*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:* 1️⃣ Begin with God's Word: Spend time reading Scripture before filling your mind with social media, news, or other voices. 2️⃣ Read Mark 4:1–25: Meditate especially on Jesus' teaching about hearing and receiving God's Word. 3️⃣ 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.” 4️⃣ Check your influences: Identify one negative voice, habit, or source of information that has been affecting your faith and reduce its influence. 5️⃣ Speak life: Intentionally encourage at least one person today with words of faith, hope, and love. 6️⃣ Apply what you hear: Ask yourself, “What is God asking me to do with what I have learned?” Then take one practical step. 7️⃣ 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: clementoyadosu[gmail].com

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: MONITORING OUR CHILDREN IN THIS PERIOD OF AI Main Text: Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 4:23; 1 Corinthians 15:33; Ephesians 5:15–16 Supporting Scriptures: Deuteronomy 6:6–7; Psalm 101:3; Philippians 4:8; Church, we are raising children in a generation where the greatest influence in a child's life may no longer be the person sitting beside them—it may be the device in their hand! A child can sit quietly in the living room while, through a smartphone, they are exposed to conversations, images, ideas, strangers, misinformation, pornography, violence, manipulation, and values that may be completely contrary to what their parents are teaching them. And now we have Artificial Intelligence—AI. AI can answer questions, write stories, create pictures, tutor students, translate languages, generate videos and help children learn. It can be an incredible tool. But every powerful tool must be accompanied by powerful wisdom. The question is not simply: «"Does my child use AI?"» The deeper question is: «"Who is shaping my child's mind, values, identity and worldview while they use AI?"» We cannot afford to be parents who know where our children sleep but do not know what is shaping their minds. 1. OUR CHILDREN ARE GOD'S RESPONSIBILITY ENTRUSTED TO US Proverbs 22: «"Train up a child in the way he should go..."» Notice that Scripture does not say, "Buy the child a phone and let the internet train them." It says, "Train up a child." Parenting is not merely providing food, clothing, education and accommodation. Parenting is spiritual stewardship. God has entrusted children to parents and guardians for a season. That means we must ask: - What are they watching? - What are they listening to? - Who are they talking to? - What questions are they asking AI? - What answers are they receiving? - What ideas are they beginning to believe? - What kind of people are influencing them online? Short Story Imagine a parent who carefully locks the physical doors of the house every night. The windows are secured. The gate is locked. The children are safe inside. But the same parent gives a child an unrestricted smartphone and never checks what is entering through that digital door. The physical door is locked, but the digital door is wide open. Church, monitoring our children is not necessarily an expression of distrust. It is an expression of responsibility. 2. MONITORING IS NOT THE SAME AS SPYING Some parents say: "I trust my child." That is good. But trust must grow alongside maturity. A five-year-old cannot be given the same level of independence as a seventeen-year-old. The Bible says: Proverbs 4:23 «"Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."» If we are commanded to guard our hearts, we should also teach our children how to guard theirs. Monitoring should include: - knowing which apps they use; - understanding the AI tools they access; - discussing what they ask AI; - setting age-appropriate boundaries; - checking privacy settings; - teaching them not to share personal information; - teaching them that AI can be wrong; - teaching them to report disturbing content; - creating an environment where they can tell you what they encounter without fear. The goal is not merely control. The goal is protection, discipleship and preparation. 3. AI CAN BE A TOOL, BUT IT MUST NEVER BECOME A PARENT This is one of the deepest dangers of this generation. A child may begin asking AI questions they are afraid to ask their parents. "Why am I different?" "Why don't people like me?" "What should I do about this relationship?" "Am I ugly?" "What should I believe?" "Why does God allow suffering?" "Should I tell my parents this?" AI may produce an answer instantly. But instant answers are not the same thing as godly wisdom. A machine can generate information. A parent provides relationship. AI can imitate conversation. It cannot replace covenantal love, godly correction, spiritual discernment and the presence of a parent. Our children need to know: «"Before you ask the internet everything, you can come and talk to me."» If our children are afraid to talk to us, they will find somebody—or something—to talk to. 4. TEACH YOUR CHILDREN THAT AI IS NOT GOD This generation needs digital discernment. AI can sound confident and still be wrong. It can generate convincing information without possessing biblical wisdom. Therefore, our children must learn: AI is a tool, not an authority. The Bible says: 1 Thessalonians 5:21 «"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."» And: Philippians 4:8 «"Whatsoever things are true... honest... just... pure... lovely... of good report... think on these things."» Teach your children to ask: Is it true? Is it biblical? Is it wise? Is it appropriate? What fruit will this produce in my life? This is the difference between merely raising technology users and raising discerning Christians. 5. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THERE IS A CRISIS Many parents only begin monitoring when something has already gone wrong. When grades collapse. When behavior changes. When secrecy increases. When the child becomes addicted to a device. When inappropriate content is discovered. When a relationship becomes dangerous. When the child begins withdrawing from family. Prevention is better than emergency intervention. Deuteronomy 6:6–7 teaches parents to speak God's Word to their children continually—in everyday life. That means discipleship should happen before the crisis. Talk about technology at the dinner table. Talk about online friendships. Talk about pornography. Talk about manipulation. Talk about AI. Talk about identity. Talk about truth. Talk about faith. Talk about temptation. If we make every difficult subject taboo, the internet will become their teacher. 6. MONITOR THEIR SCREEN, BUT ALSO MONITOR THEIR HEART This is where many parents miss the deeper issue. You can monitor screen time and still miss what is happening inside the child. A child may spend only one hour online but be deeply influenced by what they consumed. Therefore, don't only ask: "How long were you online?" Also ask: "What did you learn today?" "What did you see that confused you?" "Did anything online make you afraid?" "Did anyone say something to you that made you uncomfortable?" "What do you think about what you saw?" "What would Jesus say about that?" These questions open the heart. 7. PARENTS MUST BECOME DIGITALLY LITERATE Parents, we cannot say: "I don't understand technology." Our children are growing up in a technological environment. We don't need to know everything. But we must know enough to guide them. Learn the basics of: - AI chatbots; - social media platforms; - privacy settings; - parental controls; - deepfakes and manipulated media; - online scams; - inappropriate content; - AI-generated images and videos; - cyberbullying; - digital footprints. Don't surrender the digital world simply because it is unfamiliar. If our children are learning the technology, parents must learn enough to disciple them within it. 8. THE GREATEST FILTER IS NOT A PARENTAL CONTROL APP—IT IS CHARACTER. Technology can be restricted. But eventually, children grow up. They will have their own devices. They will leave home. They will make their own decisions. So our ultimate goal cannot be: "My child behaves well because I am watching." Our goal must be: "My child chooses what is right even when nobody is watching." That is discipleship. Psalm 101:3 says: «"I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes..."» Teach your children that holiness is not merely about avoiding punishment. Holiness is choosing what honors God. DEEP INSIGHT: THE BATTLE IS FOR THE MIND Church, understand this: The battle of this generation is not merely over devices. It is over attention. Whoever controls a person's attention repeatedly has tremendous influence over that person's thinking. Repeated thoughts shape beliefs. Beliefs influence choices. Choices establish habits. Habits shape character. And character influences destiny. Therefore, when we monitor what our children consume, we are not being unnecessarily strict. We are participating in the protection of their minds. Romans 12:2 says: «"Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind."» AI is not automatically evil. Technology is not automatically evil. But anything powerful without discernment can become destructive. The Christian response is not fear. The Christian response is wisdom. A POWERFUL ILLUSTRATION Imagine giving a child a car. The car is not evil. It can take them to school. It can take them to church. It can take them to the hospital. It can help them serve others. But would a responsible parent hand a young child the keys and say: "Go anywhere you want. I trust you." No. Why? Because power requires maturity. The same principle applies to technology. Access should increase as maturity increases. Freedom should be accompanied by responsibility. REFLECTION Parents, guardians, and the Church, let us examine ourselves. Ask yourself: 1. Do I know what my child does online? 2. Do I know which AI tools my child uses? 3. Have I taught my child how to distinguish truth from misinformation? 4. Can my child talk to me about uncomfortable online experiences? 5. Have I created reasonable digital boundaries in my home? 6. Am I monitoring my child's heart, not just their device? 7. Am I modelling responsible technology use myself? 8. Am I teaching my child God's Word strongly enough that they can stand when I am not there? And perhaps the most important question: «If the world is discipling my child every day through technology, what am I doing every day to disciple my child through God's Word?» THE MESSAGE TO PARENTS Don't be afraid of AI. Understand it. Don't worship technology. Use it wisely. Don't abandon your children to the internet. Walk with them. Don't merely restrict them. Teach them. Don't only monitor their screens. Disciple their hearts. Don't wait for tomorrow. Start today. Because the goal is not to raise children who are technologically backward. The goal is to raise children who are technologically capable, spiritually grounded, morally discerning and deeply rooted in Christ. CLOSING CHARGE Proverbs 22:6 reminds us: «"Train up a child in the way he should go..."» Parents, the world is already training our children. Social media is training them. Entertainment is training them. Algorithms are training them. Friends are training them. And AI can influence them. But God has given parents the assignment of training them too. So let us rise to the responsibility. Let us monitor with wisdom. Let us communicate with love. Let us establish boundaries. Let us learn technology. Let us teach discernment. Let us pray. And above everything else— let us point our children to Jesus Christ. Because technology may shape their environment, but Christ must shape their identity. PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer for Wisdom Father, give us wisdom to raise our children in this rapidly changing technological generation. Help us know when to permit, when to restrict, when to correct and when to guide, in Jesus' name. Amen. 2. Prayer for Protection Lord, protect our children from harmful content, dangerous relationships, manipulation, exploitation, pornography, cyberbullying and every destructive influence that may come through technology. Amen. 3. Prayer for Discernment Father, give our children the spirit of discernment. Let them recognize deception and distinguish truth from error. Let them not believe everything they see, hear or receive from AI and the internet. Amen. 4. Prayer for Strong Christian Identity Lord Jesus, establish our children in You. Let their identity not be determined by social media, artificial intelligence, peer pressure or worldly standards. Let them know that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by You. Amen. 5. Prayer for Parents Father, strengthen parents and guardians. Give us patience, understanding, courage and wisdom. Help us not to be careless with the souls You have entrusted to us. Amen. 6. Prayer for Communication Lord, make our homes places where children can speak openly without fear. Remove unhealthy secrecy and build trust between parents and children. Amen. 7. Prayer for Digital Wisdom Father, teach our children to use technology for learning, creativity, service and the advancement of Your Kingdom rather than for destruction. Amen. 8. Prayer Against Negative Influence Every influence seeking to pull our children away from Christ, lose your hold, in the name of Jesus. Every voice contrary to God's purpose for their lives, be silenced, in Jesus' name. Amen. 9. Prayer for the Church Lord, help the Church understand this generation and respond with wisdom. Raise Christian parents, teachers, mentors and leaders who will guide young people according to Your Word. Amen. 10. Prayer of Dedication Father, we dedicate our children afresh to You. May they grow in wisdom, stature, favor and the knowledge of Jesus Christ. May technology serve them rather than enslave them. May their minds be guarded, their hearts be pure, their purpose be preserved and their lives bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. FINAL DECLARATION I declare over every child: You will not be a victim of this generation. You will not be controlled by technology. You will not be deceived by falsehood. You will not lose your identity. You will not be destroyed by the influences of this age. Your mind belongs to Christ. Your purpose belongs to God. Your future is in His hands. You will grow in wisdom. You will walk in truth. You will discern good from evil. You will use technology wisely. And in this generation of AI, you will still know, love and serve Jesus Christ! In Jesus' mighty name. Amen! "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." — Joshua 24:15 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 sela shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks

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

Daily Devotional. Be kind and tenderhearted. Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 Let the tenderness and mercy that Jesus has revealed in His own precious life be an example to us of the manner in which we should treat our fellow beings.... Many have fainted and become discouraged in the great struggle of life, whom one word of kindly cheer and courage would have strengthened to overcome.... We cannot tell how far reaching may be our tender words of kindness, our Christ-like efforts to lighten some burden. The erring can be restored in no other way than in the spirit of meekness, gentleness, and tender love. In all your transactions with your fellow men never forget that you are dealing with God’s property. Be kind; be pitiful; be courteous. Respect God’s purchased possession. Treat one another with tenderness and courtesy. If you have enmity, suspicion, envy, and jealousy in your hearts, you have a work to do to make these things right. Confess your sins; come into harmony with your brethren. Speak well of them. Throw out no unfavorable hints, no suggestions that will awaken distrust in the minds of others. Guard their reputation as sacredly as you would have them guard yours; love them as you would be loved of Jesus. The grace of God leads men to place themselves in all their business transactions in the place of those with whom they are dealing. It leads men to look not only on their own things but also on the things of others. It leads them to reveal tenderness, sympathy, and kindness. Cherishing a right spirit, living a holy life—this is what being Christlike means.... Let your life be controlled by the wide, generous principles of the Bible, the principles of good will, kindness, and courtesy. [236]

Amazing Facts. Daily Devotionals Is it possible for the devil to repent? August 19th, 2026 There’s no record of Christ offering to die for the fallen angels. But God is “merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth” (Exodus 34:6)—it’s just His nature—and I think He bore long with them. There was some kind of probation and mercy extended to Lucifer when he was first entering into his rebellion. The Scripture says, “He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham” (Hebrews 2:16). There’s a reason for the difference. Satan and his angels were created perfect. They were not deceived in the way that humans were deceived. Lucifer entered a high-handed rebellion into deception. He was made perfect but chose to be proud and to worship himself; whereas Adam and Eve were made in innocence and they were caught off guard by this rebellious fiend. So the devil was more culpable than humanity was. That’s why the Lord had mercy on humans and became one of us in order to save us. We know from the biblical account that before he sinned, Satan was known as Lucifer and stood in the very presence of God (see Isaiah 14:12). He was closest to the throne of God, and there wasn’t anything more that God could do to reveal His character to him. On the other hand, Adam and Eve were not in that same position. I believe that God gave Lucifer and the angels who believed his lies plenty of opportunity to realize the errors of their way. After all, God is a God of justice, and He’s not willing that any of His creatures should perish. Key Bible Texts Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; (Hebrews 2:14 KJV)

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 --- 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 --- 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.

19-08-2026 Guard Your Heart With His Word Psalm 119:9 (AMP) “How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping watch on himself and keeping his life in accordance with Your word [conforming his life to Your precepts].” In a world filled with distractions, opinions, temptations, and voices competing for our attention, God gives us a simple but powerful answer: stay close to His Word. Psalm 119:9 reminds us that purity isn't simply about avoiding the wrong things. It is about intentionally choosing to let God's Word shape the way we think, speak, act, and live. Our hearts are constantly being influenced by what we watch, listen to, read, and allow into our minds. That's why we cannot afford to treat God's Word as something we only turn to when life gets difficult. His Word is meant to guide us every day. When God's Word becomes our standard, it helps us recognize what doesn't belong in our lives. When temptation comes, His truth gives us something stronger to stand on. When we're confused, His Word gives direction. When we're discouraged, His promises remind us who God is. You don't have to be perfect to live a life that honors God. You simply need a heart that is willing to listen, obey, and continually return to Him. 💭 Ask yourself today: What am I allowing to influence my heart and decisions more than God's Word? Maybe today is the day to put down the things that are pulling you away from God and pick up His Word again. Let Scripture become louder than fear, temptation, comparison, and the opinions of others. 🙏 Prayer Father, thank You for giving me Your Word to guide and protect me. Help me to guard my heart and be intentional about what I allow into my life. Give me wisdom to recognize what is not pleasing to You and strength to walk away from it. Let Your Word transform my thoughts, shape my character, and direct my steps. When I am tempted or uncertain, remind me of Your truth. Help me to live a life that reflects You—not perfectly, but faithfully. In Jesus' name, Amen. ❤️ ✨ Today's Reminder What you continually put into your heart will eventually influence the way you live. Fill your heart with God's Word, and let His truth lead your life. 📌 “Lord, let Your Word be the standard I live by, not the world around me.”

Words Reveal the Heart Scripture Judges 12:6 (NKJV) Then they said to him Say now Shibboleth And he said Sibboleth for he could not pronounce it right Then they would take him and kill him at the fords of the Jordan There fell at that time forty two thousand Ephraimites Guarding Against Division and Pride Judges chapter 12 records a tragic conflict not between Israel and foreign enemies but within Israel itself. After Jephthah’s victory the tribe of Ephraim confronts him in anger. Pride and accusation lead to civil strife. What begins as disagreement escalates into deadly division. Verse 6 shows how something as small as pronunciation became a test of identity and ultimately a cause of death. The word Shibboleth became a dividing line that exposed differences and fueled hostility. Pride and rivalry turned brothers into enemies. This chapter reminds us that internal division can be more destructive than external opposition. The enemy was no longer outside Israel but within. Pride wounded relationships and caused unnecessary loss. For believers today Judges 12 is a warning about the power of words and attitudes. Pride and rivalry can damage unity in families churches and communities. God calls His people to humility reconciliation and peace. Division often begins with small offenses that grow when left unchecked. Reflection Questions 1. Have I allowed pride or offense to create division in my relationships 2. Do my words build unity or contribute to conflict 3. How can I pursue peace when disagreement arises Prayer Lord God guard my heart from pride and division. Help me to speak words that build unity and reflect Your love. Teach me to pursue peace and humility rather than rivalry and accusation. In Jesus name Amen.

Lifeline Today Wednesday August 19 Anger Gives Wrong Label Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool. Ecclesiastes 7:9 (NLT) Anger is not sinful. It becomes a sin when it gets uncontrollable. Anger is usually manifested in a couple of ways. It can explode through lashing out at others, or it can implode inside you when you push it down and stuff it. Anger causes wrong labels because it narrows our focus. It makes us judge people or situations too fast. We see only the bad things. We miss the truth. A temporary frustration can give you a permanent, unfair label like "you are toxic," "selfish," or "stupid". A person is usually measured by the size of whatever it takes to make such mad. He is seen as completely bad instead of just human. Therefore, remember God’s Word in Ephesians 4:26 that says: “Do not let the sun go down on your anger” meaning: resolve every issue before the day is over. If your anger is prolonged for just two days, it has turned into sin. This is your day. Wisdom Fountain: "Anger is a wind which blows out the lamp of the mind." Prayer: Lord, I pray You calm my heart and quiet my mind. When anger rises, give me the supernatural grace to pause, breathe, and choose self-control. Guard my lips from harsh words, replace my frustration with Your patience, and help me see every situation through Your eyes in Jesus' name.