DON'T BE BROUGHT UNDER THE POWER OF ANYTHING There is nothing wrong with enjoying good things. The problem begins when good things begin controlling you. Many of us had favourite biscuits when we were younger. Every time you passed the shop, you bought them. Eventually, the excitement disappeared, you moved on. That is how it should be. Nothing should master you. Whether it is biscuits, soft drinks, noodles or any other habit, learn to stop and ask yourself: "Is this controlling me?" The issue is not whether something is lawful. The issue is whether it has power over you. The Bible says: "All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any." (1 Corinthians 6:12) Many unhealthy habits continue simply because people refuse to discipline themselves. People choose convenience over stewardship. Then, years later, they suffer the consequences. Your body is God's gift. Take care of it. Don't keep doing things simply because they are easy. Learn discipline. Learn restraint. Learn to say no. Freedom is not the ability to do whatever you want. Freedom is the ability to refuse anything that tries to master you. If a habit has become your master, break it. Don't negotiate with it. Don't excuse it. Break it for your health. Break it for your future. Break it because you belong to Christ, and nothing but Christ should rule your life. Shalom!

Just because I post about God doesn’t mean I have everything figured out. It doesn’t mean I’m healed, perfect, or somehow better than anyone else. I’m still human. I’m still a sinner. I still struggle with things I don’t always talk about. I still have days when my faith feels stronger and days when I feel tired, lost, confused, or distant. I make mistakes. I fall back into old habits. I overthink. I doubt. I get frustrated. I have moments where I don’t understand what God is doing in my life. But that’s exactly why I talk about Him. My faith isn’t a declaration that I’ve arrived. It’s a reminder that I’m still being carried. Every day, His grace meets me where I am. Not where I think I should be. Not where everyone expects me to be. Right where I am. Sometimes God doesn’t change the situation immediately. Sometimes He changes the strength I have to face it. Sometimes the miracle is simply getting through another day without giving up. So if you see me posting about God, don’t assume my life is perfect. I’m not preaching from a place of perfection. I’m sharing from a place of dependence. I need grace too. And honestly, that’s the beautiful part. I don’t have to be perfect to come back to God. I just have to keep coming back. Every time I fall, His grace reminds me that falling isn’t the end of my story. I’m still learning. Still growing. Still struggling. Still believing. And every day, somehow, His grace picks me back up. 💜 #quotes #relatable #inspiration #SpiritualGrowth #TrustGod #fyp

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.

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.

I belong to a Celebrate Recovery group and this is a prayer they say in every meeting. Celebrate Recovery is a global Christian organization that is for everyone. To me it is the hands and feet of the church in helping people with hurts, hang-ups and habits. It is a tremendous support group for any issue in your life and we all have issues. It is not just for addicts and in fact only about 20% of the people could be classified with addictions. This is to help with marriages and relationships, pain, anxiety, anger, and unforgiveness and it is all built on the Gospel. God bless!

I will be grateful to God for giving me such a beautiful life. And I will also pray to God that I can correct the bad habits that are in my body. Amen✝️❤️

“I INDEED… BUT HE” “I indeed baptize you with water... but He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire.” — Matthew 3:11 There comes a point in our Christian life when we must be able to say: “I indeed… but HE.” In other words: “I have reached the end of myself, but Jesus begins where I end.” There are things we cannot change or accomplish by our own strength. We may try harder, make promises, or depend on our own goodness, but eventually we must recognize: “I cannot do this by myself. I need Jesus.” That is where Jesus begins to work. Am I truly ready for Jesus? Jesus cannot fully work in us while we are hiding things from Him. When He comes into our lives, He brings things into the light. He may show us attitudes, habits, pride, wrong desires, unforgiveness, or things we thought were acceptable. Where we know something is wrong, Jesus wants to deal with it. But sometimes we think we are already good enough. We defend ourselves and say: “I'm not that bad.” “At least I'm better than others.” “God understands me.” That attitude can prevent us from experiencing God's deeper work in our lives. True repentance Repentance is more than simply saying, “I have sinned.” It is recognizing: “Lord, I cannot save myself. I cannot make myself holy. I desperately need You.” It means giving up our excuses and our attempts to defend ourselves. We come before God with humility and say: “Jesus, I need You completely.” “He shall baptize you” John the Baptist said: > “He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire.” The focus is not on what we can accomplish. The focus is on what Jesus does. I indeed—but HE. I am weak—but He is strong. I cannot change myself—but He can change me. I cannot make myself holy—but He sanctifies me. I cannot do it—but He can. Stop trying to do God's work through your own strength. Come to the point where you can honestly say: > “I indeed am at the end of myself—but He begins there.” Get to the place where Jesus does everything.

Guidelines for living. August 21st, 2026 Here’s The Only Way to Begin to Love This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:10-11 The greatest rivers in the world usually begin on the cold, frozen slopes of high mountains as the sun begins to melt snow and ice, and from the trickle of crystal-clear water a steam begins to flow and eventually a cascade of water plummets down the mountain. In the valley far below, the stream becomes a river, then a great river which we call the Nile, the Amazon, the Ganges, the Rhine, or whatever. By the time these massive bodies of water reach the ocean, they may be kilometers wide, and they are muddy and polluted. Now, apply that same concept to the biblical truth that God is love. John tells us this in the New Testament, and the farther we are from Him, seemingly the more polluted love becomes. By the time it has been filtered through human lust, what we call love is a far cry from the compelling love which caused God to send His Son long ago. Love is not a platitude, it is an action, an unconditional commitment to care, a decision of your heart. True, love is what the world needs. The words of a song popular a generation ago said it all: “The world is dying, dying for a little bit of love,” says one verse. If you’ve been following this series based on Paul’s great chapter on love, found in the New Testament in 1 Corinthians 13, you have focused on love’s characteristics, but any discussion of the subject would be incomplete without a few words of encouragement for you whose river of love has either evaporated in the desert of life, or else become so polluted you hardly know what the real thing is. When God touches your heart, your life will change. God takes up residence in your life, and the mud of sin is washed away. When pollution is eliminated, you start loving. This is the miracle of conversion. This is the answer to the lovelessness and the selfishness which destroys relationships. Joining a church, turning over a new leaf, going to confession, just “being religious,” is not the solution. A relationship with God through His son is the only way you will really begin to love. I will give you three simple guidelines that will help. Guideline #1: Acknowledge you need a relationship with God and confess that sin has stopped the flow of love in your life. It’s easy to point a finger and say, “Well, it was his fault; her fault.” The solution is saying, “God, I need you. Forgive me. Touch my life.” Guideline #2: Ask God’s forgiveness for your failure—not the other person’s—and ask Him to be Lord and Savior. Jesus gave us a promise. He said, “I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and have fellowship with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20). That promise has your name on it, friend. Guideline #3: Begin loving in simple steps, one day at a time. When you fail and fall back into those old habits and a loveless way, quickly admit your wrong; ask God’s help to overcome it. Friend, you can talk about love until you have calluses on your vocal cords, but until you get back to the fountain and the source of love, who is God Himself, you’ll never lay hold of the real thing: the God kind of love that changes the world. So, go back to the source. It’s the only way to fill your cup and have enough left over for someone else in your life. Love is not a pious platitude. It’s the answer. Resource Reading: 1 John 4:1-21

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: YOUNG PEOPLE, DON'T WASTE YOUR YOUTH. Theme: Your Youth Is a Gift, Not a Season to Throw Away. «“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…” — Ecclesiastes 12:1 (KJV)» 🔥DON'T WASTE WHAT YOU CANNOT REPLACE Young person, you can recover lost money. You can replace a broken phone. You can rebuild a failed business. But you cannot recover yesterday. Youth is one of the greatest gifts God gives a person—and one of the easiest gifts to waste. You have energy today. You have time today. You have opportunities today. You have the ability to learn, build, serve, dream, pray, create and make a difference. But the enemy wants you to believe: «“You are still young. There is plenty of time. Enjoy yourself now. You will become serious with God later.”» That is a dangerous lie. The devil does not always destroy young people through terrible sins. Sometimes he destroys them through distraction. He keeps them busy but unproductive. Connected to everyone but disconnected from God. Entertained but empty. Informed but not transformed. Chasing popularity while losing purpose. Young people, don't waste your youth! Your youth is not merely for having fun. It is preparation for purpose. 1. REMEMBER YOUR CREATOR BEFORE YOU WASTE YOURYEARS Ecclesiastes 12:1 «“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…”» Solomon did not say, “Remember your Creator when you become old.” He said “now.” God deserves your youthful years—not merely the leftovers of your life. Many people say: «“When I get older, I will serve God.”» But what if God wants to use you now? David was young when he confronted Goliath. Samuel was young when God called him. Josiah was young when he became king and began reforming Israel. Timothy was young when Paul recognized his spiritual potential. Your age does not disqualify you from God's purpose. Deep Insight Youth is not an excuse for spiritual laziness. The earlier you surrender your life to God, the more years you can spend fulfilling His purpose. Don't give God your retirement. Give Him your strength. Don't give God your leftovers. Give Him your first fruits. 2. DON'T ALLOW PLEASURE TO STEAL YOUR PURPOSE 1 John 2:15–17 «“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world…”» There is nothing wrong with enjoying life. But there is a difference between enjoying God's blessings and becoming enslaved to worldly pleasures. Social media can become a distraction. Entertainment can become an addiction. Relationships can become an idol. Money can become a master. Sexual temptation can destroy destiny. And the desire to be accepted can cause a young person to compromise convictions. Ask yourself: What is consuming most of my time? Because what controls your time will eventually influence your life. You cannot spend five hours every day feeding your flesh and expect your spirit to remain strong. You cannot constantly consume content that weakens your values and expect your character to remain strong. Be careful what you repeatedly watch, listen to, follow, admire and imitate. 3. USE YOUR YOUTH TO BUILD, NOT JUST TO CONSUME 1 Timothy 4:12 «“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers…”» Paul did not tell Timothy: «“Because you are young, wait until you become older.”» He said: «“Be an example.”» Young people should not only be consumers. Build something. Learn a skill. Study the Word. Develop your character. Serve in church. Help people. Create something useful. Learn technology. Develop your gifts. Start preparing for your future. Don't spend your entire youth watching other people build their dreams. Remember this: Entertainment gives you moments. Development gives you capacity. Your future will demand skills you must begin developing today. Your character must grow alongside your career. Your spiritual life must grow alongside your education. Your wisdom must grow alongside your influence. 4. CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS CAREFULLY Proverbs 13:20 «“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”» Not everybody who laughs with you is helping you. Not everybody who calls you “brother” or “sister” is taking you toward your destiny. Some relationships are assignments from God. Others are distractions from your purpose. Look at the people closest to you. Do they encourage you to become better—or pressure you to become worse? Do they respect your faith? Do they challenge you to grow? Can you say “no” around them without losing the friendship? Can you discuss your dreams with them? Can they correct you? Your environment matters. If you constantly surround yourself with people who celebrate foolishness, eventually foolishness will become normal to you. Choose friends who can pray with you, grow with you, correct you and walk with you toward God's purpose. 5. DON'T WAIT FOR TOMORROW TO OBEY GOD Ephesians 5:15–16 «“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”» Notice the phrase: “Redeeming the time.” Time is a currency you cannot save forever. Every day you receive 24 hours. You can waste them. You can invest them. But you cannot reverse them. There are young people who are praying for opportunities while wasting the opportunities already in their hands. Some are waiting for a miracle while refusing to develop discipline. Some are asking God for greatness while neglecting the small responsibilities He has already given them. Faith does not cancel responsibility. Pray—but prepare. Believe—but build. Trust God—but discipline yourself. Ask for opportunities—but develop the capacity to handle them. 📖 BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: JOSEPH — A YOUNG MAN WHO DID NOT WASTE HIS SEASON Joseph was young when his life suddenly changed. He was betrayed by his brothers. He was sold into slavery. He was falsely accused. He was imprisoned. Yet Joseph did not allow his circumstances to determine his character. Genesis 39:9 When tempted by Potiphar's wife, Joseph said: «“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”» Joseph understood something powerful: His future was more valuable than his temporary pleasure. He could have said: «“Nobody will know.”» But Joseph knew that God was watching. He could have compromised. He could have become bitter. He could have wasted his youth in anger. Instead, he remained faithful. And eventually, God lifted him from the prison to the palace. The lesson: Don't destroy tomorrow because of today's temptation. That relationship may be temporary. That pleasure may be temporary. That opportunity may be temporary. But the consequences of some decisions can follow you for years. Young person, protect your future. 🔥 DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS 1. Your youth is a seed season. What you plant now will influence what you harvest later. Plant prayer. Plant discipline. Plant knowledge. Plant integrity. Plant service. Plant righteousness. 2. Your habits are building your future before you see it. You may not see the harvest today, but your daily decisions are constructing tomorrow. 3. God is more interested in your character than your popularity. You may impress thousands of people online and still disappoint God privately. Character is who you are when nobody is watching. 4. Not every open door is a God-given opportunity. Some doors are traps disguised as opportunities. Learn to ask: «“Lord, is this good for me—or merely attractive to me?”» 5. Your greatest battle may not be against people; it may be against distraction. A distracted generation can have enormous potential and accomplish very little. Protect your attention. What captures your attention repeatedly can eventually shape your direction. ✅ PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE Starting today: 1. Give God the first part of your day. Pray. Read Scripture. Listen for God's direction. 2. Set goals for your life. Spiritual goals, educational goals, financial goals, relational goals and career goals. 3. Learn valuable skills. Don't depend only on certificates. Develop practical competence. 4. Control your phone; don't let your phone control you. 5. Choose your friends intentionally. 6. Avoid sexual and moral compromises. 7. Find a mature Christian mentor. 8. Serve somewhere. Don't just attend church—be useful in God's house. 9. Stop comparing your journey with other people's journeys. 10. Start now. Don't wait until everything is perfect. 🤔 QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION Take a moment and answer these honestly: - If I continue living exactly as I am today, where will I be five years from now? - What am I doing with my time? - What habit is secretly destroying my potential? - Who are the people influencing my decisions? - Am I becoming closer to God or farther from Him? - What gift has God placed inside me? - What am I doing to develop that gift? - What temptation am I repeatedly entertaining? - What should I stop doing? - What should I start doing? - If Jesus returned today, would I be satisfied with how I used my youth? 🙏 POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer for Purpose Father, open my eyes to understand Your purpose for my life. Help me not to wander through life without direction. 2. Prayer for Wisdom Lord, give me wisdom to make decisions that will preserve my future and honor You. 3. Prayer Against Distraction Every distraction assigned to waste my time, weaken my faith and derail my destiny, I reject it in Jesus' name. 4. Prayer for Discipline Holy Spirit, give me the discipline to do what is right even when nobody is watching. 5. Prayer for Purity Lord, keep my heart, mind and body pure. Give me strength to overcome every temptation that seeks to destroy my future. 6. Prayer for Good Relationships Father, connect me with people who will strengthen my faith, sharpen my character and help me fulfill my purpose. 7. Prayer for Courage Lord, give me courage to stand for truth even when my generation is going in the opposite direction. 8. Prayer for Impact Father, let my life become a blessing to my generation. May I not pass through this world without making a positive difference. 🔥 STRONG CLOSING: DON'T WASTE YOUR YOUTH Young person, you are not too young for God to use you. You are not too young to pray. You are not too young to preach. You are not too young to serve. You are not too young to lead. You are not too young to build. You are not too young to make a difference. David had a sling. Joseph had a dream. Samuel had a listening ear. Timothy had youthful strength. And God used them. What is in your hands? What gift is inside you? What dream has God placed in your heart? What are you doing with the years God has given you? Don't wait until you are old before you become serious with God. Don't spend your best years chasing things that cannot satisfy your soul. Don't exchange your destiny for temporary pleasure. Don't allow social media to consume the years that should be building your future. Don't let fear paralyze you. Don't let failure define you. Don't let your past imprison you. Rise. Pray. Learn. Build. Serve. Grow. Your youth is not a waiting room. Your youth is a training ground for destiny. And when you stand before God one day, may you be able to say: «“Lord, I did not waste what You gave me.”» FINAL CHARGE Young people, don't waste your youth. Give God your strength. Give God your gifts. Give God your dreams. Give God your time. Give God your future. And watch what He can do with a life that is completely surrendered to Him. Your youth is passing. Your purpose is waiting. Start today. If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do you 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 https://afrikdp.com/book/d3f4fa1c7e CONTACT - Whatsapp +2349024173027, +2449055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com

FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST 2026 Topic: The Friend Who Pulls You Closer Bible Reference “Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NKJV) A Short Story Daniel had always considered himself strong enough to make his own decisions. He believed that no friend could influence him if he did not want to be influenced. Then he became close to a group of young people who seemed confident, successful, and exciting. At first, there was nothing obviously wrong with the friendship. They talked, joked, helped one another, and spent time together. But slowly, Daniel began changing. They started making fun of people who took their faith seriously. Daniel laughed along, even when some of the jokes made him uncomfortable. Soon, he stopped attending some church meetings because his friends had other plans. His prayer life also became weaker. Whenever he wanted to pray, someone was calling him to hang out. Whenever he wanted to read his Bible, there was another conversation waiting on his phone. One Sunday morning, Daniel's older cousin asked him a simple question. “Are your friends helping you become the person you have been praying to become?” Daniel became silent. He had never looked at his friendships that way before. He began to realize that his friends were not necessarily bad people, but their influence was taking him somewhere he did not want to go. Daniel decided to become more intentional about the people he allowed close to him. He did not hate his old friends. He simply understood that not everyone could have the same level of access to his life. Over time, he became close to people who encouraged his faith, challenged him to grow, and reminded him of his purpose. Today's Message The people around you can influence you more than you realize. Your friends can affect your language, habits, choices, relationships, spiritual life, and even your understanding of what is normal. The Bible warns us not to be deceived because bad company can corrupt good character. This does not mean you should hate people who do not share your faith. Jesus Himself reached people who were far from God. But there is a difference between influencing people and allowing people to influence you away from God. Be intentional about your closest friendships. Ask yourself whether the people closest to you are helping you become more disciplined, more godly, more focused, and more purposeful. A good friend will not always tell you what you want to hear. Sometimes, a good friend will tell you the truth because they care about who you are becoming. Choose friends who make it easier, not harder, to walk with God. What To Do Today 1. Examine the influence of your closest friends. 2. Spend more time with people who encourage your spiritual growth. 3. Do not be afraid to create healthy boundaries with negative influences. 4. Be the kind of friend who also helps others become better. Prayer Lord, give me wisdom in choosing my friends. Surround me with people who will encourage me to follow You and fulfil my purpose. Help me also to be a godly influence in the lives of others. In Jesus' name, Amen. Daily Challenge Send a message to one friend who has positively influenced your life and thank them for helping you become a better person. ©️ Anthony Ijere Christian Author and Revivalist https://chat.whatsapp.com/BDs9qaNMQumKTicv7uU7SJ?s=cl&p=a&mlu=0&ilr=0 https://t.me/anthonyijere