THANKFUL THURSDAY MORNING PRAYER! “O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” — Psalm 107:1 (KJV) Heavenly Father, in the mighty and precious name of Jesus, we come before You this Thursday morning with grateful hearts. Before we ask You for anything, we simply want to say THANK YOU! Thank You for waking us up this morning. Thank You for another day of life. Thank You for breath in our bodies, strength to rise, and another opportunity to experience Your grace and mercy. Your Word declares: “This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24 (KJV) Lord, everything may not be the way we want it to be, but You are still good. Some of us woke up carrying burdens nobody knows about. Some are worried about their families. Some are concerned about their health. Some are struggling financially. Some are grieving the loss of someone they love. Some are dealing with problems in their marriages and relationships. Some are concerned about their children. Some are waiting on employment or a better opportunity. Some are fighting battles in their minds. And some are simply tired from everything life has brought their way. But this morning, we choose gratitude over complaining, faith over fear, and worship over worry. Your Word tells us: “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV) Father, thank You for the prayers You have answered, and thank You for the prayers where the answer is still on the way. Thank You for the doors You opened, and thank You for the doors You closed because You knew what was on the other side. Thank You for what You allowed, and thank You for what You prevented. Thank You for protecting us from dangers seen and unseen. Thank You for the times we didn't know how we were going to make it—but somehow You made a way! Lord, somebody needs healing this morning. Touch bodies from the crowns of their heads to the soles of their feet. Strengthen those who are weak. Comfort those experiencing pain. Bring peace to troubled minds and encouragement to discouraged hearts. For Your Word declares: “For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD.” — Jeremiah 30:17 (KJV) Father, remember those who are grieving. When the house feels different, when memories bring tears, and when loneliness becomes overwhelming, wrap Your loving arms around them. Remind them: “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4 (KJV) Lord, bless our families. Restore broken relationships. Bring parents and children together. Strengthen marriages. Heal misunderstandings between siblings. Remove bitterness, unforgiveness, jealousy, division, and confusion. Teach us to love one another, forgive one another, pray for one another, and appreciate one another while we still have the opportunity. Father, somebody is worried about finances. Bills are due. Prices are high. Resources may be limited. Someone needs employment, a promotion, increased income, or simply enough to make it through. But we stand upon Your Word: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19 (KJV) Provide, Lord. Open doors. Give wisdom concerning finances. Create opportunities that no person can shut. Father, we pray for those struggling silently with anxiety, fear, depression, loneliness, disappointment, and discouragement. Your Word says: “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 (KJV) So this morning, we give You what we cannot carry. We give You our children. We give You our marriages. We give You our health. We give You our finances. We give You our careers. We give You our unanswered questions. We give You our fears about tomorrow. Lord, we put it all in Your hands! Father, draw those who do not know Jesus into a saving relationship with You. Let hearts be softened, lives transformed, and souls saved. Restore those who have walked away and remind them that there is still room at Your table. And Lord, as we go through this Thursday, order our steps. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” — Psalm 37:23 (KJV) Go before us into every workplace, classroom, hospital room, doctor's office, courtroom, meeting, highway, and home. Protect those traveling. Give wisdom to those making difficult decisions. Give strength to caregivers. Give peace to families facing uncertainty. Give hope to those waiting for an answer. Give courage to those beginning again. And give endurance to those who are simply trying to make it through another day. Most of all, Lord, keep us thankful. When we are tempted to focus on what we don't have, remind us of what You have already provided. When we become discouraged by how far we still have to go, remind us how far You have already brought us. When life becomes difficult, remind us that we are never walking alone. “For he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” — Hebrews 13:5 (KJV) So today we declare: THANK YOU, LORD, FOR LIFE! THANK YOU FOR GRACE! THANK YOU FOR MERCY! THANK YOU FOR PROTECTION! THANK YOU FOR PROVISION! THANK YOU FOR OUR FAMILIES! THANK YOU FOR EVERY BLESSING—SEEN AND UNSEEN! And even for the things we don't understand, we will still trust You. Let this Thankful Thursday be filled with peace in our minds, joy in our hearts, strength in our bodies, love in our homes, provision for our needs, and the presence of God everywhere we go. We give You all the glory, all the honor, and all the praise. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. AMEN AND AMEN! THURSDAY DECLARATION... Today, I choose gratitude over worry. I will thank God in every circumstance. I believe He is working even when I cannot see it. My family is covered, my steps are ordered, my needs will be supplied, and God will give me strength for whatever this day brings. This is the day the Lord has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it! In Jesus' name, Amen!

WHAT IS SIN? 1 JOHN 3:4 KJV 4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. Sin is breaking the Law, missing the mark set by God. The word "sin" is a translation of the Greek word "hamartia" which means to miss the mark. ROMANS 3:23 NLT 23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Religious tradition labels many things as sin which the Bible does not. People make up all kinds of rules based on what they think is right. But God is the judge and only God can decree what sin is. MARK 7:9 KJV 9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. God has not left us to wonder what sin is. The Bible reveals it to us. We don't have to guess, or make it up as we go. Just because you do something someone else thinks is wrong does not mean it is a sin. So don't let people condemn you over things the Bible does not clearly say are wrong. God is the judge. COLOSSIANS 2:8 NKJ 8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. Another error is to think being tempted is a sin. Temptation itself is not sin. You cannot help being tempted. Even Jesus was tempted -- but He never yielded. HEBREWS 4:15 NKJ 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. A common mistake is believing that having bad thoughts is a sin. It is not a sin to be tempted with bad thoughts. It only becomes a sin when we embrace those thoughts as our own and decide to act on them. JAMES 1:15 NLT 15 These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. God is against sin because it is deadly. Sin brings forth death, not life and blessing. God loves people, so He is against everything that harms people. All sin harms people. (Just because you don't see how a sin would harm anyone, does not mean you know more than God.) But no human can be right with God by never sinning. We have all fallen short and need a Savior. It is only by God's grace and His forgiveness that we can be right with God. ROMANS 3:20 NLT 20 For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. We can be glad because Jesus came to save sinners, and He paid the price for the forgiveness of all sins by shedding His blood. EPHESIANS 1:7 NKJ 7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace SAY THIS: Only God has the authority to decide what sin is. God bless you!

THEME: GETHSEMANE HOUR / ALONE WITH GOD TOPIC: O GOD, ARISE BY YOUR MERCY AND RESTORE ME TO THE RIGHT PATH Bible Reading: Psalm 23:1-6, Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 30:21, Psalm 138:7-8 Recommended Time of Prayer: Between 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Between 12:00 midnight to 3:00 am. Pray twice daily. 1. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries remain firmly aligned with Your purpose and assignment. Let every distraction and opposition against this commission be removed, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 16:18) 2. O Lord, by Your mercy, guide every member of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries into the right paths for their lives. Let no confusion or wrong direction hinder their divine purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 23:3) 3. O God, arise by Your mercy and bring me back to the right direction for my destiny fulfilment. Let every wrong turn be corrected and every lost opportunity that is according to Your will be restored, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 3:5-6) 4. Father, order my steps and keep me from decisions, relationships, and opportunities that would take me away from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 37:23) 5. Every influence drawing me away from God's will for my life, lose your hold over me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 30:21) 6. O Lord, give me spiritual discernment to recognize the path You have prepared for me and the wisdom to walk in it faithfully, in the name of Jesus Christ. (James 1:5) 7. Every confusion concerning my destiny, purpose, career, ministry, relationships, and important decisions, be replaced with divine clarity, in the name of Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 14:33) 8. Father, restore my focus whenever I become distracted from the assignment You have given me. Let nothing make me abandon Your purpose for my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 12:1-2) 9. Every voice speaking contrary to God's purpose for my life, be silenced. Let the counsel of the Lord prevail concerning me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 19:21) 10. O Lord, let every wrong foundation affecting my journey be corrected. Establish my feet upon the path of righteousness and purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 40:2) 11. Father, expose every relationship, opportunity, or association that appears beneficial but would ultimately derail my destiny. Give me grace to walk away from what You have not ordained, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 4:14-15) 12. Every power and circumstance attempting to push me outside God's ordained path, be frustrated by the power of God, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 54:17) 13. O Lord, let Your light shine upon my path. Where I have been uncertain, give me direction; where I have been delayed, give me movement; and where I have been distracted, restore my focus, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 119:105) 14. Every person who hates the good purpose of God for my life, let their evil counsel fail and their opposition come to nothing, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 2:1-4) 15. Father, let those who oppose Your righteous purpose for my life be put to shame. Let every evil expectation concerning my destiny be disappointed, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 35:4) 16. O Lord, arise and fight every battle that is beyond my strength. Let Your mercy preserve me from enemies who seek to divert me from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (2 Chronicles 20:12) 17. I declare that I will not miss God's purpose for my life. My steps shall be ordered by the Lord, and I shall fulfil the assignment He has committed into my hands, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 37:23) 18. Father, let Your mercy recover everything I have lost through wrong decisions, confusion, ignorance, or misplaced priorities, wherever recovery is according to Your perfect will, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Joel 2:25) 19. O Lord, preserve and prosper every current supporter and partner of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries. Guide them into Your perfect will, establish their steps, and let them fulfil their God-given purposes, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 20:1-4) 20. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries continually receive the wisdom, favour, and resources required to fulfil its kingdom assignment. Let nothing divert this commission from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 4:19) 21. O God, arise by Your mercy and bring me completely back to the right direction for my destiny fulfilment. Correct every wrong step, expose every deceptive path, restore my focus, and establish my feet in Your perfect will. Let everyone who hates Your righteous purpose for my life be disgraced in their evil counsel, while Your purpose concerning me stands firm. I shall fulfil my destiny and finish my course by Your grace, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 138:7-8; 2 Timothy 4:7) TAKE NOTE OF YOUR DREAMS AND HIDE YOUR FEEDBACK For more information/counselling: Email: dragnetgospel[gmail].com WhatsApp: +2348062343560 SHALOM ✋

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: REFUEL, RECHARGE, RELOAD, PART 1 MEMORIZE: "And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel." Hebrews 12:24 (KJV) BIBLE READING: LEVITICUS 17:11, MATTHEW 26:27-29 LEVITICUS 17:11 11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. MATTHEW 26:27-29 27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; 28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. MESSAGE: God created man such that he would constantly need refuelling. That is why He made sure that every day would be followed by a night so that, if you have worked very hard during the day, you can sleep and refuel your energy at night. Also, after you have eaten breakfast and worked for some time, you are expected to take a break for lunch to refuel. The Almighty God created hunger to remind you that you are running low on energy, so you can go ahead and recharge by eating. In the same way batteries must be recharged from time to time so they can remain effective, you must constantly recharge yourself spiritually so that you will not become spiritually ineffective. Whenever you begin to run low on spiritual energy, there will be a hunger in your spirit, and you will feel the need to refill. When that hunger comes, please don't ignore it. Start fasting and praying immediately to recharge your spiritual energy. If you allow the hunger to persist, you will become weak, and this may cause you to faint in the day of adversity (Proverbs 24:10). God, in His infinite mercy, has also provided the Holy Communion as a very effective way for Christians to refuel spiritually. The wine of the Holy Communion represents the blood of Jesus, and since the life of the flesh is in the blood (Leviticus 17:11), then the life of Jesus is in His blood. You cannot drink the blood of Jesus worthily and remain weak. People who belong to occult groups understand the power of blood. When members of the occult want to receive more power, they are asked to make sacrifices that involve blood. The greater the power they seek, the greater the sacrifices required. In most cases, those who rise to the highest levels of such groups are asked to drink the blood of their victims for quicker and greater empowerment. As children of God, when we partake of the Holy Communion, we partake of the blood of our risen Lord. Today's memory verse tells us that the blood of Jesus speaks better things than that of Abel. When you are weak, the blood of Jesus will speak strength and might into you. Beloved, never wait until you are completely drained of your spiritual strength. Whenever you find yourself getting weak spiritually, partake of the Holy Communion to recharge yourself, and you will receive fresh energy from the endless life of Christ. KEY POINT: Partaking of the Holy Communion will refuel your spiritual energy. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: EZEKIEL 13 - 15 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 8 - I NEED THEE EVERY HOUR 1. I need thee every hour most gracious Lord; no tender voice like thine can peace afford. CHORUS: I need thee, oh, I need thee; Every hour I need thee! Oh, bless me now my saviour; I come to thee! 2. I need thee every hour, stay thou near by; temptations lose their power when thou art nigh. CHORUS: 3. I need thee every hour in joy or pain; come quickly and abide or life is vain. CHORUS: 4. I need Thee every hour Teach me Thy will; And Thy rich promises In me fulfill. CHORUS: 5. I need Thee every hour, Most Holy one; Oh, make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed Son! CHORUS: ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL THURSDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2026 REFUEL, RECHARGE, RELOAD I Prayer Point ‎ 1.Father, thank You for giving us the day, to work, and the night, for rest. Thank You for providing food and water to satisfy our hunger and thirst. 2.Father, thank You for giving us the Holy Spirit to strengthen us in our weakness, and to fill us when we feel empty. 3.Father, please help me to constantly recharge myself spiritually, so I won't become spiritually ineffective, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please help me never to ignore the need to refill when I'm running low on spiritual energy, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help me constantly recharge my spiritual batteries through regular fasting and prayers, in Jesus' name. 6.Holy Spirit, refuel my spiritual tank, and satisfy my hunger and thirst so I won't become weak and faint in the day of adversity, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, thank You for the power in the Holy Communion to refuel us spiritually; thank You for the life transforming power in the blood of Jesus, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please help me to constantly drink the blood of Jesus worthily, so I won't remain weak, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, by the reason of the blood of Jesus which is the greatest sacrifice, I receive power to rise to the very highest level of greater spiritual empowerment and exploit, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, as I partake of the Holy Communion, let the blood of Jesus speak strength and might into me, in Jesus'name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Please grant him grace to remain spiritually refueled, recharged and reloaded for Your use, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) #GodBlessOurNation These prayers have no expiry dates! Please, pray them, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus name.

God's Purpose - Psalm 18:28 by Carl H. Stevens There certainly will be times in our lives when we will be surrounded by darkness. Our first reaction is often to get out of it as quickly as possible, but let us consider the purpose God has for troublesome times. In difficulties, we can do one of two things: we can draw near to God (2), or we can run away from the trial set before us. We can expect to have great loneliness while in darkness. Psalm 88:18 says, "Lover and friend thou hast put far from me..." God does this so we will seek Him out and allow Him to become our source of life, rather than people. We must search for the light, knowing that He is Light (3). Light always arises out of darkness (4). Each night has a morning. These times of darkness will be great, and may be painful, but if you do not depart from the Word and continue to feed upon it, then Christ will become your provision. Psalm 112:7-8 tells how the writer´s heart was fixed on trusting the Lord. Do not despair while in darkness. Use it as an opportunity to draw near to Him Who does not change (6). You may discover riches stored in those dark places (7). Psalm 18:28 For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness. James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 1 John 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. Isaiah 42:16 And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. Psalm 112:7-8 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. Isaiah 45:3 And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel.

THE PILGRIMS GUIDE THURSDAY AUGUST 27, 2026 SPIRITUAL STAMINA A WORD FROM THE WORD: "...Then we will be able to run life's marathon race with passion and determination, for the path has been already marked out before us." Hebrews 12:1 TPT. Just like it takes physical stamina to run in, win a marathon, it requires spiritual stamina to run in and win the spiritual race. It's not every victory that comes suddenly, and some breakthroughs are products of trained endurance, passion and determination; that is the grace to remain standing, believing, and obeying even when answers seem not to be forthcoming. For many, they start well but give up along the way due to the lack of spiritual stamina. The admonition we get from God's Word opines that 'the race is not to the swift' (Ecclesiastes 9:11 NKJV), but to those who refuse to give up. Spiritual stamina is that quiet strength that keeps praying when results are not forthcoming, that keeps trusting God when evidence is barely visible, and keeps obeying when emotions are tired. God never withholds His grace from those who asks, when spiritual stamina is at work, discouragement loses its grip, faith matures, and destiny is secured. Spiritual stamina is not a given, but is developed in the quarry of trust and obedience, as you align with God's will and purpose for you. The benefits are out of this world as you will not quit halfway, or succumb as you inch closer to the finish line. PRAYER BULLETS: Loving LORD, thank You for showing Yourself strong on my behalf. Strengthen my heart, and renew my faith. Help me build the spiritual stamina that finishes strong. FURTHER READING: Hebrews 12:1-3; 2 Timothy 4:7-8; Galatians 6:9; James 1:2-4. _________________________________________ ©️ Amaobi Nwachukwu 2026. If you're blessed by this, please, do share with others. And if you'll like to partner with us, kindly check page 3 of our hard copy edition or better still send us a WhatsApp message or call on +234 8098421967. #ThePilgrimsGuide.

THE REALITY OF DEATH WHERE WILL YOU GO WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR VERY LAST BREATH? “And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.” — Hebrews 9:27 Death is one of the realities that every human being eventually faces. We can avoid talking about it. We can stay busy. We can accumulate possessions. We can build businesses. We can pursue careers. We can become famous. We can become wealthy. We can travel the world. We can take care of our bodies. But eventually, every earthly journey comes to an end. One day, every heartbeat will stop. One day, every breath will cease. One day, the opportunities of this present life will come to an end. And when that final breath comes, there is one question that matters more than almost anything else: WHERE WILL YOU GO? Not: “How much money did I have?” Not: “How successful was I?” Not: “How many people knew my name?” Not: “How beautiful was my house?” Not: “How many possessions did I leave behind?” The question is: “AM I READY TO MEET GOD?” --- 1. DEATH IS NOT RESPECTFUL OF AGE Death doesn't ask whether you're young or old. It doesn't ask whether you're rich or poor. It doesn't ask whether you're famous or unknown. It doesn't ask whether you're prepared. Death comes to kings and ordinary people. The Bible reminds us that our earthly lives are temporary. Psalm 90:12 says: > “Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.” Our time on earth is precious because it is limited. You don't know how many mornings you have left. You don't know how many sunsets you have left. You don't know how many birthdays you have left. You don't know how many times you will hear the voice of someone you love. Therefore: Don't waste the life God has given you. --- 2. YOUR LAST BREATH WILL NOT BE THE END OF EVERYTHING For the Christian, death is not the end. Jesus said in John 11:25: > “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.” Jesus Christ conquered the grave. The resurrection of Jesus means death does not have the final word. For those who belong to Christ, there is the hope of resurrection and eternal life with God. That is why Paul could write in Philippians 1:21: > “For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” This doesn't mean we should seek death. It means that the believer can face death knowing that Jesus has already conquered the grave. --- 3. BUT THE BIBLE ALSO WARNS US ABOUT JUDGMENT We cannot preach only the comforting parts of Scripture. The Bible tells us: Hebrews 9:27: > “Each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.” There is accountability before God. Our lives matter. Our decisions matter. Our relationship with God matters. The Bible speaks about a final judgment. Revelation 20:12 describes the dead standing before God and being judged. This should awaken us. Not merely frighten us. Awaken us. Because God's warning is an expression of His mercy. God doesn't warn us because He wants humanity to perish. He warns us because He calls people to repentance and salvation. --- 4. YOU CANNOT TAKE YOUR POSSESSIONS WITH YOU You may spend your entire life collecting things. But when your final breath comes, everything you accumulated remains behind. You cannot put your bank account inside your coffin. You cannot take your house into eternity. You cannot take your automobile. You cannot take your career. You cannot take your social-media followers. You cannot take your earthly reputation. The question is not: “What did I own?” The question is: “Whom did I belong to?” --- 5. JESUS ASKED A QUESTION THAT SHOULD SHAKE EVERY HEART Jesus said in Mark 8:36: > “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” Think about that. You could theoretically gain everything this world has to offer— and still lose the most important thing you possess. Your soul. You can be successful and spiritually lost. You can be admired and spiritually empty. You can have possessions and have no peace with God. You can fool people. You can even fool yourself. But you cannot fool God. God sees the heart. --- 6. THE MOST IMPORTANT PREPARATION FOR DEATH The most important preparation isn't buying a cemetery plot. It isn't writing a will. It isn't organizing your possessions. Those things have their place. But the most important preparation is: BE READY TO MEET JESUS. Jesus said in John 14:6: > “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” Salvation is found in Jesus Christ. Not in our accomplishments. Not in our morality. Not in religious performance. Not in trying to make ourselves worthy. We need the grace of God. We need forgiveness. We need Christ. --- 7. SALVATION IS NOT SOMETHING WE EARN Ephesians 2:8–9 teaches that we are saved by grace through faith—not because of our own works. This is incredibly important. You cannot make yourself worthy of salvation. You cannot become good enough to force God to accept you. The Gospel is that Jesus Christ came for sinners. He died for our sins. He rose from the dead. And He calls us to repentance and faith. Salvation is God's gift. But we must receive that gift. --- 8. REPENTANCE MEANS TURNING TOWARD GOD Repentance isn't simply saying: “I'm sorry.” Biblical repentance means turning away from sin and turning toward God. It means surrender. It means: “Lord, I don't want to live my way anymore. I want Your way.” It doesn't mean you will never stumble. It means you stop making peace with sin. You stop treating rebellion against God as something you don't care about. You bring your failures to Christ. You confess them. You receive His forgiveness. And you keep walking with Him. --- 9. DON'T WAIT UNTIL YOUR LAST BREATH One of the most dangerous lies is: “I'll get right with God later.” Later may never come. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Next year is not guaranteed. Another decade is not guaranteed. Your next breath isn't something you can demand. Therefore: DON'T WAIT. If God is calling your heart today, respond today. If you need to repent, repent today. If you need to forgive someone, forgive today. If you need to return to Christ, return today. If you've been running from God, come home today. --- 10. THE CROSS IS GOD'S ANSWER TO OUR SIN At the cross, Jesus took upon Himself the judgment deserved by sinners. He suffered. He bled. He died. And then He rose again. The cross tells us two things simultaneously: Sin is serious. And: God's love is astonishing. Romans 5:8 tells us that God demonstrated His love for us through Christ dying for us while we were still sinners. Think about that. Jesus didn't wait until we became perfect. He came to save sinners. --- 11. THERE IS HOPE FOR THE PERSON WHO FEELS TOO FAR GONE Perhaps someone reading this thinks: “I've failed God too many times.” “I've sinned too much.” “God could never forgive me.” Listen carefully: The Gospel is not: “Fix yourself and then come to Jesus.” The Gospel is: “Come to Jesus.” Bring Him your brokenness. Bring Him your shame. Bring Him your failures. Bring Him your regrets. Bring Him your fears. Bring Him your past. Bring Him your sins. And surrender them to Him. Jesus is the Savior. You don't have to save yourself. --- 12. WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN YOUR LAST BREATH COMES? One day, every one of us will face that moment. The room may become quiet. The sounds of this world may fade. The things that seemed so important may suddenly seem insignificant. And the question will no longer be theoretical. It will become personal: “WHERE AM I GOING?” For the person who belongs to Christ, there is hope. Jesus promised eternal life. Jesus promised resurrection. Jesus promised that He would never abandon His people. And ultimately, Scripture points us toward a future where death itself is defeated. Revelation 21:4 gives this glorious promise: > “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain.” That is the Christian hope. Death does not get the final word. Jesus does. --- 13. THE FINAL CHOICE Every person must ultimately answer the question of what they will do with Jesus. Will you reject Him? Ignore Him? Postpone Him? Or surrender your life to Him? Jesus calls: Come home. Come to the cross. Come to forgiveness. Come to grace. Come to salvation. Come to eternal life. --- FINAL APPEAL My friend, don't wait for your final breath to think about eternity. Think about eternity now. You still have an opportunity to seek God. You still have an opportunity to repent. You still have an opportunity to pray. You still have an opportunity to forgive. You still have an opportunity to love. You still have an opportunity to serve. You still have an opportunity to tell someone about Jesus. And most importantly: You still have an opportunity to surrender completely to Jesus Christ. The question isn't merely: “WHEN WILL I DIE?” The deeper question is: “AM I READY WHEN I DO?” And an even more important question: “DO I BELONG TO JESUS CHRIST?” Because when your final breath comes, your earthly story will be finished. But your eternal destiny will not be. So make sure your heart is right with God. Make sure your hope is in Christ. Make sure your faith is genuine. Make sure you are walking with Jesus. And when that final moment comes, may you be able to say: “JESUS CHRIST IS MY LORD AND SAVIOR.” “MY HOPE IS IN HIM.” “I AM READY TO MEET MY KING.” --- DEEP PRAYER FOR SALVATION, REPENTANCE, AND ETERNAL LIFE Heavenly Father, I come before You with humility, reverence, and a sincere heart. Thank You for giving me the gift of life. Thank You for every breath. Thank You for every day You have allowed me to see. Father, forgive me for the times I have taken life for granted. Forgive me for the times I have focused more on this temporary world than on eternal things. Forgive me for my sins. Forgive my rebellion. Forgive my pride. Forgive my selfishness. Forgive the things I have said, thought, and done that have dishonored You. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. Lord Jesus Christ, I recognize that I cannot save myself. I cannot earn eternal life. I cannot make myself righteous. I need You. I need Your mercy. I need Your grace. I need Your forgiveness. I need Your blood to cleanse me. I need Your resurrection power to give me new life. Jesus, I surrender myself to You. Take control of my heart. Take control of my thoughts. Take control of my desires. Take control of my words. Take control of my decisions. Take control of my future. Teach me to hate what You hate and love what You love. Give me a genuine desire for holiness. Give me a genuine desire for Your Word. Give me a genuine desire for prayer. Give me a genuine desire for Your presence. Help me not merely to talk about Christianity. Help me truly follow Jesus. Holy Spirit, examine my heart. Reveal anything in me that needs to change. Expose the things I have tried to hide. Give me courage to repent. Give me strength to turn away from sin. When I stumble, keep me from running away from God. Teach me to run toward God. When I am tempted, give me strength. When I am discouraged, give me hope. When I am afraid, give me peace. When I feel condemned, lead me back to the cross. When I fail, teach me to confess and repent rather than surrender to despair. Father, prepare me for eternity. Don't let me become so comfortable with this temporary world that I forget the eternal world. Teach me to number my days. Teach me to live wisely. Teach me to love people while I still have time. Help me forgive those who have hurt me. Help me ask forgiveness where I have hurt others. Help me make peace where peace is possible. Help me use the remaining days of my life for Your glory. And when my final breath eventually comes, may I not be trusting in my possessions, my accomplishments, my religious performance, or my own goodness. Let my confidence be in Jesus Christ alone. Jesus, You are my Savior. You are my Lord. You are my hope. You are my resurrection. You are my life. And when I stand before You, let me be found trusting in You. Father, prepare my heart for that day. Until then, help me live every day with eternity in view. Let my life be a testimony. Let my words point people toward Jesus. Let my actions demonstrate Your love. Let my testimony give hope to the broken. And let me never forget: THIS LIFE IS TEMPORARY. ETERNITY IS FOREVER. JESUS IS THE WAY. JESUS IS THE TRUTH. JESUS IS THE LIFE. Father, I place my life and eternity into Your hands. May I live for Christ. May I die in Christ. And may I spend eternity with Christ. In the mighty, precious, holy, and victorious name of Jesus Christ, AMEN. 🙏✝️❤️🕊️

“Don’t let yesterday’s burden become today’s barrier to tomorrow’s miracle.” Hebrews 12:1 — “Let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us…” This verse tells us not only to lay aside sin, but also to lay aside “every weight.” Because burdens can become a definite hindrance to reaching the purpose and destiny God has set before us. If we continue carrying the wounds, disappointments, rejection, failures, guilt, bitterness, worries, and the inability to forgive others from our past, we cannot run with complete faith on the new path God has placed before us. God brought Lot and his family out of destruction. As they left Sodom, God clearly commanded them not to look back. But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt. (Genesis 19:26) Her feet were moving forward, but her heart was being pulled backward. This is also a warning for us. God may have brought you out of an old situation. But if you continue carrying old wounds and memories, your body may move forward while your heart remains stuck in the past. Run away from sin. Lay your burdens before God. Stop constantly dwelling on the past, and run toward the future God has prepared for you. Your past does not have to become the verdict of your future. God still has a path for you; there is still a race to run, a goal to reach, and a miracle ahead of you. Don’t carry yesterday’s burden while running toward tomorrow’s miracle. Lay it at the feet of God and run! When the burden becomes lighter, the race becomes faster. When the heart is set free, faith becomes stronger. The moment you surrender your burden to God can become the beginning of your new race! Hepsi Sam ✍️

A day is coming when every person will stand before God and give an account of their life. Earthly wealth, status, achievements, and possessions cannot save us from that day. John 3:36 ‎2 Thessalonians 1:8–9 ‎Hebrews 2:3 ‎Luke 13:3 ‎Romans 14:10–12

Wednesday Encouragement — Keep Your Eyes Upon Christ Blessings, dear brothers and sisters in Christ. We have reached the midpoint of another week. On Monday, we reminded ourselves that after gathering to worship on the Lord’s Day, we were sent back into the world to live what we profess and faithfully serve our Lord Jesus Christ. Now, halfway through the week, perhaps the pressures of life have already begun to distract us. Responsibilities accumulate. Problems arise unexpectedly. News from around the world troubles our hearts. Financial concerns, family responsibilities, health concerns, and the countless demands of everyday life can slowly pull our attention away from the One upon whom our eyes must remain fixed. That is why today we need to remind ourselves again: Keep your eyes upon Christ. Peter walked upon the water while his attention remained upon Jesus. But when he looked at the wind and the waves surrounding him, fear replaced faith and he began to sink. How often do we do the same? We look at the storms instead of the Savior. We concentrate upon our problems rather than His promises. We become overwhelmed by circumstances while forgetting that the sovereign Lord who controls the wind and the waves is walking with us through the storm. “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.” — Matthew 14:30 And immediately, Jesus reached out His hand. What a beautiful reminder for us today. When our strength begins to fail, we do not need complicated words. Sometimes the most powerful prayer is simply: “Lord, save me. Lord, strengthen me. Lord, guide me.” Whatever you are facing today, bring it before Him. Our sovereign God has not lost control of one single detail of our lives. And while we carry our own burdens, let us remain sensitive to those around us. Someone you encounter today may also be struggling silently. God may use your prayer, your encouragement, your compassion, or your testimony of Christ to strengthen them. So let us continue through the remainder of this week faithfully doing what God has called us to do. Do not watch the storm. Watch the Savior. Do not surrender to fear. Walk by faith. “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.” — Hebrews 12:2 May our Lord strengthen us, guide us, and keep our hearts firmly fixed upon Him as we continue serving together. Serving Christ Together for His Glory Alone. Soli Deo Gloria.