EXHO🇨🇩THÉOBALD Theme: « IL N’Y A RIEN DEHORS : CHRIST SUFFIT ! » Colossiens 2:9-10 « Car en lui habite corporellement toute la plénitude de la divinité. Vous avez tout pleinement en lui… » Textes complémentaires : Jean 15:1-7 ; Philippiens 4:19 ; Psaume 23:1 ; Jean 6:35 ; Colossiens 1:15-20. 1- L’idée fondamentale Le monde nous apprend constamment à chercher ailleurs ce que nous pensons ne pas avoir en nous : bonheur, sécurité, identité, reconnaissance, satisfaction, puissance, avenir… Mais l’Évangile nous révèle une vérité extraordinaire : En Christ, nous ne sommes pas à la recherche de quelque chose qui nous manque fondamentalement : nous avons trouvé Celui qui suffit. Christ ne doit pas être un complément à notre vie. Christ doit être le centre, la source et la suffisance de notre vie. ⸻ I. POURQUOI L’HOMME CHERCHE-T-IL DEHORS ? Depuis Éden, l’homme est tenté de croire que Dieu ne suffit pas. Genèse 3 montre Adam et Ève cherchant quelque chose en dehors de la volonté de Dieu. Aujourd’hui encore, nous pouvons chercher : * notre identité dans les hommes ; * notre valeur dans l’argent ; * notre sécurité dans les biens ; * notre bonheur dans les plaisirs ; * notre reconnaissance dans les réseaux sociaux ; * notre avenir dans les relations humaines ; * notre puissance dans les positions ; * notre satisfaction dans les possessions. Le problème n’est pas seulement ce que nous cherchons, mais la source auprès de laquelle nous le cherchons. Question au séminaire Qu’est-ce que je suis en train de chercher dehors que Christ veut être pour moi ? ⸻ II. CHRIST SUFFIT PARCE QU’IL EST PLEINEMENT DIEU Colossiens 2:9 : « En lui habite corporellement toute la plénitude de la divinité. » Nous ne sommes pas attachés à un simple prophète, à un grand enseignant ou à un modèle moral. Jésus-Christ est Dieu manifesté dans la chair. C’est pourquoi notre relation avec Lui est suffisante. Si Christ est véritablement Dieu, alors : * sa Parole suffit ; * sa grâce suffit ; * sa présence suffit ; * son salut suffit ; * son amour suffit ; * sa puissance suffit. ⸻ III. CHRIST SUFFIT POUR NOTRE SALUT Jean 14:6 : « Je suis le chemin, la vérité, et la vie. Nul ne vient au Père que par moi. » Nous n’avons pas besoin d’ajouter autre chose à l’œuvre de la croix. Christ est notre salut. Nos œuvres ne nous sauvent pas. Notre argent ne nous sauve pas. Notre position dans l’Église ne nous sauve pas. Notre famille chrétienne ne nous sauve pas. Notre ancienneté dans l’Église ne nous sauve pas. C’est Christ qui sauve. ⸻ IV. CHRIST SUFFIT POUR NOTRE IDENTITÉ Beaucoup de personnes passent leur vie à demander aux autres : « Qui suis-je ? Suis-je important ? Suis-je aimé ? Ai-je de la valeur ? » Mais en Christ, notre identité ne dépend plus de l’approbation des hommes. 2 Corinthiens 5:17 : « Si quelqu’un est en Christ, il est une nouvelle créature. » Je ne suis pas ce que les gens disent de moi. Je ne suis pas mon passé. Je ne suis pas mes échecs. Je ne suis pas mon statut social. Je suis ce que Dieu dit de moi en Christ. ⸻ V. CHRIST SUFFIT DANS NOS BESOINS Philippiens 4:19 : « Et mon Dieu pourvoira à tous vos besoins selon sa richesse, avec gloire, en Jésus-Christ. » Attention : dire « Christ suffit » ne signifie pas que nous n’avons besoin de personne. Dieu utilise les parents, les amis, l’Église, les frères et sœurs, les professionnels et différentes ressources. Mais cela signifie que notre confiance ultime ne doit jamais être placée dans les ressources, mais dans Celui qui les donne. Les ressources peuvent manquer. Les hommes peuvent abandonner. Les portes peuvent se fermer. Mais Christ demeure. ⸻ VI. CHRIST SUFFIT DANS LES ÉPREUVES Paul dit en Philippiens 4:12 : « Je sais vivre dans l’humiliation, et je sais vivre dans l’abondance. » Pourquoi ? Parce que sa satisfaction ne dépendait pas des circonstances. Puis il déclare : « Je puis tout par celui qui me fortifie. » — Philippiens 4:13. Paul ne dit pas : « Je peux tout parce que j’ai tout. » Il dit en substance : « Même lorsque je n’ai pas tout, Christ demeure ma force. » Voilà la maturité spirituelle : Être heureux avec beaucoup parce que Christ est là, et rester debout avec peu parce que Christ est toujours là. ⸻ VII. LE DANGER : AVOIR CHRIST ET CHERCHER ENCORE AILLEURS C’est probablement l’un des plus grands défis du chrétien. Nous pouvons avoir Jésus et continuer à chercher notre satisfaction ailleurs. Nous disons : « Jésus me suffit. » Mais notre cœur dit parfois : « Il me faut aussi l’argent, l’approbation des hommes, la popularité, les plaisirs, les relations, le pouvoir… » Le problème n’est pas d’avoir ces choses. Le problème commence lorsque ces choses prennent la place de Christ. Matthieu 6:33 : « Cherchez premièrement le royaume et la justice de Dieu… » ⸻ VIII. « IL N’Y A RIEN DEHORS » : UNE INVITATION À REVENIR À CHRIST Jean 6:68 est magnifique. Lorsque beaucoup abandonnent Jésus, Pierre lui dit : « Seigneur, à qui irions-nous ? Tu as les paroles de la vie éternelle. » C’est exactement l’esprit du thème : À qui irions-nous ? Quand les hommes nous abandonnent : Christ suffit. Quand les portes se ferment : Christ suffit. Quand les ressources diminuent : Christ suffit. Quand notre réputation est attaquée : Christ suffit. Quand nous traversons une saison difficile : Christ suffit. Quand nous ne comprenons pas ce que Dieu fait : Christ suffit. Quand nous avons tout : Christ suffit. Quand nous n’avons presque rien : Christ suffit. ⸻ IX. CHRIST NE DOIT PAS ÊTRE NOTRE « DERNIER RECOURS » Il faut inverser notre logique. Certaines personnes disent : « J’ai essayé tout, maintenant je vais essayer Jésus. » Mais le chrétien dit : « J’ai Jésus ; maintenant je veux vivre tout avec Lui. » Christ n’est pas le plan B. Christ est le plan de Dieu. Il n’est pas une solution parmi plusieurs. Il est la solution fondamentale. ⸻ X. CHRIST SUFFIT, MAIS DEMEURONS EN CHRIST Jean 15:4 : « Demeurez en moi, et je demeurerai en vous. » Voilà la conclusion pratique. Si Christ suffit, alors demeurons en Christ ! Demeurons : dans sa Parole — Jean 15:7 dans la prière — 1 Thessaloniciens 5:17 dans l’obéissance — Jean 15:10 dans l’amour — Jean 15:9 dans la foi — Colossiens 2:6-7 dans la communion — 1 Jean 1:3 dans la sainteté — 1 Pierre 1:15-16. Car le danger n’est pas seulement de découvrir que Christ suffit. Le véritable défi est de rester attaché à Celui qui suffit. ⸻ CONCLUSION UNE DÉCISION À PRENDRE L’exhortation doit conduire chacun à cette confession : « Seigneur Jésus, je renonce à chercher en dehors de toi ce que toi seul peux être pour moi. Tu es mon salut, mon identité, ma source, ma force, ma paix, mon espérance et mon avenir. Je ne veux plus simplement avoir Christ dans ma vie ; je veux que Christ soit ma vie. » Déclaration finale Je n’ai pas besoin de quitter Christ pour trouver la vie. Je n’ai pas besoin de chercher ailleurs ce que Christ peut être pour moi. Je n’ai pas besoin de remplacer Christ. Je n’ai pas besoin d’un autre fondement. Je n’ai pas besoin d’une autre source. CHRIST SUFFIT ! Et parce que Christ suffit : Je demeure en Christ. Je m’enracine en Christ. Je me construis en Christ. Je me confie en Christ. Je marche avec Christ. Je sers Christ. Et je veux finir ma course avec Christ. « À qui irions-nous ? Tu as les paroles de la vie éternelle. » — Jean 6:68 Théobald MBISSA,Pst Formateur Int.

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Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY SATURDAY AUGUST 22, 2O26. " THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (2)" Then the devil…set Him on the pinnacle...’ Matthew 4:5 NKJV THE ATTACK on the pinnacle. Let’s look at the second temptation Jesus faced: ‘Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, [and] set Him on the pinnacle of the temple.’ Here you deal with the fear of failure. Satan will whisper, ‘You’re on the pinnacle of success now, but you could easily fall off.’ He will bring up your past failures. He will remind you of leaders who crashed and burned. He will say, ‘If people realised how little you really know, or the issues you’re struggling with, they wouldn’t respect you.’ There are two kinds of fear: healthy fear and unhealthy fear. Healthy fear will keep you dependent on God; it will protect you from pride and self-sufficiency. ‘Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall’ (1 Corinthians 10:12 NKJV). But there’s an unhealthy fear that will keep you in the boat when Jesus is calling to you to step out and walk with Him on the water. You say, ‘But Peter almost drowned.’ Yes, but he was the only one of the disciples who experienced the joy of walking on the water! Having faith doesn’t mean you won’t experience a sinking feeling at times. You have a choice. You can give in to fear, or trust the God who has called you, sustained you, and never failed to give you the strength needed to cope with whatever you face. If your own intellect or talents are the basis of your confidence, you have good reason to fear. But if God is the basis of your confidence, you have nothing to fear. Bible In A Year: Amos 1:1 – 5:17, Matt 20:17-28, Ps 119:137-144, Pro 18:22-24. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation 💝🎀 *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*🎀💝🌹🌷. MD.ii. [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* SATURDAY, 22ND AUGUST, 2026. *WANT TO BE A RESERVOIR OF DIVINE BLESSINGS?* *TEXT:* PSALM 1:1-6. 1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. 5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. *Timeless Truth:*_"And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God"_ (Deuteronomy 28:2). *INTRODUCTION* Every believer desires the blessings of God, but Scripture makes it clear that divine blessings are connected with the way we live, the company we keep and the delight we have in God’s Word. The text presents a sharp contrast between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous person is not merely blessed, occasionally; he becomes like a fruitful tree, continually supplied by divine grace. Furthermore, for the Old Testament saints, the blessings of God and the God’s Covenants with the Patriachs were majorly earthly and material. However, for the New Testament saints, the blessings are majorly spiritual and heavenly, though, with earthly blessings and wealth embedded. The uniform testimony of the Scriptures is that in order to be blessed by God and even be a reservoir of divine blessings, we must deliberately, separate ourselves from ungodly influences, delight in God’s Word and remain spiritually rooted in Him. *1. The Conditions for Divine Blessings* a. Every creature of God enjoys the blessings of God in some shape and form. For example, the air we breathe is universal and the sunshine and the rain we enjoy are without discrimination though God has the power to do so if He wants. However, there are some blessings of God that are given to select few, in particular His children. They are multidimensional blessings including both physical, material, social and spiritual blessings, spanning through all human needs without exception. Receiving these blessings result into all round prosperity which is promised by God. *"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth"* (3 John 2). Apostle Peter summed up all these blessings as things that pertain to life and godliness. *"According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises"* (1 Peter 1:3, 4a). These divinely provided blessings are even richer and deeper than what the Psalmist in the text was aware of. b. The psalmist begins by identifying what the blessed person does not do and what he does. He *"walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful"*. This describes progressive involvement with ungodliness. The blessed person carefully chooses his companions, conversations, character, contacts, connections and control. He is so much in love with the Word of God that he cannot stomach or endure anyone or anywhere the Word of God is being dishonoured. In an age where the demarcation between saints and sinners are being erased, he does not *"stand in the way of sinners"*. He separates himself from the worldly and sinful practices of sinners without being ashamed of standing for the truth and the right. His counsellors and guides in matters of conduct are not the ungodly, but godly people who take the Word of God and go to heaven very seriously. Positively, his delight is in the law of the LORD, and he meditates on it day and night. *Question* Based on the above, are you qualified for daily divine blessings? *2. The Clear Description of the Blessed* a. The description of a blessed man shows that it is pleasant and admirable to be a blessed man. Like a good tree bearing good fruits that are edible and profitable to man, the blessed man is not only blessed by God, he is also a blessing to others. As a good tree gives shade to people when the sun bites hard, the blessed person gives succour and shade to people when they are being bitten by the challenges of life. No wonder, the blessed person is compared to *“a tree planted by the rivers of water”*. The blessings of God are so real that he is never dried up. He remains fresh materially, spiritually and in all areas. Beyond that, he is *"planted by the rivers of water"* where the Word of God flows in his unceasing freshness. b. Such a person never runs out of grace, godliness and goodness. He *“bringeth forth his fruit in his season.”* His life produces visible evidence of God’s work. His leaves do not wither, indicating spiritual vitality even in difficult seasons. Furthermore, *“whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”* He is never a failure in family, business and spiritual ministry because he allows God to always guide his actions, endeavours and always commit them into God’s hands. It does not mean freedom from trials, but it means that a life rooted in God ultimately bears the fruit and accomplishes the purposes God intends. A reservoir does not merely receive water; it stores it for continue usefulness. Likewise, the blessed believer receives divine grace and becomes a channel through which God’s goodness reaches others. *Question* Is my spiritual life deeply rooted enough in God’s Word to remain fruitful in every season? Am I a blessing to others? *3. Cursed Destination of the Barbaric* The wicked are described as *“chaff which the wind driveth away.”* Agricultural chaff consists of the dry, scaly husks and small pieces of straw separated from cereal grains during threshing. It is lightweight, dry, scaly and easily blown away by the wind. It has no economic value. It lacks appreciable weight. It is just good for fire else it will be a nuisance. The ungodly are compared to chaff because they don't add any value to achieving the purpose of God on earth. They are only good for hell fire. Their life is not weighty in character and conduct, but lives on and lives for vanities of life. Those who reject God and persist in ungodliness may appear successful for a season, but their destination is destruction. b. *"The ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous"*. Their apparent strength and conscience cannot withstand divine examination. In fact, the judgment would be so fierce that *"the earth and the heaven fled away"* from the presence of God (Revelation 20:11). *“The LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.”* *Question* Am I a chaff before God or wheat? Am I walking on the way of the righteous, or am I allowing the world to shape the direction of my life? *Prayer Points* 1.Lord, deliver me from every ungodly association and influence that can hinder Your blessings in my life 🙏. 2.Father, give me an increasing delight in Your Word and grace to meditate on it continually 🙏. 3.Lord, make my life fruitful and a blessing to others in every season🙏 4.Father, preserve Your children from the way of the wicked and make our lives a reservoir and channel of divine blessings to others 🙏. *HYMN:* Is Your Life A Channel Of Blessings? *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 6-8. [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026``` *PATH TO BLESSING* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:PSALM 1:1-6```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful" (PSALM 1:1).*_ *In 1955, a young man named Jim Elliott left behind the comforts of America to bring the gospel to the unreached Huaorani people of Ecuador. Many thought he was foolish for risking his life among a violent tribe, but Elliot believed in a greater purpose. Before his death at the hands of the very people he sought to reach, he wrote, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliott chose the path of righteousness, dedicating his life to walking in God's ways. Though his earthly journey was cut short, his path to eternal impact and blessing in eternity remains.* *Our text contrasts two paths: the way of the righteous, leading to blessing and life, and the way of the wicked, leading to damnation and destruction. The Psalmist describes the difference between the righteous and the wicked. The righteous delights in God's law, avoiding ungodly influences and meditating on the Scripture day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which flourishes in every season. In contrast, the wicked are like chaff blown away by the wind; they are temporary and without a lasting purpose. The psalm ends with a clear truth: "For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."* *Every day, we are faced with choices that determine which path we walk and what we will reap at the end. The world constantly offers distractions such as ungodly advice, sinful pleasures, and shortcuts to success. But true blessing comes from delighting in God's word, staying rooted in His truth, and avoiding the influences that pull us away from Him.* *Like Jim Elliot, those who walk in obedience may face hardship, but they will ultimately flourish in God's purpose. Their lives bear fruit, even after them; their faith remains firm, and they find true peace in Christ. In contrast, those who reject God's ways may seem successful for a time, but in the end, their path leads to emptiness and destruction. As believers, we must be careful enough to walk circumspectly in the truth revealed in God's word. The path to blessing requires commitment to God's word and a refusal to compromise with the world. We should, therefore, stay planted in Christ, who will ultimately make our lives flourish in time and eternity.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Your stand determines your walk. Where do you stand?*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 6-8*📜📜 Path To Blessing https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 246: O BROTHER, LIFE'S JOURNEY BEGINNING; GHS 55: ANYWHERE WITH JESUS; GHS 58: THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; AND GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna22ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026``` *A SUPPLICANT FOR SAINTS* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️🙏🏽🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:COLOSSIANS 4:7-13```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God" (COLOSSIANS 4:12).*_ *A supplicant is someone who makes petition before God on behalf of others. Epaphras is one of the supplicants in the New Testament. Such a Christian is concerned about others who need God's intervention.* *As a child of God, we can follow the "GOM" pattern in our prayer - (God, Others, Me). Prayer is the best gift we can give to fellow believers. The love of Christ constrains us to pray for those who are sick, suffering, afflicted, or backslidden. We pray also for church leaders and the rulers in our nation.* *Like Epaphras, believers must pray for the new converts, revival, programmes, and projects in the church. We are to pray for our institutions, teachers, classmates, neighbours, parents, friends, and even foes.* *Through intercession, we can achieve much for God. Empathy will enable us to pray effectively for others. Let us bother about others. You are enjoined to "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). Bring solution to other believers' problems through your supplication. God's love constrains us to pray for others, like Epaphras did.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Let us bother about others.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Empathise and supplicate for others.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Pour upon me, oh God, the spirit of supplication.*_ A Supplicant For Saints https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday22ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [21/08, 10:03 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026``` *GOD'S LOVE FOR HIS CHILDREN* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️💓❤️🩷🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```DEUTERONOMY 23:4-6```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"Nevertheless the LORD thy God would not hearken unto Balaam; but the LORD thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the LORD thy God loved thee" (Deuteronomy 23:5).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 God's love for His children is expressed in many ways. It is the love of God for us that makes Him to give His only begotten Son to save us from our sins, protect us from all evil, provide for our daily needs, heal us when we are sick, and to warn us not to be friends with evil people. God showed His love to the children of Israel by turning the curse of their enemies into a blessing, and by warning them not to make friends with those who planned to curse or harm them. God knew that these enemies will not change from their selfish and bitter acts toward the children of Israel. They will always want to hurt them. That is why He commanded them not to relate with these enemies. *God does not permit us to make friends with ungodly, immoral and wicked people. They will draw us back to sin. We are to pray for them and tell them of the love of Jesus so that they can repent, believe, and accept Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, thank You for Your love and protection. Help me never to make friends with people who will hurt me and make me to offend You.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *John 3:16* God's Love For His Children https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk22ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; ⏤ 1 Timothy 2:1 Prayer is the key that unlocks all the storehouses of God’s infinite grace and power. ⏤ R.A. Torrey O God, You have taught us to offer supplications, prayers, and intercessions for all people. We humbly ask You to hear our prayers, which we offer to Your divine Majesty in the name of Jesus Christ. Remember in Your mercy all people whom You have made to dwell on the earth. Deliver them from the many evils and miseries that oppress them. Deliver them especially from idolatry, ignorance, superstition, error, unbelief, and the chains of sin. Send Your gospel to all nations until everyone has heard its joyful message. Bless all missionaries and organizations dedicated to spreading the gospel. Hasten the coming of Your kingdom among the nations, and bring all Your lost sheep into the fold of the Good Shepherd. Remember also, all Your people in Christian lands. You have purchased Your church with Your own blood. We ask You to bless all who call upon Your name in prayer. Fill Your church with more of Your life and Spirit. Equip Your ministers with all spiritual gifts and graces. Remember all who are in any trouble. Strengthen the weak and make them strong in spirit. Lift up those who have fallen. Support those who are discouraged and about to give up. Let a special blessing be upon Your children. They cannot find their way home on their own; You must show them the way. Grant that Your people may always keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, to the glory of Your holy name. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/48/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST 2026 IGNITE YOUTH DEVOTIONAL Topic: Do Not Ignore the Small Compromise Bible Reference “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.” Luke 16:10 (NKJV) A Short Story Blessing had always seen herself as a good Christian. She attended church, joined the youth meetings, prayed regularly, and tried to live according to God's Word. One afternoon, she noticed that she had been given too much change at a shop. The difference was not much. She looked at the money in her hand and thought, “It is only a small amount.”She could easily have kept it. Nobody would know. She walked a few steps away from the shop, but something inside her made her stop. She remembered that she had been praying for God to trust her with greater responsibilities. She turned around and returned the money. The following week, something similar happened. This time, it was not money. A friend asked her to lie about where they had been so that their parents would not find out. Again, it seemed like a small matter. Blessing remembered the change she had returned the previous week. She realized that integrity was not something she could practise only when the matter was serious. She refused to lie. As she walked home that evening, she understood something she had never considered deeply before. The small decisions she made every day were preparing her for the bigger decisions that would come later. Today's Message Many people want God to trust them with great things, but they ignore the small things. Jesus said that the person who is faithful in little will also be faithful in much. This means that your character is being developed through ordinary decisions. A small lie may seem harmless. A little dishonesty may seem insignificant. A secret compromise may appear too small to matter. But compromise has a way of growing. The enemy does not always begin by asking you to do something obviously wrong. Sometimes, he starts with something that looks too small to deserve your attention. Do not measure the seriousness of a decision only by how big it looks. Ask whether it agrees with God's Word. Your private decisions are shaping your public character. If you want God to trust you with greater responsibility, learn to honour Him in the little things first. What To Do Today 1. Pay attention to the small decisions you normally overlook. 2. Refuse to justify dishonesty because the matter seems insignificant. 3. Keep your word, even when nobody will punish you for breaking it. 4. Remember that character is built through repeated choices. Prayer Lord, help me to be faithful in little things. Give me the strength to reject every compromise, no matter how small it appears. Build integrity into my character and prepare me for everything You have planned for me. In Jesus' name, Amen. Daily Challenge Today, choose honesty in one small situation where it would be easier to compromise. Let your decision be an act of worship to God. ©️ Anthony Ijere Christian Author and Revivalist WHATSAPP GROUP https://chat.whatsapp.com/BDs9qaNMQumKTicv7uU7SJ?s=cl&p=a&mlu=0&ilr=0 TELEGRAM CHANNEL https://t.me/anthonyijere

Romans 1: "1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, 2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) 3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; 4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: 5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: 6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: 7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; 10 Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you. 11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; 12 That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. 13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles. 14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. 15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them."

Let me ask you something I want you to sit with honestly. Do you know why you are alive? Not the biological answer. Not — because my parents had me. I mean the specific answer. The personal answer. The one that is true about you specifically, and not about the person sitting next to you. Most people have never seriously asked this question. And it is the most important question of your life. Because when you genuinely answer it — when you discover what God specifically designed you for — everything else begins to organise around that answer. The Bible calls it a mandate. A specific, God-issued, God-designed, God-empowered assignment — placed in you before you were born. “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I set you apart.” — Jeremiah 1:5 The mandate came before you did. There are three things you must do with your divine mandate: 🔑 DISCOVER IT—It is already in you. Pay attention to what breaks your heart. Notice what you do naturally that others find difficult. Pray specifically: Lord, what did You design me for? 🔑 DEVELOP IT — Joseph had the dream at seventeen. But it took thirteen years of pit and prison before the throne. God gave the gift. The difficulty developed the character the gift would need. Daniel studied for three years and came out ten times better than everyone else. Divine gift + human diligence = excellence that neither produces alone. 🔑 DEPLOY IT — David “served the purpose of God in his own generation” (Acts 13:36) and then rested. Find your mandate. Develop it. Deploy it in service to your generation. Not waiting for a bigger platform. Start where you are, with what you have. “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” — Ephesians 2:10 You are a masterpiece with a mandate. Discover it. Develop it. Deploy it. 🙏🏾 #DivineMandate #Purpose #BornForAReason #YoungPeople #ChristianFaith

🌟 Discover the Benefits of Christian Homeschooling! 🌟 Christian homeschooling is not only a powerful choice for safeguarding your child's spiritual journey, but it also allows for personalized education tailored to each child’s unique learning style and interests. This flexible approach ensures that your child receives the attention and resources they need to thrive academically. Moreover, parents have the opportunity to infuse Bible teachings into everyday lessons, ensuring that the Christian faith remains at the forefront of their children’s lives. By integrating spiritual teachings with academic subjects, families can create a holistic educational experience that nurtures both the mind and the heart. Why Choose Christian Homeschooling? 1. Tailored Learning: Customize the curriculum to fit your child's strengths and passions for a more engaging educational experience. 2. Faith Integration: Seamlessly incorporate biblical principles into daily activities and studies, making faith a part of everyday life. 3. Stronger Family Bonds: Spend quality time together as a family while learning about faith, values, and academics. Empower your child to grow in both knowledge and faith through Christian homeschooling! 📞 Call Today: 405-691-8012 🌐 Enroll Online Today: nationalhomeschool.com #ChristianHomeschooling #PersonalizedEducation #FaithBasedLearning #SpiritualGrowth #HolisticEducation

FOR FAMILIES ACROSS THE WORLD: Gracious Lord, as night falls, we pray for families across the world. Strengthen marriages and restore relationships that have been damaged. Help parents raise children who know and love Jesus. Protect homes from division, conflict, and spiritual attacks. May every home become a place where Christ is honored and worshipped. We pray in the powerful name of Jesus. Amen.

DEMYSTIFYING THE DEMON OF MASTURBATION By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah «“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.)” — 2 Corinthians 10:3–4» Introduction There are certain battles people fight in silence. They smile in public, worship in church, preach powerful messages, and yet return home to fight a private war that leaves them feeling ashamed, condemned, and spiritually weak. Masturbation is one of those subjects that many people are afraid to discuss openly. Unfortunately, silence has sometimes allowed fear, ignorance, condemnation, and misinformation to grow around the issue. Some people believe every case of masturbation means a demon has entered their body. Others dismiss the matter completely and refuse to acknowledge the possibility of sexual bondage, lust, addiction, or spiritual oppression. We must approach this subject with both truth and compassion. To demystify something means to remove unnecessary mystery, fear, exaggeration, and confusion surrounding it. Therefore, when we speak about what some describe as the demon of masturbation, we must understand that the issue is often more complex than simply saying, “There is a demon inside me.” The real question is: What is driving the behaviour? Is it lust? Is it pornography? Is it loneliness? Is it a habit developed over many years? Is it emotional pain? Is it an addiction? Is there genuine spiritual oppression involved? Until we understand the root, we may continue fighting the wrong battle. In this write-up, twelve points on how to demystify the demon of masturbation and stay free from it have been examined carefully. God bless you as you read through it, and I pray you get your freedom from reading it in Jesus name amen. 1. Masturbation Is Not a Person's Identity The first thing I want to say to anyone struggling with masturbation is this: You are not masturbation. You are not your addiction. You are not your worst moment. A person may struggle with a sexual habit without that habit becoming their identity. The devil loves to move people from conviction into condemnation. Conviction says: «“What you are doing is wrong. Come back to God.”» Condemnation says: «“You are dirty. You are hopeless. God does not want you anymore.”» But Romans 8:1 declares: «“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus...”» The enemy knows that a person drowning in shame will often continue doing the very thing that is destroying them. Shame says, “Hide from God.” Grace says, “Run to God.” When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid themselves. Sin makes people hide. But God came looking for them. That is still the heart of God. 2. The Real Battle Often Begins in the Mind Jesus said: «“But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” — Matthew 5:28» Sexual sin rarely begins with the physical act. It often begins in the mind. A thought is entertained. A fantasy is repeated. An image is watched. A memory is revisited. A desire is fed. Eventually, what was once a thought becomes a stronghold. This is why Proverbs 4:23 says: «“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”» The hand may be involved in masturbation, but the battlefield is often much deeper than the hand. The battlefield may be the mind, imagination, appetite, emotions, and habits. You cannot consistently feed lust and expect purity to grow. You cannot continually consume sexually explicit content and expect your mind to remain unaffected. What you repeatedly feed becomes stronger. 3. Is There Really a “Demon of Masturbation”? We need balance here. The Bible does not specifically name a spirit called the demon of masturbation. Therefore, we must be careful not to give unscriptural names and descriptions where Scripture is silent. However, the Bible clearly teaches that human beings can experience temptation, bondage, strongholds, sinful desires, and spiritual oppression. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that: «“We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers...”» At the same time, James 1:14–15 teaches that people can also be drawn away by their own desires. Therefore, not every struggle should automatically be blamed on a demon. Sometimes it is: - A habit that has been practised repeatedly. - An addiction strengthened over time. - Exposure to pornography. - Sexual fantasies. - Loneliness and isolation. - Emotional pain. - Curiosity that developed into bondage. - Lack of discipline. - Unresolved wounds. - A genuine spiritual attack that exploits an existing weakness. The wise believer does not oversimplify the problem. Sometimes a demon may exploit a habit, but the habit itself must still be broken. You can cast out an evil spirit, but if you return to the same environment, the same pornography, the same fantasies, the same secret lifestyle, and the same triggers without renewing your mind, the cycle may continue. Deliverance without discipline can produce temporary relief without lasting transformation. 4. Lust Is a Fire That Must Not Be Fed One of the greatest fuel sources for masturbation is lust. Paul instructed Timothy: «“Flee also youthful lusts...” — 2 Timothy 2:22» Notice that Paul did not say, “Negotiate with youthful lusts.” He said, “Flee.” There are some battles you overcome by standing and fighting. There are others you overcome by refusing to remain in the environment. Joseph did not stay in Potiphar's wife's room to prove his spiritual strength. He ran! Sometimes your deliverance begins with leaving the room. Turning off the phone. Blocking the website. Deleting the videos. Changing your sleeping pattern. Avoiding isolation. Refusing to entertain fantasy. You cannot pray against a fire while continuously pouring petrol on it. 5. Pornography Is Often a Major Doorway to Sexual Bondage We must be honest: pornography has become one of the greatest enemies of sexual purity in this generation. What previous generations struggled to access is now available within seconds on a mobile phone. Pornography trains the mind to seek repeated stimulation. It can create unrealistic expectations, intensify fantasies, and strengthen unhealthy patterns of sexual behaviour. For many people, masturbation did not become a serious struggle until pornography became a regular companion. Therefore, if you sincerely desire freedom, you must address the source. Do not merely pray: «“Lord, take away this habit.”» Also pray: «“Lord, give me the courage to remove what is feeding this habit.”» Psalm 101:3 says: «“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes...”» Freedom requires honesty. What are you watching? What are you saving? Who are you chatting with? What happens when you are alone? What time are you most vulnerable? Until you identify the trigger, you may keep repeating the cycle. 6. Repetition Can Become a Stronghold A stronghold is something that has gained unusual influence over a person's thinking or behaviour. What you repeatedly practise can become easier to repeat. This is why some people sincerely hate the habit and still find themselves returning to it. The cycle may look like this: Trigger → temptation → fantasy → masturbation → temporary relief → guilt → shame → promise to stop → another trigger → relapse. The answer is not merely making stronger promises. Many people have said: «“This is the last time.”» Then repeated it again. Why? Because willpower alone is often not enough to break a deeply established pattern. Real freedom requires a combination of: - Repentance. - Renewing the mind. - Spiritual discipline. - Removing triggers. - Accountability. - Healthy habits. - Prayer. - Filling your life with the Word of God. 7. Do Not Fight a Spiritual Battle Without Spiritual Weapons If there is a spiritual dimension to your struggle, you must engage spiritual weapons. Ephesians 6:17 speaks about: «“The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”» When temptation comes, do not remain mentally passive. Speak the Word. Pray. Worship. Change your environment. Call someone you trust. Go for a walk. Read Scripture aloud. Refuse to sit in darkness and negotiate with temptation. The devil is not afraid of your good intentions. But he recognizes the authority of a believer who stands firmly in the truth of God's Word. 8. Your Body Must Come Under the Government of the Spirit Paul said: «“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...” — 1 Corinthians 9:27» Your body has desires, but your desires must not become your master. There is a difference between having an urge and surrendering to every urge. Maturity means learning to say no to yourself. The Christian life is not simply about casting out devils. It is also about crucifying the flesh. Galatians 5:24 says: «“And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”» There are things prayer will empower you to overcome, but you must still make a decision to walk away. God gives grace, but grace is not permission to remain comfortably in bondage. Grace empowers us to live differently. 9. Stop Fighting Alone Secrecy is one of the greatest strengths of addiction. The enemy tells you: «“Don't tell anyone. They will judge you.”» But James 5:16 says: «“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”» This does not mean you should announce your private struggle to everybody. Wisdom is necessary. Find a mature and trustworthy spiritual leader, counsellor, or accountability partner who can help you without shaming or exploiting you. Sometimes freedom begins when you finally say: “I need help.” There is no shame in seeking help. The shame is allowing pride to keep you in chains when help is available. 10. Replace, Don't Just Remove Jesus taught important principles about an empty house in Matthew 12:43–45. The lesson is clear: a life must not merely be emptied of destructive influences; it must be filled with what is good and godly. Do not simply say: «“I will stop masturbating.”» Ask yourself: “What will I replace this habit with?” Fill your life with: - Prayer. - Scripture meditation. - Productive work. - Exercise. - Healthy friendships. - Fellowship. - Service to God. - Purposeful activities. - Accountability. An idle mind can become a playground for temptation. When your life has no structure, temptation can easily find space. 11. If You Fall, Get Up Again Perhaps you are reading this and saying: «“Pastor, I have tried many times and failed.”» Hear me: Do not surrender to failure. Proverbs 24:16 says: «“For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again...”» The righteous person is not necessarily the person who never faces temptation or never stumbles. The righteous person is the one who refuses to remain on the ground. Repent genuinely. Receive God's mercy. Learn from what happened. Identify the trigger. Strengthen your boundaries. And rise again. Micah 7:8 says: «“Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise...”» Your last failure does not have to become your permanent address. 12. Freedom Is More Than Deliverance True freedom is not simply shouting during a deliverance service. Freedom is being able to return home and make different choices. Freedom is controlling your thoughts. Freedom is turning away when nobody is watching. Freedom is honouring God with your body. Freedom is saying no when temptation says yes. Freedom is developing the discipline to live in the light. Jesus said: «“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36» Christ can break chains. Christ can heal wounds. Christ can renew the mind. Christ can restore purity. Christ can strengthen weak places. But you must cooperate with the process of freedom. A WORD TO PARENTS, PASTORS AND CHURCH LEADERS We must stop addressing sexual struggles only with insults and condemnation. Calling everyone possessed without understanding their struggle may create more fear than freedom. We need truth, but truth must be spoken with love. Some people need deliverance. Some need discipleship. Some need accountability. Some need counselling for deep emotional wounds. Some need to break free from pornography. Some need all of the above. The church must become a place where people can seek help without being publicly humiliated. Holiness should be preached, but restoration must also be available. Jesus never lowered God's standard, but He also lifted people who had fallen. PRACTICAL STEPS TOWARD FREEDOM 1. Repent sincerely before God. Do not justify what you know is feeding lust and impurity. 2. Destroy your triggers. Delete pornography and sexually explicit materials. 3. Control your private environment. Avoid situations and times when you are consistently vulnerable. 4. Renew your mind daily with God's Word. 5. Pray before temptation becomes overwhelming. 6. Fast and develop spiritual discipline where appropriate. 7. Exercise self-control in other areas of life. 8. Get a trusted accountability partner. 9. Avoid isolation when you know you are vulnerable. 10. If the struggle feels compulsive or severely distressing, seek appropriate professional support alongside spiritual guidance. 11. Never give up on your journey toward purity. PRAYER FOR FREEDOM Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I come before You with humility and honesty. I acknowledge every habit, lust, fantasy, addiction, and practice that has tried to bring me into bondage. I ask for Your mercy and forgiveness. Lord Jesus, cleanse my heart and renew my mind. Break every ungodly pattern that has gained control over my life. I renounce every connection with pornography, lust, immoral fantasies, and every practice that dishonours You. Holy Spirit, strengthen me where I am weak. Give me the grace to discipline my body, control my thoughts, and flee every appearance of sexual immorality. Let the power of the Holy Spirit break every spiritual oppression and every stronghold operating in my life. I declare that sin shall not have dominion over me. My body belongs to the Lord. My mind belongs to Christ. My future will not be destroyed by a secret habit. I receive grace to walk in purity, discipline, and freedom. I will rise again. I will not be condemned. I will not remain in bondage. Through Jesus Christ, I am empowered to overcome. In Jesus' name, Amen. CONCLUSION Masturbation should neither be surrounded by unnecessary fear nor treated casually when it has become connected to lust, pornography, guilt, compulsive behaviour, or spiritual bondage. Let us demystify the issue. Not every struggle is automatically a demon. Not every demon can be blamed for choices we repeatedly make. But neither should we deny that spiritual warfare can exploit human weaknesses. The answer is a balanced pursuit of freedom through repentance, truth, spiritual discipline, renewal of the mind, accountability, wise boundaries, and the transforming grace of Jesus Christ. You are not beyond redemption. You are not too dirty for grace. You are not too weak for God's strength. And no chain is stronger than the power of Jesus Christ. Your struggle may be private, but your freedom can become your testimony. By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah

Three Angels Broadcasting Network Devotional. Habits By Elena Varnavskaya August 20th, 2026 “I will set nothing wicked before my eyes.” Psalm 101:3 How, Lord, in our age, is it possible to avoid looking at wicked things when we are assaulted on every side by TV screens, smartphones, and billboards showing images of scantily clad bodies advertising every conceivable product? What do we do with our eyes? Or our children and grandchildren’s eyes? How can we resist wasting precious time on things that don’t make us any better? Recently, we bought our teenaged granddaughter a smartphone. She was very eager for it because all her peers have had one for a long time. Her mother had wisely delayed the purchase, knowing that her daughter seemed easily influenced by other people’s views; but it wasn’t long before the problems began. At first, she stayed on the Internet for hours at a time and didn’t even notice it, so we limited her data usage to one hour a day. But this didn’t stop her, as she quickly caught on to using wi-fi signals. Then it wasn’t long before we got a pretty big shock when we checked her text messages and found some pretty vulgar language! We were horrified that, like a sponge, she seemed to absorb everything that was bad! And to make things worse, her sister, who is three years older, never developed these problems. What could we do? How could we teach our child to only look at things that would change her for the better? We took her phone away, but we all knew that this couldn’t solve the problem. So what can we do to help our children? First, we must understand how we influence them—not only by our words, but by our actions. As one Russian proverb says, “Look at the habits of the parents and you’ll find that the children already have vices.” Only the Lord can help us be rid of our bad habits and acquire good ones in their place. In his letter to the Romans, the Apostle Paul wrote, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2. As parents, we are responsible to God for our children; but before we can change them, we must change ourselves. We all have many more acquired and inherited habits than our children do, and only the Lord can miraculously change us into His image and likeness. What hope can we give parents who see their bad habits replicated in their children and grandchildren? We can tell them to trust the Lord, and pray that the transforming power of the Holy Spirit that changed our lives will work on our children’s hearts, too. God is too wise to fulfill our confused, darkened, and self-serving desires. But He will always fulfill the desires of our transformed, and enlightened hearts. What higher desires can we have than to love God and want communion with Him, to have His will be done in our life, and to have a deeper interaction with His people? Those whom God will take home with Him will want to do His will. They will walk in perfect freedom forever, for there will be nothing in their hearts to give up!