:

“My job is here.”
“My children's opportunities are here.”
“I'll move when everything becomes convenient.”

Yet Inspiration repeatedly urged:

“Out of the cities, out of the cities! This is the message the Lord has been giving me.” — Country Living, p. 29

Why?

Not because soil saves souls.

But country surroundings can favor health, simplicity, useful labor, children learning from nature, greater separation from corrupting influences, and preparation for difficult times.

God's first home for humanity was not a congested metropolis.

“The LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden.” — Genesis 2:8

Abraham lived as a pilgrim.

Lot “pitched his tent toward Sodom.” — Genesis 13:12

Their stories remind us:

LOCATION CANNOT CONVERT THE HEART—BUT ENVIRONMENT CAN POWERFULLY INFLUENCE IT.

Yet Inspiration also counseled:

“Out of the cities; but not a moment before God would have us go.” — Country Living, p. 26

So the message is not:

PANIC AND RUN.

It is:

PRAY.
PREPARE.
SIMPLIFY.
LEARN.
WATCH PROVIDENCE.
AND WHEN GOD OPENS THE WAY—OBEY.

And remember:

YOU CAN LEAVE BABYLON GEOGRAPHICALLY WHILE BABYLON STILL LIVES IN YOUR HEART.

Christ's first relocation project is:

SELF OFF THE THRONE—CHRIST ON IT.

---

⑥ SPEECH REFORM—CAN A CONVERTED HEART KEEP AN UNCONVERTED TONGUE?

Here the excuses sound innocent:

“I'm only joking.”
“But it's true!”
“I just needed to release my feelings.”

Scripture answers:

“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting… but rather giving of thanks.” — Ephesians 5:4

“Speak evil of no man.” — Titus 3:2

And instead:

“That which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” — Ephesians 4:29

Imagine that standard:

WORDS THAT MINISTER GRACE.

No gossip.

No slander.

No degrading jesting.

No cutting sarcasm.

No dishonest flattery.

No spreading bitterness from heart to heart.

“Bless, and curse not.” — Romans 12:14

This does not mean hiding wrongdoing.

Jesus rebuked sin.

Nathan confronted David.

Paul corrected churches.

Truth sometimes must hurt before it heals.

But Scripture says:

“Speaking the truth in love.” — Ephesians 4:15

Before speaking, ask:

IS IT TRUE?
IS IT NECESSARY?
IS IT LOVING?
WILL IT BUILD RATHER THAN POISON?
WOULD I SAY IT THIS WAY IN THE VISIBLE PRESENCE OF JESUS?

“Let the law of kindness be upon your lips and the oil of grace in your heart.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 337

What a standard:

**TRUTH ON THE LIPS.

GRACE IN THE HEART.**

---

⑦ PERHAPS THE MOST DANGEROUS EXCUSE—“I'M NOT CONVICTED.”

Sometimes that is sincere.

Conscience must never be forced.

But sometimes:

“I'M NOT CONVICTED”

really means:

“I DON'T WANT TO INVESTIGATE THIS DEEPLY ENOUGH TO BECOME CONVICTED.”

Jesus reveals a searching principle:

“If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” — John 7:17

Notice the order:

WILLINGNESS → UNDERSTANDING → OBEDIENCE.

Before asking,

“Is this really required?”

ask:

“LORD, IF YOUR WORD SHOWS ME THAT I AM WRONG—AM I WILLING TO CHANGE?”

That question exposes whether we want truth—

or merely reassurance.

---

⑧ BUT HERE IS THE DANGER ON THE OTHER SIDE—REFORM WITHOUT CHRIST

Inspiration defines genuine reformation:

“Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices.” — Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 128

Truth must reach:

the calendar,
the kitchen,
the wardrobe,
the temper,
the address,
the tongue,
and the choices nobody sees.

“Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” — James 1:22

But never miss this:

REFORMATION WITHOUT CHRIST CAN PRODUCE A PHARISEE.

You can keep Sabbath—

and hate your brother.

Eat perfectly—

and feed on pride.

Dress modestly—

and advertise self-righteousness.

Move to the country—

and take worldliness with you.

Guard your tongue publicly—

while bitterness rules privately.

Jesus did not come merely to rearrange our habits.

HE CAME TO RECREATE OUR HEARTS.

“Without Me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:5

---

THE QUESTION BENEATH EVERY REFORM

When Christ touches your—

TIME—will He be Lord?

APPETITE—will He be Lord?

APPEARANCE—will He be Lord?

CHARACTER—will He be Lord?

LOCATION—will He be Lord?

TONGUE—will He be Lord?

There it is.

DOES JESUS HAVE PERMISSION TO CHANGE EVERYTHING?

“If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23

Perhaps we do not need another argument.

Perhaps we need another surrender.

Instead of continually praying:

“LORD, GIVE ME MORE LIGHT,”

perhaps we need to pray:

“LORD, FORGIVE ME FOR RESISTING THE LIGHT I ALREADY HAVE.”

Take my appetite.

Take my pride.

Take my temper.

Take my tongue.

Take my plans.

Take my home.

TAKE MY WHOLE HEART.

“Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” — Acts 9:6

NO MORE EXCUSES.
NO MORE BARGAINING WITH LIGHT.
NO MORE TRYING TO OUTREASON GOD.

CHRIST BEFORE CONVENIENCE.
FAITH BEFORE FEAR.
TRUTH BEFORE TRADITION.
SURRENDER BEFORE SELF.

Because when Jesus truly becomes Lord—

REFORMATION IS NO LONGER SOMETHING GOD MUST FORCE FROM US.

IT BECOMES SOMETHING LOVE IS WILLING TO SURRENDER TO HIM.

DOMINION DAILY DEVOTION ~ DAY 232
DATE: 20TH AUGUST 2026
TOPIC: UNITY GIVES US VICTORY
ANCHOR SCRIPTURE: GENESIS 11:6 (NKJV)
“Indeed the people are one and they all have one language, and this is what they begin to do; now nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them.”
Devotional message:

Yesterday, we saw that when God's people dwell together in unity, the Lord commands His blessing upon them. Today, we discover another dimension of unity: unity strengthens the Church for spiritual warfare.

An army cannot effectively defeat an enemy when its soldiers are fighting among themselves. A divided camp becomes vulnerable because its strength is scattered. In the same way, the Church cannot effectively confront the darkness around her while believers are constantly fighting one another.

Throughout Scripture, we see occasions where God brought victory to Israel by causing confusion among their enemies, so that they turned against one another. The enemy's unity was broken, and their strength collapsed.

This teaches us something important: division weakens a people, while unity strengthens them.

We are soldiers in the army of Christ. Our ultimate enemy is not another believer, denomination, congregation, or minister. We are engaged in a spiritual battle against the kingdom of darkness.

Paul reminds us:Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV)
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age...”

Therefore, we must be careful not to spend the strength that God gave us to advance His Kingdom fighting one another.

There is room for different denominations, congregations, ministries, expressions, and gifts within the body of Christ. Our differences should not become weapons against one another.

Paul described the Church as one body with many members. The hand has a different function from the eye, yet both belong to the same body. Likewise, we may have different assignments, but we have one Lord, one faith, and one mission.

Jesus prayed for His followers:John 17:21 (NKJV)
“That they all may be one... that the world may believe that You sent Me.”

Our unity is therefore not merely about making the Church comfortable; it is part of our witness to the world.

The enemy understands the power of united believers. That is why he continually seeks to introduce jealousy, competition, offence, denominational superiority, suspicion, gossip, and unnecessary disputes among God's people.

But when the Church speaks with one voice, serves with one heart, and advances under the government of Christ, her collective strength becomes far greater.

Think about the early Church. They were devoted to fellowship, prayer, the Word, and one another. Their unity created an environment in which the Gospel spread with extraordinary power, and many were added to the Church.

Child of God, do not fight your fellow soldier when there is a kingdom of darkness to confront.

Do not allow denominational differences to make you forget that we belong to one body. Do not allow personal differences to destroy the larger assignment. Where correction is necessary, let it be done biblically and in love. Where differences arise, pursue peace without compromising truth.

There is still darkness in our communities, families, nations, and institutions that needs the light of Christ. The Church has a responsibility to arise together and shine.

A united Church carries a united strength. A divided Church dissipates its strength.

Therefore, let us stand together, pray together, serve together, preach Christ together, and advance the Kingdom together.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,Teach us to recognize that our true battle is not against one another but against the kingdom of darkness. Give Your Church one heart, one language, one purpose, and one passion for Christ.May the Church arise in unity and demonstrate the power of the Gospel to our generation.In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE READING
Gen 11:1–9,Judg 7:19–25,Ephes 6:10–18,John 17:20–23,1 Cor 12:12–27

Author : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
Contact :
Email : DominionvoicesminisrtyAnderson Mwila.com
Facebook : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
Dominion Daily Devotion, 2026
© Dominion Voices Ministry

DOMINION DAILY DEVOTION ~ DAY 232
DATE: 20TH AUGUST 2026
TOPIC: UNITY GIVES US VICTORY
ANCHOR SCRIPTURE: GENESIS 11:6 (NKJV)
“Indeed the people are one and they all have one language, and this is what they begin to do; now nothing that they propose to do will be withheld from them.”
Devotional message:

Yesterday, we saw that when God's people dwell together in unity, the Lord commands His blessing upon them. Today, we discover another dimension of unity: unity strengthens the Church for spiritual warfare.

An army cannot effectively defeat an enemy when its soldiers are fighting among themselves. A divided camp becomes vulnerable because its strength is scattered. In the same way, the Church cannot effectively confront the darkness around her while believers are constantly fighting one another.

Throughout Scripture, we see occasions where God brought victory to Israel by causing confusion among their enemies, so that they turned against one another. The enemy's unity was broken, and their strength collapsed.

This teaches us something important: division weakens a people, while unity strengthens them.

We are soldiers in the army of Christ. Our ultimate enemy is not another believer, denomination, congregation, or minister. We are engaged in a spiritual battle against the kingdom of darkness.

Paul reminds us:Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV)
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age...”

Therefore, we must be careful not to spend the strength that God gave us to advance His Kingdom fighting one another.

There is room for different denominations, congregations, ministries, expressions, and gifts within the body of Christ. Our differences should not become weapons against one another.

Paul described the Church as one body with many members. The hand has a different function from the eye, yet both belong to the same body. Likewise, we may have different assignments, but we have one Lord, one faith, and one mission.

Jesus prayed for His followers:John 17:21 (NKJV)
“That they all may be one... that the world may believe that You sent Me.”

Our unity is therefore not merely about making the Church comfortable; it is part of our witness to the world.

The enemy understands the power of united believers. That is why he continually seeks to introduce jealousy, competition, offence, denominational superiority, suspicion, gossip, and unnecessary disputes among God's people.

But when the Church speaks with one voice, serves with one heart, and advances under the government of Christ, her collective strength becomes far greater.

Think about the early Church. They were devoted to fellowship, prayer, the Word, and one another. Their unity created an environment in which the Gospel spread with extraordinary power, and many were added to the Church.

Child of God, do not fight your fellow soldier when there is a kingdom of darkness to confront.

Do not allow denominational differences to make you forget that we belong to one body. Do not allow personal differences to destroy the larger assignment. Where correction is necessary, let it be done biblically and in love. Where differences arise, pursue peace without compromising truth.

There is still darkness in our communities, families, nations, and institutions that needs the light of Christ. The Church has a responsibility to arise together and shine.

A united Church carries a united strength. A divided Church dissipates its strength.

Therefore, let us stand together, pray together, serve together, preach Christ together, and advance the Kingdom together.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,Teach us to recognize that our true battle is not against one another but against the kingdom of darkness. Give Your Church one heart, one language, one purpose, and one passion for Christ.May the Church arise in unity and demonstrate the power of the Gospel to our generation.In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE READING
Gen 11:1–9,Judg 7:19–25,Ephes 6:10–18,John 17:20–23,1 Cor 12:12–27

Author : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
Contact :
Email : DominionvoicesminisrtyAnderson Mwila.com
Facebook : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
Dominion Daily Devotion, 2026
© Dominion Voices Ministry

*TODAY'S PROPHETIC DECLARATION - THURSDAY, 20TH AUGUST, 2026.*

*TAKE HEED WHAT YOU HEAR*

Scripture:
“And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.” — Mark 4:24 (KJV)

*Reflection – Be Careful What You Allow Into Your Heart*

Jesus teaches us in Mark 4:24 to pay careful attention to what we hear. Not every voice deserves our attention, and not every message deserves a place in our hearts.

What we repeatedly hear can influence our thoughts, attitudes, decisions, faith, and ultimately our lives. Therefore, Christ calls us to become intentional listeners—people who listen to God's Word, receive it with faith, and put it into practice.

The second part of the verse reminds us that spiritual understanding grows when we faithfully respond to what God has already revealed. When we value God's truth and live by it, He gives us greater understanding and deeper spiritual maturity.

Today, let us ask: What voices are shaping my life? Am I listening more to fear or faith? To discouragement or God's promises? To human opinions or the truth of Scripture?

*Prophetic Declaration:*
Today, I declare that my ears are attentive to the voice of God. I shall hear His Word with understanding, receive it with faith, and obey it with a willing heart.

I declare that every voice of fear, discouragement, confusion, negativity, and deception that seeks to weaken my faith shall not control me. I choose to listen to the voice of truth, wisdom, faith, hope, and righteousness.

Today, I receive grace to discern what I should hear and what I should reject. The Holy Spirit shall sharpen my spiritual discernment and protect my heart from influences that are contrary to God's will.

I declare that God's Word shall take root deeply within me. It shall shape my thoughts, guide my decisions, influence my relationships, and direct my actions.

I proclaim that as I faithfully apply God's Word, greater wisdom and understanding shall be given to me. I shall grow spiritually, mature in faith, and become more effective in fulfilling my God-given purpose.

Today, I declare God's wisdom over my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny. I shall hear the right counsel, recognize the right opportunities, and make decisions that align with God's purpose.

I declare that I shall not allow negative words spoken about me to define my identity. My identity is rooted in Christ, and my confidence comes from God's Word.

I proclaim that my mouth shall also become a source of life. I will be careful not only about what I hear but also about what I speak. My words shall encourage, strengthen, heal, and point people toward Christ.

Today, I receive grace to become a doer of God's Word and not merely a hearer. What God teaches me shall produce visible transformation in my character and conduct.

I declare that every good seed of God's Word planted in my heart shall produce fruit. My faith shall grow, my wisdom shall increase, my discernment shall deepen, and my life shall become increasingly fruitful.

I will hear God's Word.
I will receive God's Word.
I will obey God's Word.
I will grow through God's Word.
And I will become a blessing to others through God's Word.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!

*Action Steps for today:*
Begin with God's Word: Spend time reading Scripture before filling your mind with social media, news, or other voices.

Read Mark 4:1–25: Meditate especially on Jesus' teaching about hearing and receiving God's Word.

Declare: “I take heed to what I hear. My ears are open to God's truth, and my heart is ready to obey His Word.”

Check your influences: Identify one negative voice, habit, or source of information that has been affecting your faith and reduce its influence.

Speak life: Intentionally encourage at least one person today with words of faith, hope, and love.

Apply what you hear: Ask yourself, “What is God asking me to do with what I have learned?” Then take one practical step.

End with thanksgiving: Thank God for His Word and ask Him for greater wisdom and understanding.

*Prayer:*
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for giving me Your Word to guide, correct, strengthen, and transform my life.

Lord Jesus, help me to take heed to what I hear. Give me discernment to recognize Your voice and wisdom to reject every voice that is contrary to Your truth.

Guard my heart from fear, confusion, discouragement, bitterness, gossip, deception, and every negative influence that can weaken my faith.

Let Your Word take deep root in my heart. Give me understanding as I read Scripture and grace to put what I learn into practice.

Give me wisdom concerning my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and future. Help me hear the right counsel and make decisions that honor You.

Let the words of my mouth also bring life and encouragement to others. Make me a faithful hearer and a committed doer of Your Word.

As I faithfully receive and apply Your truth, give me greater wisdom, deeper understanding, stronger faith, and greater spiritual maturity.

Lord, open my ears to hear You, my heart to receive You, and my life to obey You.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

*Blessing for today:*
May the Lord open your spiritual ears to hear His voice clearly. May He give you discernment to recognize truth, wisdom to reject harmful influences, and grace to obey His Word.

May God's Word take deep root in your heart and produce abundant fruit in your family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny.

May your understanding increase, your faith grow stronger, and your life become a powerful testimony of what happens when God's Word is heard, believed, and obeyed.

May you hear wisely.
May you discern accurately.
May you obey faithfully.
May you grow continually.
May your life bear much fruit.

“TAKE HEED WHAT YE HEAR.” — MARK 4:24.

Good morning beloved and do have a blessed, discerning, fruitful, and spiritually enriching day
Shalom!

*Remember: Your confession is your possession.*

* Postulant C. O. Oyadosu.*

_Please share with others, thank you and God bless you _

For counseling, prayers and partnership or you want to share your testimonies with us; please call or Whatsapp: +2348063128703
Or
Email: clementoyadosuAnderson Mwila.com

WARNING AGAINST SOWING DISCORD

Don't Divide What You Should Build

ANCHOR SCRIPTURE

Proverbs 6:12–14 (KJV)

"A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth. He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth with his fingers; Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.”

1. WATCH YOUR WORDS

Rumours, gossip and careless talk can destroy relationships.

A careless tongue can destroy what took years to build.

2. DON'T CARRY STORIES

Don't spread information that creates suspicion, anger or division.

Before you speak, ask:

Is it true?
Is it necessary?
Will it bring peace?

If not, keep quiet.

3. BE A PEACEMAKER

Matthew 5:9 (KJV) “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

Choose to heal, not hurt; unite, not divide.

4. BUILD, DON'T BREAK

1. Encourage reconciliation.
2. Speak honestly.
3. Forgive quickly.
4. Pray before reacting.
5. Promote peace.

Proverbs 17:9 (KJV) “...he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.”

KEY LESSON

1. Don't spread rumours.
2. Don't manipulate people.
3. Don't create unnecessary conflict.
4. Guard your tongue.
5. Promote peace.

FINAL CHARGE

Be a bridge, not a wall. Be a peacemaker, not a troublemaker.

Don't sow discord where God wants unity.

SHORT PRAYER

Father, guard my heart and tongue. Keep me from gossip, rumours and words that cause division. Help me speak with wisdom and love, and make me a builder of peace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Prepared by Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo +233544295158

SERMON SEGMENT: "Shed Clear Light of Christ About Football & Its Fans"
Key Texts: Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, Colossians 3:23, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Galatians 5:16-17, Hebrews 12:1-2

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INTRO
Church, the Lord is speaking to us in this last age. Hebrews 1:2
We must be careful what we pattern our lives after. Because our sanctification is delicate. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 — “For this is the will of God, your sanctification.”

Tonight let’s talk about football and its fans — not to condemn people, but to shed the clear light of Christ on it.
Ephesians 5:13 — “But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible.”

1. THE WARNING: DON'T BE PATTERNED BY THE WORLD
Romans 12:2 — “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Football itself is just a game. But the spirit around football and its fan culture often carries:
Pride - Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction”
Injustice - cheating, bribes, violence, curses on other teams
Flesh desires - gambling, drunkenness, lust, idolatry of players, spending hours that should be for God

1 John 2:15-16 — “Do not love the world or the things in the world... For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father.”

Warning to Christians and non-Christians:
If our mind, thoughts, and actions are shaped more by football rivalry than by the Spirit, we are being conformed, not transformed.
And “no one should think eternal life inheritance in an unclean life.”
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 — “neither the sexually immoral... nor thieves... will inherit the kingdom of God.”
Galatians 5:21 — “those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Our sanctification needs the shield of the Spirit and guidance, or it gets corrupted and compromised. Ephesians 6:16

2. THE BALANCE: DISCIPLINE FROM THE BIBLE, NOT FROM THE WORLD
Some will say: “But Paul used sports!” Yes.

1 Corinthians 9:24-25 — “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.”

Paul is not telling us to go play football. He’s using the discipline of athletes to teach us spiritual discipline:
Focus. Training. Self-control. Running to win an imperishable crown.
Hebrews 12:1 — “let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus.”

The world trains the body for 90 minutes. We must train the spirit for eternity.

Colossians 3:23 — “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
If you play football, play unto the Lord. With integrity. Without pride. Without cursing. Without idolatry.
If you are a fan, fan unto the Lord. With a renewed mind.

3. THE TEST: DOES IT HELP OR HINDER YOUR SALVATION?
We are to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” — Philippians 2:12
Not earn it. But keep it clean, not corrupted.

Ask yourself 3 questions before the game and after the game:
Does this make Jesus increase in me, or decrease? John 3:30
Does this renew my mind, or fill it with pride, hate, and flesh? Romans 12:2
Can I do this and still be pure and blameless before God? 1 Peter 1:15-16

If football causes you to miss prayer, to gossip, to gamble, to hate, to be drunk — then it has become an idol. 1 Corinthians 10:14 — “Flee from idolatry.”

4. APPLICATION: HOW TO ENGAGE WITH A RENEWED MIND
Awaken - See the spirit behind the culture. Don’t be blind. Proverbs 29:18
Renew - Let the Spirit transform your thoughts about competition, winning, and identity. Romans 12:2
Obey - If the Spirit says “turn it off, come pray,” obey. John 14:23
Purify - Guard your eyes, your mouth, your time. Psalm 119:9

CLOSING WORD
Brothers and sisters, football is not the enemy. The flesh is.

SERMON SEGMENT: "Shed Clear Light of Christ About Football & Its Fans"
Key Texts: Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, Colossians 3:23, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Galatians 5:16-17, Hebrews 12:1-2

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INTRO
Church, the Lord is speaking to us in this last age. Hebrews 1:2
We must be careful what we pattern our lives after. Because our sanctification is delicate. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 — “For this is the will of God, your sanctification.”

Tonight let’s talk about football and its fans — not to condemn people, but to shed the clear light of Christ on it.
Ephesians 5:13 — “But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible.”

1. THE WARNING: DON'T BE PATTERNED BY THE WORLD
Romans 12:2 — “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Football itself is just a game. But the spirit around football and its fan culture often carries:
Pride - Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction”
Injustice - cheating, bribes, violence, curses on other teams
Flesh desires - gambling, drunkenness, lust, idolatry of players, spending hours that should be for God

1 John 2:15-16 — “Do not love the world or the things in the world... For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father.”

Warning to Christians and non-Christians:
If our mind, thoughts, and actions are shaped more by football rivalry than by the Spirit, we are being conformed, not transformed.
And “no one should think eternal life inheritance in an unclean life.”
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 — “neither the sexually immoral... nor thieves... will inherit the kingdom of God.”
Galatians 5:21 — “those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Our sanctification needs the shield of the Spirit and guidance, or it gets corrupted and compromised. Ephesians 6:16

2. THE BALANCE: DISCIPLINE FROM THE BIBLE, NOT FROM THE WORLD
Some will say: “But Paul used sports!” Yes.

1 Corinthians 9:24-25 — “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.”

Paul is not telling us to go play football. He’s using the discipline of athletes to teach us spiritual discipline:
Focus. Training. Self-control. Running to win an imperishable crown.
Hebrews 12:1 — “let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus.”

The world trains the body for 90 minutes. We must train the spirit for eternity.

Colossians 3:23 — “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
If you play football, play unto the Lord. With integrity. Without pride. Without cursing. Without idolatry.
If you are a fan, fan unto the Lord. With a renewed mind.

3. THE TEST: DOES IT HELP OR HINDER YOUR SALVATION?
We are to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” — Philippians 2:12
Not earn it. But keep it clean, not corrupted.

Ask yourself 3 questions before the game and after the game:
Does this make Jesus increase in me, or decrease? John 3:30
Does this renew my mind, or fill it with pride, hate, and flesh? Romans 12:2
Can I do this and still be pure and blameless before God? 1 Peter 1:15-16

If football causes you to miss prayer, to gossip, to gamble, to hate, to be drunk — then it has become an idol. 1 Corinthians 10:14 — “Flee from idolatry.”

4. APPLICATION: HOW TO ENGAGE WITH A RENEWED MIND
Awaken - See the spirit behind the culture. Don’t be blind. Proverbs 29:18
Renew - Let the Spirit transform your thoughts about competition, winning, and identity. Romans 12:2
Obey - If the Spirit says “turn it off, come pray,” obey. John 14:23
Purify - Guard your eyes, your mouth, your time. Psalm 119:9

CLOSING WORD
Brothers and sisters, football is not the enemy. The flesh is.

Sermon Title: "FEED MY SHEEP, NOT YOUR AGENDA"
Key Texts: Ezekiel 34:1-10, John 21:15-17, 1 Peter 5:2-4, Hebrews 12:14, 2 Timothy 4:3-4

INTRODUCTION
The Lord is asking the same question today He asked Peter: “Do you love me? Feed my sheep.” John 21:17
But in this last age, many shepherds have left the sheep to chase the world.
And many sheep have left holiness to chase prosperity.
Both are losing the eternal gift.

1. WARNING TO SHEPHERDS: YOU LEFT THE HEART OF THE LORD
Ezekiel 34:2-4 — “Woe to the shepherds of Israel who feed themselves! Should not shepherds feed the sheep? The weak you have not strengthened, the sick you have not healed... and you have not sought the lost.”

God’s heart for His people is:
Feed them the Word, not opinions
Heal the broken, not use them
Seek the lost, not ignore them

But some shepherds today have “given into the world and its things.”
Jeremiah 23:1 — “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord.

Why? Because it’s not sanctified. Ministry without holiness becomes business.
John 10:13 — The hireling sees the wolf and flees because he cares nothing for the sheep.

God’s warning: Ezekiel 34:10 — “I am against the shepherds, and I will require my sheep at their hand.”

2. WARNING TO THE CHURCH: YOU LEFT HOLINESS FOR PROSPERITY
The message says: “saved church not clinging to holiness bcos jealous, hatred, gossip and not obeying the word... itching ears for prosperity gospel instead of soul eager for sanctification gospel.”

This is exactly what Paul warned:
2 Timothy 4:3-4 — “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”

Holiness is being traded for hype.
Hebrews 12:14 — “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”

Signs of a church that left holiness:
Jealousy and hatred - Galatians 5:19-21 works of the flesh
Gossip - Proverbs 16:28 separates close friends
Disobedience to the Word - James 1:22 “be doers of the word”
Prosperity over the Cross - 1 Peter 2:2 “long for the pure spiritual milk”

When we chase blessings more than the Blesser, we lose the eternal gift: sanctification and seeing God.

3. GOD’S CALL BACK: RETURN TO THE SHEPHERD
1 Peter 5:2-4 — “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you... And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”

To Shepherds:
Repent. Return to feeding, not fleecing. Acts 20:28 — “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock.”

To the Church:
1 Peter 1:15-16 — “As he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.”
Holiness is not legalism. It is love. It is being set apart for God.

Psalm 51:10 — “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”

CLOSING PRAYER
Father, forgive us.
Forgive shepherds who fed themselves and left Your sheep. Put back in us the heart of the Lord for Your people.
Forgive Your church for chasing prosperity and ignoring sanctification. Create in us clean hearts.
Let us hunger for Your Word, not myths. Let us love holiness, not gossip and jealousy.
Make us a people ready for Jesus. In His Name, Amen.

SHEPHERDS AND HOLINESS:

Message:
This is a warning and a call. Ezekiel 34: shepherds, return to the heart of the Lord for His people. Don’t feed yourself and leave the sheep.
Church, Hebrews 12:14 — pursue holiness. Don’t trade sanctification for prosperity. Jealousy, gossip, disobedience

This is Ezekiel 34:2-4 season.

Here is DAILY BREAD FOR THE LAST DAYS :

TODAY'S WORD
Text: Jeremiah 23:1-2
“Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! declares the Lord... You have scattered my flock and have driven them away, and you have not attended to them.”
Also: 2 Timothy 4:3-4 “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions...”

MESSAGE: SHEPHERDS, RETURN TO THE HEART OF GOD
The Lord is crying over His sheep in these last days.

1. THE WARNING TO SHEPHERDS
God says “Woe” to shepherds who feed themselves instead of the flock.
When a shepherd chases the world and its things - money, fame, titles - he leaves the sheep hungry.
When he preaches prosperity gospel but not holiness gospel, he trades eternal gifts for temporary bread.
John 10:12 “The hireling... sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees.”
A flock that is not sanctified is a flock that will be lost. Because “without holiness no one will see the Lord” Hebrews 12:14

2. THE WARNING TO THE CHURCH
Saved church, wake up!
Jealousy, hatred, gossip, disobedience to the Word... this is not the garment of Christ Colossians 3:8-10.
When we cling to itching ears and reject sound doctrine, we become easy prey.
God’s will is not just prosperity in the pocket. It is sanctification of the soul 1 Thessalonians 4:3.
Jesus did not die to make us rich. He died to make us HOLY.

3. STRENGTHENING & ENCOURAGEMENT
But there is hope. 1 Peter 5:4 “And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”
To every faithful shepherd: Keep feeding the Word. Keep calling to repentance.
To every sheep: Return to the Word. Love holiness more than miracles. Love Jesus more than blessings.

PRAYER:
Father, raise up shepherds after Your own heart Jeremiah 3:15. Purify the pulpit. Purify the pew. Let us not trade eternity for earth. Sanctify us by Your truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

ACTION TODAY:
For Shepherds/Teachers: Check your message. Is it pointing people to Jesus and holiness, or just to prosperity?
For All: Forgive anyone you have bitterness toward today. Gossip and hatred grieve the Holy Spirit Ephesians 4:30-31.