Good morning to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you.

I told you about our trying out a new translation ap so that my friend and I can communicate without someone to translate for us. She is my husband’s age and then there is my catawampus brain. I told you about how we laughed so hard and loud that I got into trouble … haha. Let me give you another giggle from that wonderful ap.

Yesterday while I was cooking dinner, my oldest little came and asked for help with her new baby doll that needed batteries. I told her to go see Opa because he had the screwdrivers. She did. Then she came back to ask for batteries. I looked all over my house and found batteries in every size but the one I needed. As I was trying to explain that we would go to the store after dinner, my German disappeared. So I asked, “Kanst du liesen?” which in my version of German is “Can you read?” She said yes. I was like Yes, I can use the app. I typed that we would go to the Dollar Store after dinner and turned the phone for her to read. I asked if she understood. She shook her head. I looked at the phone and the words looked wrong. (All languages have a vibe and this was not right.) The app had reset itself to Spanish. So, no, my German little could not read the Spanish translation. We giggled. I fixed it. She understood.

Later, my daughter-in-law had a great conversation, in English, about how we each have the same fear. When we attempt the other’s language, we are afraid of saying the wrong word. This brought up some memories of when I tried to ask her in front of her house if s he remembered the keys … however, the word for keys is similar to shoes and castles. So I actually asked if she had her shoes, castles and then keys, trying to make my brain and mouth work together.

There is a language barrier between us, but it is only a barrier if we allow the enemy to hold it between us. The barrier is only as strong as we allow it to be. Fear is a powerful tool and can keep you from trying new things. Such as … having a conversation with someone who speaks a different language. Last year, when they came, I purchased translating ear buds; they were slow on the translation and sometimes did not translate. This year we are trying the app and if I make sure it is set to German and English, I have even attempted to pronounce what it tells me. The attempt is there. The love is there. The barrier is coming down one word, one attempt, one text at a time. As we endeavor to be able to speak to each other, play goofy nugget games and faces with each other, breaking through the barrier one brick at a time … we take away the enemy’s fortress.

The enemy would have us all cowering in our little corners, afraid and resistant to step out in faith. But … I was not made to live in fear. I was not made to cower. I was made to step out in the power of Jesus Christ and share his Peace and Love while planting seeds of hope.

Today I encourage you to seek His face. Lay at His feet the barriers that you are facing, the fear that has you stationary, the battles that seem to be holding you back in your mind. I urge you step out in the faith and power of the Father and watch the fear barriers crumble. I am not completely confident in speaking German, but when it does start coming out … even if it is wrong…I tried. Trying is half the battle.

Be blessed.

**For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. – Hebrews 4:12

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Brenda Walsh Ministries
When Life Suddenly Changes.

Everything in your life could be going along quite smoothly when, all of a sudden, your life is changed in an instant! It could be a phone call, an email, text, or knock at the door that changes your life forever. Perhaps a spouse announces they want a divorce, you receive a grim diagnosis, a best friend betrays you, a loved one dies, or a hundred other reasons. No matter what devastating loss you are dealt, how you pick up the pieces makes a huge difference in how you live the rest of your life. Some become bitter and angry, while others sink in a deep depression, and still others walk around numb as if they are in a soundproof bubble, not able to experience life – only watch it pass them by. None of these scenarios will give you the abundant life that God wants you to have. Although it is heartbreaking to experience pain and loss, please know that God can heal your broken heart and give you His gift of joy! The Bible says in Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” With Jesus, you can face each day with renewed hope, knowing He loves you with an everlasting love. When your life suddenly changes, don’t allow the devil to separate you from Jesus! Put your trust in God, knowing you are in His plan; He will never leave you or forsake you, and He will give you strength and courage to face each day – and be a shining light for Him! Text: Deuteronomy 31:6, Jeremiah 29:11, Joshua 1:9, Psalm 9:10, Revelation 21:4

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

SERMON TOPIC:

YOUNG PEOPLE, DON'T WASTE YOUR YOUTH.

Theme:
Your Youth Is a Gift, Not a Season to Throw Away.

«“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…” — Ecclesiastes 12:1 (KJV)»

DON'T WASTE WHAT YOU CANNOT REPLACE

Young person, you can recover lost money. You can replace a broken phone. You can rebuild a failed business. But you cannot recover yesterday.
Youth is one of the greatest gifts God gives a person—and one of the easiest gifts to waste.
You have energy today. You have time today. You have opportunities today. You have the ability to learn, build, serve, dream, pray, create and make a difference.
But the enemy wants you to believe:
«“You are still young. There is plenty of time. Enjoy yourself now. You will become serious with God later.”»
That is a dangerous lie.
The devil does not always destroy young people through terrible sins. Sometimes he destroys them through distraction.
He keeps them busy but unproductive.
Connected to everyone but disconnected from God.
Entertained but empty.
Informed but not transformed.
Chasing popularity while losing purpose.
Young people, don't waste your youth!
Your youth is not merely for having fun. It is preparation for purpose.
1. REMEMBER YOUR CREATOR BEFORE YOU WASTE YOURYEARS
Ecclesiastes 12:1
«“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…”»
Solomon did not say, “Remember your Creator when you become old.”
He said “now.”
God deserves your youthful years—not merely the leftovers of your life.
Many people say:
«“When I get older, I will serve God.”»
But what if God wants to use you now?
David was young when he confronted Goliath.
Samuel was young when God called him.
Josiah was young when he became king and began reforming Israel.
Timothy was young when Paul recognized his spiritual potential.
Your age does not disqualify you from God's purpose.

Deep Insight

Youth is not an excuse for spiritual laziness.
The earlier you surrender your life to God, the more years you can spend fulfilling His purpose.
Don't give God your retirement.
Give Him your strength.
Don't give God your leftovers.
Give Him your first fruits.
2. DON'T ALLOW PLEASURE TO STEAL YOUR PURPOSE
1 John 2:15–17
«“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world…”»
There is nothing wrong with enjoying life.
But there is a difference between enjoying God's blessings and becoming enslaved to worldly pleasures.
Social media can become a distraction.
Entertainment can become an addiction.
Relationships can become an idol.
Money can become a master.
Sexual temptation can destroy destiny.
And the desire to be accepted can cause a young person to compromise convictions.
Ask yourself:
What is consuming most of my time?
Because what controls your time will eventually influence your life.
You cannot spend five hours every day feeding your flesh and expect your spirit to remain strong.
You cannot constantly consume content that weakens your values and expect your character to remain strong.
Be careful what you repeatedly watch, listen to, follow, admire and imitate.
3. USE YOUR YOUTH TO BUILD, NOT JUST TO CONSUME
1 Timothy 4:12
«“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers…”»
Paul did not tell Timothy:
«“Because you are young, wait until you become older.”»
He said:
«“Be an example.”»
Young people should not only be consumers.
Build something.
Learn a skill.
Study the Word.
Develop your character.
Serve in church.
Help people.
Create something useful.
Learn technology.
Develop your gifts.
Start preparing for your future.
Don't spend your entire youth watching other people build their dreams.
Remember this:
Entertainment gives you moments. Development gives you capacity.
Your future will demand skills you must begin developing today.
Your character must grow alongside your career.
Your spiritual life must grow alongside your education.
Your wisdom must grow alongside your influence.
4. CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS CAREFULLY
Proverbs 13:20
«“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”»
Not everybody who laughs with you is helping you.
Not everybody who calls you “brother” or “sister” is taking you toward your destiny.
Some relationships are assignments from God.
Others are distractions from your purpose.
Look at the people closest to you.
Do they encourage you to become better—or pressure you to become worse?
Do they respect your faith?
Do they challenge you to grow?
Can you say “no” around them without losing the friendship?
Can you discuss your dreams with them?
Can they correct you?
Your environment matters.
If you constantly surround yourself with people who celebrate foolishness, eventually foolishness will become normal to you.
Choose friends who can pray with you, grow with you, correct you and walk with you toward God's purpose.
5. DON'T WAIT FOR TOMORROW TO OBEY GOD
Ephesians 5:15–16
«“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”»
Notice the phrase:
“Redeeming the time.”
Time is a currency you cannot save forever.
Every day you receive 24 hours.
You can waste them.
You can invest them.
But you cannot reverse them.
There are young people who are praying for opportunities while wasting the opportunities already in their hands.
Some are waiting for a miracle while refusing to develop discipline.
Some are asking God for greatness while neglecting the small responsibilities He has already given them.
Faith does not cancel responsibility.
Pray—but prepare.
Believe—but build.
Trust God—but discipline yourself.
Ask for opportunities—but develop the capacity to handle them.

BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

JOSEPH — A YOUNG MAN WHO DID NOT WASTE HIS SEASON

Joseph was young when his life suddenly changed.
He was betrayed by his brothers.
He was sold into slavery.
He was falsely accused.
He was imprisoned.
Yet Joseph did not allow his circumstances to determine his character.
Genesis 39:9
When tempted by Potiphar's wife, Joseph said:
«“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”»
Joseph understood something powerful:
His future was more valuable than his temporary pleasure.
He could have said:
«“Nobody will know.”»
But Joseph knew that God was watching.
He could have compromised.
He could have become bitter.
He could have wasted his youth in anger.
Instead, he remained faithful.
And eventually, God lifted him from the prison to the palace.

The lesson:

Don't destroy tomorrow because of today's temptation.
That relationship may be temporary.
That pleasure may be temporary.
That opportunity may be temporary.
But the consequences of some decisions can follow you for years.
Young person, protect your future.

DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS

1. Your youth is a seed season.

What you plant now will influence what you harvest later.
Plant prayer.
Plant discipline.
Plant knowledge.
Plant integrity.
Plant service.
Plant righteousness.
2. Your habits are building your future before you see it.
You may not see the harvest today, but your daily decisions are constructing tomorrow.
3. God is more interested in your character than your popularity.
You may impress thousands of people online and still disappoint God privately.
Character is who you are when nobody is watching.
4. Not every open door is a God-given opportunity.
Some doors are traps disguised as opportunities.
Learn to ask:
«“Lord, is this good for me—or merely attractive to me?”»
5. Your greatest battle may not be against people; it may be against distraction.
A distracted generation can have enormous potential and accomplish very little.
Protect your attention.
What captures your attention repeatedly can eventually shape your direction.

PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Starting today:
1. Give God the first part of your day.
Pray. Read Scripture. Listen for God's direction.
2. Set goals for your life.
Spiritual goals, educational goals, financial goals, relational goals and career goals.
3. Learn valuable skills.
Don't depend only on certificates. Develop practical competence.
4. Control your phone; don't let your phone control you.
5. Choose your friends intentionally.
6. Avoid sexual and moral compromises.
7. Find a mature Christian mentor.
8. Serve somewhere.
Don't just attend church—be useful in God's house.
9. Stop comparing your journey with other people's journeys.
10. Start now.
Don't wait until everything is perfect.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

Take a moment and answer these honestly:
- If I continue living exactly as I am today, where will I be five years from now?
- What am I doing with my time?
- What habit is secretly destroying my potential?
- Who are the people influencing my decisions?
- Am I becoming closer to God or farther from Him?
- What gift has God placed inside me?
- What am I doing to develop that gift?
- What temptation am I repeatedly entertaining?
- What should I stop doing?
- What should I start doing?
- If Jesus returned today, would I be satisfied with how I used my youth?

POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

1. Prayer for Purpose
Father, open my eyes to understand Your purpose for my life. Help me not to wander through life without direction.
2. Prayer for Wisdom
Lord, give me wisdom to make decisions that will preserve my future and honor You.
3. Prayer Against Distraction
Every distraction assigned to waste my time, weaken my faith and derail my destiny, I reject it in Jesus' name.
4. Prayer for Discipline
Holy Spirit, give me the discipline to do what is right even when nobody is watching.
5. Prayer for Purity
Lord, keep my heart, mind and body pure. Give me strength to overcome every temptation that seeks to destroy my future.
6. Prayer for Good Relationships
Father, connect me with people who will strengthen my faith, sharpen my character and help me fulfill my purpose.
7. Prayer for Courage
Lord, give me courage to stand for truth even when my generation is going in the opposite direction.
8. Prayer for Impact
Father, let my life become a blessing to my generation. May I not pass through this world without making a positive difference.

STRONG CLOSING: DON'T WASTE YOUR YOUTH

Young person, you are not too young for God to use you.
You are not too young to pray.
You are not too young to preach.
You are not too young to serve.
You are not too young to lead.
You are not too young to build.
You are not too young to make a difference.
David had a sling.
Joseph had a dream.
Samuel had a listening ear.
Timothy had youthful strength.
And God used them.
What is in your hands?
What gift is inside you?
What dream has God placed in your heart?
What are you doing with the years God has given you?
Don't wait until you are old before you become serious with God.
Don't spend your best years chasing things that cannot satisfy your soul.
Don't exchange your destiny for temporary pleasure.
Don't allow social media to consume the years that should be building your future.
Don't let fear paralyze you.
Don't let failure define you.
Don't let your past imprison you.
Rise. Pray. Learn. Build. Serve. Grow.
Your youth is not a waiting room.
Your youth is a training ground for destiny.
And when you stand before God one day, may you be able to say:
«“Lord, I did not waste what You gave me.”»

FINAL CHARGE
Young people, don't waste your youth.
Give God your strength.
Give God your gifts.
Give God your dreams.
Give God your time.
Give God your future.
And watch what He can do with a life that is completely surrendered to Him.
Your youth is passing. Your purpose is waiting. Start today.

If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do you by joining a Bible believing Church.
You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below

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CONTACT - Whatsapp +2349024173027, +2449055447540

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FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST 2026

Topic: The Friend Who Pulls You Closer

Bible Reference

“Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NKJV)

A Short Story

Daniel had always considered himself strong enough to make his own decisions. He believed that no friend could influence him if he did not want to be influenced.

Then he became close to a group of young people who seemed confident, successful, and exciting. At first, there was nothing obviously wrong with the friendship. They talked, joked, helped one another, and spent time together.

But slowly, Daniel began changing.

They started making fun of people who took their faith seriously. Daniel laughed along, even when some of the jokes made him uncomfortable. Soon, he stopped attending some church meetings because his friends had other plans.

His prayer life also became weaker. Whenever he wanted to pray, someone was calling him to hang out. Whenever he wanted to read his Bible, there was another conversation waiting on his phone.

One Sunday morning, Daniel's older cousin asked him a simple question.

“Are your friends helping you become the person you have been praying to become?”

Daniel became silent.

He had never looked at his friendships that way before.

He began to realize that his friends were not necessarily bad people, but their influence was taking him somewhere he did not want to go.

Daniel decided to become more intentional about the people he allowed close to him. He did not hate his old friends. He simply understood that not everyone could have the same level of access to his life.

Over time, he became close to people who encouraged his faith, challenged him to grow, and reminded him of his purpose.

Today's Message

The people around you can influence you more than you realize.

Your friends can affect your language, habits, choices, relationships, spiritual life, and even your understanding of what is normal.

The Bible warns us not to be deceived because bad company can corrupt good character.

This does not mean you should hate people who do not share your faith. Jesus Himself reached people who were far from God. But there is a difference between influencing people and allowing people to influence you away from God.

Be intentional about your closest friendships.

Ask yourself whether the people closest to you are helping you become more disciplined, more godly, more focused, and more purposeful.

A good friend will not always tell you what you want to hear. Sometimes, a good friend will tell you the truth because they care about who you are becoming.

Choose friends who make it easier, not harder, to walk with God.

What To Do Today

1. Examine the influence of your closest friends.

2. Spend more time with people who encourage your spiritual growth.

3. Do not be afraid to create healthy boundaries with negative influences.

4. Be the kind of friend who also helps others become better.

Prayer

Lord, give me wisdom in choosing my friends. Surround me with people who will encourage me to follow You and fulfil my purpose. Help me also to be a godly influence in the lives of others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Daily Challenge

Send a message to one friend who has positively influenced your life and thank them for helping you become a better person.

Anthony Ijere
Christian Author and Revivalist

https://chat.whatsapp.com/BDs9qaNMQumKTicv7uU7SJ?s=cl&p=a&mlu=0&ilr=0

https://t.me/anthonyijere

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

Good morning to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you.

Yesterday was such a beautifully blessed day filled with hilarity, accomplishment, and love. With help from our guests, my storage unit is now empty and all that was left is now properly stored in my shed. My shed, appropriately named: All Things Not Garage, is tidy and does not look like anything that I would own. Now, the little garage which sits right beside the shed of all things not garage, it is a little more cluttered, but still does not look like anything that I would own … it is tidy-ish. My third yard got mowed without issue and I got me a nice hot bath. Played games on the phone with the littles, got cuddles and lots of giggles. However, the biggest event for my day was when we tried a new translation AP so that me and my friend could have a conversation. WE had a conversation … a conversation of giggles and hearty laughter.

As we tried to talk slow, but fast enough and fast, but slow enough for the AP to understand two old ladies … let's just say the translations … well, some were good and correct; others were good for loud laughing. This actually got me in trouble, because my daughter-in-law was trying to put the kids to bed.

In this transaction of trying to talk to each other without one of the kids being there to translate for us, these two old women laughed and bonded in love. Love for fun. Love for family. Love for the Spirit who wants us to understand each other a little better.

Sometimes, as adults, we get too caught up in the adulting part of life that we forget to remember to have fun. We forget that we are allowed to laugh. We are allowed to let go. We are allowed to be free of all the adult rules from time to time and just act like kids. To let our bodies feel the ache of stomach cramps from laughing too hard and too much. We are allowed to live.

This day even ended with hilarity. As I was saying my prayers and giving thanks, my mind was everywhere. Then when I went to recite the Lord’s Prayer, “Our Father who art in heaven, hilarity be thy name….” I kid you not it took three tries before I got the words right. And yes, that caused even more laughing for me.
Today I would like to encourage you to find that inner person who is screaming for laughter. Who is crying to have gut-wrenching aches from too many giggles. Do not allow the enemy to keep you from the beautiful smiles and joyful bliss of laughter. Being an adult is hard enough; do not take away your playtime. Find time today to enjoy the blessings, instigate laughter, and smile because it looks good on you.

Be blessed.

**For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. – Romans 8:20-21

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!

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

MONITORING OUR CHILDREN IN THIS PERIOD OF AI

Main Text:

Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 4:23; 1 Corinthians 15:33; Ephesians 5:15–16
Supporting Scriptures: Deuteronomy 6:6–7; Psalm 101:3; Philippians 4:8;

Church, we are raising children in a generation where the greatest influence in a child's life may no longer be the person sitting beside them—it may be the device in their hand!

A child can sit quietly in the living room while, through a smartphone, they are exposed to conversations, images, ideas, strangers, misinformation, pornography, violence, manipulation, and values that may be completely contrary to what their parents are teaching them.
And now we have Artificial Intelligence—AI.
AI can answer questions, write stories, create pictures, tutor students, translate languages, generate videos and help children learn. It can be an incredible tool.
But every powerful tool must be accompanied by powerful wisdom.
The question is not simply:
«"Does my child use AI?"»
The deeper question is:
«"Who is shaping my child's mind, values, identity and worldview while they use AI?"»
We cannot afford to be parents who know where our children sleep but do not know what is shaping their minds.
1. OUR CHILDREN ARE GOD'S RESPONSIBILITY ENTRUSTED TO US
Proverbs 22:
«"Train up a child in the way he should go..."»
Notice that Scripture does not say, "Buy the child a phone and let the internet train them."
It says, "Train up a child."
Parenting is not merely providing food, clothing, education and accommodation.
Parenting is spiritual stewardship.
God has entrusted children to parents and guardians for a season.
That means we must ask:
- What are they watching?
- What are they listening to?
- Who are they talking to?
- What questions are they asking AI?
- What answers are they receiving?
- What ideas are they beginning to believe?
- What kind of people are influencing them online?

Short Story

Imagine a parent who carefully locks the physical doors of the house every night.
The windows are secured. The gate is locked. The children are safe inside.
But the same parent gives a child an unrestricted smartphone and never checks what is entering through that digital door.
The physical door is locked, but the digital door is wide open.
Church, monitoring our children is not necessarily an expression of distrust.
It is an expression of responsibility.
2. MONITORING IS NOT THE SAME AS SPYING
Some parents say:
"I trust my child."
That is good.
But trust must grow alongside maturity.
A five-year-old cannot be given the same level of independence as a seventeen-year-old.
The Bible says:
Proverbs 4:23
«"Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."»
If we are commanded to guard our hearts, we should also teach our children how to guard theirs.
Monitoring should include:
- knowing which apps they use;
- understanding the AI tools they access;
- discussing what they ask AI;
- setting age-appropriate boundaries;
- checking privacy settings;
- teaching them not to share personal information;
- teaching them that AI can be wrong;
- teaching them to report disturbing content;
- creating an environment where they can tell you what they encounter without fear.
The goal is not merely control. The goal is protection, discipleship and preparation.
3. AI CAN BE A TOOL, BUT IT MUST NEVER BECOME A PARENT
This is one of the deepest dangers of this generation.
A child may begin asking AI questions they are afraid to ask their parents.
"Why am I different?"
"Why don't people like me?"
"What should I do about this relationship?"
"Am I ugly?"
"What should I believe?"
"Why does God allow suffering?"
"Should I tell my parents this?"
AI may produce an answer instantly.
But instant answers are not the same thing as godly wisdom.
A machine can generate information.
A parent provides relationship.
AI can imitate conversation.
It cannot replace covenantal love, godly correction, spiritual discernment and the presence of a parent.
Our children need to know:
«"Before you ask the internet everything, you can come and talk to me."»
If our children are afraid to talk to us, they will find somebody—or something—to talk to.
4. TEACH YOUR CHILDREN THAT AI IS NOT GOD
This generation needs digital discernment.
AI can sound confident and still be wrong.
It can generate convincing information without possessing biblical wisdom.
Therefore, our children must learn:
AI is a tool, not an authority.
The Bible says:
1 Thessalonians 5:21
«"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."»
And:
Philippians 4:8
«"Whatsoever things are true... honest... just... pure... lovely... of good report... think on these things."»
Teach your children to ask:
Is it true?
Is it biblical?
Is it wise?
Is it appropriate?
What fruit will this produce in my life?
This is the difference between merely raising technology users and raising discerning Christians.
5. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THERE IS A CRISIS
Many parents only begin monitoring when something has already gone wrong.
When grades collapse.
When behavior changes.
When secrecy increases.
When the child becomes addicted to a device.
When inappropriate content is discovered.
When a relationship becomes dangerous.
When the child begins withdrawing from family.
Prevention is better than emergency intervention.
Deuteronomy 6:6–7 teaches parents to speak God's Word to their children continually—in everyday life.
That means discipleship should happen before the crisis.
Talk about technology at the dinner table.
Talk about online friendships.
Talk about pornography.
Talk about manipulation.
Talk about AI.
Talk about identity.
Talk about truth.
Talk about faith.
Talk about temptation.
If we make every difficult subject taboo, the internet will become their teacher.
6. MONITOR THEIR SCREEN, BUT ALSO MONITOR THEIR HEART
This is where many parents miss the deeper issue.
You can monitor screen time and still miss what is happening inside the child.
A child may spend only one hour online but be deeply influenced by what they consumed.
Therefore, don't only ask:
"How long were you online?"
Also ask:
"What did you learn today?"
"What did you see that confused you?"
"Did anything online make you afraid?"
"Did anyone say something to you that made you uncomfortable?"
"What do you think about what you saw?"
"What would Jesus say about that?"
These questions open the heart.
7. PARENTS MUST BECOME DIGITALLY LITERATE
Parents, we cannot say:
"I don't understand technology."
Our children are growing up in a technological environment.
We don't need to know everything.
But we must know enough to guide them.
Learn the basics of:
- AI chatbots;
- social media platforms;
- privacy settings;
- parental controls;
- deepfakes and manipulated media;
- online scams;
- inappropriate content;
- AI-generated images and videos;
- cyberbullying;
- digital footprints.
Don't surrender the digital world simply because it is unfamiliar.
If our children are learning the technology, parents must learn enough to disciple them within it.
8. THE GREATEST FILTER IS NOT A PARENTAL CONTROL APP—IT IS
CHARACTER.
Technology can be restricted.
But eventually, children grow up.
They will have their own devices.
They will leave home.
They will make their own decisions.
So our ultimate goal cannot be:
"My child behaves well because I am watching."
Our goal must be:
"My child chooses what is right even when nobody is watching."
That is discipleship.
Psalm 101:3 says:
«"I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes..."»
Teach your children that holiness is not merely about avoiding punishment.
Holiness is choosing what honors God.

DEEP INSIGHT:

THE BATTLE IS FOR THE MIND

Church, understand this:
The battle of this generation is not merely over devices. It is over attention.
Whoever controls a person's attention repeatedly has tremendous influence over that person's thinking.
Repeated thoughts shape beliefs.
Beliefs influence choices.
Choices establish habits.
Habits shape character.
And character influences destiny.
Therefore, when we monitor what our children consume, we are not being unnecessarily strict.
We are participating in the protection of their minds.
Romans 12:2 says:
«"Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind."»
AI is not automatically evil.
Technology is not automatically evil.
But anything powerful without discernment can become destructive.
The Christian response is not fear.
The Christian response is wisdom.

A POWERFUL ILLUSTRATION

Imagine giving a child a car.
The car is not evil.
It can take them to school.
It can take them to church.
It can take them to the hospital.
It can help them serve others.
But would a responsible parent hand a young child the keys and say:
"Go anywhere you want. I trust you."
No.
Why?
Because power requires maturity.
The same principle applies to technology.
Access should increase as maturity increases.
Freedom should be accompanied by responsibility.

REFLECTION

Parents, guardians, and the Church, let us examine ourselves.
Ask yourself:
1. Do I know what my child does online?
2. Do I know which AI tools my child uses?
3. Have I taught my child how to distinguish truth from misinformation?
4. Can my child talk to me about uncomfortable online experiences?
5. Have I created reasonable digital boundaries in my home?
6. Am I monitoring my child's heart, not just their device?
7. Am I modelling responsible technology use myself?
8. Am I teaching my child God's Word strongly enough that they can stand when I am not there?
And perhaps the most important question:
«If the world is discipling my child every day through technology, what am I doing every day to disciple my child through God's Word?»

THE MESSAGE TO PARENTS

Don't be afraid of AI.
Understand it.
Don't worship technology.
Use it wisely.
Don't abandon your children to the internet.
Walk with them.
Don't merely restrict them.
Teach them.
Don't only monitor their screens.
Disciple their hearts.
Don't wait for tomorrow.
Start today.
Because the goal is not to raise children who are technologically backward.
The goal is to raise children who are technologically capable, spiritually grounded, morally discerning and deeply rooted in Christ.

CLOSING CHARGE

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us:
«"Train up a child in the way he should go..."»
Parents, the world is already training our children.
Social media is training them.
Entertainment is training them.
Algorithms are training them.
Friends are training them.
And AI can influence them.
But God has given parents the assignment of training them too.
So let us rise to the responsibility.
Let us monitor with wisdom.
Let us communicate with love.
Let us establish boundaries.
Let us learn technology.
Let us teach discernment.
Let us pray.
And above everything else—
let us point our children to Jesus Christ.
Because technology may shape their environment, but Christ must shape their identity.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Prayer for Wisdom
Father, give us wisdom to raise our children in this rapidly changing technological generation. Help us know when to permit, when to restrict, when to correct and when to guide, in Jesus' name. Amen.
2. Prayer for Protection
Lord, protect our children from harmful content, dangerous relationships, manipulation, exploitation, pornography, cyberbullying and every destructive influence that may come through technology. Amen.
3. Prayer for Discernment
Father, give our children the spirit of discernment. Let them recognize deception and distinguish truth from error. Let them not believe everything they see, hear or receive from AI and the internet. Amen.
4. Prayer for Strong Christian Identity
Lord Jesus, establish our children in You. Let their identity not be determined by social media, artificial intelligence, peer pressure or worldly standards. Let them know that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by You. Amen.

5. Prayer for Parents
Father, strengthen parents and guardians. Give us patience, understanding, courage and wisdom. Help us not to be careless with the souls You have entrusted to us. Amen.
6. Prayer for Communication
Lord, make our homes places where children can speak openly without fear. Remove unhealthy secrecy and build trust between parents and children. Amen.
7. Prayer for Digital Wisdom
Father, teach our children to use technology for learning, creativity, service and the advancement of Your Kingdom rather than for destruction. Amen.
8. Prayer Against Negative Influence
Every influence seeking to pull our children away from Christ, lose your hold, in the name of Jesus. Every voice contrary to God's purpose for their lives, be silenced, in Jesus' name. Amen.
9. Prayer for the Church
Lord, help the Church understand this generation and respond with wisdom. Raise Christian parents, teachers, mentors and leaders who will guide young people according to Your Word. Amen.
10. Prayer of Dedication
Father, we dedicate our children afresh to You. May they grow in wisdom, stature, favor and the knowledge of Jesus Christ. May technology serve them rather than enslave them. May their minds be guarded, their hearts be pure, their purpose be preserved and their lives bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.

FINAL DECLARATION

I declare over every child:
You will not be a victim of this generation.
You will not be controlled by technology.
You will not be deceived by falsehood.
You will not lose your identity.
You will not be destroyed by the influences of this age.
Your mind belongs to Christ.
Your purpose belongs to God.
Your future is in His hands.
You will grow in wisdom.
You will walk in truth.
You will discern good from evil.
You will use technology wisely.
And in this generation of AI, you will still know, love and serve Jesus Christ!

In Jesus' mighty name. Amen!

"As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." — Joshua 24:15

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