• Colossians 1:1-20

    1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,
    2 To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace and peace to you from God our Father.
    3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,
    4 because we have heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all the saintsโ€”
    5 the faith and love proceeding from the hope stored up for you in heaven, of which you have already heard in the word of truth, the gospel
    6 that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood the grace of God.
    7 You learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf,
    8 and who also informed us of your love in the Spirit.
    ...
    Colossians 1:1-20 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard about your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all the saintsโ€” 5 the faith and love proceeding from the hope stored up for you in heaven, of which you have already heard in the word of truth, the gospel 6 that has come to you. All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood the grace of God. 7 You learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8 and who also informed us of your love in the Spirit. ...
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  • A life without Christ is full of crisis — but a life surrendered to Him is full of victory.

    In this powerful word for July, I share biblical keys to overcome sin, walk in victory, and let the Holy Spirit take full control of your life. If you've been struggling, this message will minister directly to your spirit.

    In this video:
    Why a life without Christ is a life in crisis
    Biblical keys to overcome sin and temptation
    How to let the Holy Spirit rule and influence your decisions
    The power of studying and meditating on God's Word daily

    If you've never given your life to Jesus, or you want to rededicate your life to Him, stay tuned — I'll be leading a simple prayer of faith in the next part of this series.

    Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:21
    Psalm 107:20

    Part of my "Prophetic Prayers and Declarations for July" series. Watch Part 1 here:
    https://youtube.com/shorts/XlnhiXGT_SY?si=mBXL8zpnQemrzokl

    Subscribe for daily prophetic prayers, declarations, and life-transforming words.
    Share this with someone who needs to hear it today.

    #GiveYourLifeToChrist #OvercomeSin #VictoriousLiving #HolySpirit #PropheticPrayer #JulyDeclarations #ChristianMotivation #BornAgain #WordOfGod #FaithOverFear #ChristianTikTok #GodsWord #DailyDevotion

    https://youtube.com/shorts/4f8I7r6yPVw?si=Bjx9pBtVJjmy6clV
    A life without Christ is full of crisis — but a life surrendered to Him is full of victory. ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿ”ฅ In this powerful word for July, I share biblical keys to overcome sin, walk in victory, and let the Holy Spirit take full control of your life. If you've been struggling, this message will minister directly to your spirit. In this video: โœ… Why a life without Christ is a life in crisis โœ… Biblical keys to overcome sin and temptation โœ… How to let the Holy Spirit rule and influence your decisions โœ… The power of studying and meditating on God's Word daily If you've never given your life to Jesus, or you want to rededicate your life to Him, stay tuned — I'll be leading a simple prayer of faith in the next part of this series. ๐Ÿ“– Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:21 Psalm 107:20 ๐Ÿ‘‰ Part of my "Prophetic Prayers and Declarations for July" series. Watch Part 1 here: https://youtube.com/shorts/XlnhiXGT_SY?si=mBXL8zpnQemrzokl ๐Ÿ”” Subscribe for daily prophetic prayers, declarations, and life-transforming words. ๐Ÿ“Œ Share this with someone who needs to hear it today. #GiveYourLifeToChrist #OvercomeSin #VictoriousLiving #HolySpirit #PropheticPrayer #JulyDeclarations #ChristianMotivation #BornAgain #WordOfGod #FaithOverFear #ChristianTikTok #GodsWord #DailyDevotion https://youtube.com/shorts/4f8I7r6yPVw?si=Bjx9pBtVJjmy6clV
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  • Ellen G. White
    For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. Romans 14:7. โ€“ {UL 243.1}
    There is constant temptation for human beings to consider that any influence they have gained is the result of something valuable in themselves. The Lord does not work with these, for He will not give to any human being the glory that belongs to His own name. God would have everyone under His supervision, and recognize that to God belongs all the glory of their success.... โ€“ {UL 243.2}
    If the human worker will walk in all humility of mind, looking to God, trusting in Him, working out his own salvation with fear and trembling, the Lord will cooperate with him. It is God that works in us to do His will for His own nameโ€™s glory. He will give His wisdom, His divine power, to everyone who is doing His service. He makes the humble trustful servant His representativeโ€”the one who will not lift himself up, and think of himself more highly than he ought to think. The life of such an one will be dedicated to God as a living sacrifice, and that life He will accept and use and sustain.... โ€“ {UL 243.3}
    Our life is not our own. It is Christโ€™s life. All is His, and we are to spend our powers in doing the will of God. Watch and pray; spend and be spent in doing His will from the heart. Carry every entrusted capability as a sacred treasure, to be used in imparting to others the knowledge and grace received.... โ€“ {UL 243.4}
    Nehemiah, after gaining so great an influence over the [Persian] monarch in whose court he lived, and over his people in Jerusalem, instead of ascribing praise to his own excellent traits of character, his remarkable aptness and energy, stated the manner just as it was. He declared that his success was due to the good hand of God that was upon him. He cherished the truth that God was his safeguard in every position of influence. For every trait of character by which he obtained favor, he praised the working power of God.... And God gave him wisdom, because he did not exalt himself. The Lord taught him how to use the gifts entrusted to him to the very best advantage, and under the supervision of God, these talents gained other talents.... โ€“ {UL 243.5}
    Every jot of influence is to be appreciated as the gift of God. The eye of the mind is to be single to the glory of God. Then the sense of responsibility will increase. Our talents will be put out to the exchangers to increase and double. There are hundreds of men and women who, if they had a proper appreciation of the heavenly trust, would go diligently and earnestly to work to use what they have.โ€”Letter 83, August 17, 1898, to a leading minister in Australia. โ€“ {UL 243.6}
    Ellen G. White For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. Romans 14:7. โ€“ {UL 243.1} There is constant temptation for human beings to consider that any influence they have gained is the result of something valuable in themselves. The Lord does not work with these, for He will not give to any human being the glory that belongs to His own name. God would have everyone under His supervision, and recognize that to God belongs all the glory of their success.... โ€“ {UL 243.2} If the human worker will walk in all humility of mind, looking to God, trusting in Him, working out his own salvation with fear and trembling, the Lord will cooperate with him. It is God that works in us to do His will for His own nameโ€™s glory. He will give His wisdom, His divine power, to everyone who is doing His service. He makes the humble trustful servant His representativeโ€”the one who will not lift himself up, and think of himself more highly than he ought to think. The life of such an one will be dedicated to God as a living sacrifice, and that life He will accept and use and sustain.... โ€“ {UL 243.3} Our life is not our own. It is Christโ€™s life. All is His, and we are to spend our powers in doing the will of God. Watch and pray; spend and be spent in doing His will from the heart. Carry every entrusted capability as a sacred treasure, to be used in imparting to others the knowledge and grace received.... โ€“ {UL 243.4} Nehemiah, after gaining so great an influence over the [Persian] monarch in whose court he lived, and over his people in Jerusalem, instead of ascribing praise to his own excellent traits of character, his remarkable aptness and energy, stated the manner just as it was. He declared that his success was due to the good hand of God that was upon him. He cherished the truth that God was his safeguard in every position of influence. For every trait of character by which he obtained favor, he praised the working power of God.... And God gave him wisdom, because he did not exalt himself. The Lord taught him how to use the gifts entrusted to him to the very best advantage, and under the supervision of God, these talents gained other talents.... โ€“ {UL 243.5} Every jot of influence is to be appreciated as the gift of God. The eye of the mind is to be single to the glory of God. Then the sense of responsibility will increase. Our talents will be put out to the exchangers to increase and double. There are hundreds of men and women who, if they had a proper appreciation of the heavenly trust, would go diligently and earnestly to work to use what they have.โ€”Letter 83, August 17, 1898, to a leading minister in Australia. โ€“ {UL 243.6}
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2O26.
    "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (3)"

    โ€˜โ€ฆAll these things I will give you...โ€™ Matthew 4:9 NKJV

    THE ATTACK over the cross. Letโ€™s look at the third temptation Jesus faced: โ€˜โ€ฆThe devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, โ€œAll these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship meโ€™โ€™โ€™ (Matthew 4:8-9 NKJV). Satanโ€™s third attack was over a cross-less life. In essence, he told Jesus, โ€˜You donโ€™t have to carry the cross. Just bow to me and you can have it all.โ€™ Jesus said, โ€˜โ€ฆโ€œAway with you, satan!...โ€โ€™ (Matthew 4:10 NKJV). โ€˜Awayโ€™ with any teaching that says God is your porter and He has to wait on you! Or that Heโ€™s like a vending machine; all you have to do is put in a few coins and whatever you want will come out. Paul writes, โ€˜I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for meโ€™ (Galatians 2:20 NKJV). Has God promised to bless you? Absolutely! But that doesnโ€™t mean youโ€™ll never get hurt, or face lack, or fatigue, or be betrayed and disappointed by others. Jesus said, โ€˜โ€ฆunless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies [to self], it remains alone; but if it dies [to self], it produces muchโ€ฆโ€™ (John 12:24 NKJV). Have you ever heard the expression, โ€˜Dead man walking?โ€™ To do Godโ€™s will, you have to die to your own will, and do it daily. But if youโ€™re willing to, God will take you to a new level of blessing.

    Bible In A Year: Amos 5:18 โ€“ 9:15, Matt 20:29-34, Ps 119:145-160, Pro 19:1-2. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing

    *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*.

    MD.ii. [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY โ“‚ANNA*

    SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2026

    *THE REWARD OF SACRIFICIAL DISCIPLESHIP*

    *Text:* Matthew 19:27โ€“30

    27. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?
    28. And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
    29. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
    30. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.


    *Timeless Truth:*
    _For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister"_ (Hebrews 6:10)

    *INTRODUCTION*

    During the Second World War, Desmond Doss, an American Army medic and committed Christian, served without carrying a weapon because of his convictions. During the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, he repeatedly entered a dangerous battlefield to rescue wounded soldiers. He is credited with saving approximately 75 men, lowering each wounded soldier to safety while under enemy fire. Doss later received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary courage.
    His story reminds us that genuine commitment often involves sacrifice. A person who is committed to a worthy cause may surrender comfort, safety and personal advantage because he believes the cause is greater than himself.
    Peter's question in Matthew 19:27 comes from this same concern. The disciples had left much to follow Jesus, and Peter asked, โ€œWhat shall we have therefore?โ€ Jesus did not condemn the question. Instead, He taught them that sacrifice for God's kingdom is never wasted.*For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.* (Hebrews 6:10).
    The passage teaches us that Christ calls His followers to sacrificial discipleship, promises them spiritual reward and warns them against measuring God's kingdom by worldly standards.
    Perhaps you have sacrificed time to serve God. Perhaps you have endured rejection because of your faith. Perhaps you have given financially when it was difficult. Perhaps you have chosen obedience over personal ambition. Perhaps you have remained faithful in a ministry where nobody seems to notice your work. Jesus' answer in this passage is an encouragement: God sees, God remembers and God rewards. But Christ also corrects our understanding of reward. The Christian life is not primarily about asking, โ€œWhat can I get from following Jesus?โ€ It is about asking, โ€œHow can I faithfully serve the One who gave everything for me?โ€
    The disciples left much, but Jesus promised that their sacrifice would not be wasted. There are three great challenges before us:
    (i) Surrender your life completely to Christ.
    (ii) Serve faithfully without demanding immediate recognition. *(iii)* Stand firm when sacrifice becomes difficult.
    The world may celebrate those who appear to be first. God's kingdom operates differently. The person who quietly serves, humbly gives, faithfully prays, patiently suffers and continues obeying Christ may be accomplishing something of far greater eternal value than the person receiving public applause.
    Therefore, do not give up because your service is unnoticed. Do not stop serving because your sacrifice is costly. Do not measure God's faithfulness by your immediate circumstances. Your labour for Christ is never wasted.
    *Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.* (1 Corinthians 15:58)
    One day, the Lord Himself will reveal what truly mattered. And on that day, the faithful servant will discover that nothing surrendered to Christ was ever truly lost.


    *1. The Surrender of Sacrificial Discipleship*

    a. Peter reminded Jesus that the disciples had left their possessions and livelihoods to follow Him. Following Christ involves surrender. Christianity is not merely receiving blessings; it is also yielding our lives to the Lord. We must ask whether Christ truly has first place in our lives. Following Him may require us to surrender habits, relationships, ambitions, possessions, or personal preferences that compete with His will.
    b. The disciples did not merely admire Jesus; they left their former way of life and continued with Him. Christian commitment is not measured by how enthusiastically we begin, but by how faithfully we continue.

    *Questions*

    (i) What am I unwilling to surrender to Christ?
    (ii) Does my daily lifestyle demonstrate that following Jesus is more important to me than personal comfort?


    *2. The Reward of Kingdom Service*

    a. Jesus assured His disciples that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed. Jesus spoke of the future when He would sit on His glorious throne and the disciples would share in His kingdom.
    Our present service must be viewed in light of eternity. What we sacrifice for Christ now has eternal significance.
    b. Jesus promised that those who had sacrificed houses, family relationships or possessions for His name would receive abundant blessings. This does not mean that discipleship is a scheme for material prosperity. Rather, Jesus assures His followers that nothing surrendered to Him is ultimately lost. Jesus concludes His promise with: *"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters... for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.โ€*

    *Questions*

    (i) Do I serve God for His glory or mainly for recognition and earthly rewards?
    (ii) When sacrifice becomes difficult, do I remember the eternal reward promised by Christ?


    *3. The Reversal of Kingdom Standards*

    a. Jesus concludes with a statement that challenges human ideas about success and reward.
    Human society often measures greatness through wealth, position, influence, education and recognition. But God's measurement is different. We should not measure our spiritual worth by comparing ourselves with other people.
    b. God values humble service rather than self-promotion. A disciple should be willing to serve even when nobody applauds, notices or rewards the work. The world's ranking system will not determine the final outcome. God will ultimately reveal the true value of every person's service.

    *Questions*

    (i) Do I become discouraged when others receive recognition while my service remains unnoticed?
    (ii) Am I willing to serve faithfully even when I receive no immediate reward?

    *Prayer Points*

    1. Lord Jesus, help me to surrender every area of my life completely to You and place Your kingdom above my personal interests.
    2. Father, give me grace to remain faithful in serving You even when the work is difficult or unnoticed.
    3. Lord, deliver me from comparing myself with others and help me to value eternal rewards above temporary recognition.
    4. Holy Spirit, remove pride and selfish ambition from my heart and make me a humble servant who seeks God's glory rather than human applause.


    *Hymn:* Take My Life and Let It Be

    *THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 9-10
    [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026```


    *BEYOND HUMAN MEASURE* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ

    ```TEXT:MATTHEW 19:27-30```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first" (MATTHEW 19:29, 30).*_

    *Brother Andrew, a humble Dutchman, began smuggling Bibles into communist countries during the _Cold War,_ risking his life to serve believers behind the Iron Curtain. He didn't seek fame; he just obeyed God's quiet call. That small, faithful beginning grew into _Open Doors,_ a global ministry that continues to help persecuted Christians today. Though little known on earth, Andrew is surely honoured in heaven.*

    *His story perfectly illustrates the timeless principle Jesus lays out in today's passage: that all faithful, sacrificial service done for Him, however hidden or risky, will attract heaven's reward. In the text, Apostle Peter poses a question many believers still echo today: "We have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" It is a question laced with hope but also with the subtle implication of comparison with others and transaction with God. Considering the context, Peter's question implies that if we have given up much for God, in contrast to the rich young ruler who didn't, surely we are due a proportionate reward. In His answer, Jesus affirms that sacrifice in His name is never forgotten. Certainly, we shall receive astounding rewards, yet He closes with a warning wrapped in a paradox: "But many _that are_ first shall be last; and the last _shall be_ first."*

    *This final line holds the key to understanding divine reward, not as a salary earned but as a gift bestowed in Sovereign wisdom. God's kingdom does not run on human logic or worldly meritocracy. Instead, it operates based on grace, faithfulness, and sincerity of heart. When we serve God with a mere transactional mind-set, doing in order to receive, we risk missing the heartbeat of discipleship. And to correct this misunderstanding, Jesus immediately follows His statement with the parable of the workers in the vineyard. There, those who worked a full day were shocked to receive the same wages as those hired last. Then Jesus concluded with the same warning: "So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen". The point is clear: God's rewards are not based on length of service or human measure, but on His gracious prerogative. Faithfulness, not fame, draws heaven's attention.*

    *This ought to challenge and comfort us. We are not in competition in God's kingdom. We are simply called to be faithful. Whatever the sacrifice our calling may demand, the measure of our reward is not in the scope of our task but in our fidelity to it. So, as the "prize-giving day" draws near, let us serve with joy, not calculation, remembering that the One who called us is no man's debtor but a just and faithful Rewarder.*

    โœ๐Ÿฝ```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*When you serve in silence, heaven echoes your labour with eternal applause.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 9-10*



    Beyond Human Measure
    https://dailymanna.app//
    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 54: I AM READY FOR SERVICE; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON; AND GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED*
    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#DailyManna23rdAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
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    [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

    โœ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿปโ€ ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ›ฐ

    ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026```

    *ATTITUDE TO WORLD AFFAIRS* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ

    ```TEXT:1 JOHN 2:15-17```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 JOHN 2:15).*_

    *The hands of the clock has been used to describe three categories of believers. Twelve-o'clock-Christians are so heavenly conscious, but of no earthly use. Half-past-six-o'clock-Christians are buried in the world and have lost the vision of heaven. The six-o'clock-believers are Christians who are of significance on earth and are heavenly minded.*

    *The significance of salt as flavour is not felt when it is isolated from other ingredients. It is not eaten as food all on its own. The worth of salt is acknowledged when it is used as flavour. So are believers. We are the salt of the earth. While we insulate ourselves from the pollutions of the world and live with the consciousness of heaven, we should equally exact positive influence in the world.*

    *Christian youths can influence their world in various clubs in school - like the Press Club, Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists, Young Farmers Club, Red Cross Society - to shine the gospel light. Qualified youths should exercise their franchise during elections as responsible citizens. We should not contaminate ourselves with the evils of the society; instead, impact it positively.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*Youths can influence their world.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't isolate but insulate against the world.*_

    ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to be a blessing to the world.*_



    Attitude To World Affairs
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#HigherEveryday23rdAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2โƒฃ0โƒฃ2โƒฃ)*_

    ๐Ÿผ๐Ÿผโ€โ€๐Ÿผโ€๐Ÿผโ€๐Ÿผโ€

    ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026```

    *FIRST ON THE LIST* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ

    ```PSALM 103:1-5```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:3).*_



    A list always starts with number one (1). In most cases, the first thing is the most important. For example, in an examination result, the first position is given to the child that scores the highest mark. The first always opens the list for other items to follow.

    As shown in our Bible passage, the first opens the door for all other benefits to come through. The blessings of God seem to be arranged in a divine, logical order in the lives of God's children. We do not have to rush for the second if we have not yet received the first. Sins (iniquities) block our way to receiving God's many benefits or blessings.

    Sin must first be removed out of our lives if we want to have God's blessings. For, *"if I regard* (allow) *iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me"* - and bless me (Psalm 66:18). In our Bible passage, the first benefit stated there is *"forgiveness of sin"*.

    It is after you have received this first benefit, by turning away from your bad ways, saying sorry to God, and making Jesus your Saviour and friend, that you are qualified to enjoy the other benefits like healing, deliverance, love and mercy of God, provision and long life.

    *If you desire God's blessings in your life, do the first thing first: repent and turn away from your sins, and the needed blessings will come into your life.*



    ```rayer:``` _*Lord, I am sorry for every bad thing I have done. Forgive my sins, be merciful to me and bless me.*_ ๐Ÿฝ

    ``` Further Reading:``` *Psalm 32:1, 2*



    First On The List
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    *#CrusadeNuggets*
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    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. โค Hebrews 10:22

    He who kneels the most, stands the best. โค D.L. Moody

    Most gracious God, in Your good providence You have allowed us to see the light of another Sundayโ€”draw near to us in mercy. May the Sun of righteousness arise upon us with healing in His wings. May our fellowship this day be with You, the Father, and with Your Son, Jesus Christ. May all unworthy thoughts be suppressed, and may our hearts be filled with holy desires. Be a guest in our home today. Abide with us and sanctify our home life.

    We ask You to bless all the gatherings of Your people who will worship today in any part of the world. May Your Spirit be with all who preach and teach in the name of Jesus, and with all who love You. May Your word have great power. May lost sinners be convicted and led to repentance. May Christians be strengthened and encouraged. May those who are sorrowful be comforted. May children and young people receive holy and heavenly guidance and be blessed. May this be a day of the power of the Most High, and may its influence be deep and lasting.

    We ask You, O God, to give us a good Sunday in our own home. Help us to remember the day and keep it in a way that pleases You and brings blessings into our lives. May our love for each other grow as we worship together. May Your love be poured out in our hearts more abundantly. May we stay close to Your heart all day. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/49/morning

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    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. ๐Ÿ˜€๐Ÿ’๐ŸŒบ๐ŸŽ๐ŸŒน๐ŸŽ€ MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2O26. "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (3)" โ€˜โ€ฆAll these things I will give you...โ€™ Matthew 4:9 NKJV THE ATTACK over the cross. Letโ€™s look at the third temptation Jesus faced: โ€˜โ€ฆThe devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, โ€œAll these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship meโ€™โ€™โ€™ (Matthew 4:8-9 NKJV). Satanโ€™s third attack was over a cross-less life. In essence, he told Jesus, โ€˜You donโ€™t have to carry the cross. Just bow to me and you can have it all.โ€™ Jesus said, โ€˜โ€ฆโ€œAway with you, satan!...โ€โ€™ (Matthew 4:10 NKJV). โ€˜Awayโ€™ with any teaching that says God is your porter and He has to wait on you! Or that Heโ€™s like a vending machine; all you have to do is put in a few coins and whatever you want will come out. Paul writes, โ€˜I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for meโ€™ (Galatians 2:20 NKJV). Has God promised to bless you? Absolutely! But that doesnโ€™t mean youโ€™ll never get hurt, or face lack, or fatigue, or be betrayed and disappointed by others. Jesus said, โ€˜โ€ฆunless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies [to self], it remains alone; but if it dies [to self], it produces muchโ€ฆโ€™ (John 12:24 NKJV). Have you ever heard the expression, โ€˜Dead man walking?โ€™ To do Godโ€™s will, you have to die to your own will, and do it daily. But if youโ€™re willing to, God will take you to a new level of blessing. Bible In A Year: Amos 5:18 โ€“ 9:15, Matt 20:29-34, Ps 119:145-160, Pro 19:1-2. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing ๐Ÿ’๐ŸŽ€ *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ’๐ŸŒน๐ŸŒท. MD.ii. [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY โ“‚ANNA* SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2026 *THE REWARD OF SACRIFICIAL DISCIPLESHIP* *Text:* Matthew 19:27โ€“30 27. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28. And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. 30. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. *Timeless Truth:* _For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister"_ (Hebrews 6:10) *INTRODUCTION* During the Second World War, Desmond Doss, an American Army medic and committed Christian, served without carrying a weapon because of his convictions. During the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, he repeatedly entered a dangerous battlefield to rescue wounded soldiers. He is credited with saving approximately 75 men, lowering each wounded soldier to safety while under enemy fire. Doss later received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary courage. His story reminds us that genuine commitment often involves sacrifice. A person who is committed to a worthy cause may surrender comfort, safety and personal advantage because he believes the cause is greater than himself. Peter's question in Matthew 19:27 comes from this same concern. The disciples had left much to follow Jesus, and Peter asked, โ€œWhat shall we have therefore?โ€ Jesus did not condemn the question. Instead, He taught them that sacrifice for God's kingdom is never wasted.*For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.* (Hebrews 6:10). The passage teaches us that Christ calls His followers to sacrificial discipleship, promises them spiritual reward and warns them against measuring God's kingdom by worldly standards. Perhaps you have sacrificed time to serve God. Perhaps you have endured rejection because of your faith. Perhaps you have given financially when it was difficult. Perhaps you have chosen obedience over personal ambition. Perhaps you have remained faithful in a ministry where nobody seems to notice your work. Jesus' answer in this passage is an encouragement: God sees, God remembers and God rewards. But Christ also corrects our understanding of reward. The Christian life is not primarily about asking, โ€œWhat can I get from following Jesus?โ€ It is about asking, โ€œHow can I faithfully serve the One who gave everything for me?โ€ The disciples left much, but Jesus promised that their sacrifice would not be wasted. There are three great challenges before us: (i) Surrender your life completely to Christ. (ii) Serve faithfully without demanding immediate recognition. *(iii)* Stand firm when sacrifice becomes difficult. The world may celebrate those who appear to be first. God's kingdom operates differently. The person who quietly serves, humbly gives, faithfully prays, patiently suffers and continues obeying Christ may be accomplishing something of far greater eternal value than the person receiving public applause. Therefore, do not give up because your service is unnoticed. Do not stop serving because your sacrifice is costly. Do not measure God's faithfulness by your immediate circumstances. Your labour for Christ is never wasted. *Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.* (1 Corinthians 15:58) One day, the Lord Himself will reveal what truly mattered. And on that day, the faithful servant will discover that nothing surrendered to Christ was ever truly lost. *1. The Surrender of Sacrificial Discipleship* a. Peter reminded Jesus that the disciples had left their possessions and livelihoods to follow Him. Following Christ involves surrender. Christianity is not merely receiving blessings; it is also yielding our lives to the Lord. We must ask whether Christ truly has first place in our lives. Following Him may require us to surrender habits, relationships, ambitions, possessions, or personal preferences that compete with His will. b. The disciples did not merely admire Jesus; they left their former way of life and continued with Him. Christian commitment is not measured by how enthusiastically we begin, but by how faithfully we continue. *Questions* (i) What am I unwilling to surrender to Christ? (ii) Does my daily lifestyle demonstrate that following Jesus is more important to me than personal comfort? *2. The Reward of Kingdom Service* a. Jesus assured His disciples that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed. Jesus spoke of the future when He would sit on His glorious throne and the disciples would share in His kingdom. Our present service must be viewed in light of eternity. What we sacrifice for Christ now has eternal significance. b. Jesus promised that those who had sacrificed houses, family relationships or possessions for His name would receive abundant blessings. This does not mean that discipleship is a scheme for material prosperity. Rather, Jesus assures His followers that nothing surrendered to Him is ultimately lost. Jesus concludes His promise with: *"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters... for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.โ€* *Questions* (i) Do I serve God for His glory or mainly for recognition and earthly rewards? (ii) When sacrifice becomes difficult, do I remember the eternal reward promised by Christ? *3. The Reversal of Kingdom Standards* a. Jesus concludes with a statement that challenges human ideas about success and reward. Human society often measures greatness through wealth, position, influence, education and recognition. But God's measurement is different. We should not measure our spiritual worth by comparing ourselves with other people. b. God values humble service rather than self-promotion. A disciple should be willing to serve even when nobody applauds, notices or rewards the work. The world's ranking system will not determine the final outcome. God will ultimately reveal the true value of every person's service. *Questions* (i) Do I become discouraged when others receive recognition while my service remains unnoticed? (ii) Am I willing to serve faithfully even when I receive no immediate reward? *Prayer Points* 1. Lord Jesus, help me to surrender every area of my life completely to You and place Your kingdom above my personal interests.๐Ÿ™ 2. Father, give me grace to remain faithful in serving You even when the work is difficult or unnoticed.๐Ÿ™ 3. Lord, deliver me from comparing myself with others and help me to value eternal rewards above temporary recognition.๐Ÿ™ 4. Holy Spirit, remove pride and selfish ambition from my heart and make me a humble servant who seeks God's glory rather than human applause.๐Ÿ™ *Hymn:* Take My Life and Let It Be *THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 9-10 [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY โ“‚๏ธANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *BEYOND HUMAN MEASURE* ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘‘๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```TEXT:MATTHEW 19:27-30```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ”‘๐Ÿ“–```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first" (MATTHEW 19:29, 30).*_ *Brother Andrew, a humble Dutchman, began smuggling Bibles into communist countries during the _Cold War,_ risking his life to serve believers behind the Iron Curtain. He didn't seek fame; he just obeyed God's quiet call. That small, faithful beginning grew into _Open Doors,_ a global ministry that continues to help persecuted Christians today. Though little known on earth, Andrew is surely honoured in heaven.* *His story perfectly illustrates the timeless principle Jesus lays out in today's passage: that all faithful, sacrificial service done for Him, however hidden or risky, will attract heaven's reward. In the text, Apostle Peter poses a question many believers still echo today: "We have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" It is a question laced with hope but also with the subtle implication of comparison with others and transaction with God. Considering the context, Peter's question implies that if we have given up much for God, in contrast to the rich young ruler who didn't, surely we are due a proportionate reward. In His answer, Jesus affirms that sacrifice in His name is never forgotten. Certainly, we shall receive astounding rewards, yet He closes with a warning wrapped in a paradox: "But many _that are_ first shall be last; and the last _shall be_ first."* *This final line holds the key to understanding divine reward, not as a salary earned but as a gift bestowed in Sovereign wisdom. God's kingdom does not run on human logic or worldly meritocracy. Instead, it operates based on grace, faithfulness, and sincerity of heart. When we serve God with a mere transactional mind-set, doing in order to receive, we risk missing the heartbeat of discipleship. And to correct this misunderstanding, Jesus immediately follows His statement with the parable of the workers in the vineyard. There, those who worked a full day were shocked to receive the same wages as those hired last. Then Jesus concluded with the same warning: "So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen". The point is clear: God's rewards are not based on length of service or human measure, but on His gracious prerogative. Faithfulness, not fame, draws heaven's attention.* *This ought to challenge and comfort us. We are not in competition in God's kingdom. We are simply called to be faithful. Whatever the sacrifice our calling may demand, the measure of our reward is not in the scope of our task but in our fidelity to it. So, as the "prize-giving day" draws near, let us serve with joy, not calculation, remembering that the One who called us is no man's debtor but a just and faithful Rewarder.* โœ๐Ÿฝ```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*When you serve in silence, heaven echoes your labour with eternal applause.*_ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 9-10*๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ Beyond Human Measure https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 54: I AM READY FOR SERVICE; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON; AND GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD๐Ÿ…ฐ๏ธY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ โœ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘ฉ๐Ÿปโ€๐Ÿ’ผ๐ŸŒป ๐Ÿ‡๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ›ฐ๐Ÿš€๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿ“š ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *ATTITUDE TO WORLD AFFAIRS* ๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธโค๏ธ๐ŸŒโŒ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```TEXT:1 JOHN 2:15-17```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ“–``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 JOHN 2:15).*_ *The hands of the clock has been used to describe three categories of believers. Twelve-o'clock-Christians are so heavenly conscious, but of no earthly use. Half-past-six-o'clock-Christians are buried in the world and have lost the vision of heaven. The six-o'clock-believers are Christians who are of significance on earth and are heavenly minded.* *The significance of salt as flavour is not felt when it is isolated from other ingredients. It is not eaten as food all on its own. The worth of salt is acknowledged when it is used as flavour. So are believers. We are the salt of the earth. While we insulate ourselves from the pollutions of the world and live with the consciousness of heaven, we should equally exact positive influence in the world.* *Christian youths can influence their world in various clubs in school - like the Press Club, Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists, Young Farmers Club, Red Cross Society - to shine the gospel light. Qualified youths should exercise their franchise during elections as responsible citizens. We should not contaminate ourselves with the evils of the society; instead, impact it positively.* ๐Ÿ’ฌ ```QUOTE:``` _*Youths can influence their world.*_ ๐Ÿ† ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't isolate but insulate against the world.*_ ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to be a blessing to the world.*_ Attitude To World Affairs https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2โƒฃ0โƒฃ2โƒฃ6๏ธโƒฃ)*_ ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผโ€โ™‚๏ธ ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *FIRST ON THE LIST* ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธโœ๏ธ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ๐Ÿ–ค๐Ÿฉธ๐Ÿค๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```PSALM 103:1-5```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ•”๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ–‹๏ธ๐Ÿšป๐Ÿ˜๐ŸŽผ๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿชด๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ’ป ๐Ÿ”‘๐Ÿ“– ```Key Verse:``` _*"Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:3).*_ ๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“– A list always starts with number one (1). In most cases, the first thing is the most important. For example, in an examination result, the first position is given to the child that scores the highest mark. The first always opens the list for other items to follow. As shown in our Bible passage, the first opens the door for all other benefits to come through. The blessings of God seem to be arranged in a divine, logical order in the lives of God's children. We do not have to rush for the second if we have not yet received the first. Sins (iniquities) block our way to receiving God's many benefits or blessings. Sin must first be removed out of our lives if we want to have God's blessings. For, *"if I regard* (allow) *iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me"* - and bless me (Psalm 66:18). In our Bible passage, the first benefit stated there is *"forgiveness of sin"*. It is after you have received this first benefit, by turning away from your bad ways, saying sorry to God, and making Jesus your Saviour and friend, that you are qualified to enjoy the other benefits like healing, deliverance, love and mercy of God, provision and long life. *If you desire God's blessings in your life, do the first thing first: repent and turn away from your sins, and the needed blessings will come into your life.* ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ ```๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธrayer:``` _*Lord, I am sorry for every bad thing I have done. Forgive my sins, be merciful to me and bless me.*_ ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ```๐Ÿ“– Further Reading:``` *Psalm 32:1, 2* First On The List https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. โค Hebrews 10:22 He who kneels the most, stands the best. โค D.L. Moody Most gracious God, in Your good providence You have allowed us to see the light of another Sundayโ€”draw near to us in mercy. May the Sun of righteousness arise upon us with healing in His wings. May our fellowship this day be with You, the Father, and with Your Son, Jesus Christ. May all unworthy thoughts be suppressed, and may our hearts be filled with holy desires. Be a guest in our home today. Abide with us and sanctify our home life. We ask You to bless all the gatherings of Your people who will worship today in any part of the world. May Your Spirit be with all who preach and teach in the name of Jesus, and with all who love You. May Your word have great power. May lost sinners be convicted and led to repentance. May Christians be strengthened and encouraged. May those who are sorrowful be comforted. May children and young people receive holy and heavenly guidance and be blessed. May this be a day of the power of the Most High, and may its influence be deep and lasting. We ask You, O God, to give us a good Sunday in our own home. Help us to remember the day and keep it in a way that pleases You and brings blessings into our lives. May our love for each other grow as we worship together. May Your love be poured out in our hearts more abundantly. May we stay close to Your heart all day. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/49/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • 7 - CANONS OF PUBLIC PRAYER
    C. H. Spurgeon

    First, public prayer should be a matter of the heart.
    A man must be really earnest in prayer. You can pardon a manโ€™s familiarities and vulgarities too, when you clearly see that his inmost heart is speaking to his Master, and that it is only the manโ€™s defects of education or experience which create his faults, and not any moral or spiritual vices of his heart. Cast your whole soul into the exercise of public prayer. So pray, that by a divine attraction, you draw the whole congregation up with you to the throne of God. So pray, that by the power of the Spirit, you express the desires and thoughts of every one present, and stand as the one voice for hundreds of beating hearts which are glowing with fervor before Godโ€™s throne.

    Second, public prayer should be appropriate. There is no need to make the public prayer a gazette of the weekโ€™s events, or a register of the births, deaths, and marriage of your people, but the general movements that have taken place in the congregation should be noted by the ministerโ€™s careful heart. He should bring the joys and sorrows alike before the throne of grace.

    Third, public prayer should not be long.
    John Macdonald said, โ€œIf you are in the spirit of prayer, do not be long, because other people will not be able to keep pace with you in such unusual spirituality; and if you are not in the spirit of prayer, do not be long, because you will then be sure to weary the listeners.โ€ Ten minutes is the limit to which our public prayer ought to be prolonged.

    Fourth, do not use cant phrases.
    Be done with these vile things altogether. There should be no grotesque mingling of Scripture texts, alterations of Scripture texts, or abuses of Scriptural truth in prayer. It ought always to be a point of honor among ministers always to quote Scripture directly. Make us of an expression fresh from your own mind, and it will be quite as acceptable to God as a scriptural phrase defaced or clipped. Vehemently strive against garblings and perversions of Scripture, and renounce forever all cant phrases, for the are the disfigurement of free prayer.

    Five, vary the order, length, and current of your public prayers.
    Vary the order of your prayers, then, for the sake of maintaining attention, and preventing people going through the whole thing as a clock runs on till the weights are down. Also vary the length of your prayers. Do you not think it would be much better if sometimes instead of giving three minutes to the first prayer and fifteen minutes to the second, you have nine minutes to each? Would it not be better sometimes to be longer in the first, and not so long in the second prayer? Finally, vary the current of your prayers. There are many topics which require your attention; the church in its weakness, its backslidings, its sorrows, and its comforts; the outside world, the neighborhood, unconverted hearers, the young people, the nation. Do not pray for all these every time, or otherwise your prayers will be long and probably uninteresting.

    Six, keep from all attempts to work up spurious fervor in public devotion.
    Do not labor to seem earnest. Pray as your heart dictates, under the leading of the Spirit of God, and if you are dull and heavy tell the Lord so. It will be no ill thing to confess your deadness, and bewail it, and cry for quickening; it will be real and acceptable prayer; but simulated ardor is a shameful form of lying.

    Seventh, prepare your prayer.
    Proper preparation means solemn consideration beforehand of the importance of prayer, meditation upon the needs of menโ€™s souls, and a remembrance of the promises which we are to plead; and thus coming before the Lord with a petition written upon the fleshly tables of the heart. This is surely better than coming to God at random, rushing before the throne at haphazard, without a definite error or desire.

    If we wanted to summarize the canons with adverbs we could say, โ€œSpurgeon exhorts pastors to pray soulfully, appropriately, quickly, authentically, variously, and prepared-ly.โ€

    Spugeonโ€™s conclusion of the lecture is a most fitting place for this post to end:

    Let your prayers be earnest, full of fire, vehemence, prevalence. I pray the Holy Ghost to instruct every student of this College so to offer public prayer, that God shall always be served of his best. Let your petitions be plain and heart-felt; and while your people may sometimes feel that the sermon was below the mark, may they also feel that the prayer compensated for all.
    7 - CANONS OF PUBLIC PRAYER C. H. Spurgeon First, public prayer should be a matter of the heart. A man must be really earnest in prayer. You can pardon a manโ€™s familiarities and vulgarities too, when you clearly see that his inmost heart is speaking to his Master, and that it is only the manโ€™s defects of education or experience which create his faults, and not any moral or spiritual vices of his heart. Cast your whole soul into the exercise of public prayer. So pray, that by a divine attraction, you draw the whole congregation up with you to the throne of God. So pray, that by the power of the Spirit, you express the desires and thoughts of every one present, and stand as the one voice for hundreds of beating hearts which are glowing with fervor before Godโ€™s throne. Second, public prayer should be appropriate. There is no need to make the public prayer a gazette of the weekโ€™s events, or a register of the births, deaths, and marriage of your people, but the general movements that have taken place in the congregation should be noted by the ministerโ€™s careful heart. He should bring the joys and sorrows alike before the throne of grace. Third, public prayer should not be long. John Macdonald said, โ€œIf you are in the spirit of prayer, do not be long, because other people will not be able to keep pace with you in such unusual spirituality; and if you are not in the spirit of prayer, do not be long, because you will then be sure to weary the listeners.โ€ Ten minutes is the limit to which our public prayer ought to be prolonged. Fourth, do not use cant phrases. Be done with these vile things altogether. There should be no grotesque mingling of Scripture texts, alterations of Scripture texts, or abuses of Scriptural truth in prayer. It ought always to be a point of honor among ministers always to quote Scripture directly. Make us of an expression fresh from your own mind, and it will be quite as acceptable to God as a scriptural phrase defaced or clipped. Vehemently strive against garblings and perversions of Scripture, and renounce forever all cant phrases, for the are the disfigurement of free prayer. Five, vary the order, length, and current of your public prayers. Vary the order of your prayers, then, for the sake of maintaining attention, and preventing people going through the whole thing as a clock runs on till the weights are down. Also vary the length of your prayers. Do you not think it would be much better if sometimes instead of giving three minutes to the first prayer and fifteen minutes to the second, you have nine minutes to each? Would it not be better sometimes to be longer in the first, and not so long in the second prayer? Finally, vary the current of your prayers. There are many topics which require your attention; the church in its weakness, its backslidings, its sorrows, and its comforts; the outside world, the neighborhood, unconverted hearers, the young people, the nation. Do not pray for all these every time, or otherwise your prayers will be long and probably uninteresting. Six, keep from all attempts to work up spurious fervor in public devotion. Do not labor to seem earnest. Pray as your heart dictates, under the leading of the Spirit of God, and if you are dull and heavy tell the Lord so. It will be no ill thing to confess your deadness, and bewail it, and cry for quickening; it will be real and acceptable prayer; but simulated ardor is a shameful form of lying. Seventh, prepare your prayer. Proper preparation means solemn consideration beforehand of the importance of prayer, meditation upon the needs of menโ€™s souls, and a remembrance of the promises which we are to plead; and thus coming before the Lord with a petition written upon the fleshly tables of the heart. This is surely better than coming to God at random, rushing before the throne at haphazard, without a definite error or desire. If we wanted to summarize the canons with adverbs we could say, โ€œSpurgeon exhorts pastors to pray soulfully, appropriately, quickly, authentically, variously, and prepared-ly.โ€ Spugeonโ€™s conclusion of the lecture is a most fitting place for this post to end: Let your prayers be earnest, full of fire, vehemence, prevalence. I pray the Holy Ghost to instruct every student of this College so to offer public prayer, that God shall always be served of his best. Let your petitions be plain and heart-felt; and while your people may sometimes feel that the sermon was below the mark, may they also feel that the prayer compensated for all.
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  • The church often bears an uncomfortable resemblance to the dysfunctional family. There is the authoritarian presence of the minister—the professional who knows all of the answers and calls most of the shots—whom few ever challenge either because they don’t dare to or because they feel it would do no good if they did. There is the outward camaraderie and inward loneliness of the congregation. There are the unspoken rules and hidden agendas, the doubts and disagreements that for propriety’s sake are kept more or less under cover. There are people with all sorts of enthusiasms and creativities which are not often enough made use of or even recognized because the tendency is not to rock the boat but to keep on doing things the way they have always been done. -Frederick Buechner
    The church often bears an uncomfortable resemblance to the dysfunctional family. There is the authoritarian presence of the minister—the professional who knows all of the answers and calls most of the shots—whom few ever challenge either because they don’t dare to or because they feel it would do no good if they did. There is the outward camaraderie and inward loneliness of the congregation. There are the unspoken rules and hidden agendas, the doubts and disagreements that for propriety’s sake are kept more or less under cover. There are people with all sorts of enthusiasms and creativities which are not often enough made use of or even recognized because the tendency is not to rock the boat but to keep on doing things the way they have always been done. -Frederick Buechner
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  • Daily Bible Lesson.
    WE ASK GOD FOR MORE LIGHTโ€”THEN MAKE EXCUSES WHEN HIS LIGHT REQUIRES CHANGE

    โ€œBehold, to obey is better than sacrifice.โ€ โ€” 1 Samuel 15:22

    We pray:

    โ€œLord, show me Your will.โ€

    Then His light touches something we loveโ€”

    our time, appetite, appearance, character, location, or tongueโ€”

    and suddenly:

    โ€œMy situation is different.โ€
    โ€œEveryone does it.โ€
    โ€œI'm not convicted.โ€

    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:

    โ€œWhy call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?โ€ โ€” Luke 6:46

    So here is the question beneath every reform:

    ARE WE SEEKING GOD'S WILLโ€”OR ASKING GOD TO APPROVE OURS?

    ---

    โ‘  SABBATH REFORMโ€”WHO OWNS YOUR TIME?

    THE EXCUSES:

    โ€œI have to work.โ€
    โ€œMost Christians worship Sunday.โ€
    โ€œGod knows my heart.โ€

    Yesโ€”God knows the heart.

    And Jesus says:

    โ€œIf ye love Me, keep My commandments.โ€ โ€” John 14:15

    God's command still reads:

    โ€œThe seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God.โ€ โ€” Exodus 20:10

    Obedience may cost convenience, approval, opportunityโ€”even income.

    But faith asks something deeper:

    WHAT IS JESUS WORTH?

    โ€œWe ought to obey God rather than men.โ€ โ€” Acts 5:29

    Do not merely argue for the Sabbath.

    KNOW THE LORD OF THE SABBATHโ€”and ask Him for faith to walk in His footsteps.

    ---

    โ‘ก HEALTH REFORMโ€”HAS APPETITE RENAMED ITSELF โ€œNECESSITYโ€?

    THE EXCUSES:

    โ€œMy body needs it.โ€
    โ€œI've always eaten this way.โ€
    โ€œWe're all going to die anyway.โ€

    But this body is not ours to abuse.

    โ€œYe are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.โ€ โ€” 1 Corinthians 6:20

    โ€œWhether therefore ye eat, or drinkโ€ฆ do all to the glory of God.โ€ โ€” 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 โ€œframe excuses and make necessities which have no existenceโ€ while resisting health light. โ€” 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:

    โ€œDo I enjoy it?โ€

    Ask:

    โ€œWILL THIS KEEP MY BODY AND MIND FIT FOR CHRIST'S SERVICE?โ€

    ---

    โ‘ข DRESS REFORMโ€”WHO ARE WE TRYING TO PLEASE?

    THE EXCUSES:

    โ€œIt's only fashion.โ€
    โ€œGod only looks at the heart.โ€
    โ€œI don't want to look different.โ€

    Yes:

    โ€œThe LORD looketh on the heart.โ€ โ€” 1 Samuel 16:7

    And Scripture also calls for:

    โ€œModest apparel.โ€ โ€” 1 Timothy 2:9

    The issue is not ugliness.

    Not neglect.

    Not a religious uniform.

    The question is:

    WHO IS SHAPING MY APPEARANCEโ€”CHRIST OR THE WORLD?

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

    CLOTHING CANNOT SAVE THE HEARTโ€”BUT THE MASTER OF THE HEART WILL INFLUENCE THE CLOTHING.

    Let your appearance quietly testify:

    โ€œI BELONG TO CHRIST.โ€

    ---

    โ‘ฃ CHARACTER REFORMโ€”โ€œTHAT'S JUST HOW I AM.โ€

    Perhaps no excuse protects cherished defects more effectively.

    Anger becomes โ€œmy personality.โ€
    Pride becomes โ€œconfidence.โ€
    Bitterness becomes โ€œwhat they deserve.โ€

    Then comes the universal shield:

    โ€œNobody is perfect.โ€

    True.

    But Jesus never made imperfection an excuse for refusing transformation.

    โ€œIf any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.โ€ โ€” 2 Corinthians 5:17

    โ€œLet this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.โ€ โ€” Philippians 2:5

    Christ does not merely forgive us in the old life.

    HE BEGINS MAKING US NEW.

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

    Stop defending your defect with:

    โ€œTHAT'S WHO I AM.โ€

    Bring it to Jesus:

    โ€œLORD, MAKE ME LIKE YOU.โ€

    ---

    โ‘ค LOCATION REFORMโ€”WHY DID INSPIRATION CRY, โ€œOUT OF THE CITIESโ€?

    Here excuses become painfully practical:

    โ€œMy job is here.โ€
    โ€œMy children's opportunities are here.โ€
    โ€œI'll move when everything becomes convenient.โ€

    Yet Inspiration repeatedly urged:

    โ€œOut of the cities, out of the cities! This is the message the Lord has been giving me.โ€ โ€” 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.

    โ€œThe LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden.โ€ โ€” Genesis 2:8

    Abraham lived as a pilgrim.

    Lot โ€œpitched his tent toward Sodom.โ€ โ€” Genesis 13:12

    Their stories remind us:

    LOCATION CANNOT CONVERT THE HEARTโ€”BUT ENVIRONMENT CAN POWERFULLY INFLUENCE IT.

    Yet Inspiration also counseled:

    โ€œOut of the cities; but not a moment before God would have us go.โ€ โ€” 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 WAYโ€”OBEY.

    And remember:

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

    Christ's first relocation project is:

    SELF OFF THE THRONEโ€”CHRIST ON IT.

    ---

    โ‘ฅ SPEECH REFORMโ€”CAN A CONVERTED HEART KEEP AN UNCONVERTED TONGUE?

    Here the excuses sound innocent:

    โ€œI'm only joking.โ€
    โ€œBut it's true!โ€
    โ€œI just needed to release my feelings.โ€

    Scripture answers:

    โ€œNeither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jestingโ€ฆ but rather giving of thanks.โ€ โ€” Ephesians 5:4

    โ€œSpeak evil of no man.โ€ โ€” Titus 3:2

    And instead:

    โ€œThat which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.โ€ โ€” 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.

    โ€œBless, and curse not.โ€ โ€” 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:

    โ€œSpeaking the truth in love.โ€ โ€” 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?

    โ€œLet the law of kindness be upon your lips and the oil of grace in your heart.โ€ โ€” Christ's Object Lessons, p. 337

    What a standard:

    **TRUTH ON THE LIPS.

    GRACE IN THE HEART.**

    ---

    โ‘ฆ PERHAPS THE MOST DANGEROUS EXCUSEโ€”โ€œI'M NOT CONVICTED.โ€

    Sometimes that is sincere.

    Conscience must never be forced.

    But sometimes:

    โ€œI'M NOT CONVICTEDโ€

    really means:

    โ€œI DON'T WANT TO INVESTIGATE THIS DEEPLY ENOUGH TO BECOME CONVICTED.โ€

    Jesus reveals a searching principle:

    โ€œIf any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.โ€ โ€” John 7:17

    Notice the order:

    WILLINGNESS โ†’ UNDERSTANDING โ†’ OBEDIENCE.

    Before asking,

    โ€œIs this really required?โ€

    ask:

    โ€œLORD, IF YOUR WORD SHOWS ME THAT I AM WRONGโ€”AM I WILLING TO CHANGE?โ€

    That question exposes whether we want truthโ€”

    or merely reassurance.

    ---

    โ‘ง BUT HERE IS THE DANGER ON THE OTHER SIDEโ€”REFORM WITHOUT CHRIST

    Inspiration defines genuine reformation:

    โ€œReformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices.โ€ โ€” 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.

    โ€œBe ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.โ€ โ€” James 1:22

    But never miss this:

    REFORMATION WITHOUT CHRIST CAN PRODUCE A PHARISEE.

    You can keep Sabbathโ€”

    and hate your brother.

    Eat perfectlyโ€”

    and feed on pride.

    Dress modestlyโ€”

    and advertise self-righteousness.

    Move to the countryโ€”

    and take worldliness with you.

    Guard your tongue publiclyโ€”

    while bitterness rules privately.

    Jesus did not come merely to rearrange our habits.

    HE CAME TO RECREATE OUR HEARTS.

    โ€œWithout Me ye can do nothing.โ€ โ€” John 15:5

    ---

    THE QUESTION BENEATH EVERY REFORM

    When Christ touches yourโ€”

    TIMEโ€”will He be Lord?

    APPETITEโ€”will He be Lord?

    APPEARANCEโ€”will He be Lord?

    CHARACTERโ€”will He be Lord?

    LOCATIONโ€”will He be Lord?

    TONGUEโ€”will He be Lord?

    There it is.

    DOES JESUS HAVE PERMISSION TO CHANGE EVERYTHING?

    โ€œIf any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.โ€ โ€” Luke 9:23

    Perhaps we do not need another argument.

    Perhaps we need another surrender.

    Instead of continually praying:

    โ€œLORD, GIVE ME MORE LIGHT,โ€

    perhaps we need to pray:

    โ€œLORD, FORGIVE ME FOR RESISTING THE LIGHT I ALREADY HAVE.โ€

    Take my appetite.

    Take my pride.

    Take my temper.

    Take my tongue.

    Take my plans.

    Take my home.

    TAKE MY WHOLE HEART.

    โ€œLord, what wilt Thou have me to do?โ€ โ€” 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 Lordโ€”

    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 LIGHTโ€”THEN MAKE EXCUSES WHEN HIS LIGHT REQUIRES CHANGE โ€œBehold, to obey is better than sacrifice.โ€ โ€” 1 Samuel 15:22 We pray: โ€œLord, show me Your will.โ€ Then His light touches something we loveโ€” our time, appetite, appearance, character, location, or tongueโ€” and suddenly: โ€œMy situation is different.โ€ โ€œEveryone does it.โ€ โ€œI'm not convicted.โ€ 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: โ€œWhy call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?โ€ โ€” Luke 6:46 So here is the question beneath every reform: ARE WE SEEKING GOD'S WILLโ€”OR ASKING GOD TO APPROVE OURS? --- โ‘  SABBATH REFORMโ€”WHO OWNS YOUR TIME? THE EXCUSES: โ€œI have to work.โ€ โ€œMost Christians worship Sunday.โ€ โ€œGod knows my heart.โ€ Yesโ€”God knows the heart. And Jesus says: โ€œIf ye love Me, keep My commandments.โ€ โ€” John 14:15 God's command still reads: โ€œThe seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God.โ€ โ€” Exodus 20:10 Obedience may cost convenience, approval, opportunityโ€”even income. But faith asks something deeper: WHAT IS JESUS WORTH? โ€œWe ought to obey God rather than men.โ€ โ€” Acts 5:29 Do not merely argue for the Sabbath. KNOW THE LORD OF THE SABBATHโ€”and ask Him for faith to walk in His footsteps. --- โ‘ก HEALTH REFORMโ€”HAS APPETITE RENAMED ITSELF โ€œNECESSITYโ€? THE EXCUSES: โ€œMy body needs it.โ€ โ€œI've always eaten this way.โ€ โ€œWe're all going to die anyway.โ€ But this body is not ours to abuse. โ€œYe are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.โ€ โ€” 1 Corinthians 6:20 โ€œWhether therefore ye eat, or drinkโ€ฆ do all to the glory of God.โ€ โ€” 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 โ€œframe excuses and make necessities which have no existenceโ€ while resisting health light. โ€” 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: โ€œDo I enjoy it?โ€ Ask: โ€œWILL THIS KEEP MY BODY AND MIND FIT FOR CHRIST'S SERVICE?โ€ --- โ‘ข DRESS REFORMโ€”WHO ARE WE TRYING TO PLEASE? THE EXCUSES: โ€œIt's only fashion.โ€ โ€œGod only looks at the heart.โ€ โ€œI don't want to look different.โ€ Yes: โ€œThe LORD looketh on the heart.โ€ โ€” 1 Samuel 16:7 And Scripture also calls for: โ€œModest apparel.โ€ โ€” 1 Timothy 2:9 The issue is not ugliness. Not neglect. Not a religious uniform. The question is: WHO IS SHAPING MY APPEARANCEโ€”CHRIST OR THE WORLD? Christian dress should reflect modesty, simplicity, health, dignity, and good taste without making self the attraction. CLOTHING CANNOT SAVE THE HEARTโ€”BUT THE MASTER OF THE HEART WILL INFLUENCE THE CLOTHING. Let your appearance quietly testify: โ€œI BELONG TO CHRIST.โ€ --- โ‘ฃ CHARACTER REFORMโ€”โ€œTHAT'S JUST HOW I AM.โ€ Perhaps no excuse protects cherished defects more effectively. Anger becomes โ€œmy personality.โ€ Pride becomes โ€œconfidence.โ€ Bitterness becomes โ€œwhat they deserve.โ€ Then comes the universal shield: โ€œNobody is perfect.โ€ True. But Jesus never made imperfection an excuse for refusing transformation. โ€œIf any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.โ€ โ€” 2 Corinthians 5:17 โ€œLet this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.โ€ โ€” Philippians 2:5 Christ does not merely forgive us in the old life. HE BEGINS MAKING US NEW. โ€œWhen the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.โ€ โ€” Christ's Object Lessons, p. 69 Stop defending your defect with: โ€œTHAT'S WHO I AM.โ€ Bring it to Jesus: โ€œLORD, MAKE ME LIKE YOU.โ€ --- โ‘ค LOCATION REFORMโ€”WHY DID INSPIRATION CRY, โ€œOUT OF THE CITIESโ€? Here excuses become painfully practical: โ€œMy job is here.โ€ โ€œMy children's opportunities are here.โ€ โ€œI'll move when everything becomes convenient.โ€ Yet Inspiration repeatedly urged: โ€œOut of the cities, out of the cities! This is the message the Lord has been giving me.โ€ โ€” 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. โ€œThe LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden.โ€ โ€” Genesis 2:8 Abraham lived as a pilgrim. Lot โ€œpitched his tent toward Sodom.โ€ โ€” Genesis 13:12 Their stories remind us: LOCATION CANNOT CONVERT THE HEARTโ€”BUT ENVIRONMENT CAN POWERFULLY INFLUENCE IT. Yet Inspiration also counseled: โ€œOut of the cities; but not a moment before God would have us go.โ€ โ€” 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 WAYโ€”OBEY. And remember: YOU CAN LEAVE BABYLON GEOGRAPHICALLY WHILE BABYLON STILL LIVES IN YOUR HEART. Christ's first relocation project is: SELF OFF THE THRONEโ€”CHRIST ON IT. --- โ‘ฅ SPEECH REFORMโ€”CAN A CONVERTED HEART KEEP AN UNCONVERTED TONGUE? Here the excuses sound innocent: โ€œI'm only joking.โ€ โ€œBut it's true!โ€ โ€œI just needed to release my feelings.โ€ Scripture answers: โ€œNeither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jestingโ€ฆ but rather giving of thanks.โ€ โ€” Ephesians 5:4 โ€œSpeak evil of no man.โ€ โ€” Titus 3:2 And instead: โ€œThat which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.โ€ โ€” 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. โ€œBless, and curse not.โ€ โ€” 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: โ€œSpeaking the truth in love.โ€ โ€” 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? โ€œLet the law of kindness be upon your lips and the oil of grace in your heart.โ€ โ€” Christ's Object Lessons, p. 337 What a standard: **TRUTH ON THE LIPS. GRACE IN THE HEART.** --- โ‘ฆ PERHAPS THE MOST DANGEROUS EXCUSEโ€”โ€œI'M NOT CONVICTED.โ€ Sometimes that is sincere. Conscience must never be forced. But sometimes: โ€œI'M NOT CONVICTEDโ€ really means: โ€œI DON'T WANT TO INVESTIGATE THIS DEEPLY ENOUGH TO BECOME CONVICTED.โ€ Jesus reveals a searching principle: โ€œIf any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.โ€ โ€” John 7:17 Notice the order: WILLINGNESS โ†’ UNDERSTANDING โ†’ OBEDIENCE. Before asking, โ€œIs this really required?โ€ ask: โ€œLORD, IF YOUR WORD SHOWS ME THAT I AM WRONGโ€”AM I WILLING TO CHANGE?โ€ That question exposes whether we want truthโ€” or merely reassurance. --- โ‘ง BUT HERE IS THE DANGER ON THE OTHER SIDEโ€”REFORM WITHOUT CHRIST Inspiration defines genuine reformation: โ€œReformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices.โ€ โ€” 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. โ€œBe ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.โ€ โ€” James 1:22 But never miss this: REFORMATION WITHOUT CHRIST CAN PRODUCE A PHARISEE. You can keep Sabbathโ€” and hate your brother. Eat perfectlyโ€” and feed on pride. Dress modestlyโ€” and advertise self-righteousness. Move to the countryโ€” and take worldliness with you. Guard your tongue publiclyโ€” while bitterness rules privately. Jesus did not come merely to rearrange our habits. HE CAME TO RECREATE OUR HEARTS. โ€œWithout Me ye can do nothing.โ€ โ€” John 15:5 --- THE QUESTION BENEATH EVERY REFORM When Christ touches yourโ€” TIMEโ€”will He be Lord? APPETITEโ€”will He be Lord? APPEARANCEโ€”will He be Lord? CHARACTERโ€”will He be Lord? LOCATIONโ€”will He be Lord? TONGUEโ€”will He be Lord? There it is. DOES JESUS HAVE PERMISSION TO CHANGE EVERYTHING? โ€œIf any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.โ€ โ€” Luke 9:23 Perhaps we do not need another argument. Perhaps we need another surrender. Instead of continually praying: โ€œLORD, GIVE ME MORE LIGHT,โ€ perhaps we need to pray: โ€œLORD, FORGIVE ME FOR RESISTING THE LIGHT I ALREADY HAVE.โ€ Take my appetite. Take my pride. Take my temper. Take my tongue. Take my plans. Take my home. TAKE MY WHOLE HEART. โ€œLord, what wilt Thou have me to do?โ€ โ€” 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 Lordโ€” REFORMATION IS NO LONGER SOMETHING GOD MUST FORCE FROM US. IT BECOMES SOMETHING LOVE IS WILLING TO SURRENDER TO HIM.
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  • # Purpose and Stewardship

    I have been thinking about purpose, and I am beginning to see it through the idea of "stewardship".

    I believe God has a general purpose for humanity, a general purpose for those who belong to Christ, and also particular things He entrusts to individuals. In Genesis, humanity was given responsibility to fill the earth, cultivate it, work it, keep it, and exercise dominion under God. Man was therefore placed in creation not as the ultimate owner, but as a **steward**.

    For the Christian, this stewardship goes further. Jesus calls us **“the salt of the earth”** and **“the light of the world.”** He Himself said, “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” He taught, preached, healed, delivered, instructed, and ministered to people. He exercised and dispensed what the Father had entrusted to Him.

    Peter says:
    “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”
    — 1 Peter 4:10

    So stewardship is not merely about money, possessions, talents, or abilities.

    **Stewardship is managing whatever comes into our little world according to how God wants it managed, so that it does not leave our hands contrary to His will.**

    But not everything we encounter is necessarily ours to steward.

    We live in a world filled with countless people, problems, opportunities, and events. We cannot take responsibility for everything. There must be a distinction between what we merely encounter and what the Master actually places within our sphere of responsibility, influence, authority, relationship, opportunity, or care.

    Therefore, one of the crucial questions of purpose is:

    **“What has the Master placed within my stewardship, and what has He not?”**

    If someone comes into my care, how do I treat them?

    If money comes into my hands, how do I use it?

    If knowledge comes to me, what do I do with it?

    If I receive an opportunity, how do I handle it?

    If I am given influence, what do I cause that influence to produce?

    If I receive a spiritual gift, do I use it to serve others?

    If evil comes into my sphere, do I become another channel through which it spreads—or do I, by God's grace, stop its transmission through me?

    This is why stewardship also involves **cultivation**.

    Cultivation takes time.

    A seed becomes a tree.
    A child grows into an adult.
    Knowledge develops into wisdom.
    A gift becomes fruitful through exercise.
    Truth is taught from one generation to another.
    Good institutions and communities are built over time.

    And therefore, what passes through our hands can become either **something we cultivate for God's purposes or something we help multiply contrary to His will**.

    Unforgiveness can produce bitterness.
    Bitterness can produce hatred.
    Hatred can produce further harm.

    But forgiveness can interrupt a cycle.

    Truth can produce trust.

    Love can produce love.

    Wisdom can produce wisdom.

    Generosity can produce generosity.

    The Christian should therefore ask not only:

    **“What am I producing?”**

    but also:

    **“What am I helping to reproduce?”**

    Ultimately, I think purpose can be understood in this way:

    **Purpose is not simply doing something impressive with our lives. It is faithfully doing what the Master has entrusted to us.**

    Jesus prayed to the Father:

    > “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.”
    > — John 17:4

    He did not say, “I have done everything that could possibly be done.”

    He said:

    **“The work which Thou gavest Me.”**

    That is the distinction.

    We are not called to steward everything in the world.

    We are called to faithfully steward **what the Master brings into our hands and places within our responsibility**.

    And when we stand before Him, the question will not ultimately be how much we possessed, how famous we became, or how impressive our accomplishments appeared.

    It will be:

    **What did you do with what I entrusted to you?**

    Perhaps, then, to fulfill purpose is simply this:

    **To take what the Master puts into our hands, manage it according to His will, cultivate what He wants cultivated, dispense what He wants given, refuse to propagate what He calls evil, and faithfully complete the work He has given us to do.**

    **That is stewardship. And perhaps that is what it means to fulfill purpose.**
    # Purpose and Stewardship I have been thinking about purpose, and I am beginning to see it through the idea of "stewardship". I believe God has a general purpose for humanity, a general purpose for those who belong to Christ, and also particular things He entrusts to individuals. In Genesis, humanity was given responsibility to fill the earth, cultivate it, work it, keep it, and exercise dominion under God. Man was therefore placed in creation not as the ultimate owner, but as a **steward**. For the Christian, this stewardship goes further. Jesus calls us **“the salt of the earth”** and **“the light of the world.”** He Himself said, “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” He taught, preached, healed, delivered, instructed, and ministered to people. He exercised and dispensed what the Father had entrusted to Him. Peter says: “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” — 1 Peter 4:10 So stewardship is not merely about money, possessions, talents, or abilities. **Stewardship is managing whatever comes into our little world according to how God wants it managed, so that it does not leave our hands contrary to His will.** But not everything we encounter is necessarily ours to steward. We live in a world filled with countless people, problems, opportunities, and events. We cannot take responsibility for everything. There must be a distinction between what we merely encounter and what the Master actually places within our sphere of responsibility, influence, authority, relationship, opportunity, or care. Therefore, one of the crucial questions of purpose is: **“What has the Master placed within my stewardship, and what has He not?”** If someone comes into my care, how do I treat them? If money comes into my hands, how do I use it? If knowledge comes to me, what do I do with it? If I receive an opportunity, how do I handle it? If I am given influence, what do I cause that influence to produce? If I receive a spiritual gift, do I use it to serve others? If evil comes into my sphere, do I become another channel through which it spreads—or do I, by God's grace, stop its transmission through me? This is why stewardship also involves **cultivation**. Cultivation takes time. A seed becomes a tree. A child grows into an adult. Knowledge develops into wisdom. A gift becomes fruitful through exercise. Truth is taught from one generation to another. Good institutions and communities are built over time. And therefore, what passes through our hands can become either **something we cultivate for God's purposes or something we help multiply contrary to His will**. Unforgiveness can produce bitterness. Bitterness can produce hatred. Hatred can produce further harm. But forgiveness can interrupt a cycle. Truth can produce trust. Love can produce love. Wisdom can produce wisdom. Generosity can produce generosity. The Christian should therefore ask not only: **“What am I producing?”** but also: **“What am I helping to reproduce?”** Ultimately, I think purpose can be understood in this way: **Purpose is not simply doing something impressive with our lives. It is faithfully doing what the Master has entrusted to us.** Jesus prayed to the Father: > “I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.” > — John 17:4 He did not say, “I have done everything that could possibly be done.” He said: **“The work which Thou gavest Me.”** That is the distinction. We are not called to steward everything in the world. We are called to faithfully steward **what the Master brings into our hands and places within our responsibility**. And when we stand before Him, the question will not ultimately be how much we possessed, how famous we became, or how impressive our accomplishments appeared. It will be: **What did you do with what I entrusted to you?** Perhaps, then, to fulfill purpose is simply this: **To take what the Master puts into our hands, manage it according to His will, cultivate what He wants cultivated, dispense what He wants given, refuse to propagate what He calls evil, and faithfully complete the work He has given us to do.** **That is stewardship. And perhaps that is what it means to fulfill purpose.**
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    FRIDAY AUGUST 21, 2O26.
    "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (1)"

    โ€˜โ€ฆcommand that these stones become bread.โ€™ Matthew 4:3 NKJV

    THE BIBLE says, โ€˜โ€ฆJesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devilโ€™ (Matthew 4:1 NKJV). This seems to be Godโ€™s standard operating procedure. Why? Because Heโ€™s a good general; before He puts you into battle He puts you into boot camp. Imagine it: youโ€™re up at dawn, running for miles with a heavy backpack, crawling under barbed wire barriers with bullets whizzing over your head, taking orders from authority figures you donโ€™t know and probably donโ€™t like. But if you pass the test; you get to wear the uniform. On the threshold of His ministry, God led His Son into a situation where He would face three levels of attack. You will face them also. Letโ€™s look at the first one:
    The attack over the bread. Did Jesus need bread? Yes, Heโ€™d been without food for forty days. But He knew that His greatest need was not for natural food but spiritual food. So He told satan, โ€˜โ€ฆโ€œMan shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of Godโ€™โ€™ (Matthew 4:4 NKJV). Only when youโ€™re convinced God will take care of all your material needs, will you start putting spiritual things first in your life. Until that happens, youโ€™ll think you have to take care of yourself. As a result, you will walk in fear and not faith. Thatโ€™s not how God wants you to live. โ€˜โ€ฆseek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to youโ€™ (Matthew 6:33 NKJV). When you worry, you donโ€™t trust God. When you trust God, you donโ€™t have to worry. The choice is yours.

    Bible In A Year: Lam 3:40-5:22; Matt 20:1-16; Ps 119:129-136; Pro 18:21. 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.iรฌ. [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY โ“‚ANNA*

    FRIDAY, 21ST AUGUST, 2026.

    *WISDOM IN HANDLING THE VAIN TALKERS*

    *TEXT:* MATTHEW 22:18-22.

    18ย But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?
    19ย Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny.
    20ย And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?
    21ย They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
    22ย When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.

    *Timeless Truth:*_"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"_ (1 Corinthians 6:20).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    In human relationships, there are vain talkers who do not hide their intention to disgrace, humiliate, embarrass and insult us. However, most vain talkers are friendly foes with evil intentions, but with a friendly approach. If they are not handled with wisdom, they will mess up, disgrace and embarass the saints and the preachers, thus, making their messages of non effect or impact. Paul the apostle himself with Apostolic anointing encountered such people like Jesus encountered them in the text. *"For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision, Whose mouths must be stopped"* (Titus 1:10,11).
    Jesus was confronted by people who did not genuinely seek the truth, but wanted to trap Him with their questions. Their outward appearance suggested sincerity, but their hearts were deceptive. Jesus, however, perceived their wicked intentions and responded with divine wisdom. Believers will also encounter vain talkersโ€”people whose words are deceptive, provocative, argumentative or designed to lead others away from truth. We must, therefore, learn from Christ how to respond with spiritual perception, scriptural wisdom and personal conviction.

    *1. Spiritual and Scriptural Perception*

    a. Topical Encyclopedia rightly defines spiritual perception as the ability to discern and understand spiritual truths and realities that are not accessible through natural senses or human reasoning alone. It involves a heightened awareness and insight into the spiritual realm, often granted by the Holy Spirit to believers. Spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit, can read into the mind and at times (not in all cases) decipher the motivations and intentions of the heart. It is a lower form of the gift of discernment. They brought the coin with the inscription of Caesar and questioned Jesus on whether it was right to pay taxes to the government. Jesus knew they wanted to rope Him into public controversy that will put Him into trouble with the government of the day. If Jesus said it was right to pay tributes to Caesar, they would use that to paint Jesus as anti-Jewish. If Jesus said it is not right, they would end up putting him at a collision course with the government of the day. Either controversy can be avoided without necessarily doing violence to the truth. He was not a pro-controversy minister on avoidable spiritual or vain conflicts. Many ministers always enjoy being entangled in controversy on things that are non-essentials in the things of the kingdom. Jesus knew their wickedness and said, *โ€œWhy tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?โ€* Their question was not an innocent request for guidance; it was a trap. Christ could see beyond their words into their motives. Spiritual perception enables believers to distinguish between genuine questions and deceptive arguments. We must not be carried away by eloquent speech, clever reasoning or religious appearance. The Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit give us discernment to recognize what is behind seemingly innocent conversations.
    b. Nehemiah, for example, was given a seemingly innocent and reconciliatory invitation by his adversaries. He knew that it was not of God. *"And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him"*. Believers, especially spiritual leaders, must have enough of scriptural understanding and insight of the truth that will generate spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit. However, there are unscriptural perceptions or incorrect insights in the form of a suspicious spirit that always read negative meanings into the actions of the innocent. This is satanic and ungodly.

    *Question*

    Do I have sufficient spiritual discernment to recognize deception and vain arguments when I encounter them?

    *2. Saints as the Saviourโ€™s Possession*

    a. Jesus revealed deep spiritual truth to them while answering their question. It is one thing to receive an answer to a genuine question and another thing to be patient enough to get the message in the answer. Jesus asked them to show Him the tribute money and then asked whose image and inscription were upon it. When they answered, *"Caesarโ€™s"* . Jesus declared unto them that though He is the Creator of all, He will not take what belongs to others or even what he has bequeathed to others except He was given voluntarily. The metal used for the coin belongs to God, but it has been given to the king and the use is delegated to powers that be. Jesus would not take the gift back except if the gifted decided to endow it back to the Owner or the Creator. He will not forcefully, stylishly or trickishly take back what He has given to others. This is a deep spiritual message that we can learn from God. Jesus declared, *โ€œRender therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesarโ€™s; and unto God the things that are Godโ€™s.โ€*
    b. What is the implication of this answer? The coin carried Caesarโ€™s image and therefore must be given to the owner. Also, human beings, including his body, soul and spirit bear the image of God (Genesis 1:26โ€“27), therefore, man must surrender his soul, spirit and body to God to be used at His pleasure being the Owner. Reluctance to give oneself to God, the Owner, is daylight robbery which God the Creator will not even do to those He gave something to. We are owned by God as His possession by Creation and Redemption. Without redemption by Jesus Christ, we are all marked for eternal destruction. *"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"*. So, our appearance, body, heart and soul must be consciously and deliberately given to the glory of God, joyfully. The language of the responsible creature to his Creator is like what a king said: *"And the king of Israel answered and said, My lord, O king, according to thy saying, I am thine, and all that I have"*. Our spirit, soul, time, possessions and all that we have belong to God and none should be denied Him at any time He needs them. Like Thomas, our response to God whenever He demands sacrifice or anything from us, no matter how precious is *"My Lord and my God"*. It is a language of acknowledgement of His being the Creator. It is a language of appreciation of being the Redeemer.

    *Question*

    Since I belong to Christ, am I allowing His image and ownership to determine the way I live? Am I always readily giving Him what His Word demands without hesitation or reluctance?

    *3. Satisfied without Scripture Personalization*

    When Jesus answered their question, *โ€œthey marvelled, and left him, and went their way.โ€* They were amazed by His wisdom, but there is no indication that they surrendered their hearts to His truth. They did not bother to apply the truth to their lives and personalized it. It is possible to admire Scripture, appreciate a powerful message and even marvel at divine wisdom without personally applying it. The danger of vain talk is that we may become satisfied with intellectual discussion rather than spiritual transformation. Godโ€™s Word must move from our ears to our hearts and from our hearts to our daily conduct. The messages of Christ are so deep that they require constant and continuous reflection and self application in order to get the best from them. It is not how great a message is, but how transforming.

    *Question*

    Am I merely impressed by biblical truth or am I personally applying and obeying it?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Lord, grant me spiritual discernment to recognize deception, hypocrisy and vain arguments .
    2.Father, help me to remember that I belong completely to Christ and to live according to His will .
    3 Lord, deliver me from empty religious knowledge and help me to personalize and practice Your Word .
    4.Father, give us the wisdom of Christ to answer difficult questions with truth, grace, humility and courage. Help us to be doers of your Word and not hearers only .

    *HYMN:* Lord speak to me

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 3-5.
    [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026```


    *RESPONSIBILITIES OF DUAL CITIZENS* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ

    ```TEXT:MATTHEW 22:18-22```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's" (MATTHEW 22:20, 21).*_

    *Kofi Annan, the Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 - 2006, is a figure whose life was shaped by the responsibilities of dual citizenship. While Annan was a Ghanaian citizen by birth, his role in international diplomacy required him to balance his connection to his homeland with his responsibility to the global community. In his role in Ghana, he worked to advance the nation's standing on the world stage, often advocating for African issues and the continent's development in the international arena. On the other hand, in his global duty as UN Secretary-General, his role involved diplomacy with countries in conflict, addressing human rights abuses, and working toward humanitarian aid and general global peace.*

    *In the passage, the Pharisees, who were trying to trap Jesus, posed a question about paying taxes to Caesar. The dilemma they presented seemed unsolvable: if Jesus said it was lawful to pay tax, He could alienate the people, who hated Roman rule. But if He said it was unlawful, He could be accused of stirring insurrection. But Jesus, with His wisdom, cut through the manipulation and answered in a way that transcended their trap. He asked for a coin, a denarius, and asked whose image was on it. "Caesar's," they replied. Then, He gave a profound answer that has echoed through history: "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."*

    *Jesus' words highlight that we are citizens of two realms - an earthly kingdom, with earthly responsibilities, and God's kingdom, with eternal responsibilities. While on earth, we are to honour the systems of authority set before us, paying taxes, respecting laws, and fulfilling our civic duties, which are part of our witness to the world. On the other hand, we must always remember that we are made in the likeness of God and, as such, our lives, our hearts, our very being, are His. In all, while our lives may be marked by the needs of the world - job, family, relationships - our ultimate allegiance should lie with God.*

    โœ๐Ÿฝ```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*A coin has two sides, so do our duties to God and man.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 3-5*

    Responsibilities Of Dual Citizens
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    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED; GHS 223: I GAVE MY LIFE FOR THEE; AND GHS 233: STAND UP, STAND UP FOR JESUS*
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    [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

    โœ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿปโ€ ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ›ฐ

    ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026```

    *A CHILD WITH A DIFFERENCE* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ

    ```TEXT:1 SAMUEL 2:22-26```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men" (1 SAMUEL 2:26).*_

    *Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, a 26-year-old Indian is referred to as the "world's fastest human calculator." According to the _Limca Book of Records,_ India's equivalent to _Guinness World Records,_ Bhanu's brain processes numbers about 10 times faster than regular brains. He is an exceptional individual with unusual gifts and talents.*

    *The Biblical young Samuel was one of such children with a difference. He was raised in the house of Prophet Eli with his wayward and corrupt children. Samuel grew up like a lily in the mire without any taint of environmental corruption.*

    *Samuel did not join the bandwagon of the ruffians, Hophni and Phinehas (Eli's children) among whom he grew up. God called them sons of Belial who knew not the Lord. Because Samuel kept himself from evils around him, he became a priest, prophet and leader for the whole nation of Israel.*

    *To fulfill God's purpose for your life and make impact in your world, you must be holy and righteous. You are exceptional. You can make a difference in your world.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*You can make a difference.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Make definite impact in your world.*_

    ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ ```PRAYER:``` _*Help me Lord, to fulfill Your purpose in life.*_



    A Child With A Difference
    https://dailymanna.app//

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    *#LeadershipNuggets*
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    [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2โƒฃ0โƒฃ2โƒฃ)*_

    ๐Ÿผ๐Ÿผโ€โ€๐Ÿผโ€๐Ÿผโ€๐Ÿผโ€

    ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026```

    *PROFITABLE SERVICE* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ

    ```EXODUS 23:25-26```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee" (Exodus 23:25).*_



    Kingdom work involves the use of our God-given resources, like time, strength, talents and finances, in promoting the kingdom of God. It is a profitable service that attracts rewards on earth and in Heaven. Some of the benefits are outlined below:

    *(i) Divine Blessings - Provision of food and other needs (Exodus 23:25).*

    *(ii) Divine Health - Healing and sound health (Exodus 23:25).*

    *(iii) Long Life - Live long and healthy till old age (Exodus 23:26).*

    *(iv) Prosperity - God will prosper you in every area of life: academics, career, and material blessings (Job 36:11).*

    *(v) Honour - Undeserved favour and honour from God. At last, the faithful servant will make it to heaven and live with Jesus forever (John 12:26).*

    *(vi) Distinction - You will be the head and not the tail. Also, you will have excellent results, and become ten times better (Deuteronomy 28:13).*

    *(vii) Fulfillment in Life - You will never lack anything that is good. All that you desire shall come to pass (Matthew 6:33).*

    *It is time to wake up and get involved in kingdom service so that you can get the reward from God.*



    ```rayer:``` _*May my sacrifice be acceptable unto You oh Lord!*_ ๐Ÿฝ

    ``` Further Reading:``` *1 Corinthians 4:1-4*



    Profitable Service
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    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]

    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. โค John 8:12

    Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan. โค John Bunyan

    O God, the source of all truth and grace, Youโ€™ve called us out of darkness into Your marvelous lightโ€”grant us Your blessing as this new day begins. We ask for Your grace to walk worthy of our high calling, with humility, faith, and hope. May we let our light shine before others so they may see our good works and glorify You.

    We ask for grace to perform our tasks diligently, to manage our affairs wisely, to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, and to acknowledge You in all our ways.

    Order our steps in Your word and donโ€™t let sin have any power over us.

    Give us our daily bread. Provide what we need for this day. Grant us health of body and soundness of mind so that weโ€™re prepared for the duties ahead. Prosper our efforts as long as they align with Your will. If any of our plans donโ€™t fit into Your plan for our lives, we ask that You set them aside, for we donโ€™t want to go against You or do anything that You wonโ€™t approve or bless. Restrain us from all excesses, from unwise words, from foolish vanity, and from uncontrolled emotions. Make us thoughtful, serious, and prayerful.

    O God, You allowed Your only Son to be tempted by the Evil One so that He could support those who are tempted. We ask You to deliver us from the snares and temptations that constantly surround us, and to strengthen us by Your Spirit so that in all things, we may be more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/47/morning

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. ๐Ÿ˜€๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ’๐ŸŽ๐ŸŒบ๐ŸŒนMORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY FRIDAY AUGUST 21, 2O26. "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (1)" โ€˜โ€ฆcommand that these stones become bread.โ€™ Matthew 4:3 NKJV THE BIBLE says, โ€˜โ€ฆJesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devilโ€™ (Matthew 4:1 NKJV). This seems to be Godโ€™s standard operating procedure. Why? Because Heโ€™s a good general; before He puts you into battle He puts you into boot camp. Imagine it: youโ€™re up at dawn, running for miles with a heavy backpack, crawling under barbed wire barriers with bullets whizzing over your head, taking orders from authority figures you donโ€™t know and probably donโ€™t like. But if you pass the test; you get to wear the uniform. On the threshold of His ministry, God led His Son into a situation where He would face three levels of attack. You will face them also. Letโ€™s look at the first one: The attack over the bread. Did Jesus need bread? Yes, Heโ€™d been without food for forty days. But He knew that His greatest need was not for natural food but spiritual food. So He told satan, โ€˜โ€ฆโ€œMan shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of Godโ€™โ€™ (Matthew 4:4 NKJV). Only when youโ€™re convinced God will take care of all your material needs, will you start putting spiritual things first in your life. Until that happens, youโ€™ll think you have to take care of yourself. As a result, you will walk in fear and not faith. Thatโ€™s not how God wants you to live. โ€˜โ€ฆseek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to youโ€™ (Matthew 6:33 NKJV). When you worry, you donโ€™t trust God. When you trust God, you donโ€™t have to worry. The choice is yours. Bible In A Year: Lam 3:40-5:22; Matt 20:1-16; Ps 119:129-136; Pro 18:21. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation ๐ŸŒน๐ŸŽ€ *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*๐ŸŒท๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ’ ๐ŸŒน. MD.iรฌ. [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY โ“‚ANNA* FRIDAY, 21ST AUGUST, 2026. *WISDOM IN HANDLING THE VAIN TALKERS* *TEXT:* MATTHEW 22:18-22. 18ย But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? 19ย Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny. 20ย And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? 21ย They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's. 22ย When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way. *Timeless Truth:*_"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"_ (1 Corinthians 6:20). *INTRODUCTION* In human relationships, there are vain talkers who do not hide their intention to disgrace, humiliate, embarrass and insult us. However, most vain talkers are friendly foes with evil intentions, but with a friendly approach. If they are not handled with wisdom, they will mess up, disgrace and embarass the saints and the preachers, thus, making their messages of non effect or impact. Paul the apostle himself with Apostolic anointing encountered such people like Jesus encountered them in the text. *"For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision, Whose mouths must be stopped"* (Titus 1:10,11). Jesus was confronted by people who did not genuinely seek the truth, but wanted to trap Him with their questions. Their outward appearance suggested sincerity, but their hearts were deceptive. Jesus, however, perceived their wicked intentions and responded with divine wisdom. Believers will also encounter vain talkersโ€”people whose words are deceptive, provocative, argumentative or designed to lead others away from truth. We must, therefore, learn from Christ how to respond with spiritual perception, scriptural wisdom and personal conviction. *1. Spiritual and Scriptural Perception* a. Topical Encyclopedia rightly defines spiritual perception as the ability to discern and understand spiritual truths and realities that are not accessible through natural senses or human reasoning alone. It involves a heightened awareness and insight into the spiritual realm, often granted by the Holy Spirit to believers. Spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit, can read into the mind and at times (not in all cases) decipher the motivations and intentions of the heart. It is a lower form of the gift of discernment. They brought the coin with the inscription of Caesar and questioned Jesus on whether it was right to pay taxes to the government. Jesus knew they wanted to rope Him into public controversy that will put Him into trouble with the government of the day. If Jesus said it was right to pay tributes to Caesar, they would use that to paint Jesus as anti-Jewish. If Jesus said it is not right, they would end up putting him at a collision course with the government of the day. Either controversy can be avoided without necessarily doing violence to the truth. He was not a pro-controversy minister on avoidable spiritual or vain conflicts. Many ministers always enjoy being entangled in controversy on things that are non-essentials in the things of the kingdom. Jesus knew their wickedness and said, *โ€œWhy tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?โ€* Their question was not an innocent request for guidance; it was a trap. Christ could see beyond their words into their motives. Spiritual perception enables believers to distinguish between genuine questions and deceptive arguments. We must not be carried away by eloquent speech, clever reasoning or religious appearance. The Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit give us discernment to recognize what is behind seemingly innocent conversations. b. Nehemiah, for example, was given a seemingly innocent and reconciliatory invitation by his adversaries. He knew that it was not of God. *"And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him"*. Believers, especially spiritual leaders, must have enough of scriptural understanding and insight of the truth that will generate spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit. However, there are unscriptural perceptions or incorrect insights in the form of a suspicious spirit that always read negative meanings into the actions of the innocent. This is satanic and ungodly. *Question* Do I have sufficient spiritual discernment to recognize deception and vain arguments when I encounter them? *2. Saints as the Saviourโ€™s Possession* a. Jesus revealed deep spiritual truth to them while answering their question. It is one thing to receive an answer to a genuine question and another thing to be patient enough to get the message in the answer. Jesus asked them to show Him the tribute money and then asked whose image and inscription were upon it. When they answered, *"Caesarโ€™s"* . Jesus declared unto them that though He is the Creator of all, He will not take what belongs to others or even what he has bequeathed to others except He was given voluntarily. The metal used for the coin belongs to God, but it has been given to the king and the use is delegated to powers that be. Jesus would not take the gift back except if the gifted decided to endow it back to the Owner or the Creator. He will not forcefully, stylishly or trickishly take back what He has given to others. This is a deep spiritual message that we can learn from God. Jesus declared, *โ€œRender therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesarโ€™s; and unto God the things that are Godโ€™s.โ€* b. What is the implication of this answer? The coin carried Caesarโ€™s image and therefore must be given to the owner. Also, human beings, including his body, soul and spirit bear the image of God (Genesis 1:26โ€“27), therefore, man must surrender his soul, spirit and body to God to be used at His pleasure being the Owner. Reluctance to give oneself to God, the Owner, is daylight robbery which God the Creator will not even do to those He gave something to. We are owned by God as His possession by Creation and Redemption. Without redemption by Jesus Christ, we are all marked for eternal destruction. *"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"*. So, our appearance, body, heart and soul must be consciously and deliberately given to the glory of God, joyfully. The language of the responsible creature to his Creator is like what a king said: *"And the king of Israel answered and said, My lord, O king, according to thy saying, I am thine, and all that I have"*. Our spirit, soul, time, possessions and all that we have belong to God and none should be denied Him at any time He needs them. Like Thomas, our response to God whenever He demands sacrifice or anything from us, no matter how precious is *"My Lord and my God"*. It is a language of acknowledgement of His being the Creator. It is a language of appreciation of being the Redeemer. *Question* Since I belong to Christ, am I allowing His image and ownership to determine the way I live? Am I always readily giving Him what His Word demands without hesitation or reluctance? *3. Satisfied without Scripture Personalization* When Jesus answered their question, *โ€œthey marvelled, and left him, and went their way.โ€* They were amazed by His wisdom, but there is no indication that they surrendered their hearts to His truth. They did not bother to apply the truth to their lives and personalized it. It is possible to admire Scripture, appreciate a powerful message and even marvel at divine wisdom without personally applying it. The danger of vain talk is that we may become satisfied with intellectual discussion rather than spiritual transformation. Godโ€™s Word must move from our ears to our hearts and from our hearts to our daily conduct. The messages of Christ are so deep that they require constant and continuous reflection and self application in order to get the best from them. It is not how great a message is, but how transforming. *Question* Am I merely impressed by biblical truth or am I personally applying and obeying it? *Prayer Points* 1.Lord, grant me spiritual discernment to recognize deception, hypocrisy and vain arguments ๐Ÿ™. 2.Father, help me to remember that I belong completely to Christ and to live according to His will ๐Ÿ™. 3 Lord, deliver me from empty religious knowledge and help me to personalize and practice Your Word ๐Ÿ™. 4.Father, give us the wisdom of Christ to answer difficult questions with truth, grace, humility and courage. Help us to be doers of your Word and not hearers only ๐Ÿ™. *HYMN:* Lord speak to me *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 3-5. [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY โ“‚๏ธANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026``` *RESPONSIBILITIES OF DUAL CITIZENS* ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```TEXT:MATTHEW 22:18-22```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ”‘๐Ÿ“–```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's" (MATTHEW 22:20, 21).*_ *Kofi Annan, the Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 - 2006, is a figure whose life was shaped by the responsibilities of dual citizenship. While Annan was a Ghanaian citizen by birth, his role in international diplomacy required him to balance his connection to his homeland with his responsibility to the global community. In his role in Ghana, he worked to advance the nation's standing on the world stage, often advocating for African issues and the continent's development in the international arena. On the other hand, in his global duty as UN Secretary-General, his role involved diplomacy with countries in conflict, addressing human rights abuses, and working toward humanitarian aid and general global peace.* *In the passage, the Pharisees, who were trying to trap Jesus, posed a question about paying taxes to Caesar. The dilemma they presented seemed unsolvable: if Jesus said it was lawful to pay tax, He could alienate the people, who hated Roman rule. But if He said it was unlawful, He could be accused of stirring insurrection. But Jesus, with His wisdom, cut through the manipulation and answered in a way that transcended their trap. He asked for a coin, a denarius, and asked whose image was on it. "Caesar's," they replied. Then, He gave a profound answer that has echoed through history: "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."* *Jesus' words highlight that we are citizens of two realms - an earthly kingdom, with earthly responsibilities, and God's kingdom, with eternal responsibilities. While on earth, we are to honour the systems of authority set before us, paying taxes, respecting laws, and fulfilling our civic duties, which are part of our witness to the world. On the other hand, we must always remember that we are made in the likeness of God and, as such, our lives, our hearts, our very being, are His. In all, while our lives may be marked by the needs of the world - job, family, relationships - our ultimate allegiance should lie with God.* โœ๐Ÿฝ```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*A coin has two sides, so do our duties to God and man.*_ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 3-5*๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ Responsibilities Of Dual Citizens https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED; GHS 223: I GAVE MY LIFE FOR THEE; AND GHS 233: STAND UP, STAND UP FOR JESUS* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna21stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD๐Ÿ…ฐ๏ธY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ โœ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘ฉ๐Ÿปโ€๐Ÿ’ผ๐ŸŒป ๐Ÿ‡๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ›ฐ๐Ÿš€๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿ“š ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026``` *A CHILD WITH A DIFFERENCE* ๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ‘ถ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘ฆ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘จ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```TEXT:1 SAMUEL 2:22-26```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ“–``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men" (1 SAMUEL 2:26).*_ *Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, a 26-year-old Indian is referred to as the "world's fastest human calculator." According to the _Limca Book of Records,_ India's equivalent to _Guinness World Records,_ Bhanu's brain processes numbers about 10 times faster than regular brains. He is an exceptional individual with unusual gifts and talents.* *The Biblical young Samuel was one of such children with a difference. He was raised in the house of Prophet Eli with his wayward and corrupt children. Samuel grew up like a lily in the mire without any taint of environmental corruption.* *Samuel did not join the bandwagon of the ruffians, Hophni and Phinehas (Eli's children) among whom he grew up. God called them sons of Belial who knew not the Lord. Because Samuel kept himself from evils around him, he became a priest, prophet and leader for the whole nation of Israel.* *To fulfill God's purpose for your life and make impact in your world, you must be holy and righteous. You are exceptional. You can make a difference in your world.* ๐Ÿ’ฌ ```QUOTE:``` _*You can make a difference.*_ ๐Ÿ† ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Make definite impact in your world.*_ ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ```PRAYER:``` _*Help me Lord, to fulfill Your purpose in life.*_ A Child With A Difference https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday21stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2โƒฃ0โƒฃ2โƒฃ6๏ธโƒฃ)*_ ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผโ€โ™‚๏ธ ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026``` *PROFITABLE SERVICE* ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```EXODUS 23:25-26```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ•”๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ–‹๏ธ๐Ÿšป๐Ÿ˜๐ŸŽผ๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿชด๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ’ป ๐Ÿ”‘๐Ÿ“– ```Key Verse:``` _*"And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee" (Exodus 23:25).*_ ๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“– Kingdom work involves the use of our God-given resources, like time, strength, talents and finances, in promoting the kingdom of God. It is a profitable service that attracts rewards on earth and in Heaven. Some of the benefits are outlined below: *(i) Divine Blessings - Provision of food and other needs (Exodus 23:25).* *(ii) Divine Health - Healing and sound health (Exodus 23:25).* *(iii) Long Life - Live long and healthy till old age (Exodus 23:26).* *(iv) Prosperity - God will prosper you in every area of life: academics, career, and material blessings (Job 36:11).* *(v) Honour - Undeserved favour and honour from God. At last, the faithful servant will make it to heaven and live with Jesus forever (John 12:26).* *(vi) Distinction - You will be the head and not the tail. Also, you will have excellent results, and become ten times better (Deuteronomy 28:13).* *(vii) Fulfillment in Life - You will never lack anything that is good. All that you desire shall come to pass (Matthew 6:33).* *It is time to wake up and get involved in kingdom service so that you can get the reward from God.* ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ ```๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธrayer:``` _*May my sacrifice be acceptable unto You oh Lord!*_ ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ```๐Ÿ“– Further Reading:``` *1 Corinthians 4:1-4* Profitable Service https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk21stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. โค John 8:12 Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan. โค John Bunyan O God, the source of all truth and grace, Youโ€™ve called us out of darkness into Your marvelous lightโ€”grant us Your blessing as this new day begins. We ask for Your grace to walk worthy of our high calling, with humility, faith, and hope. May we let our light shine before others so they may see our good works and glorify You. We ask for grace to perform our tasks diligently, to manage our affairs wisely, to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, and to acknowledge You in all our ways. Order our steps in Your word and donโ€™t let sin have any power over us. Give us our daily bread. Provide what we need for this day. Grant us health of body and soundness of mind so that weโ€™re prepared for the duties ahead. Prosper our efforts as long as they align with Your will. If any of our plans donโ€™t fit into Your plan for our lives, we ask that You set them aside, for we donโ€™t want to go against You or do anything that You wonโ€™t approve or bless. Restrain us from all excesses, from unwise words, from foolish vanity, and from uncontrolled emotions. Make us thoughtful, serious, and prayerful. O God, You allowed Your only Son to be tempted by the Evil One so that He could support those who are tempted. We ask You to deliver us from the snares and temptations that constantly surround us, and to strengthen us by Your Spirit so that in all things, we may be more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/47/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    FRIDAY AUGUST 21, 2O26.
    "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (1)"

    โ€˜โ€ฆcommand that these stones become bread.โ€™ Matthew 4:3 NKJV

    THE BIBLE says, โ€˜โ€ฆJesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devilโ€™ (Matthew 4:1 NKJV). This seems to be Godโ€™s standard operating procedure. Why? Because Heโ€™s a good general; before He puts you into battle He puts you into boot camp. Imagine it: youโ€™re up at dawn, running for miles with a heavy backpack, crawling under barbed wire barriers with bullets whizzing over your head, taking orders from authority figures you donโ€™t know and probably donโ€™t like. But if you pass the test; you get to wear the uniform. On the threshold of His ministry, God led His Son into a situation where He would face three levels of attack. You will face them also. Letโ€™s look at the first one:
    The attack over the bread. Did Jesus need bread? Yes, Heโ€™d been without food for forty days. But He knew that His greatest need was not for natural food but spiritual food. So He told satan, โ€˜โ€ฆโ€œMan shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of Godโ€™โ€™ (Matthew 4:4 NKJV). Only when youโ€™re convinced God will take care of all your material needs, will you start putting spiritual things first in your life. Until that happens, youโ€™ll think you have to take care of yourself. As a result, you will walk in fear and not faith. Thatโ€™s not how God wants you to live. โ€˜โ€ฆseek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to youโ€™ (Matthew 6:33 NKJV). When you worry, you donโ€™t trust God. When you trust God, you donโ€™t have to worry. The choice is yours.

    Bible In A Year: Lam 3:40-5:22; Matt 20:1-16; Ps 119:129-136; Pro 18:21. 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.iรฌ. [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY โ“‚ANNA*

    FRIDAY, 21ST AUGUST, 2026.

    *WISDOM IN HANDLING THE VAIN TALKERS*

    *TEXT:* MATTHEW 22:18-22.

    18ย But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?
    19ย Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny.
    20ย And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?
    21ย They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
    22ย When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.

    *Timeless Truth:*_"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"_ (1 Corinthians 6:20).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    In human relationships, there are vain talkers who do not hide their intention to disgrace, humiliate, embarrass and insult us. However, most vain talkers are friendly foes with evil intentions, but with a friendly approach. If they are not handled with wisdom, they will mess up, disgrace and embarass the saints and the preachers, thus, making their messages of non effect or impact. Paul the apostle himself with Apostolic anointing encountered such people like Jesus encountered them in the text. *"For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision, Whose mouths must be stopped"* (Titus 1:10,11).
    Jesus was confronted by people who did not genuinely seek the truth, but wanted to trap Him with their questions. Their outward appearance suggested sincerity, but their hearts were deceptive. Jesus, however, perceived their wicked intentions and responded with divine wisdom. Believers will also encounter vain talkersโ€”people whose words are deceptive, provocative, argumentative or designed to lead others away from truth. We must, therefore, learn from Christ how to respond with spiritual perception, scriptural wisdom and personal conviction.

    *1. Spiritual and Scriptural Perception*

    a. Topical Encyclopedia rightly defines spiritual perception as the ability to discern and understand spiritual truths and realities that are not accessible through natural senses or human reasoning alone. It involves a heightened awareness and insight into the spiritual realm, often granted by the Holy Spirit to believers. Spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit, can read into the mind and at times (not in all cases) decipher the motivations and intentions of the heart. It is a lower form of the gift of discernment. They brought the coin with the inscription of Caesar and questioned Jesus on whether it was right to pay taxes to the government. Jesus knew they wanted to rope Him into public controversy that will put Him into trouble with the government of the day. If Jesus said it was right to pay tributes to Caesar, they would use that to paint Jesus as anti-Jewish. If Jesus said it is not right, they would end up putting him at a collision course with the government of the day. Either controversy can be avoided without necessarily doing violence to the truth. He was not a pro-controversy minister on avoidable spiritual or vain conflicts. Many ministers always enjoy being entangled in controversy on things that are non-essentials in the things of the kingdom. Jesus knew their wickedness and said, *โ€œWhy tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?โ€* Their question was not an innocent request for guidance; it was a trap. Christ could see beyond their words into their motives. Spiritual perception enables believers to distinguish between genuine questions and deceptive arguments. We must not be carried away by eloquent speech, clever reasoning or religious appearance. The Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit give us discernment to recognize what is behind seemingly innocent conversations.
    b. Nehemiah, for example, was given a seemingly innocent and reconciliatory invitation by his adversaries. He knew that it was not of God. *"And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him"*. Believers, especially spiritual leaders, must have enough of scriptural understanding and insight of the truth that will generate spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit. However, there are unscriptural perceptions or incorrect insights in the form of a suspicious spirit that always read negative meanings into the actions of the innocent. This is satanic and ungodly.

    *Question*

    Do I have sufficient spiritual discernment to recognize deception and vain arguments when I encounter them?

    *2. Saints as the Saviourโ€™s Possession*

    a. Jesus revealed deep spiritual truth to them while answering their question. It is one thing to receive an answer to a genuine question and another thing to be patient enough to get the message in the answer. Jesus asked them to show Him the tribute money and then asked whose image and inscription were upon it. When they answered, *"Caesarโ€™s"* . Jesus declared unto them that though He is the Creator of all, He will not take what belongs to others or even what he has bequeathed to others except He was given voluntarily. The metal used for the coin belongs to God, but it has been given to the king and the use is delegated to powers that be. Jesus would not take the gift back except if the gifted decided to endow it back to the Owner or the Creator. He will not forcefully, stylishly or trickishly take back what He has given to others. This is a deep spiritual message that we can learn from God. Jesus declared, *โ€œRender therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesarโ€™s; and unto God the things that are Godโ€™s.โ€*
    b. What is the implication of this answer? The coin carried Caesarโ€™s image and therefore must be given to the owner. Also, human beings, including his body, soul and spirit bear the image of God (Genesis 1:26โ€“27), therefore, man must surrender his soul, spirit and body to God to be used at His pleasure being the Owner. Reluctance to give oneself to God, the Owner, is daylight robbery which God the Creator will not even do to those He gave something to. We are owned by God as His possession by Creation and Redemption. Without redemption by Jesus Christ, we are all marked for eternal destruction. *"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"*. So, our appearance, body, heart and soul must be consciously and deliberately given to the glory of God, joyfully. The language of the responsible creature to his Creator is like what a king said: *"And the king of Israel answered and said, My lord, O king, according to thy saying, I am thine, and all that I have"*. Our spirit, soul, time, possessions and all that we have belong to God and none should be denied Him at any time He needs them. Like Thomas, our response to God whenever He demands sacrifice or anything from us, no matter how precious is *"My Lord and my God"*. It is a language of acknowledgement of His being the Creator. It is a language of appreciation of being the Redeemer.

    *Question*

    Since I belong to Christ, am I allowing His image and ownership to determine the way I live? Am I always readily giving Him what His Word demands without hesitation or reluctance?

    *3. Satisfied without Scripture Personalization*

    When Jesus answered their question, *โ€œthey marvelled, and left him, and went their way.โ€* They were amazed by His wisdom, but there is no indication that they surrendered their hearts to His truth. They did not bother to apply the truth to their lives and personalized it. It is possible to admire Scripture, appreciate a powerful message and even marvel at divine wisdom without personally applying it. The danger of vain talk is that we may become satisfied with intellectual discussion rather than spiritual transformation. Godโ€™s Word must move from our ears to our hearts and from our hearts to our daily conduct. The messages of Christ are so deep that they require constant and continuous reflection and self application in order to get the best from them. It is not how great a message is, but how transforming.

    *Question*

    Am I merely impressed by biblical truth or am I personally applying and obeying it?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Lord, grant me spiritual discernment to recognize deception, hypocrisy and vain arguments .
    2.Father, help me to remember that I belong completely to Christ and to live according to His will .
    3 Lord, deliver me from empty religious knowledge and help me to personalize and practice Your Word .
    4.Father, give us the wisdom of Christ to answer difficult questions with truth, grace, humility and courage. Help us to be doers of your Word and not hearers only .

    *HYMN:* Lord speak to me

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 3-5.
    [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026```


    *RESPONSIBILITIES OF DUAL CITIZENS* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ

    ```TEXT:MATTHEW 22:18-22```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's" (MATTHEW 22:20, 21).*_

    *Kofi Annan, the Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 - 2006, is a figure whose life was shaped by the responsibilities of dual citizenship. While Annan was a Ghanaian citizen by birth, his role in international diplomacy required him to balance his connection to his homeland with his responsibility to the global community. In his role in Ghana, he worked to advance the nation's standing on the world stage, often advocating for African issues and the continent's development in the international arena. On the other hand, in his global duty as UN Secretary-General, his role involved diplomacy with countries in conflict, addressing human rights abuses, and working toward humanitarian aid and general global peace.*

    *In the passage, the Pharisees, who were trying to trap Jesus, posed a question about paying taxes to Caesar. The dilemma they presented seemed unsolvable: if Jesus said it was lawful to pay tax, He could alienate the people, who hated Roman rule. But if He said it was unlawful, He could be accused of stirring insurrection. But Jesus, with His wisdom, cut through the manipulation and answered in a way that transcended their trap. He asked for a coin, a denarius, and asked whose image was on it. "Caesar's," they replied. Then, He gave a profound answer that has echoed through history: "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."*

    *Jesus' words highlight that we are citizens of two realms - an earthly kingdom, with earthly responsibilities, and God's kingdom, with eternal responsibilities. While on earth, we are to honour the systems of authority set before us, paying taxes, respecting laws, and fulfilling our civic duties, which are part of our witness to the world. On the other hand, we must always remember that we are made in the likeness of God and, as such, our lives, our hearts, our very being, are His. In all, while our lives may be marked by the needs of the world - job, family, relationships - our ultimate allegiance should lie with God.*

    โœ๐Ÿฝ```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*A coin has two sides, so do our duties to God and man.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 3-5*

    Responsibilities Of Dual Citizens
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    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED; GHS 223: I GAVE MY LIFE FOR THEE; AND GHS 233: STAND UP, STAND UP FOR JESUS*
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    [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

    โœ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿปโ€ ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ›ฐ

    ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026```

    *A CHILD WITH A DIFFERENCE* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ

    ```TEXT:1 SAMUEL 2:22-26```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men" (1 SAMUEL 2:26).*_

    *Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, a 26-year-old Indian is referred to as the "world's fastest human calculator." According to the _Limca Book of Records,_ India's equivalent to _Guinness World Records,_ Bhanu's brain processes numbers about 10 times faster than regular brains. He is an exceptional individual with unusual gifts and talents.*

    *The Biblical young Samuel was one of such children with a difference. He was raised in the house of Prophet Eli with his wayward and corrupt children. Samuel grew up like a lily in the mire without any taint of environmental corruption.*

    *Samuel did not join the bandwagon of the ruffians, Hophni and Phinehas (Eli's children) among whom he grew up. God called them sons of Belial who knew not the Lord. Because Samuel kept himself from evils around him, he became a priest, prophet and leader for the whole nation of Israel.*

    *To fulfill God's purpose for your life and make impact in your world, you must be holy and righteous. You are exceptional. You can make a difference in your world.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*You can make a difference.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Make definite impact in your world.*_

    ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ ```PRAYER:``` _*Help me Lord, to fulfill Your purpose in life.*_



    A Child With A Difference
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    [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2โƒฃ0โƒฃ2โƒฃ)*_

    ๐Ÿผ๐Ÿผโ€โ€๐Ÿผโ€๐Ÿผโ€๐Ÿผโ€

    ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026```

    *PROFITABLE SERVICE* ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝโ€๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿฝ

    ```EXODUS 23:25-26```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee" (Exodus 23:25).*_



    Kingdom work involves the use of our God-given resources, like time, strength, talents and finances, in promoting the kingdom of God. It is a profitable service that attracts rewards on earth and in Heaven. Some of the benefits are outlined below:

    *(i) Divine Blessings - Provision of food and other needs (Exodus 23:25).*

    *(ii) Divine Health - Healing and sound health (Exodus 23:25).*

    *(iii) Long Life - Live long and healthy till old age (Exodus 23:26).*

    *(iv) Prosperity - God will prosper you in every area of life: academics, career, and material blessings (Job 36:11).*

    *(v) Honour - Undeserved favour and honour from God. At last, the faithful servant will make it to heaven and live with Jesus forever (John 12:26).*

    *(vi) Distinction - You will be the head and not the tail. Also, you will have excellent results, and become ten times better (Deuteronomy 28:13).*

    *(vii) Fulfillment in Life - You will never lack anything that is good. All that you desire shall come to pass (Matthew 6:33).*

    *It is time to wake up and get involved in kingdom service so that you can get the reward from God.*



    ```rayer:``` _*May my sacrifice be acceptable unto You oh Lord!*_ ๐Ÿฝ

    ``` Further Reading:``` *1 Corinthians 4:1-4*



    Profitable Service
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    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. โค John 8:12

    Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan. โค John Bunyan

    O God, the source of all truth and grace, Youโ€™ve called us out of darkness into Your marvelous lightโ€”grant us Your blessing as this new day begins. We ask for Your grace to walk worthy of our high calling, with humility, faith, and hope. May we let our light shine before others so they may see our good works and glorify You.

    We ask for grace to perform our tasks diligently, to manage our affairs wisely, to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, and to acknowledge You in all our ways.

    Order our steps in Your word and donโ€™t let sin have any power over us.

    Give us our daily bread. Provide what we need for this day. Grant us health of body and soundness of mind so that weโ€™re prepared for the duties ahead. Prosper our efforts as long as they align with Your will. If any of our plans donโ€™t fit into Your plan for our lives, we ask that You set them aside, for we donโ€™t want to go against You or do anything that You wonโ€™t approve or bless. Restrain us from all excesses, from unwise words, from foolish vanity, and from uncontrolled emotions. Make us thoughtful, serious, and prayerful.

    O God, You allowed Your only Son to be tempted by the Evil One so that He could support those who are tempted. We ask You to deliver us from the snares and temptations that constantly surround us, and to strengthen us by Your Spirit so that in all things, we may be more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/47/morning

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. ๐Ÿ˜€๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ’๐ŸŽ๐ŸŒบ๐ŸŒนMORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY FRIDAY AUGUST 21, 2O26. "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (1)" โ€˜โ€ฆcommand that these stones become bread.โ€™ Matthew 4:3 NKJV THE BIBLE says, โ€˜โ€ฆJesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devilโ€™ (Matthew 4:1 NKJV). This seems to be Godโ€™s standard operating procedure. Why? Because Heโ€™s a good general; before He puts you into battle He puts you into boot camp. Imagine it: youโ€™re up at dawn, running for miles with a heavy backpack, crawling under barbed wire barriers with bullets whizzing over your head, taking orders from authority figures you donโ€™t know and probably donโ€™t like. But if you pass the test; you get to wear the uniform. On the threshold of His ministry, God led His Son into a situation where He would face three levels of attack. You will face them also. Letโ€™s look at the first one: The attack over the bread. Did Jesus need bread? Yes, Heโ€™d been without food for forty days. But He knew that His greatest need was not for natural food but spiritual food. So He told satan, โ€˜โ€ฆโ€œMan shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of Godโ€™โ€™ (Matthew 4:4 NKJV). Only when youโ€™re convinced God will take care of all your material needs, will you start putting spiritual things first in your life. Until that happens, youโ€™ll think you have to take care of yourself. As a result, you will walk in fear and not faith. Thatโ€™s not how God wants you to live. โ€˜โ€ฆseek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to youโ€™ (Matthew 6:33 NKJV). When you worry, you donโ€™t trust God. When you trust God, you donโ€™t have to worry. The choice is yours. Bible In A Year: Lam 3:40-5:22; Matt 20:1-16; Ps 119:129-136; Pro 18:21. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation ๐ŸŒน๐ŸŽ€ *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*๐ŸŒท๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ’ ๐ŸŒน. MD.iรฌ. [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY โ“‚ANNA* FRIDAY, 21ST AUGUST, 2026. *WISDOM IN HANDLING THE VAIN TALKERS* *TEXT:* MATTHEW 22:18-22. 18ย But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? 19ย Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny. 20ย And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? 21ย They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's. 22ย When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way. *Timeless Truth:*_"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"_ (1 Corinthians 6:20). *INTRODUCTION* In human relationships, there are vain talkers who do not hide their intention to disgrace, humiliate, embarrass and insult us. However, most vain talkers are friendly foes with evil intentions, but with a friendly approach. If they are not handled with wisdom, they will mess up, disgrace and embarass the saints and the preachers, thus, making their messages of non effect or impact. Paul the apostle himself with Apostolic anointing encountered such people like Jesus encountered them in the text. *"For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision, Whose mouths must be stopped"* (Titus 1:10,11). Jesus was confronted by people who did not genuinely seek the truth, but wanted to trap Him with their questions. Their outward appearance suggested sincerity, but their hearts were deceptive. Jesus, however, perceived their wicked intentions and responded with divine wisdom. Believers will also encounter vain talkersโ€”people whose words are deceptive, provocative, argumentative or designed to lead others away from truth. We must, therefore, learn from Christ how to respond with spiritual perception, scriptural wisdom and personal conviction. *1. Spiritual and Scriptural Perception* a. Topical Encyclopedia rightly defines spiritual perception as the ability to discern and understand spiritual truths and realities that are not accessible through natural senses or human reasoning alone. It involves a heightened awareness and insight into the spiritual realm, often granted by the Holy Spirit to believers. Spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit, can read into the mind and at times (not in all cases) decipher the motivations and intentions of the heart. It is a lower form of the gift of discernment. They brought the coin with the inscription of Caesar and questioned Jesus on whether it was right to pay taxes to the government. Jesus knew they wanted to rope Him into public controversy that will put Him into trouble with the government of the day. If Jesus said it was right to pay tributes to Caesar, they would use that to paint Jesus as anti-Jewish. If Jesus said it is not right, they would end up putting him at a collision course with the government of the day. Either controversy can be avoided without necessarily doing violence to the truth. He was not a pro-controversy minister on avoidable spiritual or vain conflicts. Many ministers always enjoy being entangled in controversy on things that are non-essentials in the things of the kingdom. Jesus knew their wickedness and said, *โ€œWhy tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?โ€* Their question was not an innocent request for guidance; it was a trap. Christ could see beyond their words into their motives. Spiritual perception enables believers to distinguish between genuine questions and deceptive arguments. We must not be carried away by eloquent speech, clever reasoning or religious appearance. The Word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit give us discernment to recognize what is behind seemingly innocent conversations. b. Nehemiah, for example, was given a seemingly innocent and reconciliatory invitation by his adversaries. He knew that it was not of God. *"And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him"*. Believers, especially spiritual leaders, must have enough of scriptural understanding and insight of the truth that will generate spiritual perception by the Holy Spirit. However, there are unscriptural perceptions or incorrect insights in the form of a suspicious spirit that always read negative meanings into the actions of the innocent. This is satanic and ungodly. *Question* Do I have sufficient spiritual discernment to recognize deception and vain arguments when I encounter them? *2. Saints as the Saviourโ€™s Possession* a. Jesus revealed deep spiritual truth to them while answering their question. It is one thing to receive an answer to a genuine question and another thing to be patient enough to get the message in the answer. Jesus asked them to show Him the tribute money and then asked whose image and inscription were upon it. When they answered, *"Caesarโ€™s"* . Jesus declared unto them that though He is the Creator of all, He will not take what belongs to others or even what he has bequeathed to others except He was given voluntarily. The metal used for the coin belongs to God, but it has been given to the king and the use is delegated to powers that be. Jesus would not take the gift back except if the gifted decided to endow it back to the Owner or the Creator. He will not forcefully, stylishly or trickishly take back what He has given to others. This is a deep spiritual message that we can learn from God. Jesus declared, *โ€œRender therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesarโ€™s; and unto God the things that are Godโ€™s.โ€* b. What is the implication of this answer? The coin carried Caesarโ€™s image and therefore must be given to the owner. Also, human beings, including his body, soul and spirit bear the image of God (Genesis 1:26โ€“27), therefore, man must surrender his soul, spirit and body to God to be used at His pleasure being the Owner. Reluctance to give oneself to God, the Owner, is daylight robbery which God the Creator will not even do to those He gave something to. We are owned by God as His possession by Creation and Redemption. Without redemption by Jesus Christ, we are all marked for eternal destruction. *"For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's"*. So, our appearance, body, heart and soul must be consciously and deliberately given to the glory of God, joyfully. The language of the responsible creature to his Creator is like what a king said: *"And the king of Israel answered and said, My lord, O king, according to thy saying, I am thine, and all that I have"*. Our spirit, soul, time, possessions and all that we have belong to God and none should be denied Him at any time He needs them. Like Thomas, our response to God whenever He demands sacrifice or anything from us, no matter how precious is *"My Lord and my God"*. It is a language of acknowledgement of His being the Creator. It is a language of appreciation of being the Redeemer. *Question* Since I belong to Christ, am I allowing His image and ownership to determine the way I live? Am I always readily giving Him what His Word demands without hesitation or reluctance? *3. Satisfied without Scripture Personalization* When Jesus answered their question, *โ€œthey marvelled, and left him, and went their way.โ€* They were amazed by His wisdom, but there is no indication that they surrendered their hearts to His truth. They did not bother to apply the truth to their lives and personalized it. It is possible to admire Scripture, appreciate a powerful message and even marvel at divine wisdom without personally applying it. The danger of vain talk is that we may become satisfied with intellectual discussion rather than spiritual transformation. Godโ€™s Word must move from our ears to our hearts and from our hearts to our daily conduct. The messages of Christ are so deep that they require constant and continuous reflection and self application in order to get the best from them. It is not how great a message is, but how transforming. *Question* Am I merely impressed by biblical truth or am I personally applying and obeying it? *Prayer Points* 1.Lord, grant me spiritual discernment to recognize deception, hypocrisy and vain arguments ๐Ÿ™. 2.Father, help me to remember that I belong completely to Christ and to live according to His will ๐Ÿ™. 3 Lord, deliver me from empty religious knowledge and help me to personalize and practice Your Word ๐Ÿ™. 4.Father, give us the wisdom of Christ to answer difficult questions with truth, grace, humility and courage. Help us to be doers of your Word and not hearers only ๐Ÿ™. *HYMN:* Lord speak to me *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 3-5. [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY โ“‚๏ธANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026``` *RESPONSIBILITIES OF DUAL CITIZENS* ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```TEXT:MATTHEW 22:18-22```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ”‘๐Ÿ“–```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's" (MATTHEW 22:20, 21).*_ *Kofi Annan, the Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 - 2006, is a figure whose life was shaped by the responsibilities of dual citizenship. While Annan was a Ghanaian citizen by birth, his role in international diplomacy required him to balance his connection to his homeland with his responsibility to the global community. In his role in Ghana, he worked to advance the nation's standing on the world stage, often advocating for African issues and the continent's development in the international arena. On the other hand, in his global duty as UN Secretary-General, his role involved diplomacy with countries in conflict, addressing human rights abuses, and working toward humanitarian aid and general global peace.* *In the passage, the Pharisees, who were trying to trap Jesus, posed a question about paying taxes to Caesar. The dilemma they presented seemed unsolvable: if Jesus said it was lawful to pay tax, He could alienate the people, who hated Roman rule. But if He said it was unlawful, He could be accused of stirring insurrection. But Jesus, with His wisdom, cut through the manipulation and answered in a way that transcended their trap. He asked for a coin, a denarius, and asked whose image was on it. "Caesar's," they replied. Then, He gave a profound answer that has echoed through history: "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."* *Jesus' words highlight that we are citizens of two realms - an earthly kingdom, with earthly responsibilities, and God's kingdom, with eternal responsibilities. While on earth, we are to honour the systems of authority set before us, paying taxes, respecting laws, and fulfilling our civic duties, which are part of our witness to the world. On the other hand, we must always remember that we are made in the likeness of God and, as such, our lives, our hearts, our very being, are His. In all, while our lives may be marked by the needs of the world - job, family, relationships - our ultimate allegiance should lie with God.* โœ๐Ÿฝ```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*A coin has two sides, so do our duties to God and man.*_ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 3-5*๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ Responsibilities Of Dual Citizens https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED; GHS 223: I GAVE MY LIFE FOR THEE; AND GHS 233: STAND UP, STAND UP FOR JESUS* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna21stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD๐Ÿ…ฐ๏ธY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ โœ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘ฉ๐Ÿปโ€๐Ÿ’ผ๐ŸŒป ๐Ÿ‡๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ›ฐ๐Ÿš€๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿ“š ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026``` *A CHILD WITH A DIFFERENCE* ๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ‘ถ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘ฆ๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‘จ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```TEXT:1 SAMUEL 2:22-26```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ“–``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men" (1 SAMUEL 2:26).*_ *Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, a 26-year-old Indian is referred to as the "world's fastest human calculator." According to the _Limca Book of Records,_ India's equivalent to _Guinness World Records,_ Bhanu's brain processes numbers about 10 times faster than regular brains. He is an exceptional individual with unusual gifts and talents.* *The Biblical young Samuel was one of such children with a difference. He was raised in the house of Prophet Eli with his wayward and corrupt children. Samuel grew up like a lily in the mire without any taint of environmental corruption.* *Samuel did not join the bandwagon of the ruffians, Hophni and Phinehas (Eli's children) among whom he grew up. God called them sons of Belial who knew not the Lord. Because Samuel kept himself from evils around him, he became a priest, prophet and leader for the whole nation of Israel.* *To fulfill God's purpose for your life and make impact in your world, you must be holy and righteous. You are exceptional. You can make a difference in your world.* ๐Ÿ’ฌ ```QUOTE:``` _*You can make a difference.*_ ๐Ÿ† ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Make definite impact in your world.*_ ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ```PRAYER:``` _*Help me Lord, to fulfill Your purpose in life.*_ A Child With A Difference https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday21stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [20/08, 9:54 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2โƒฃ0โƒฃ2โƒฃ6๏ธโƒฃ)*_ ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™‡โ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™‡๐Ÿผโ€โ™‚๏ธ ```FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST, 2026``` *PROFITABLE SERVICE* ๐Ÿ““๐Ÿ“–๐ŸŽš๏ธ๐Ÿซต๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ™‹๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝ๐ŸงŽ๐Ÿฝโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ™Œ๐Ÿฝ ๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ```EXODUS 23:25-26```๐Ÿ“œ๐Ÿ“œ ๐Ÿ•”๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ–‹๏ธ๐Ÿšป๐Ÿ˜๐ŸŽผ๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿชด๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ’ป ๐Ÿ”‘๐Ÿ“– ```Key Verse:``` _*"And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee" (Exodus 23:25).*_ ๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“–๐Ÿ“– Kingdom work involves the use of our God-given resources, like time, strength, talents and finances, in promoting the kingdom of God. It is a profitable service that attracts rewards on earth and in Heaven. Some of the benefits are outlined below: *(i) Divine Blessings - Provision of food and other needs (Exodus 23:25).* *(ii) Divine Health - Healing and sound health (Exodus 23:25).* *(iii) Long Life - Live long and healthy till old age (Exodus 23:26).* *(iv) Prosperity - God will prosper you in every area of life: academics, career, and material blessings (Job 36:11).* *(v) Honour - Undeserved favour and honour from God. At last, the faithful servant will make it to heaven and live with Jesus forever (John 12:26).* *(vi) Distinction - You will be the head and not the tail. Also, you will have excellent results, and become ten times better (Deuteronomy 28:13).* *(vii) Fulfillment in Life - You will never lack anything that is good. All that you desire shall come to pass (Matthew 6:33).* *It is time to wake up and get involved in kingdom service so that you can get the reward from God.* ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ๐Ÿฅ ```๐Ÿ…ฟ๏ธrayer:``` _*May my sacrifice be acceptable unto You oh Lord!*_ ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ ```๐Ÿ“– Further Reading:``` *1 Corinthians 4:1-4* Profitable Service https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk21stAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. โค John 8:12 Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge for Satan. โค John Bunyan O God, the source of all truth and grace, Youโ€™ve called us out of darkness into Your marvelous lightโ€”grant us Your blessing as this new day begins. We ask for Your grace to walk worthy of our high calling, with humility, faith, and hope. May we let our light shine before others so they may see our good works and glorify You. We ask for grace to perform our tasks diligently, to manage our affairs wisely, to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, and to acknowledge You in all our ways. Order our steps in Your word and donโ€™t let sin have any power over us. Give us our daily bread. Provide what we need for this day. Grant us health of body and soundness of mind so that weโ€™re prepared for the duties ahead. Prosper our efforts as long as they align with Your will. If any of our plans donโ€™t fit into Your plan for our lives, we ask that You set them aside, for we donโ€™t want to go against You or do anything that You wonโ€™t approve or bless. Restrain us from all excesses, from unwise words, from foolish vanity, and from uncontrolled emotions. Make us thoughtful, serious, and prayerful. O God, You allowed Your only Son to be tempted by the Evil One so that He could support those who are tempted. We ask You to deliver us from the snares and temptations that constantly surround us, and to strengthen us by Your Spirit so that in all things, we may be more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/47/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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