Sunday 24 August 2026 Portland Metro Church Assembly of God Church Services Notes: God gave them over to their desires By Pastor Jon H. (Bible verses King James version) Romans 1:24-32- Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 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. 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: 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. 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; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 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. Romans 1:24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 1. The problem of the free will. 2. God abandoned them… 3. Three stages of God's abandonment to spiritual and moral impurity. 4. When people trade truth for a lie. Romans 1:25 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. 5. God's plan for sexual relationships. Romans 1:26,27 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. 6. The homosexual sins and desires Romans 1:28-32- 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. Leviticus 18:22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. 7. How do we know that sin deserves punishment? Romans 1:32 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.

Admit it. You like reading the Psalms, the Gospels, Paul's epistles and maybe Esther and Ruth. But what about the least read Bible books -- I call them Orphan Books -- because they almost are never read. Here's a list I found. Hope you take the challenge to read an "orphan" or two this week. ------------------------------------ # Book Why read it? Difficulty 1 Obadiah A miniature study of pride, injustice, and God's judgment 🟢 Easy 2 Haggai A surprisingly relevant book about misplaced priorities 🟢 Easy 3 Philemon Paul, slavery, forgiveness, and Christian brotherhood in 25 verses 🟢 Easy 4 3 John A fascinating glimpse into early church politics and leadership 🟢 Easy 5 2 John Truth, love, hospitality—and boundaries 🟢 Easy 6 Nahum The dark counterpart to Jonah: what happens to Nineveh? 🟡 Medium 7 Zephaniah Judgment followed by one of the OT's beautiful pictures of God's joy 🟡 Medium 8 Jude Strange, intense, apocalyptic, and packed with unusual references 🟡 Medium 9 Habakkuk One of the Bible's best books for wrestling honestly with God 🟢 Easy 10 Lamentations Biblical poetry about grief, catastrophe, and hope 🟡 Medium 11 Joel Locusts, the Day of the LORD, and the famous promise about God's Spirit 🟡 Medium 12 Malachi A surprisingly sharp ending to the Old Testament 🟢 Easy 🏆 The ones I'd especially recommend If you only want to read five, I'd pick: Habakkuk — perhaps the most rewarding “orphan.” The entire book is essentially a conversation between a confused believer and God. Habakkuk starts by asking, “Why aren't you doing something about this?” and ends somewhere radically different. Haggai — extremely short but surprisingly practical. Its central question is basically: What happens when God's people become preoccupied with their own houses while neglecting God's house? Philemon — don't let its size fool you. It's an extraordinarily compressed little letter about power, status, forgiveness, reconciliation, and what the gospel does to human relationships. Nahum — read it immediately after Jonah if you can. Jonah tells you that Nineveh repented; Nahum, written later, tells you what eventually happened to Nineveh. Reading them together makes both books considerably more interesting. Lamentations — probably the most emotionally neglected book on the list. It gives you something the Bible is unusually good at: language for grief when everything has gone terribly wrong. 🕯️ And here's the really fun challenge Don't read these as if they're merely the Bible's “B-list.” Try reading one orphan book a week, with no commentary at first. Just read the entire thing in one sitting. You'll discover something interesting: some of the books that feel least important at first are actually the ones that illuminate the famous books around them. Jonah → Nahum Isaiah/Jeremiah → Lamentations Romans/Galatians → Habakkuk 1 John → 2 John → 3 John Ezra/Nehemiah → Haggai

THE POWER OF UNITY Together We Are Stronger ANCHOR SCRIPTURE Psalm 133:1 (KJV) “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” 1. UNITY BRINGS STRENGTH Unity produces peace, strength and progress. Where there is unity, there is strength. 2. UNITY DOESN'T MEAN UNIFORMITY We may have different opinions and gifts, but we can still have one heart and one purpose. You don't have to agree on everything to walk together. 3. AVOID DIVISION Pride, gossip, jealousy and unforgiveness destroy relationships. Proverbs 16:28 (KJV) “A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.” Don't be the source of division. 4. UNITY ATTRACTS BLESSING Psalm 133:3 (KJV) “...for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” Where God's people walk in unity, God commands blessing. 5. BE A BUILDER OF UNITY 1. Forgive. 2. Love. 3. Communicate honestly. 4. Pray for others. 5. Promote peace. KEY LESSON 1. Unity brings strength. 2. Division brings weakness. 3. Forgiveness protects relationships. 4. Love overcomes differences. 5. Unity creates room for blessing. FINAL CHARGE Be a bridge, not a wall. Be a peacemaker, not a troublemaker. Build unity. Protect relationships. Walk together in love. SHORT PRAYER Father, give me a heart that values unity and peace. Remove pride, jealousy, bitterness and unforgiveness from me. Help me to love, forgive and respect others. Make me a builder of unity wherever I go. In Jesus' name, Amen. Prepared by Rev Frank Fabian Aidoo +233544295158

A Life That Reveals God Has a Greater Impact Than Lips That Merely Speak About Him! The Christian life is not merely about speaking about God; it is also about revealing through our lives that God lives within us. It is not only important how beautifully we speak about the name of God. What truly matters is whether people can see God through our conduct, words, decisions, relationships, forgiveness, integrity, and love. Jesus said: > “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) Notice this the purpose of our good works is not for people to glorify us, but for them to glorify our Heavenly Father. Our lives must become a living testimony. If we speak about love, that love must be revealed in the way we forgive even those who hurt us. If we speak about faith, it must be revealed by trusting God even when circumstances are against us. If we speak about holiness, it must be revealed by living a holy life even when no one is watching. If we speak about God's grace, it must be revealed by showing grace even to those who have wronged us. Our lives should never contradict the message our lips proclaim. Joseph did not spend his time in Egypt merely preaching about God. Yet through his integrity, purity, wisdom, and fear of God, those around him recognized that the hand of God was upon his life. Daniel was the same. He did not simply say that he trusted God; even under pressure, he refused to compromise his prayer life. His life became the evidence of his faith. The world often sees our lives before it listens to our preaching. Therefore, every day we must ask ourselves: When someone looks at my life, do they see me or do they see Christ living within me? Glorifying God is not something we do only during Sunday worship. It must happen at home, at work, in our relationships, in solitude, in trials, and in times of success everywhere and at all times. More powerful than what you say is the way you live; your life is the strongest testimony of your faith. Let us proclaim God with our words and glorify Him through our lives. Hepsi Sam ✍️

DBF-001-031 continues with John 2:10. The master of the feast recognizes that something unusual has happened: the best wine has been kept until now. We should keep the focus on Christ’s provision and avoid turning the verse into a promise of material abundance. DAILY BREAD FELLOWSHIP DBF-001-031 Today’s Scripture John 2:10 (ESV) “And said to him, ‘Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.’” Opening the Scriptures The master of the feast had tasted the wine, but he did not know where it had come from. He called the bridegroom and expressed his surprise. Normally, the better wine was served first. Yet at this wedding, the master believed that the best had been kept until later. What he did not know was that the bridegroom had not provided this wine. Jesus had. The master could recognize the quality of the gift, but he did not recognize its source. The servants knew. Behind what appeared to be an unexpected provision stood the power and authority of Jesus Christ. John is steadily directing our attention away from the wedding itself and toward Jesus. Living God’s Word Today There is a danger in receiving God’s gifts while forgetting the Giver. Every day we receive things we can easily take for granted. Food. Shelter. Family. Friendship. Strength for another day. Opportunities to serve. Most importantly, for those who belong to Christ, forgiveness of sin and eternal life. Scripture reminds us: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” — James 1:17 Yet we must also be careful about what this miracle does not teach. Jesus turning water into wine does not promise Christians wealth, comfort, success, or an easy life. The apostles themselves would later suffer greatly for following Christ. The greatest gift at Cana was not the wine. The greatest gift was Christ Himself. That remains true today. God may give us much or little in this world. Our circumstances may change. Health can fail. Possessions can disappear. Human relationships can disappoint us. But the Christian’s greatest treasure cannot be measured by earthly prosperity. We have Christ. In Him we have something infinitely greater than temporary comfort: reconciliation with God, forgiveness of sin, and the certain hope of eternal life. The master of the feast enjoyed the gift without knowing its source. Let us not make the same mistake. Recognize God’s goodness. Give thanks for His daily provision. But never become so occupied with God’s gifts that you forget the God who gives them. Treasure Christ above everything He gives. Question for Today Do you value God’s gifts more than you value God Himself? Respond: “Christ is my greatest treasure.”

MONDAY MORNING PRAYER “THAT SETTLES IT!” Scripture: Isaiah 55:1–11 (KJV) Key Scripture: “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please...” — Isaiah 55:11 (KJV) Heavenly Father, in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, we come before You on this Monday morning giving You glory, honor, and praise! Thank You, Lord, for waking us up to see another day and allowing us to enter another week. Before we look at our schedules, our responsibilities, our problems, or our circumstances, we look to You. You are still God. You are still faithful. Your promises are still true, and Your Word still stands! Your Word declares: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.” — Isaiah 55:8 Father, when we don't understand what You are doing, help us to trust what You have said. When Your way doesn't look like our way, remind us that Your wisdom is higher than ours. When we cannot trace Your hand, give us faith to trust Your heart. If You said it, THAT SETTLES IT! When fear says, “It won't work,” Your Word says: “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper.” — Isaiah 54:17 THAT SETTLES IT! When worry says, “How are you going to make it?” Your Word says: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19 THAT SETTLES IT! When sickness, weakness, and pain try to discourage us, Your Word says: “For I am the LORD that healeth thee.” — Exodus 15:26 THAT SETTLES IT! When the enemy tries to remind us of our past, Your Word says: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1 THAT SETTLES IT! When circumstances tell us there is no way, Jesus declares: “With God all things are possible.” — Matthew 19:26 THAT SETTLES IT! Father, Isaiah 55:10–11 reminds us that just as the rain and snow come down from heaven and accomplish their purpose, Your Word will accomplish what You sent it to do. Your Word will not return void! So this Monday morning, we choose to stop arguing with what You have already spoken. We will not allow fear to have the final word. We will not allow people to have the final word. We will not allow circumstances to have the final word. We will not allow the doctor's report, the bank account, the workplace, the opposition, or yesterday's failures to have the final word. GOD, YOU HAVE THE FINAL WORD! Go before us this week, Lord. Order our steps. Guard our families. Cover our homes. Protect our children and grandchildren. Strengthen marriages. Restore relationships. Open doors that no man can shut. Provide for every need. Give wisdom for every decision. Bring peace into troubled minds and strength to weary hearts. Where there is confusion, speak peace. Where there is sickness, release healing. Where there is lack, release provision. Where there is discouragement, restore hope. Where there are closed doors, direct us to the doors You have ordained. And where the enemy has spoken lies, give us the courage to answer him with THE WORD OF GOD! For You declared: “For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace...” — Isaiah 55:12 (KJV) Therefore, we will enter this week with JOY! We will walk through this week with PEACE! We will face this week with FAITH! We don't have to know every detail because You already know the outcome. We don't have to understand everything because Your ways are higher than our ways. We don't have to fear tomorrow because Your Word has already gone before us. And according to Isaiah 55:11, what You have spoken shall accomplish Your purpose! So we put a period where the enemy keeps trying to put a question mark. GOD SAID IT. WE BELIEVE IT. HIS WORD WILL ACCOMPLISH IT. AND THAT SETTLES IT! In the mighty, powerful, undefeated name of Jesus Christ, we pray. AMEN, AMEN, AND AMEN! DECLARATION... I DECLARE that I will begin this week standing firmly on the Word of God! I will not be controlled by what I see, what I hear, or how I feel. God's Word is my final authority! His thoughts are higher than my thoughts. His ways are higher than my ways. His promises will not fail. His Word will not return void. What God has promised, He is able to perform! I declare that I will walk in faith instead of fear, peace instead of anxiety, confidence instead of doubt, and victory instead of defeat. GOD SAID IT! I BELIEVE IT! HIS WORD WILL ACCOMPLISH IT! THAT SETTLES IT! In Jesus' Name — AMEN!

🕊️ DOMINION DAILY DEVOTION ~ DAY 236 DATE: 24TH AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: RELY ON GOD _4 ANCHOR SCRIPTURE:Daniel 1:8 (NKJV) “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank...” Devotional message: Yesterday, we saw that one of the ways we demonstrate our reliance upon God is through prayer. When we pray, we acknowledge that we need God and cannot successfully navigate life by our own strength. Today, we look at another evidence of genuine dependence upon God: choosing purity and holiness even when compromise appears attractive.Our reliance upon God is not demonstrated only by what we say in prayer; it is also demonstrated by the decisions we make when nobody is watching and when compromise appears to offer us an advantage. Joseph is a powerful example.When Potiphar's wife repeatedly attempted to entice him into sexual immorality, Joseph refused. His response revealed where his confidence was anchored:Genesis 39:9 (NKJV)“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” Joseph understood that compromising his purity would not merely be an offence against Potiphar or his wife—it would ultimately be sin against God.He valued his relationship with God more than the temporary pleasure being offered to him. Daniel demonstrated the same conviction. Although he had been taken into Babylonian captivity and was surrounded by a culture that did not honour his God, he purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the king's provisions.Daniel could have reasoned that circumstances had changed and therefore his standards could change too. Instead, he remained faithful. Then we see Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When commanded to bow before Nebuchadnezzar's golden image, they refused—even when the consequence was being thrown into a fiery furnace.Their response demonstrated remarkable confidence in God:Daniel 3:17–18 (NKJV)“Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace... But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods...” Child of God, one of the clearest ways you demonstrate that you trust God is by refusing to compromise your convictions when obedience becomes costly.There will be moments when an opportunity may appear attractive because it offers money, promotion, influence, relationships, pleasure, acceptance, or recognition. But you must ask yourself:“Is this worth compromising my relationship with God?” Remember, God does not need sin to bless you. You do not have to compromise your values to enter your destiny.Therefore, do not trade what is eternal for what is temporary.Do not exchange your relationship with God for an offer that will eventually disappear.Do not sell your convictions for temporary comfort.Stand firm. Remain pure. Walk in holiness. Trust God. When you refuse to compromise because you believe God is able to sustain you, you are demonstrating genuine reliance upon Him. PRAYER Heavenly Father,Give me the strength to stand firm. Help me to value my relationship with You above every temporary pleasure, opportunity, possession, or recognition.In Jesus' name, Amen. DAILY BIBLE READING Gen 39:1–23,Dan 1:1–21;3:1–30,1 Peter 1:13–16,Hebrews 12:14 Author : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi Contact : Email : Dominionvoicesminisrty@gmail.com Facebook : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi 🌐 Dominion Daily Devotion, 2026 © Dominion Voices Ministry

*TODAY'S PROPHETIC DECLARATION - MONDAY, 24TH AUGUST, 2026.* 🌟*FAITH THAT REACHES OUT TO JESUS*🌟 📖 Scripture: “For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.” — Mark 5:28–29 (KJV). 🔥*Reflection – One Touch Can Change Everything.* In Mark 5, we meet a woman who had suffered for twelve years. She had endured a painful and exhausting situation, but she refused to allow her circumstances to destroy her hope. When she heard about Jesus, she said within herself, “If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.” She moved toward Jesus in faith, reached out, touched His garment, and immediately experienced a change. Her story teaches us that faith takes action. She did not merely hear about Jesus; she moved toward Him. She did not allow the crowd, her past, or the length of her struggle to stop her. Today, you may have been waiting for an answer for a long time. You may have prayed repeatedly and wondered when your situation would change. Do not give up. Keep reaching out to Jesus. Your breakthrough may come in a way you did not expect, but your confidence must remain in Christ. 🔊*Prophetic Declaration:* Today, I declare that my faith is alive and active. I will not allow the length of my struggle to destroy my expectation. I will continue to reach out to Jesus Christ. I declare that every situation that has resisted human solutions is surrendered into the hands of the Almighty God. The Lord shall intervene according to His perfect will and timing. Today, I receive fresh faith to believe God again. Where disappointment has weakened my expectation, may the Lord renew my confidence. Where delay has made me tired, may He strengthen my heart. I declare divine intervention over my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny. May the Lord touch every area that needs His transforming power. I proclaim that no crowd, obstacle, discouragement, or past experience shall prevent me from pursuing Jesus. I will keep praying. I will keep believing. I will keep trusting. I will keep moving forward. I declare that every legitimate expectation according to God's will shall receive divine attention. The Lord shall make a way where He has ordained a way, and He shall give me grace to trust Him where I must wait. Today, I reject hopelessness. I reject the belief that nothing can change. I reject the voice that tells me to give up. I declare that my faith shall overcome fear, my hope shall overcome discouragement, and my trust in God shall overcome uncertainty. I proclaim restoration over every area of my life that has experienced loss, weakness, stagnation, or disappointment. May God restore my joy, renew my strength, and establish me according to His purpose. I declare that my testimony shall encourage others. What God does in my life shall become evidence that faith in Christ is never misplaced. Today, I reach out to Jesus with confidence. I will not give up. I will not turn back. I will keep believing. I will keep trusting. I will keep reaching for Jesus. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen! 🙏🔥✝️ ✅*Action Steps for today:* 1️⃣ Begin with faith: Thank Jesus because He is still able to intervene in every situation. 2️⃣ Read Mark 5:25–34: Meditate on the faith and determination of the woman who reached out to Jesus. 3️⃣ Declare: “By faith, I reach out to Jesus. My hope is in Him, and I will not give up.” 4️⃣ Bring one long-standing concern to God: Pray about it again—not from desperation, but from renewed faith. 5️⃣ Take a faith-filled step: Do something constructive today toward a God-honoring goal you have been postponing. 6️⃣ Encourage someone: Remind someone who has been waiting for a breakthrough that they should continue trusting God. 7️⃣ End with thanksgiving: Thank God for what He has already done and trust Him for what is still to come. 🔥*Prayer:* Heavenly Father, I thank You for the example of the woman who reached out to Jesus in faith. Lord Jesus, today I reach out to You with every need, burden, desire, and expectation in my heart. Give me faith that refuses to give up. Where I have been discouraged, renew my hope. Where I have experienced disappointment, restore my confidence. Where I have waited for a long time, give me patience and strength. Touch every area of my life that needs Your intervention. Touch my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and future. Lord, I surrender my timeline to You. Help me to trust Your wisdom and Your perfect timing. Give me courage to keep moving toward You even when the journey is difficult. Let my faith become stronger through every challenge. May my life become a testimony of Your faithfulness, and may my testimony encourage others to trust You. Jesus, I reach out to You today. Let Your grace be sufficient for me and let Your perfect will be accomplished in my life. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen. 🙏 🌿*Blessing for today:* May the Lord strengthen your faith today. May He give you courage to keep reaching toward Him even when circumstances appear difficult. May divine intervention come into every area of your life that needs God's touch. May the Lord renew your hope, restore your joy, strengthen your family, establish your work, bless your ministry, and guide your steps. May every season of waiting produce deeper faith and greater dependence on God. May your faith produce a testimony that will encourage many others to seek Jesus. 🔥 Your faith shall not fail. 🙏 Your hope shall remain alive. 🕊️ Christ shall sustain you. ✨ Your testimony shall come according to God's perfect will. 🌟 “IF I MAY TOUCH BUT HIS CLOTHES, I SHALL BE WHOLE.” — MARK 5:28 Keep reaching out to Jesus. Keep believing. Keep trusting. Your story is still in God's hands. Good morning beloved and do have a blessed, faith-filled, peaceful, and testimony-producing day🙏🔥🕊️ Shalom! *Remember: Your confession is your possession* *©️ Postulant C. O. Oyadosu.* _Please share with others, thank you and God bless you 🙏_ For counseling, prayers and partnership or you want to share your testimonies with us; please call or Whatsapp: +2348063128703 Or Email: clementoyadosu[gmail].com

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 21–22 | Galatians 6 📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 21 The Depth of Sin and the Patience of God 2 Kings 21 records one of the darkest chapters in Judah's history through the reign of King Manasseh. Unlike his father Hezekiah, who led the nation in spiritual reform, Manasseh reverses nearly every godly change that had been made. He rebuilds the high places, promotes idol worship, practices occult activities, and even places pagan altars within the temple itself. Judah sinks into spiritual corruption unlike anything seen before. The tragedy of Manasseh's reign is not simply that he sins personally, but that he leads an entire nation into greater rebellion. Leadership always carries influence. The king's decisions shape the spiritual direction of the people, and under Manasseh the nation becomes more corrupt than the pagan nations God had originally driven out of the land. Despite such widespread wickedness, God continues speaking through His prophets. He warns Judah repeatedly, calling the people to repentance before judgment comes. Yet the nation refuses to listen. God's patience is extraordinary, but His warnings are not ignored forever. The Lord announces that judgment upon Jerusalem has become inevitable because of persistent and deliberate rebellion. After Manasseh's death, his son Amon continues the same sinful pattern. Rather than learning from the consequences of his father's rebellion, he deepens the nation's decline. His reign is brief, ending through violence, further illustrating the instability that sin produces. Although this chapter emphasizes judgment, it also quietly reveals God's faithfulness. The covenant with David remains intact. Even in the midst of overwhelming darkness, God's redemptive plan continues moving toward the coming Messiah. Human sin cannot overturn divine promises. Theologically, 2 Kings 21 reveals both the seriousness of sin and the remarkable patience of God. Persistent rebellion hardens the heart and eventually brings judgment, yet God's repeated warnings demonstrate His desire that people would repent rather than perish. This chapter points to Christ, who came to bear the judgment that humanity deserved. Where Manasseh filled the land with sin, Jesus came to cleanse sinners through His sacrificial death. The darkness of human rebellion only magnifies the greatness of God's redeeming grace revealed in Christ. For believers today, 2 Kings 21 reminds us never to underestimate the influence of our choices. Sin tolerated today often becomes greater compromise tomorrow. Yet it also reminds us that God's patience is an invitation to repentance. In Christ, forgiveness is available for every repentant heart, and His grace is greater than even the darkest chapters of our lives. 2 Kings 22 Rediscovering God's Word 2 Kings 22 introduces the reign of Josiah, one of Judah's most faithful kings. Coming to the throne as a young boy after generations of spiritual decline, Josiah demonstrates that age does not limit God's ability to use someone who seeks Him wholeheartedly. From the beginning of his reign, he desires to honor the Lord and restore proper worship. As repairs begin on the temple, an extraordinary discovery is made. The Book of the Law is found after having been neglected for many years. The fact that God's Word had been lost within God's own house reveals how far the nation had drifted. Religious activity had continued, but the authority of Scripture had been forgotten. When the book is read to Josiah, his response is immediate and profound. Rather than defending himself or ignoring what he hears, he humbles himself before the Lord. He tears his clothes in grief, recognizing that the nation has failed to obey God's covenant. His heart is broken not merely because judgment has been announced, but because God's people have wandered so far from His truth. Josiah seeks the Lord through the prophetess Huldah, who confirms that God's judgment upon Judah will indeed come because of generations of rebellion. Yet because Josiah humbled himself and responded with genuine repentance, God promises that the coming judgment will not occur during his lifetime. The king experiences God's mercy because he responds to God's Word with humility rather than resistance. The chapter demonstrates that true revival always begins with the rediscovery of God's Word. Spiritual renewal is not produced by emotion or tradition alone but by humble submission to the truth God has revealed. Theologically, 2 Kings 22 teaches that God's Word possesses the power to expose sin, awaken repentance, and lead people back to faithful obedience. It also reveals that God honors humble hearts. While His justice remains certain, His mercy is extended to those who genuinely repent. This chapter points directly to Christ, the living Word of God. Just as the rediscovered Book of the Law brought conviction and renewal, Jesus brings truth, exposes sin, and offers forgiveness to all who come to Him in repentance and faith. He fulfills the Law completely and invites believers into a restored relationship with the Father. For believers today, 2 Kings 22 reminds us that spiritual renewal always begins with God's Word. It is possible to maintain religious routines while neglecting the authority of Scripture. In Christ, we are called to approach God's Word with humility, allowing it to shape our hearts, expose areas needing repentance, and lead us into deeper obedience. When God's people return to His truth, genuine revival begins. Galatians 6 — Living Out the Freedom of the Christ Galatians chapter 6 concludes Paul's letter by showing what life looks like when believers truly understand the gospel of grace. After teaching that salvation is by faith and that believers are called to walk by the Spirit, Paul now demonstrates how these truths are lived out in daily relationships and faithful service. The redemptive plan of the Christ, the Son of God, produces a life marked by humility, compassion, perseverance, and a continual focus on the cross. The chapter begins by instructing believers to restore those who have fallen into sin with gentleness and humility. The goal is never condemnation but restoration. This reflects the heart of the Christ, who came to seek and restore the broken. Christian living requires believers to care for one another while remaining aware of their own need for God's grace. The Son of God calls His people to be instruments of healing rather than harsh judgment. Paul then encourages believers to bear one another's burdens. This command reflects the love of the Christ, who carried the greatest burden of all through His sacrifice on the cross. The redemptive plan creates a community where believers support, encourage, and strengthen one another through life's difficulties. Christian living is never isolated or self-centered but is lived within the fellowship of God's family. At the same time, Paul reminds believers that each person is responsible for faithfully carrying the responsibilities God has entrusted to them. These two truths complement one another. Believers are called both to help others with overwhelming burdens and to faithfully fulfill their own daily responsibilities before the Lord. The Son of God calls His followers to lives of personal faithfulness combined with compassionate service. The chapter introduces the principle of sowing and reaping. Every decision and every action produces consequences. Those who continually invest in sinful desires reap spiritual destruction, while those who continually invest in the things of the Spirit reap eternal blessings. This is not a teaching of salvation by works but a reminder that Christian living produces visible fruit. The redemptive plan transforms believers so that their lives increasingly reflect the character of the Christ. Paul encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good. Faithful obedience often requires perseverance because the harvest is not always immediate. The Son of God calls His people to continue serving faithfully, trusting that God will bring fruit in His perfect timing. Christian living requires patience, endurance, and confidence that every act of obedience matters within God's eternal purposes. Another important emphasis is doing good to everyone, especially to fellow believers. The love of the Christ is never limited to words alone but expresses itself through practical acts of kindness, generosity, and service. The redemptive plan changes the priorities of God's people, leading them to seek opportunities to bless others as they have first been blessed by the Son of God. As Paul concludes the letter, he once again contrasts those who boast in religious performance with those who boast only in the cross of the Christ. The false teachers sought recognition through outward religious achievements, but Paul points entirely to the cross. Everything necessary for salvation has been accomplished through the Son of God. Christian living begins and ends with gratitude for His finished work rather than confidence in personal accomplishment. The chapter closes by declaring that what truly matters is the new creation brought about through the Christ. Outward religious distinctions cannot produce spiritual life. Only the redemptive plan accomplished by the Son of God can transform the human heart. Those who belong to Him have become new creations, and their lives now reflect His grace rather than their own efforts. Throughout Galatians chapter 6, the Christ remains the center of the believer's life. His cross provides salvation, His Spirit produces transformation, and His grace empowers faithful service. The redemptive plan creates a people who love one another, persevere in doing good, and live for His glory alone. For believers today, this chapter reminds us that true Christian living is the practical outworking of the gospel. We are called to restore the fallen with gentleness, carry one another's burdens, faithfully fulfill our own responsibilities, and never grow weary in serving the Lord. Our confidence rests entirely in the cross of the Christ, not in ourselves. As we walk by the Spirit and continue sowing lives of faithfulness, love, and obedience, we demonstrate the transforming power of the Son of God and participate in His eternal redemptive plan. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

MONDAY 24TH AUGUST 2026 IGNITE YOUTH DEVOTIONAL Topic: Think Before You Decide Bible Reference “The simple believes every word, but the prudent considers well his steps.” Proverbs 14:15 (NKJV) A Short Story Daniel was excited when he received a message from an old friend one Monday morning. The friend told him about a business opportunity that could make him a lot of money within a short time. He sent pictures of cars, expensive clothes, and screenshots of people who had supposedly made huge profits from the business. Daniel was immediately interested. “You should join now,” his friend told him. “If you delay, you will miss the opportunity.” Daniel did not have much money, but he was tired of struggling. He had watched other young people make progress while he was still trying to find his feet. He began imagining what he would do with the money if the business worked. He could buy a better phone, support his family, and finally stop asking people for help. That evening, Daniel was ready to transfer his savings. He had already made up his mind when his older brother asked him a simple question. “Have you checked how the business works?” Daniel became quiet. He had not checked anything. He had only listened to his friend and looked at the pictures he had been shown. His brother advised him to slow down and investigate before putting his money into it. Daniel reluctantly agreed. The next day, he searched for information about the company and discovered several complaints from people who had lost money through the same scheme. He also discovered that the pictures his friend had shown him were being used to attract new people. Daniel was disappointed, but he was grateful that he had not acted quickly. That experience taught him a lesson he never forgot. Not every opportunity is from God, and not everything that looks good is good for you. Sometimes wisdom is simply knowing when to stop, ask questions, pray, and think before making a decision. Today's Message Every young person will make important decisions. You will make decisions about your education, career, business, friendships, relationships, marriage, money, ministry, and the kind of person you want to become. Some decisions may look small at first, but they can affect many years of your life. The Bible says that a wise person considers his steps. This means you should not allow excitement, pressure, fear, or the desire to impress people to make your decisions for you. You do not have to say yes simply because everyone around you is saying yes. Some people have entered wrong relationships because they were afraid of being alone. Some have chosen the wrong career because they wanted to impress their friends. Some have lost money because they wanted quick success. Others have made serious mistakes because they acted before asking questions. Faith does not mean refusing to think. God expects you to pray, seek wisdom, examine your options, and make responsible decisions. You can trust God and still do your homework. Before you make an important decision, slow down. Ask yourself what the Bible says about it. Pray about it. Seek advice from mature and trustworthy people. Look at the possible consequences. Do not allow temporary excitement to make a permanent decision for you. A wise decision today can save you from years of regret tomorrow. What To Do Today 1. Think about one important decision you are currently considering and refuse to rush into it. 2. Pray about it and ask God for wisdom and clear direction. 3. Seek advice from someone mature and trustworthy. 4. Consider the possible consequences before you make your final decision. Prayer Lord, give me wisdom to make good decisions. Help me not to be controlled by pressure, fear, excitement, or the desire to please people. Teach me to think carefully, listen to wise counsel, follow Your Word, and choose what will honour You. In Jesus' name, Amen. Daily Challenge Before making any important decision today, stop for a few minutes and ask yourself three questions: Is it right? Is it wise? What could be the result? ©️ Anthony Ijere Christian Author and Revivalist Download Christian Novels by Anthony Ijere at: https://t.me/anthonyijere