• Let's talk about it.
    Deceiver Unmasked

    Why was Sin Permitted? Why did God not destroy the first evildoer, satan, even though He knew how he would harm countless innocent angels and humans?

    Revelation 12:7-9, 12
    And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
    Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

    God permitted satan to carry forward his work until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all. Lucifer, as the anointed cherub, had been highly exalted; he was greatly loved by the heavenly beings, and his influence over them was strong. God's government included not only the inhabitants of heaven, but of all the worlds that He had created; and Lucifer had concluded that if he could carry the angels of heaven with him in rebellion, he could carry also all the worlds. He had artfully presented his side of the question, employing sophistry and fraud to secure his objects. His power to deceive was very great. By disguising himself in a cloak of falsehood, he had gained an advantage. All his acts were so clothed with mystery that it was difficult to disclose to the angels the true nature of his work. Until fully developed, it could not be made to appear the evil thing it was; his disaffection would not be seen to be rebellion. Even the loyal angels could not fully discern his character or see to what his work was leading.

    God could employ Only such means as were consistent with Truth and Righteousness. Satan could use what God could not— flattery and deceit. He had sought to falsify the word of God and had misrepresented His plan of government, claiming that God was not just in imposing laws upon the angels; that in requiring submission and obedience from His creatures, He was seeking merely the exaltation of Himself. It was therefore necessary to demonstrate before the inhabitants of heaven, and of all the worlds, that God's government is just, His law perfect. satan had made it appear that he himself was seeking to promote the good of the universe. The true character of the usurper and his real object must be understood by all. He must have time to manifest himself by his wicked works.

    The discord which his own course had caused in heaven, Satan charged upon the government of God. All evil he declared to be the result of the divine administration. He claimed that it was his own object to improve upon the statutes of Jehovah. Therefore God permitted him to demonstrate the nature of his claims, to show the working out of his proposed changes in the divine law. His own work must condemn him. Satan had claimed from the first that he was not in rebellion. The whole universe must see the deceiver unmasked.

    Even when he was cast out of heaven, Infinite Wisdom did not destroy Satan. Since only the service of love can be acceptable to God, the allegiance of His creatures must rest upon a conviction of His justice and benevolence. The inhabitants of heaven and of the worlds, being unprepared to comprehend the nature or consequences of sin, could not then have seen the justice of God in the destruction of Satan. Had he been immediately blotted out of existence, some would have served God from fear rather than from love. The influence of the deceiver would not have been fully destroyed, nor would the spirit of rebellion have been utterly eradicated. For the good of the entire universe through ceaseless ages, he must more fully develop his principles, that his charges against the divine government might be seen in their true light by all created beings, and that the justice and mercy of God and the immutability of His law might be forever placed beyond all question.

    Satan's rebellion was to be a lesson to the universe through all coming ages—a perpetual testimony to the nature of sin and its [p. 43] terrible results. The working out of Satan's rule, its effects upon both men and angels, would show what must be the fruit of setting aside the divine authority. It would testify that with the existence of God's government is bound up the well-being of all the creatures He has made. Thus the history of this terrible experiment of rebellion was to be a perpetual safeguard to all holy beings, to prevent them from being deceived as to the nature of transgression, to save them from committing sin, and suffering its penalty.

    He that ruleth in the heavens is the one who sees the end from the beginning—the one before whom the mysteries of the past and the future are alike outspread, and who, beyond the woe and darkness and ruin that sin has wrought, beholds the accomplishment of His own purposes of love and blessing. Though "clouds and darkness are round about Him: righteousness and judgment are the foundation of His throne." Psalm 97:2, R.V. And this the inhabitants of the universe, both loyal and disloyal, will one day understand. "His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He." Deuteronomy 32:4.
    Let's talk about it. Deceiver Unmasked Why was Sin Permitted? Why did God not destroy the first evildoer, satan, even though He knew how he would harm countless innocent angels and humans? Revelation 12:7-9, 12 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, and prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. God permitted satan to carry forward his work until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all. Lucifer, as the anointed cherub, had been highly exalted; he was greatly loved by the heavenly beings, and his influence over them was strong. God's government included not only the inhabitants of heaven, but of all the worlds that He had created; and Lucifer had concluded that if he could carry the angels of heaven with him in rebellion, he could carry also all the worlds. He had artfully presented his side of the question, employing sophistry and fraud to secure his objects. His power to deceive was very great. By disguising himself in a cloak of falsehood, he had gained an advantage. All his acts were so clothed with mystery that it was difficult to disclose to the angels the true nature of his work. Until fully developed, it could not be made to appear the evil thing it was; his disaffection would not be seen to be rebellion. Even the loyal angels could not fully discern his character or see to what his work was leading. God could employ Only such means as were consistent with Truth and Righteousness. Satan could use what God could not— flattery and deceit. He had sought to falsify the word of God and had misrepresented His plan of government, claiming that God was not just in imposing laws upon the angels; that in requiring submission and obedience from His creatures, He was seeking merely the exaltation of Himself. It was therefore necessary to demonstrate before the inhabitants of heaven, and of all the worlds, that God's government is just, His law perfect. satan had made it appear that he himself was seeking to promote the good of the universe. The true character of the usurper and his real object must be understood by all. He must have time to manifest himself by his wicked works. The discord which his own course had caused in heaven, Satan charged upon the government of God. All evil he declared to be the result of the divine administration. He claimed that it was his own object to improve upon the statutes of Jehovah. Therefore God permitted him to demonstrate the nature of his claims, to show the working out of his proposed changes in the divine law. His own work must condemn him. Satan had claimed from the first that he was not in rebellion. The whole universe must see the deceiver unmasked. Even when he was cast out of heaven, Infinite Wisdom did not destroy Satan. Since only the service of love can be acceptable to God, the allegiance of His creatures must rest upon a conviction of His justice and benevolence. The inhabitants of heaven and of the worlds, being unprepared to comprehend the nature or consequences of sin, could not then have seen the justice of God in the destruction of Satan. Had he been immediately blotted out of existence, some would have served God from fear rather than from love. The influence of the deceiver would not have been fully destroyed, nor would the spirit of rebellion have been utterly eradicated. For the good of the entire universe through ceaseless ages, he must more fully develop his principles, that his charges against the divine government might be seen in their true light by all created beings, and that the justice and mercy of God and the immutability of His law might be forever placed beyond all question. Satan's rebellion was to be a lesson to the universe through all coming ages—a perpetual testimony to the nature of sin and its [p. 43] terrible results. The working out of Satan's rule, its effects upon both men and angels, would show what must be the fruit of setting aside the divine authority. It would testify that with the existence of God's government is bound up the well-being of all the creatures He has made. Thus the history of this terrible experiment of rebellion was to be a perpetual safeguard to all holy beings, to prevent them from being deceived as to the nature of transgression, to save them from committing sin, and suffering its penalty. He that ruleth in the heavens is the one who sees the end from the beginning—the one before whom the mysteries of the past and the future are alike outspread, and who, beyond the woe and darkness and ruin that sin has wrought, beholds the accomplishment of His own purposes of love and blessing. Though "clouds and darkness are round about Him: righteousness and judgment are the foundation of His throne." Psalm 97:2, R.V. And this the inhabitants of the universe, both loyal and disloyal, will one day understand. "His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He." Deuteronomy 32:4.
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  • 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.
    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.
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  • DAILY LEADERSHIP BOOST (DLB)

    SATURDAY, 22 AUGUST 2026

    THE HERESY PREACHERS OF THE LAST DAYS

    _“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”_ Matthew 24:24 KJV

    Beloved, the last days will not only be marked by scoffers. They will also be marked by deceivers.

    Few weeks ago a dear leader was invited to a Facebook “bible study” about the second coming. At first it sounded good. But when he asked honest questions about their claim that _“Jesus has already come secretly”_ and that _“they alone have the sealed book of Revelation”_, he was removed. That is how heresy works. It invites you in with sweet words, but it silences you the moment you bring the light of Scripture.

    This is not new. Paul warned Timothy, _“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.”_ 2 Timothy 4:3. In the last days, heresy preachers will rise. They will speak with confidence. They will quote verses out of context. They will claim special revelation. They will say, _“Lo, here is Christ, or lo, he is there.”_ But Jesus already warned us: _“Believe it not.”_ Matthew 24:23-26.

    What are the marks of these heresy preachers?

    They deny or distort the public coming of Christ. The Bible says _“every eye shall see him.”_ Revelation 1:7. _“For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”_ Matthew 24:27. Any teaching of a “secret coming” that bypasses the trumpet, the resurrection, and the clouds is false. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.

    They claim exclusive knowledge. _“We have the sealed book. We have the new revelation no one else has.”_ But John already closed the canon with a warning. Revelation 22:18-19. The Holy Spirit does not contradict the Word He inspired. If anyone tells you to follow them because they have secret truth, run.

    They cannot endure questions. Truth welcomes testing. Acts 17:11 _“These were more noble... in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”_ Heresy blocks, bans, and bullies. That is because light exposes it. John 3:20.

    Leaders, our job in this hour is to guard the flock. Acts 20:28-30. We must teach people how to test every spirit. 1 John 4:1. We must root our people in the Word so deeply that when error comes, they will say, _“That does not line up.”_

    Do not be afraid to ask questions. Do not be intimidated out of groups. Jesus said, _“Take heed that no man deceive you.”_ Matthew 24:4. Stay in the Word. Stay in community that honors Scripture. And stay under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, not under men who claim to be the only voice of God.

    The real Jesus is coming. Publicly. Gloriously. With power. And He needs leaders who will not be moved by every new doctrine. Ephesians 4:14.

    https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafVatb11ulKTDXcjL3X

    Prayer For Today
    Father, in the name of Jesus, I pray for discernment. Deliver Your people from deception. Expose every false teacher and every lying spirit. Give us a hunger for Your Word and a heart that tests all things. Keep me and the people You have given me from being tossed to and fro. Anchor us in truth. Make us bold to question, bold to obey, and bold to defend the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Today's Declaration
    I will not be deceived. I test every spirit by the Word. Jesus is coming publicly, and I am ready. I am rooted in truth, led by the Spirit, and I will guard the flock God has given me.

    Bible Reading Plan
    Matthew 24:4-28, 2 Peter 2:1-3, 1 John 4:1-6, 2 Timothy 3:1-9, Acts 20:27-31, Jude 1:3-4

    Today’s Action
    Leaders, do three things this week:
    1. Teach your people the difference between truth and error using Scripture. Take 10 minutes in your next meeting to go through Matthew 24:23-27.
    2. Model openness to questions. Create a safe place where people can ask, “Is this biblical?” without fear of being removed.
    3. If you encounter false teaching online or offline, don’t argue endlessly. Mark it, avoid it, and warn others lovingly. Romans 16:17.

    Remember: The devil’s goal in the last days is not just to make you sin. It is to make you believe a lie. Stay in the Word, and the Word will keep you.

    Prayer Of Salvation
    _Have you given your life to Jesus today? If not, pray this prayer with me now:_
    _Lord Jesus Christ, I know I am a sinner. I repent of my sins and I turn to You. Forgive me and wash me with Your blood. Today I accept You as my Lord and personal Savior. Please write my name in the Book of Life and take it out of the book of death. Give me Your Spirit and the power to live for You and to sin no more. Thank You, Jesus, for saving me. From today, I declare that I am a child of God. Amen._

    https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafVatb11ulKTDXcjL3X

    t.me/dailyleadershipboost
    DAILY LEADERSHIP BOOST (DLB) SATURDAY, 22 AUGUST 2026 THE HERESY PREACHERS OF THE LAST DAYS _“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”_ Matthew 24:24 KJV Beloved, the last days will not only be marked by scoffers. They will also be marked by deceivers. Few weeks ago a dear leader was invited to a Facebook “bible study” about the second coming. At first it sounded good. But when he asked honest questions about their claim that _“Jesus has already come secretly”_ and that _“they alone have the sealed book of Revelation”_, he was removed. That is how heresy works. It invites you in with sweet words, but it silences you the moment you bring the light of Scripture. This is not new. Paul warned Timothy, _“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.”_ 2 Timothy 4:3. In the last days, heresy preachers will rise. They will speak with confidence. They will quote verses out of context. They will claim special revelation. They will say, _“Lo, here is Christ, or lo, he is there.”_ But Jesus already warned us: _“Believe it not.”_ Matthew 24:23-26. What are the marks of these heresy preachers? They deny or distort the public coming of Christ. The Bible says _“every eye shall see him.”_ Revelation 1:7. _“For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”_ Matthew 24:27. Any teaching of a “secret coming” that bypasses the trumpet, the resurrection, and the clouds is false. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. They claim exclusive knowledge. _“We have the sealed book. We have the new revelation no one else has.”_ But John already closed the canon with a warning. Revelation 22:18-19. The Holy Spirit does not contradict the Word He inspired. If anyone tells you to follow them because they have secret truth, run. They cannot endure questions. Truth welcomes testing. Acts 17:11 _“These were more noble... in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”_ Heresy blocks, bans, and bullies. That is because light exposes it. John 3:20. Leaders, our job in this hour is to guard the flock. Acts 20:28-30. We must teach people how to test every spirit. 1 John 4:1. We must root our people in the Word so deeply that when error comes, they will say, _“That does not line up.”_ Do not be afraid to ask questions. Do not be intimidated out of groups. Jesus said, _“Take heed that no man deceive you.”_ Matthew 24:4. Stay in the Word. Stay in community that honors Scripture. And stay under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, not under men who claim to be the only voice of God. The real Jesus is coming. Publicly. Gloriously. With power. And He needs leaders who will not be moved by every new doctrine. Ephesians 4:14. https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafVatb11ulKTDXcjL3X Prayer For Today Father, in the name of Jesus, I pray for discernment. Deliver Your people from deception. Expose every false teacher and every lying spirit. Give us a hunger for Your Word and a heart that tests all things. Keep me and the people You have given me from being tossed to and fro. Anchor us in truth. Make us bold to question, bold to obey, and bold to defend the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Today's Declaration I will not be deceived. I test every spirit by the Word. Jesus is coming publicly, and I am ready. I am rooted in truth, led by the Spirit, and I will guard the flock God has given me. Bible Reading Plan Matthew 24:4-28, 2 Peter 2:1-3, 1 John 4:1-6, 2 Timothy 3:1-9, Acts 20:27-31, Jude 1:3-4 Today’s Action Leaders, do three things this week: 1. Teach your people the difference between truth and error using Scripture. Take 10 minutes in your next meeting to go through Matthew 24:23-27. 2. Model openness to questions. Create a safe place where people can ask, “Is this biblical?” without fear of being removed. 3. If you encounter false teaching online or offline, don’t argue endlessly. Mark it, avoid it, and warn others lovingly. Romans 16:17. Remember: The devil’s goal in the last days is not just to make you sin. It is to make you believe a lie. Stay in the Word, and the Word will keep you. Prayer Of Salvation _Have you given your life to Jesus today? If not, pray this prayer with me now:_ _Lord Jesus Christ, I know I am a sinner. I repent of my sins and I turn to You. Forgive me and wash me with Your blood. Today I accept You as my Lord and personal Savior. Please write my name in the Book of Life and take it out of the book of death. Give me Your Spirit and the power to live for You and to sin no more. Thank You, Jesus, for saving me. From today, I declare that I am a child of God. Amen._ https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafVatb11ulKTDXcjL3X t.me/dailyleadershipboost
    WHATSAPP.COM
    DAILY LEADERSHIP BOOST (DLB)
    Channel • 152 followers • Daily leadership Boost is a place where our daily devotional writings and inspiring contents are shared on a daily basis. The purpose of this channel is to bring the word of God in an inspiring new ways, helping believers and leaders throughout the earth to become what God has ordained them to be. We believe as you join us in this place your life will never be the same again. May God bless you in Jesus name. APOSTLE FORTUNATE MARTINS (President)
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  • SAINTS REVIVAL COMMITTEE - SRC SOUTH SUDAN
    SOLIDIFY. UNIFY. MULTIPLY

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

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

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

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

    WE ARE CALLING YOU TO PARTNER WITH SRC FOR:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    (Proverbs 22)

    1. A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
    Loving favor rather than silver and gold.

    2. The rich and the poor have this in common,
    The LORD is the maker of them all.

    3. A prudent man
    foresees evil and hides himself,
    But the simple pass on and are punished.

    4. By humility and
    the fear of the LORD
    Are riches and honor and life.

    5. Thorns and
    snares are in the way of the perverse;
    He who guards his soul will be far from them.

    6. Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

    7. The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender.

    8. He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow,
    And the rod of his anger will fail.

    9. He who has a generous eye will be blessed,
    For he gives of his bread to the poor.

    10. Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave;
    Yes, strife and reproach will cease.

    11. He who loves purity of heart
    And has grace on his lips,
    The king will be his friend.

    12.The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge,
    But He overthrows the words of the faithless.

    13. The lazy man
    says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!”

    14. The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit;
    He who is abhorred by the LORD will fall there.

    15. Foolishness is
    bound up in the heart of a child;
    The rod of correction will drive it far from him.

    16. He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches,
    And he who gives to the rich, will surely
    come to poverty.

    17. Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise,
    And apply your heart to my knowledge;

    18. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you;
    Let them all be fixed upon your lips,

    19. So that your trust may be in the LORD;
    I have instructed you today, even you.

    20. Have I not written to you excellent things
    Of counsels and knowledge,

    21. That I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth,
    That you may answer words of truth
    To those who send to you?

    22. Do not rob the poor because he is poor,
    Nor oppress the afflicted at the gate;

    23. For the LORD will plead their cause,
    And plunder the soul of those who plunder them.

    24. Make no friendship with an angry man,
    And with a furious man do not go,

    25. Lest you learn his ways
    And set a snare for your soul.

    26. Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge,
    One of those who is surety for debts;

    27. If you have nothing with which to pay,
    Why should he take away your bed from under you?

    28. Do not remove the ancient landmark
    Which your fathers have set.

    29. Do you see a man who excels in his work?
    He will stand before kings;
    He will not stand before unknown men.
    PROVERB OF THE DAY (Proverbs 22) 1. A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold. 2. The rich and the poor have this in common, The LORD is the maker of them all. 3. A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, But the simple pass on and are punished. 4. By humility and the fear of the LORD Are riches and honor and life. 5. Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; He who guards his soul will be far from them. 6. Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. 7. The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender. 8. He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow, And the rod of his anger will fail. 9. He who has a generous eye will be blessed, For he gives of his bread to the poor. 10. Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave; Yes, strife and reproach will cease. 11. He who loves purity of heart And has grace on his lips, The king will be his friend. 12.The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, But He overthrows the words of the faithless. 13. The lazy man says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!” 14. The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit; He who is abhorred by the LORD will fall there. 15. Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him. 16. He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches, And he who gives to the rich, will surely come to poverty. 17. Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, And apply your heart to my knowledge; 18. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you; Let them all be fixed upon your lips, 19. So that your trust may be in the LORD; I have instructed you today, even you. 20. Have I not written to you excellent things Of counsels and knowledge, 21. That I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth, That you may answer words of truth To those who send to you? 22. Do not rob the poor because he is poor, Nor oppress the afflicted at the gate; 23. For the LORD will plead their cause, And plunder the soul of those who plunder them. 24. Make no friendship with an angry man, And with a furious man do not go, 25. Lest you learn his ways And set a snare for your soul. 26. Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, One of those who is surety for debts; 27. If you have nothing with which to pay, Why should he take away your bed from under you? 28. Do not remove the ancient landmark Which your fathers have set. 29. Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.
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  • LOVE THAT OVERCOMES

    There’s an interesting story in Numbers that contrasts two ways of looking at obstacles. The Israelites have escaped slavery in Egypt and traveled to the edge of the Promised Land. And before they all enter, Moses sends 12 men to spy it out.

    One spy named Caleb comes back with this report:

    “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.” (Numbers 13:30)

    What a great faith statement! Unfortunately his confidence was not shared by others.

    But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we. There we saw the giants; … and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.” (Numbers 13:31, 33)

    Why did they have that viewpoint? Because of how they viewed themselves. If we look at a problem and say, “I’m just a grasshopper,” then we fail before we start. We defeat ourselves if we think we can’t go somewhere or do something that God has commanded.

    In our world today, we can face all kinds of threats and fears. Yet we need to resist and declare, “We can overcome this.”

    What image are we made in—a grasshopper's? No. We are made in the image of God.

    So now the question is, do we act like Him? Do we think like Him? And most importantly, do we love like Him?

    As John 3:16 says,

    “God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son.”

    Let His heart of love resonate through everything that you do.

    Love casts out fear. Love overcomes all obstacles. Faith works through love. When you have that, you are reflecting the image of the Father. You’re truly becoming like Him.

    Paul, who faced incredible persecution, wrote,

    Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

    When we do this, we are more than overcomers. As Romans 8:37 explains, we are more than conquerors through the love of Christ given to us. We need to view ourselves as God’s love extending to a hurting world. And when we overflow with His love, no obstacle can stand—for His love never fails.

    God bless you.


    LOVE THAT OVERCOMES There’s an interesting story in Numbers that contrasts two ways of looking at obstacles. The Israelites have escaped slavery in Egypt and traveled to the edge of the Promised Land. And before they all enter, Moses sends 12 men to spy it out. One spy named Caleb comes back with this report: “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.” (Numbers 13:30) What a great faith statement! Unfortunately his confidence was not shared by others. But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we. There we saw the giants; … and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.” (Numbers 13:31, 33) Why did they have that viewpoint? Because of how they viewed themselves. If we look at a problem and say, “I’m just a grasshopper,” then we fail before we start. We defeat ourselves if we think we can’t go somewhere or do something that God has commanded. In our world today, we can face all kinds of threats and fears. Yet we need to resist and declare, “We can overcome this.” What image are we made in—a grasshopper's? No. We are made in the image of God. So now the question is, do we act like Him? Do we think like Him? And most importantly, do we love like Him? As John 3:16 says, “God so loved the world that He gave His only Begotten Son.” Let His heart of love resonate through everything that you do. Love casts out fear. Love overcomes all obstacles. Faith works through love. When you have that, you are reflecting the image of the Father. You’re truly becoming like Him. Paul, who faced incredible persecution, wrote, Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14) When we do this, we are more than overcomers. As Romans 8:37 explains, we are more than conquerors through the love of Christ given to us. We need to view ourselves as God’s love extending to a hurting world. And when we overflow with His love, no obstacle can stand—for His love never fails. God bless you.
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  • THE FIRE WILL NOT CONSUME YOU
    God Will Be With You in the Fire
    Key Scriptures: Isaiah 43:2; Daniel 3:16–27; Psalm 66:12
    Life can sometimes feel like you’re walking through a raging fire—full of intense pressure, painful trials, rejection, disappointment, financial woes, or challenges that seem insurmountable. But here’s the good news: God doesn’t promise that you’ll never face the fire. Instead, He promises that you won’t have to face it alone. He reassures us, "When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee" (Isaiah 43:2). The fire may be very real, but it won’t have the final say in your life.
    Take the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who were thrown into a fiery furnace for standing firm in their faith (Daniel 3:16–18). The king thought he would see them perish, but when he peered into the flames, he was astonished to find four men walking around unharmed (Daniel 3:24–25). God didn’t keep them out of the furnace; instead, He joined them in the fire. When they emerged, they were completely unscathed—not even a hint of smoke lingered on them (Daniel 3:27). Sometimes, God’s most profound presence is not in preventing the fire but in being right there with you in the midst of it.
    Your fire may be testing your limits, but it doesn’t have the power to consume you. What was meant to break you can actually become the very place where your faith grows stronger. Psalm 66:12 reminds us, "We went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place." Notice the phrase "through fire." You’re moving through it, not getting stuck there. Your trial has an end date. Your pain serves a purpose. Remember, your current situation doesn’t define where you’re headed. So, don’t give in to the pressure. Don’t let the heat of the moment shake your faith. Keep praying, keep believing, and hold tight to God’s promises. The fire might test you, but it won’t take you down. The flames may be all around, but remember, God’s presence is even closer. You’ll emerge from this stronger, wiser, and with a story that glorifies Him.
    Closing Prayer
    Heavenly Father, thank You for being by our side in every fiery trial we encounter. When the flames rise and the pressure mounts, remind us of your promise that we will not be consumed.
    Lord, bolster our faith during these tough times. Grant us the courage of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to stand firm without wavering. Surround us with your presence in every challenging situation, and rescue us from every fire that the enemy has set to bring us down.
    Father, transform every trial into a powerful testimony. Let the fire refine us without destroying us, strengthen us without breaking us, and prepare us for the next chapter of your purpose.
    We declare: We will walk through the fire, but it will not consume us. We will come out stronger.
    THE FIRE WILL NOT CONSUME YOU God Will Be With You in the Fire Key Scriptures: Isaiah 43:2; Daniel 3:16–27; Psalm 66:12 Life can sometimes feel like you’re walking through a raging fire—full of intense pressure, painful trials, rejection, disappointment, financial woes, or challenges that seem insurmountable. But here’s the good news: God doesn’t promise that you’ll never face the fire. Instead, He promises that you won’t have to face it alone. He reassures us, "When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee" (Isaiah 43:2). The fire may be very real, but it won’t have the final say in your life. Take the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who were thrown into a fiery furnace for standing firm in their faith (Daniel 3:16–18). The king thought he would see them perish, but when he peered into the flames, he was astonished to find four men walking around unharmed (Daniel 3:24–25). God didn’t keep them out of the furnace; instead, He joined them in the fire. When they emerged, they were completely unscathed—not even a hint of smoke lingered on them (Daniel 3:27). Sometimes, God’s most profound presence is not in preventing the fire but in being right there with you in the midst of it. Your fire may be testing your limits, but it doesn’t have the power to consume you. What was meant to break you can actually become the very place where your faith grows stronger. Psalm 66:12 reminds us, "We went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place." Notice the phrase "through fire." You’re moving through it, not getting stuck there. Your trial has an end date. Your pain serves a purpose. Remember, your current situation doesn’t define where you’re headed. So, don’t give in to the pressure. Don’t let the heat of the moment shake your faith. Keep praying, keep believing, and hold tight to God’s promises. The fire might test you, but it won’t take you down. The flames may be all around, but remember, God’s presence is even closer. You’ll emerge from this stronger, wiser, and with a story that glorifies Him. Closing Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for being by our side in every fiery trial we encounter. When the flames rise and the pressure mounts, remind us of your promise that we will not be consumed. Lord, bolster our faith during these tough times. Grant us the courage of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to stand firm without wavering. Surround us with your presence in every challenging situation, and rescue us from every fire that the enemy has set to bring us down. Father, transform every trial into a powerful testimony. Let the fire refine us without destroying us, strengthen us without breaking us, and prepare us for the next chapter of your purpose. We declare: We will walk through the fire, but it will not consume us. We will come out stronger.
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  • SEED OF LIFE
    When the Lord saw that the wickedness of man on the earth was great, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. But the earth was corrupt before the face of God, and the earth was filled with violence.
    • Genesis 6:5 & 11

    Our Father gave His commandments to man as a rule of life, but His law was transgressed, and every conceivable sin was the result. The wickedness of man was open and defiant, justice was trampled into the dust, and the cry of the oppressed ascended to heaven... The sins that cried out for vengeance upon the world before the flood exist today. The fear of God is banished from the hearts of men, and His law is treated with indifference and contempt. The intense worldliness of that generation is matched by that of the generation now living.• Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 90 & 101

    •A Point to Ponder•
    The world may become increasingly lawless, more violent, and more secular, but our Father's answer is not fear. It is faithfulness – a continuous walk with Him.(FrontierOfHopeMinistry)
    SEED OF LIFE When the Lord saw that the wickedness of man on the earth was great, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. But the earth was corrupt before the face of God, and the earth was filled with violence. • Genesis 6:5 & 11 Our Father gave His commandments to man as a rule of life, but His law was transgressed, and every conceivable sin was the result. The wickedness of man was open and defiant, justice was trampled into the dust, and the cry of the oppressed ascended to heaven... The sins that cried out for vengeance upon the world before the flood exist today. The fear of God is banished from the hearts of men, and His law is treated with indifference and contempt. The intense worldliness of that generation is matched by that of the generation now living.• Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 90 & 101 •A Point to Ponder• The world may become increasingly lawless, more violent, and more secular, but our Father's answer is not fear. It is faithfulness – a continuous walk with Him.(FrontierOfHopeMinistry)
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2O26.
    " THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (2)"

    Then the devil…set Him on the pinnacle...’ Matthew 4:5 NKJV

    THE ATTACK on the pinnacle. Let’s look at the second temptation Jesus faced: ‘Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, [and] set Him on the pinnacle of the temple.’ Here you deal with the fear of failure. Satan will whisper, ‘You’re on the pinnacle of success now, but you could easily fall off.’ He will bring up your past failures. He will remind you of leaders who crashed and burned. He will say, ‘If people realised how little you really know, or the issues you’re struggling with, they wouldn’t respect you.’ There are two kinds of fear: healthy fear and unhealthy fear. Healthy fear will keep you dependent on God; it will protect you from pride and self-sufficiency. ‘Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall’ (1 Corinthians 10:12 NKJV). But there’s an unhealthy fear that will keep you in the boat when Jesus is calling to you to step out and walk with Him on the water. You say, ‘But Peter almost drowned.’ Yes, but he was the only one of the disciples who experienced the joy of walking on the water! Having faith doesn’t mean you won’t experience a sinking feeling at times. You have a choice. You can give in to fear, or trust the God who has called you, sustained you, and never failed to give you the strength needed to cope with whatever you face. If your own intellect or talents are the basis of your confidence, you have good reason to fear. But if God is the basis of your confidence, you have nothing to fear.

    Bible In A Year: Amos 1:1 – 5:17, Matt 20:17-28, Ps 119:137-144, Pro 18:22-24. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation


    *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. [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

    SATURDAY, 22ND AUGUST, 2026.

    *WANT TO BE A RESERVOIR OF DIVINE BLESSINGS?*

    *TEXT:* PSALM 1:1-6.

    1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
    2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.
    3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
    4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
    5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
    6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

    *Timeless Truth:*_"And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God"_ (Deuteronomy 28:2).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    Every believer desires the blessings of God, but Scripture makes it clear that divine blessings are connected with the way we live, the company we keep and the delight we have in God’s Word. The text presents a sharp contrast between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous person is not merely blessed, occasionally; he becomes like a fruitful tree, continually supplied by divine grace. Furthermore, for the Old Testament saints, the blessings of God and the God’s Covenants with the Patriachs were majorly earthly and material. However, for the New Testament saints, the blessings are majorly spiritual and heavenly, though, with earthly blessings and wealth embedded. The uniform testimony of the Scriptures is that in order to be blessed by God and even be a reservoir of divine blessings, we must deliberately, separate ourselves from ungodly influences, delight in God’s Word and remain spiritually rooted in Him.

    *1. The Conditions for Divine Blessings*

    a. Every creature of God enjoys the blessings of God in some shape and form. For example, the air we breathe is universal and the sunshine and the rain we enjoy are without discrimination though God has the power to do so if He wants. However, there are some blessings of God that are given to select few, in particular His children. They are multidimensional blessings including both physical, material, social and spiritual blessings, spanning through all human needs without exception. Receiving these blessings result into all round prosperity which is promised by God. *"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth"* (3 John 2). Apostle Peter summed up all these blessings as things that pertain to life and godliness. *"According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises"* (1 Peter 1:3, 4a). These divinely provided blessings are even richer and deeper than what the Psalmist in the text was aware of.
    b. The psalmist begins by identifying what the blessed person does not do and what he does. He *"walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful"*. This describes progressive involvement with ungodliness. The blessed person carefully chooses his companions, conversations, character, contacts, connections and control. He is so much in love with the Word of God that he cannot stomach or endure anyone or anywhere the Word of God is being dishonoured. In an age where the demarcation between saints and sinners are being erased, he does not *"stand in the way of sinners"*. He separates himself from the worldly and sinful practices of sinners without being ashamed of standing for the truth and the right. His counsellors and guides in matters of conduct are not the ungodly, but godly people who take the Word of God and go to heaven very seriously.
    Positively, his delight is in the law of the LORD, and he meditates on it day and night.

    *Question*

    Based on the above, are you qualified for daily divine blessings?

    *2. The Clear Description of the Blessed*

    a. The description of a blessed man shows that it is pleasant and admirable to be a blessed man. Like a good tree bearing good fruits that are edible and profitable to man, the blessed man is not only blessed by God, he is also a blessing to others. As a good tree gives shade to people when the sun bites hard, the blessed person gives succour and shade to people when they are being bitten by the challenges of life. No wonder, the blessed person is compared to *“a tree planted by the rivers of water”*. The blessings of God are so real that he is never dried up. He remains fresh materially, spiritually and in all areas. Beyond that, he is *"planted by the rivers of water"* where the Word of God flows in his unceasing freshness.
    b. Such a person never runs out of grace, godliness and goodness. He *“bringeth forth his fruit in his season.”* His life produces visible evidence of God’s work. His leaves do not wither, indicating spiritual vitality even in difficult seasons. Furthermore, *“whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”* He is never a failure in family, business and spiritual ministry because he allows God to always guide his actions, endeavours and always commit them into God’s hands. It does not mean freedom from trials, but it means that a life rooted in God ultimately bears the fruit and accomplishes the purposes God intends.
    A reservoir does not merely receive water; it stores it for continue usefulness. Likewise, the blessed believer receives divine grace and becomes a channel through which God’s goodness reaches others.

    *Question*

    Is my spiritual life deeply rooted enough in God’s Word to remain fruitful in every season? Am I a blessing to others?

    *3. Cursed Destination of the Barbaric*

    The wicked are described as *“chaff which the wind driveth away.”* Agricultural chaff consists of the dry, scaly husks and small pieces of straw separated from cereal grains during threshing. It is lightweight, dry, scaly and easily blown away by the wind. It has no economic value. It lacks appreciable weight. It is just good for fire else it will be a nuisance. The ungodly are compared to chaff because they don't add any value to achieving the purpose of God on earth. They are only good for hell fire. Their life is not weighty in character and conduct, but lives on and lives for vanities of life. Those who reject God and persist in ungodliness may appear successful for a season, but their destination is destruction.
    b. *"The ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous"*. Their apparent strength and conscience cannot withstand divine examination. In fact, the judgment would be so fierce that *"the earth and the heaven fled away"* from the presence of God (Revelation 20:11). *“The LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.”*

    *Question*

    Am I a chaff before God or wheat? Am I walking on the way of the righteous, or am I allowing the world to shape the direction of my life?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Lord, deliver me from every ungodly association and influence that can hinder Your blessings in my life .
    2.Father, give me an increasing delight in Your Word and grace to meditate on it continually .
    3.Lord, make my life fruitful and a blessing to others in every season
    4.Father, preserve Your children from the way of the wicked and make our lives a reservoir and channel of divine blessings to others .

    *HYMN:* Is Your Life A Channel Of Blessings?

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 6-8.
    [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026```


    *PATH TO BLESSING* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

    ```TEXT:PSALM 1:1-6```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful" (PSALM 1:1).*_

    *In 1955, a young man named Jim Elliott left behind the comforts of America to bring the gospel to the unreached Huaorani people of Ecuador. Many thought he was foolish for risking his life among a violent tribe, but Elliot believed in a greater purpose. Before his death at the hands of the very people he sought to reach, he wrote, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliott chose the path of righteousness, dedicating his life to walking in God's ways. Though his earthly journey was cut short, his path to eternal impact and blessing in eternity remains.*

    *Our text contrasts two paths: the way of the righteous, leading to blessing and life, and the way of the wicked, leading to damnation and destruction. The Psalmist describes the difference between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous delights in God's law, avoiding ungodly influences and meditating on the Scripture day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which flourishes in every season. In contrast, the wicked are like chaff blown away by the wind; they are temporary and without a lasting purpose. The psalm ends with a clear truth: "For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."*

    *Every day, we are faced with choices that determine which path we walk and what we will reap at the end. The world constantly offers distractions such as ungodly advice, sinful pleasures, and shortcuts to success. But true blessing comes from delighting in God's word, staying rooted in His truth, and avoiding the influences that pull us away from Him.*

    *Like Jim Elliot, those who walk in obedience may face hardship, but they will ultimately flourish in God's purpose. Their lives bear fruit, even after them; their faith remains firm, and they find true peace in Christ. In contrast, those who reject God's ways may seem successful for a time, but in the end, their path leads to emptiness and destruction. As believers, we must be careful enough to walk circumspectly in the truth revealed in God's word. The path to blessing requires commitment to God's word and a refusal to compromise with the world. We should, therefore, stay planted in Christ, who will ultimately make our lives flourish in time and eternity.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Your stand determines your walk. Where do you stand?*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 6-8*


    Path To Blessing
    https://dailymanna.app//
    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 246: O BROTHER, LIFE'S JOURNEY BEGINNING; GHS 55: ANYWHERE WITH JESUS; GHS 58: THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; AND GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON*
    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#DailyManna22ndAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

    ✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

    ```SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026```

    *A SUPPLICANT FOR SAINTS* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

    ```TEXT:COLOSSIANS 4:7-13```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God" (COLOSSIANS 4:12).*_

    *A supplicant is someone who makes petition before God on behalf of others. Epaphras is one of the supplicants in the New Testament. Such a Christian is concerned about others who need God's intervention.*

    *As a child of God, we can follow the "GOM" pattern in our prayer - (God, Others, Me). Prayer is the best gift we can give to fellow believers. The love of Christ constrains us to pray for those who are sick, suffering, afflicted, or backslidden. We pray also for church leaders and the rulers in our nation.*

    *Like Epaphras, believers must pray for the new converts, revival, programmes, and projects in the church. We are to pray for our institutions, teachers, classmates, neighbours, parents, friends, and even foes.*

    *Through intercession, we can achieve much for God. Empathy will enable us to pray effectively for others. Let us bother about others. You are enjoined to "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). Bring solution to other believers' problems through your supplication. God's love constrains us to pray for others, like Epaphras did.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*Let us bother about others.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Empathise and supplicate for others.*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Pour upon me, oh God, the spirit of supplication.*_


    A Supplicant For Saints
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#HigherEveryday22ndAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

    🏼🏼🏼🏼🏼‍

    ```SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026```

    *GOD'S LOVE FOR HIS CHILDREN* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🩷🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```DEUTERONOMY 23:4-6```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"Nevertheless the LORD thy God would not hearken unto Balaam; but the LORD thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the LORD thy God loved thee" (Deuteronomy 23:5).*_



    God's love for His children is expressed in many ways. It is the love of God for us that makes Him to give His only begotten Son to save us from our sins, protect us from all evil, provide for our daily needs, heal us when we are sick, and to warn us not to be friends with evil people.

    God showed His love to the children of Israel by turning the curse of their enemies into a blessing, and by warning them not to make friends with those who planned to curse or harm them.

    God knew that these enemies will not change from their selfish and bitter acts toward the children of Israel. They will always want to hurt them. That is why He commanded them not to relate with these enemies.

    *God does not permit us to make friends with ungodly, immoral and wicked people. They will draw us back to sin. We are to pray for them and tell them of the love of Jesus so that they can repent, believe, and accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour.*



    ```rayer:``` _*Lord, thank You for Your love and protection. Help me never to make friends with people who will hurt me and make me to offend You.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *John 3:16*



    God's Love For His Children
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#SincereMilk22ndAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]

    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; ⏤ 1 Timothy 2:1

    Prayer is the key that unlocks all the storehouses of God’s infinite grace and power. ⏤ R.A. Torrey

    O God, You have taught us to offer supplications, prayers, and intercessions for all people. We humbly ask You to hear our prayers, which we offer to Your divine Majesty in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Remember in Your mercy all people whom You have made to dwell on the earth. Deliver them from the many evils and miseries that oppress them. Deliver them especially from idolatry, ignorance, superstition, error, unbelief, and the chains of sin. Send Your gospel to all nations until everyone has heard its joyful message. Bless all missionaries and organizations dedicated to spreading the gospel. Hasten the coming of Your kingdom among the nations, and bring all Your lost sheep into the fold of the Good Shepherd.

    Remember also, all Your people in Christian lands. You have purchased Your church with Your own blood. We ask You to bless all who call upon Your name in prayer. Fill Your church with more of Your life and Spirit. Equip Your ministers with all spiritual gifts and graces.

    Remember all who are in any trouble. Strengthen the weak and make them strong in spirit. Lift up those who have fallen. Support those who are discouraged and about to give up. Let a special blessing be upon Your children. They cannot find their way home on their own; You must show them the way. Grant that Your people may always keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, to the glory of Your holy name. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/48/morning

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2O26. " THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (2)" Then the devil…set Him on the pinnacle...’ Matthew 4:5 NKJV THE ATTACK on the pinnacle. Let’s look at the second temptation Jesus faced: ‘Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, [and] set Him on the pinnacle of the temple.’ Here you deal with the fear of failure. Satan will whisper, ‘You’re on the pinnacle of success now, but you could easily fall off.’ He will bring up your past failures. He will remind you of leaders who crashed and burned. He will say, ‘If people realised how little you really know, or the issues you’re struggling with, they wouldn’t respect you.’ There are two kinds of fear: healthy fear and unhealthy fear. Healthy fear will keep you dependent on God; it will protect you from pride and self-sufficiency. ‘Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall’ (1 Corinthians 10:12 NKJV). But there’s an unhealthy fear that will keep you in the boat when Jesus is calling to you to step out and walk with Him on the water. You say, ‘But Peter almost drowned.’ Yes, but he was the only one of the disciples who experienced the joy of walking on the water! Having faith doesn’t mean you won’t experience a sinking feeling at times. You have a choice. You can give in to fear, or trust the God who has called you, sustained you, and never failed to give you the strength needed to cope with whatever you face. If your own intellect or talents are the basis of your confidence, you have good reason to fear. But if God is the basis of your confidence, you have nothing to fear. Bible In A Year: Amos 1:1 – 5:17, Matt 20:17-28, Ps 119:137-144, Pro 18:22-24. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation 💝🎀 *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. [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* SATURDAY, 22ND AUGUST, 2026. *WANT TO BE A RESERVOIR OF DIVINE BLESSINGS?* *TEXT:* PSALM 1:1-6. 1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. 5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. *Timeless Truth:*_"And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God"_ (Deuteronomy 28:2). *INTRODUCTION* Every believer desires the blessings of God, but Scripture makes it clear that divine blessings are connected with the way we live, the company we keep and the delight we have in God’s Word. The text presents a sharp contrast between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous person is not merely blessed, occasionally; he becomes like a fruitful tree, continually supplied by divine grace. Furthermore, for the Old Testament saints, the blessings of God and the God’s Covenants with the Patriachs were majorly earthly and material. However, for the New Testament saints, the blessings are majorly spiritual and heavenly, though, with earthly blessings and wealth embedded. The uniform testimony of the Scriptures is that in order to be blessed by God and even be a reservoir of divine blessings, we must deliberately, separate ourselves from ungodly influences, delight in God’s Word and remain spiritually rooted in Him. *1. The Conditions for Divine Blessings* a. Every creature of God enjoys the blessings of God in some shape and form. For example, the air we breathe is universal and the sunshine and the rain we enjoy are without discrimination though God has the power to do so if He wants. However, there are some blessings of God that are given to select few, in particular His children. They are multidimensional blessings including both physical, material, social and spiritual blessings, spanning through all human needs without exception. Receiving these blessings result into all round prosperity which is promised by God. *"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth"* (3 John 2). Apostle Peter summed up all these blessings as things that pertain to life and godliness. *"According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises"* (1 Peter 1:3, 4a). These divinely provided blessings are even richer and deeper than what the Psalmist in the text was aware of. b. The psalmist begins by identifying what the blessed person does not do and what he does. He *"walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful"*. This describes progressive involvement with ungodliness. The blessed person carefully chooses his companions, conversations, character, contacts, connections and control. He is so much in love with the Word of God that he cannot stomach or endure anyone or anywhere the Word of God is being dishonoured. In an age where the demarcation between saints and sinners are being erased, he does not *"stand in the way of sinners"*. He separates himself from the worldly and sinful practices of sinners without being ashamed of standing for the truth and the right. His counsellors and guides in matters of conduct are not the ungodly, but godly people who take the Word of God and go to heaven very seriously. Positively, his delight is in the law of the LORD, and he meditates on it day and night. *Question* Based on the above, are you qualified for daily divine blessings? *2. The Clear Description of the Blessed* a. The description of a blessed man shows that it is pleasant and admirable to be a blessed man. Like a good tree bearing good fruits that are edible and profitable to man, the blessed man is not only blessed by God, he is also a blessing to others. As a good tree gives shade to people when the sun bites hard, the blessed person gives succour and shade to people when they are being bitten by the challenges of life. No wonder, the blessed person is compared to *“a tree planted by the rivers of water”*. The blessings of God are so real that he is never dried up. He remains fresh materially, spiritually and in all areas. Beyond that, he is *"planted by the rivers of water"* where the Word of God flows in his unceasing freshness. b. Such a person never runs out of grace, godliness and goodness. He *“bringeth forth his fruit in his season.”* His life produces visible evidence of God’s work. His leaves do not wither, indicating spiritual vitality even in difficult seasons. Furthermore, *“whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”* He is never a failure in family, business and spiritual ministry because he allows God to always guide his actions, endeavours and always commit them into God’s hands. It does not mean freedom from trials, but it means that a life rooted in God ultimately bears the fruit and accomplishes the purposes God intends. A reservoir does not merely receive water; it stores it for continue usefulness. Likewise, the blessed believer receives divine grace and becomes a channel through which God’s goodness reaches others. *Question* Is my spiritual life deeply rooted enough in God’s Word to remain fruitful in every season? Am I a blessing to others? *3. Cursed Destination of the Barbaric* The wicked are described as *“chaff which the wind driveth away.”* Agricultural chaff consists of the dry, scaly husks and small pieces of straw separated from cereal grains during threshing. It is lightweight, dry, scaly and easily blown away by the wind. It has no economic value. It lacks appreciable weight. It is just good for fire else it will be a nuisance. The ungodly are compared to chaff because they don't add any value to achieving the purpose of God on earth. They are only good for hell fire. Their life is not weighty in character and conduct, but lives on and lives for vanities of life. Those who reject God and persist in ungodliness may appear successful for a season, but their destination is destruction. b. *"The ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous"*. Their apparent strength and conscience cannot withstand divine examination. In fact, the judgment would be so fierce that *"the earth and the heaven fled away"* from the presence of God (Revelation 20:11). *“The LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.”* *Question* Am I a chaff before God or wheat? Am I walking on the way of the righteous, or am I allowing the world to shape the direction of my life? *Prayer Points* 1.Lord, deliver me from every ungodly association and influence that can hinder Your blessings in my life 🙏. 2.Father, give me an increasing delight in Your Word and grace to meditate on it continually 🙏. 3.Lord, make my life fruitful and a blessing to others in every season🙏 4.Father, preserve Your children from the way of the wicked and make our lives a reservoir and channel of divine blessings to others 🙏. *HYMN:* Is Your Life A Channel Of Blessings? *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 6-8. [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026``` *PATH TO BLESSING* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:PSALM 1:1-6```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful" (PSALM 1:1).*_ *In 1955, a young man named Jim Elliott left behind the comforts of America to bring the gospel to the unreached Huaorani people of Ecuador. Many thought he was foolish for risking his life among a violent tribe, but Elliot believed in a greater purpose. Before his death at the hands of the very people he sought to reach, he wrote, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliott chose the path of righteousness, dedicating his life to walking in God's ways. Though his earthly journey was cut short, his path to eternal impact and blessing in eternity remains.* *Our text contrasts two paths: the way of the righteous, leading to blessing and life, and the way of the wicked, leading to damnation and destruction. The Psalmist describes the difference between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous delights in God's law, avoiding ungodly influences and meditating on the Scripture day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which flourishes in every season. In contrast, the wicked are like chaff blown away by the wind; they are temporary and without a lasting purpose. The psalm ends with a clear truth: "For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."* *Every day, we are faced with choices that determine which path we walk and what we will reap at the end. The world constantly offers distractions such as ungodly advice, sinful pleasures, and shortcuts to success. But true blessing comes from delighting in God's word, staying rooted in His truth, and avoiding the influences that pull us away from Him.* *Like Jim Elliot, those who walk in obedience may face hardship, but they will ultimately flourish in God's purpose. Their lives bear fruit, even after them; their faith remains firm, and they find true peace in Christ. In contrast, those who reject God's ways may seem successful for a time, but in the end, their path leads to emptiness and destruction. As believers, we must be careful enough to walk circumspectly in the truth revealed in God's word. The path to blessing requires commitment to God's word and a refusal to compromise with the world. We should, therefore, stay planted in Christ, who will ultimately make our lives flourish in time and eternity.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Your stand determines your walk. Where do you stand?*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 6-8*📜📜 Path To Blessing https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 246: O BROTHER, LIFE'S JOURNEY BEGINNING; GHS 55: ANYWHERE WITH JESUS; GHS 58: THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; AND GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna22ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026``` *A SUPPLICANT FOR SAINTS* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:COLOSSIANS 4:7-13```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God" (COLOSSIANS 4:12).*_ *A supplicant is someone who makes petition before God on behalf of others. Epaphras is one of the supplicants in the New Testament. Such a Christian is concerned about others who need God's intervention.* *As a child of God, we can follow the "GOM" pattern in our prayer - (God, Others, Me). Prayer is the best gift we can give to fellow believers. The love of Christ constrains us to pray for those who are sick, suffering, afflicted, or backslidden. We pray also for church leaders and the rulers in our nation.* *Like Epaphras, believers must pray for the new converts, revival, programmes, and projects in the church. We are to pray for our institutions, teachers, classmates, neighbours, parents, friends, and even foes.* *Through intercession, we can achieve much for God. Empathy will enable us to pray effectively for others. Let us bother about others. You are enjoined to "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). Bring solution to other believers' problems through your supplication. God's love constrains us to pray for others, like Epaphras did.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Let us bother about others.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Empathise and supplicate for others.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Pour upon me, oh God, the spirit of supplication.*_ A Supplicant For Saints https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday22ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026``` *GOD'S LOVE FOR HIS CHILDREN* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️💓❤️🩷🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```DEUTERONOMY 23:4-6```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"Nevertheless the LORD thy God would not hearken unto Balaam; but the LORD thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the LORD thy God loved thee" (Deuteronomy 23:5).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 God's love for His children is expressed in many ways. It is the love of God for us that makes Him to give His only begotten Son to save us from our sins, protect us from all evil, provide for our daily needs, heal us when we are sick, and to warn us not to be friends with evil people. God showed His love to the children of Israel by turning the curse of their enemies into a blessing, and by warning them not to make friends with those who planned to curse or harm them. God knew that these enemies will not change from their selfish and bitter acts toward the children of Israel. They will always want to hurt them. That is why He commanded them not to relate with these enemies. *God does not permit us to make friends with ungodly, immoral and wicked people. They will draw us back to sin. We are to pray for them and tell them of the love of Jesus so that they can repent, believe, and accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, thank You for Your love and protection. Help me never to make friends with people who will hurt me and make me to offend You.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *John 3:16* God's Love For His Children https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk22ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; ⏤ 1 Timothy 2:1 Prayer is the key that unlocks all the storehouses of God’s infinite grace and power. ⏤ R.A. Torrey O God, You have taught us to offer supplications, prayers, and intercessions for all people. We humbly ask You to hear our prayers, which we offer to Your divine Majesty in the name of Jesus Christ. Remember in Your mercy all people whom You have made to dwell on the earth. Deliver them from the many evils and miseries that oppress them. Deliver them especially from idolatry, ignorance, superstition, error, unbelief, and the chains of sin. Send Your gospel to all nations until everyone has heard its joyful message. Bless all missionaries and organizations dedicated to spreading the gospel. Hasten the coming of Your kingdom among the nations, and bring all Your lost sheep into the fold of the Good Shepherd. Remember also, all Your people in Christian lands. You have purchased Your church with Your own blood. We ask You to bless all who call upon Your name in prayer. Fill Your church with more of Your life and Spirit. Equip Your ministers with all spiritual gifts and graces. Remember all who are in any trouble. Strengthen the weak and make them strong in spirit. Lift up those who have fallen. Support those who are discouraged and about to give up. Let a special blessing be upon Your children. They cannot find their way home on their own; You must show them the way. Grant that Your people may always keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, to the glory of Your holy name. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/48/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • Daily devotion for August 22nd
    The House Of God
    We will not neglect the house of our God.

    Nehemiah 10:39b
    Throughout the history of Israel, the temple, or the tabernacle before that, was called the house of God. God signified His presence there by the shekinah glory that was located in the Holy of Holies. Today, under the New Testament, no building is ever to be called the house of God. This has been ignored by churches throughout the centuries, and temples, cathedrals, tabernacles, and church buildings have all been called the house of God. If you look at the teaching of the New Testament, however, you will find that it is not a building but the people who are the house of God. At one point, we even changed the sign in front of our building to reflect this truth. Where it says Peninsula Bible Church, we added the words Meets Here. Thus, it is not the building that is the church--it is the people who gather here. They are the house of God.

    Notice the commitment of these people to attend faithfully the worship services of the temple. We all need the ministry of the saints. Paul prayed that the Ephesians may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:18-19). You cannot do that without the ministry of other people. Hebrews has a specific admonition to that end: Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:25). The writer is referring to the return of Jesus. As we see it nearing, we need all the more to gather together because we need each other's support.

    Two men of widely different temperaments work together. Normally they would not get along very well, and they might not even like each other. But they work together, and both agree that having to work with someone with whom they do not particularly have an affinity has been a blessing to them. They have learned how to appreciate someone different from themselves. They have learned how to be tolerant and patient with one another. Though it has been a struggle and they have had their moments, they both agree that God has used this to teach them how to grow. So even those in the house of God who irritate us can be of benefit to us.

    Father, thank You for the house of God--for those men and women You have placed around me, who in one way or another I desperately need. May I learn to appreciate and love them.
    Daily devotion for August 22nd The House Of God We will not neglect the house of our God. Nehemiah 10:39b Throughout the history of Israel, the temple, or the tabernacle before that, was called the house of God. God signified His presence there by the shekinah glory that was located in the Holy of Holies. Today, under the New Testament, no building is ever to be called the house of God. This has been ignored by churches throughout the centuries, and temples, cathedrals, tabernacles, and church buildings have all been called the house of God. If you look at the teaching of the New Testament, however, you will find that it is not a building but the people who are the house of God. At one point, we even changed the sign in front of our building to reflect this truth. Where it says Peninsula Bible Church, we added the words Meets Here. Thus, it is not the building that is the church--it is the people who gather here. They are the house of God. Notice the commitment of these people to attend faithfully the worship services of the temple. We all need the ministry of the saints. Paul prayed that the Ephesians may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:18-19). You cannot do that without the ministry of other people. Hebrews has a specific admonition to that end: Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:25). The writer is referring to the return of Jesus. As we see it nearing, we need all the more to gather together because we need each other's support. Two men of widely different temperaments work together. Normally they would not get along very well, and they might not even like each other. But they work together, and both agree that having to work with someone with whom they do not particularly have an affinity has been a blessing to them. They have learned how to appreciate someone different from themselves. They have learned how to be tolerant and patient with one another. Though it has been a struggle and they have had their moments, they both agree that God has used this to teach them how to grow. So even those in the house of God who irritate us can be of benefit to us. Father, thank You for the house of God--for those men and women You have placed around me, who in one way or another I desperately need. May I learn to appreciate and love them.
    Praying
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