🌱 God can use you to rebuild, restore, and leave a lasting legacy. 📲 Share this with someone who is called to restore and rebuild. #Isaiah5812 #Restorer #Rebuild #Restore #RepairTheBreach #GodsPurpose #FaithInAction #LeaveALegacy #ChristianLiving #Lordsbook

Amazing Facts. Daily Devotionals How do you help people who have had negative experiences with the church? August 17th, 2026 In Luke chapter 15, Jesus tells a parable about a missing sheep. In the story, the shepherd searches relentlessly until he finds it. Then he lays it on his shoulders and lovingly carries it back home. The Lord wants us to follow His example and send out search parties to look for the lost sheep among us. These missing sheep are our neighbors, friends, and family who have wandered away from the flock. Here are some specific ways you can help someone who has left the church: First, pray for them. God promises, “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). Prayer is powerful. Invite them back! The biggest issue facing former members is how to reconnect with the church. They could be waiting for the invitation, so you can be the one to help them find a path back. In some cases, a friendly phone call or visit might be all that is needed. Remember to treat missing members the way you would want to be treated. Offer a warm, no-pressure invitation. Be loving and nonjudgmental, and leave room for the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts. We should also “receive one another, just as Christ received us” (Romans 15:7). Be prepared to receive with open arms those who return, as the father received the prodigal son (Luke 15:20). The shepherd in Jesus’ story called his friends and neighbors in for a celebration. He told them, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!” At the end of the parable, Jesus says, “There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance” (Luke 15:7). Shouldn’t we feel the same way? Imagine how a person would feel if the entire church turned out to celebrate their return! Key Bible Texts And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. (Isaiah 58:12 KJV)

Daily Devotional Work for prominent men and women. While he spake ... unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live. And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his disciples. Matthew 9:18, 19 He [Christ] worked for all who would hear His word—not only the publican and the outcasts, but the rich and cultivated Pharisee, the Jewish nobleman, the centurion, and the Roman ruler. This is the kind of work I have ever seen should be done. The higher classes have been strangely neglected. In the higher walks of life will be found many who will respond to the truth because it is consistent, because it bears the stamp of the high character of the gospel. Not a few of the men of ability thus won to the cause will enter energetically into the Lord’s work. Rulers and statesmen, men who occupy positions of trust and authority, thinking men and women of all classes, have their attention fixed upon the events taking place about us. They are watching the strained, restless relations that exist among the nations. They observe the intensity that is taking possession of every earthly element, and they recognize that something great and decisive is about to take place—that the world is on the verge of a stupendous crisis. We are not to forget the ... lawyers, ministers, senators, and judges, many of whom are slaves to intemperate habits. We are to leave no effort untried to show them that their souls are worth saving, that eternal life is worth striving for. The greatest men of the earth are not beyond the power of a wonder-working God.... When converted to Christ, many will become agencies in the hand of God to work for others of their own class.... Only eternity will reveal what has been accomplished by this kind of ministry—how many souls, sick with doubt and tired of worldliness and unrest, have been brought to the great Restorer. [230]

Though I fail You so many times, I will keep running to You Jesus-Christ. You are my Redeemer and Restorer. I am nobody without You.

🕊️🔥 SATURDAY ADMONITION 🔥 Day 206 of 366 (Gregorian 2026) 🔥 Year 5786 on the Jewish Calendar 🗓️ «Theme: The Riches of His Grace Restoration and Recovery 👑✨🕊️» 📖 SCRIPTURE ANCHOR ⚓ «“In whom we have redemption through his blood... according to the riches of his grace.” 📜 Ephesians 1:7 (NKJV)» «“David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away... David recovered all.” 📜 1 Samuel 30:18–19 (NKJV)» 🔥 KINGDOM👩🏻‍🏫 ADMONITION🪖 Hallelujah, beloved Saints and Bazalwane! 🙌🏽 Our God is the God of abundant grace, restoration, and deliverance. Nothing is beyond His power to restore. What has been lost, stolen, delayed, or broken is not beyond His reach. As David sought the Lord, God granted him victory, and he recovered all. Likewise, let us trust the Lord with unwavering faith. His grace is sufficient, His mercy is everlasting, and His power is able to restore according to His perfect will. ⚔️ KINGDOM👑 TRUTH✝️ God's grace restores, His power delivers, and His faithfulness never fails. 🔥 PROPHETIC✍🏾 DECLARATION😇 👑 I walk in the riches of God's grace. 🕊️ The Lord restores according to His perfect will. ⚔️ I trust God for deliverance and victory. ✨ His faithfulness surrounds my life. 🕊️ SATURDAY🔌 CHARGE 🔋 🙏🏽 Walk in faith. 📖 Stand on God's promises. 🔥 Expect His restoring work. 👑 Give Him all the glory. 🙏🏽 PRAYER 🧎🏽‍♂️ Heavenly Father, thank You for the riches of Your grace. Restore our strength, renew our hope, and lead us in Your perfect will. We trust You as our Deliverer and Restorer, knowing that You are faithful in every season. In Jesus' Mighty Name, Amen. 🕊️🔥 🙌🏽 His grace is rich. His mercy endures forever. His restoration brings hope. ❤️ _Blessed Saturday, beloved Saints and Bazalwane. Walk confidently in the grace and faithfulness of the Lord. Shalom._

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS SERMON TOPIC: "...AND DAVID RECOVERED ALL, SO YOU WILL RECOVER ALL." Main Text: 1 Samuel 30:1–20 > "So David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away... David recovered all." (1 Samuel 30:18 WHEN LIFE STEALS WHAT MATTERS MOST There are moments in life when it feels as though everything has been taken away. A job is lost. Marriage brook down. Business collapsed. Health gone. Opportunities disappeared. Dreams seem buried. David knew that feeling. He returned to Ziklag expecting celebration, but instead found smoke, ashes, and devastation. His wives had been taken captive, the city burned, and even his loyal soldiers wanted to stone him. Have you ever felt abandoned, discouraged, or robbed by life? The good news is this: The God who restored David is still restoring His people today. If God did it for David, He can do it for you. KEY BIBLE PASSAGES 1 Samuel 30:1–20 David's family and possessions were taken by the Amalekites, but after seeking God and obeying His direction, he pursued the enemy and recovered everything. Joel 2:25 > "And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten..." God is not only able to restore possessions; He restores wasted years and lost opportunities. Jeremiah 30:17 > "For I will restore health unto thee..." God restores health, strength, peace, and joy. Isaiah 61:7 > "Instead of your shame ye shall have double..." God's restoration often exceeds the original blessing. 1. GOD KNOWS WHAT YOU HAVE LOST David did not pretend everything was fine. He cried. His mighty men cried. Everyone felt the pain. God never ignores your tears. Whether you have lost: Peace Health Finances Relationships Ministry opportunities Spiritual passion God knows exactly where they are. Psalm 56:8 God keeps record of every tear. Lesson Your loss has not escaped God's attention. 2. SEEK GOD BEFORE YOU PURSUE RECOVERY Before David fought, he prayed. > "Shall I pursue?... Shall I overtake? Many people rush into action without seeking God. David first sought God's direction. God answered: > "Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake them, and without fail recover all." Prayer gives divine strategy. Recovery begins on your knees before it appears in your hands. 3. STRENGTHEN YOURSELF IN THE LORD One of the greatest verses in Scripture is: > "But David encouraged himself in the LORD his God." Nobody encouraged David. His closest friends turned against him. Yet he refused to surrender. Sometimes: People may misunderstand you. Friends may disappoint you. Family may not support you. But if God is with you, your future is still secure. Faith speaks louder than fear. 4. RECOVERY REQUIRES PURSUIT David pursued the Amalekites. God promised restoration, but David still had to move. Many blessings remain unrecovered because people stop pursuing. Keep praying. Keep working. Keep believing. Keep obeying. Faith does not sit down. Faith moves forward. 5. GOD'S RESTORATION IS COMPLETE The Bible repeats it several times: > "David recovered all." Not some. Not most. All. God restored: Families Possessions Wealth Joy Victory Honor Our God specializes in complete restoration. He can restore: Broken marriages Ministries Businesses Careers Health Spiritual fire Lost opportunities Nothing is beyond His power. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: JOB Job lost everything: His children His wealth His health His reputation Yet he remained faithful. In Job 42:10, God turned his captivity and gave him twice as much as he had before. Your last chapter is not your final chapter. MODERN-DAY EXAMPLE A Christian entrepreneur lost his entire business during an economic downturn. Debts mounted, and employees left. Instead of abandoning his faith, he committed himself to prayer, sought wise counsel, improved his skills, and remained diligent. Over time, new opportunities emerged. His business was rebuilt stronger than before, enabling him to employ even more people and support gospel work. His recovery was not instant, but God's guidance, perseverance, and faithful effort brought restoration. God often works through both miracles and faithful obedience. PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. Refuse to give up. 2. Spend quality time in prayer and God's Word. 3. Ask God for direction before making major decisions. 4. Forgive those who hurt you. 5. Take practical steps toward rebuilding. 6. Stay connected to godly believers. 7. Thank God in advance for restoration. DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS Every battle is not meant to destroy you; some prepare you for greater testimony. God sometimes allows loss to reposition His children for greater purpose. Delayed restoration is not denied restoration. God's timing is always perfect. What the enemy intended for destruction, God can turn into a testimony. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. What have you lost that you need to bring before God today? 2. Have you been seeking God's direction or relying only on your own strength? 3. Are you willing to pursue the restoration God has promised? 4. Is there fear or bitterness preventing you from moving forward? 5. How can your testimony of restoration encourage someone else? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Father, every good thing I have lost, let Your restoring power locate me in Jesus' name. 2. Lord, restore my joy, peace, health, and spiritual passion. 3. Every blessing stolen by the enemy, I receive divine recovery in Jesus' name. 4. Father, give me wisdom, courage, and direction to pursue Your purpose. 5. Every season of shame and disappointment, let it give way to double honor. 6. Let every delayed promise come to fulfillment according to Your will. 7. May my life become a testimony of Your restoring grace. 8. Father, help me remain faithful while I wait for Your restoration. YOU WILL RECOVER ALL. The story of David reminds us that loss does not have the final word—God does. When David sought the Lord, obeyed His instruction, and pursued with faith, he recovered all. Whatever has been lost through hardship, poor decisions, the actions of others, or circumstances beyond your control, bring it to God. Trust Him, follow His leading, and remain steadfast. His restoration may come in ways you do not expect, but His faithfulness never fails. The same God who restored David is able to restore you. CALL TO ACTION Today, refuse to remain in the ashes of yesterday. Rise in faith. Seek the Lord. Obey His voice. Pursue the purpose He has set before you. Declare with confidence: "The Lord is my Restorer. As David recovered all, by the grace and power of God, I will recover all that is according to His perfect will and purpose. My testimony shall bring glory to His name. Amen." If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do so by joining a Bible believing Church. You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/Amazon shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com Join our Facebook page for more messages below https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ki8FEUdsu/ #UMOHEDEM

One Touch Changes Everything! Scripture: Matthew 9:20–22 (KJV) "But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour." — Matthew 9:22 (KJV) Thought The Day... For twelve long years, this woman suffered. She had exhausted her strength, her resources, and likely her hope. According to Jewish law, her condition made her ceremonially unclean, forcing her to live isolated from normal life. Yet despite the pain, disappointment, and rejection, she refused to give up. When she heard that Jesus was passing by, something awakened within her. She didn't need a public audience. She didn't need a title or recognition. She simply believed that if she could touch the hem of His garment, everything would change. Her miracle began before her hand ever reached Jesus—it began with her faith. "For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole." Faith speaks before the miracle appears. Faith believes before circumstances change. Faith reaches when others retreat. When she touched Jesus, He immediately stopped. The crowd was pressing Him, but her touch was different. It was the touch of expectation. It was the touch of unwavering faith. Jesus looked at her and called her "Daughter." He restored not only her body but also her identity. He replaced twelve years of shame with peace, healing, and acceptance. The same Jesus still responds to faith today. Whatever has drained you emotionally, spiritually, physically, or financially is not beyond His power. Your breakthrough is not determined by how long you've suffered but by the One you're reaching toward. Don't let your pain keep you from pursuing Jesus. Don't let your past convince you that your future cannot change. Reach for Him in prayer. Reach for Him through His Word. Reach for Him in worship. One touch from the Savior can accomplish what years of struggle never could. Today, refuse to quit. Reach for Jesus with confident faith, because one touch from the Master still changes everything. Prayer... Heavenly Father, Thank You for being the God who sees every hidden struggle and hears every silent cry. Just as You stopped for the woman with the issue of blood, I know You have not overlooked me. You know every burden I carry, every wound that has not healed, and every battle I have fought. Lord Jesus, today I reach for You by faith. I believe that You are still the Great Physician, the Deliverer, the Restorer, and the Miracle Worker. Heal every broken place in my life. Restore what has been lost. Strengthen my weary heart and renew my hope. Remove fear, doubt, discouragement, and every obstacle that tries to keep me from trusting You completely. Let my faith rise above my feelings and my circumstances. Help me to believe Your promises even when I cannot yet see the answer. Thank You that my past does not define me and my pain does not have the final word. I receive Your peace, Your healing, Your joy, and Your strength today. I declare that my season of breakthrough has come because You are faithful to Your Word. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen. Declaration... Today I declare that I will reach for Jesus with unwavering faith. I declare that my circumstances will not silence my faith. I declare that healing, restoration, and breakthrough belong to me through Christ. I declare that every delay is giving way to God's perfect timing. I declare that fear has no authority over my life because my faith is in Jesus Christ. I declare that I am seen, loved, restored, and called a child of God. I declare that what has held me back will no longer define my future. I declare that one touch from Jesus is enough to transform my life, my family, my health, my finances, and my purpose. By faith, I receive His wholeness, His peace, and His victory. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.

He Restores My Soul David wrote this from experience: he had been depleted, disoriented, and desperate, and God had found him and brought him back. Restoration is God's speciality. If this quarter finds you soul-weary; if the accumulated weight of pressing forward has left you hollow, come to the Shepherd today. Not in shame, but in trust. He is not impatient with your depletion. He is your Restorer. Let Him bring your soul back to wholeness before you press into the next leg of the race. The Shepherd does not drive tired sheep; He restores them first. PRAYER: Gracious Heavenly Father, Shepherd of my soul, restore what has been depleted in me. Bring me back to wholeness. Then lead me forward in paths that honour Your name, so that my pressing forward brings glory to You. In Jesus' name! Hallelujah! Amen! DECLARATION: I DECLARE that the Lord restores my soul! I am not permanently depleted; I am being restored, and I will press forward on paths of righteousness under the Shepherd's leadership!

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 1 Samuel 29–31 | 1 Corinthians 1📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 1 Samuel 29 God’s Protection Through Closed Doors 1 Samuel 29 demonstrates that God’s protection sometimes comes through circumstances we do not expect. David is still living among the Philistines and finds himself in a difficult situation. As the Philistines prepare for war against Israel, David is expected to join them. The situation places David in an impossible position. If he fights against Israel, he appears to betray his own people. If he refuses, he risks losing the trust and protection of Achish. David’s earlier compromise has created a crisis with no obvious solution. Yet God intervenes in an unexpected way. The Philistine commanders refuse to trust David and insist that he be sent away. What appears to be rejection is actually divine protection. David is removed from a situation that could have damaged his testimony and complicated God’s plan for his future. The chapter highlights God’s providence. David is not delivered through his own cleverness or strategy. God works through the concerns of the Philistine leaders to protect His servant. The very obstacle that seems frustrating becomes the means of God’s provision. This moment reminds us that God’s guidance is not always expressed through open doors. Sometimes His protection is found in opportunities that are denied, plans that are interrupted, or paths that are closed. Theologically, 1 Samuel 29 reveals God’s sovereign ability to direct circumstances for the good of His people. Even when believers make imperfect decisions, God remains able to guide, correct, and protect according to His purposes. This points to Christ, whose life was governed entirely by the Father’s will. Every step of His ministry unfolded according to God’s perfect plan. Through Him, believers can trust that God is actively directing their lives, even when circumstances seem confusing. For believers today, 1 Samuel 29 reminds us that not every closed door is a disappointment. Sometimes God’s greatest protection comes through preventing us from moving forward in a direction that would ultimately harm us. In Christ, we can trust that God’s guidance is wise, His timing is perfect, and His providence is working even when we cannot immediately see the reason behind it. 1 Samuel 30 Strengthening Yourself in the Lord 1 Samuel 30 records one of the lowest and most significant moments in David’s life. After being dismissed by the Philistines, David and his men return home to find devastation. Their city has been attacked, their families have been taken captive, and everything they value appears lost. The grief is overwhelming. David’s men weep until they have no strength left. Their sorrow soon turns to anger, and they begin speaking of stoning David. In a single moment, David loses his home, his possessions, his family, and the support of those closest to him. Yet the chapter contains a powerful turning point. Rather than giving in to despair, David strengthens himself in the Lord. He does not ignore the pain or pretend the situation is easy. Instead, he turns to God in the middle of the crisis. This becomes one of the clearest demonstrations of David’s faith. After seeking the Lord, David receives direction and moves forward with confidence. The same man who was surrounded by despair now leads with faith because his strength comes from God rather than circumstances. As David obeys, the Lord grants complete victory. Everything that had been taken is recovered. The chapter also reveals David’s growing maturity as a leader. Following the victory, he deals generously with both those who fought and those who remained behind. Rather than creating division, he promotes unity and gratitude. He understands that the victory belongs to the Lord and should be shared among all. Theologically, 1 Samuel 30 reveals that God is a restorer. Even in moments of devastating loss, He remains faithful. The chapter teaches that spiritual strength is not found in circumstances but in God’s presence. True leadership flows from dependence on the Lord. This chapter points to Christ, who restores what sin has stolen and brings hope where there appears to be none. He is the greater Deliverer who rescues, restores, and strengthens His people in their darkest moments. For believers today, 1 Samuel 30 reminds us that when everything around us seems to collapse, God remains our source of strength. There will be seasons when encouragement from others is limited, but we can always strengthen ourselves in the Lord. In Christ, we find hope, direction, and restoration, even when circumstances seem impossible. 1 Samuel 31 The End of Saul’s Reign and the Consequences of Rebellion 1 Samuel 31 brings the book to a solemn conclusion. The battle that has been building throughout Saul’s reign finally reaches its climax. The Philistines engage Israel in war, and the results are devastating. Saul’s sons are killed, and the nation suffers a significant defeat. As the battle intensifies, Saul finds himself wounded and facing capture. Rather than being taken by the enemy, he chooses to end his own life. His armor-bearer follows the same path, and the chapter closes with the death of Israel’s first king. The scene is tragic, not merely because a king has died, but because of what his life represents. Saul began with promise, opportunity, and God’s blessing. Yet over time, pride, fear, and disobedience shaped the course of his life. The chapter serves as the final outcome of years of rejecting God’s direction. The Philistines celebrate their victory, displaying Saul’s body as a symbol of triumph. Yet even in this dark moment, there are faithful people who risk their lives to honor Saul and his sons with a proper burial. Their actions demonstrate courage and respect despite the sorrow surrounding them. The chapter ends without celebration or victory. Instead, it leaves the reader reflecting on the consequences of a life that continually resisted God’s will. Saul’s downfall was not caused by a single failure but by a pattern of refusing to submit fully to the Lord. Theologically, 1 Samuel 31 reveals the seriousness of disobedience and the tragic consequences of rejecting God’s authority. It demonstrates that outward position and opportunity cannot substitute for a heart that remains surrendered to God. This chapter points to Christ by contrast. Where Saul failed as king, Jesus succeeds perfectly. Saul’s reign ends in defeat, but Christ’s reign is marked by righteousness, victory, and eternal life. He is the King Israel truly needed and the King all humanity needs. For believers today, 1 Samuel 31 serves as a warning and an encouragement. It warns against the danger of allowing pride, fear, and self-will to shape our lives. At the same time, it points us to the hope found in Christ, the perfect King who never fails. In Him, we find the grace, leadership, and faithfulness that Saul could never provide, and we are called to follow Him with wholehearted obedience. 1 Corinthians — The Christ at the Center of a Healthy Church The book of 1 Corinthians addresses a church that was rich in spiritual gifts but struggling with spiritual maturity. Written to believers living in a culture filled with immorality, pride, and human wisdom, this letter repeatedly calls them back to the Christ, the Son of God, as the center of everything. The redemptive plan is not only about salvation from sin but about transformation in daily life, relationships, worship, and service. Throughout the letter, the focus remains on the Christ. Paul addresses divisions, immorality, lawsuits, marriage, liberty, worship, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection, but each issue is ultimately brought back to the same foundation—the lordship of the Christ. The Son of God is presented as the answer to every problem facing the church. A major theme is spiritual maturity. The believers had received much from God, yet many were still thinking and acting according to worldly patterns. Christian living requires growth. The redemptive plan calls believers not only to receive grace but to be transformed by it. Another key theme is unity. The church is described as one body with many members, all connected through the Christ. Differences in gifting and function are meant to strengthen the body, not divide it. The Son of God unites His people around Himself, not around personalities, preferences, or positions. The book also places great emphasis on love. Spiritual gifts, knowledge, and service all find their proper expression when rooted in love. This reflects the character of the Christ and demonstrates the practical outworking of Christian living. The letter reaches its climax with the resurrection. The Christ has risen, and because He lives, believers have hope. The resurrection is not an optional doctrine—it is central to the redemptive plan and the foundation of Christian faith. 1 Corinthians reveals that the Christ is not only the Savior who redeems but the Lord who transforms. Every area of life is to be brought under His authority. For believers today, this book calls us to keep the Christ at the center. Christian living is not about human wisdom, personal preference, or religious performance. It is about growing in maturity, walking in love, living in unity, and remaining anchored in the truth of the Son of God. As we do, we reflect the reality of His redemptive plan in both our individual lives and within the Church. 1 Corinthians 1 — Christ Above Human Wisdom and Division 1 Corinthians chapter 1 opens with gratitude for what God has done among His people, while immediately addressing a serious problem that threatens the health of the church. Though the believers have been richly blessed through the Christ, the Son of God, divisions have begun to emerge. Instead of finding their identity in the Christ, many have begun aligning themselves with human leaders and personal preferences. The chapter reveals that spiritual problems often begin when attention shifts away from the Christ and onto people. The redemptive plan was never intended to elevate human personalities. The Son of God alone is the foundation of faith. When believers focus on individuals rather than the Christ, unity is weakened and spiritual growth is hindered. Paul calls the church back to its true center. The message of the cross becomes the defining focus of the chapter. To many, the cross appears weak, foolish, or unimpressive. Human wisdom seeks power, status, and achievement, but God’s plan operates differently. The Christ accomplishes salvation not through human strength but through sacrificial love and obedience. This creates a contrast between human wisdom and divine wisdom. The world evaluates success according to its own standards, but the redemptive plan overturns those expectations. God often chooses what appears weak, insignificant, or unlikely in order to display His power and glory. This ensures that all honor belongs to the Christ and not to man. The chapter also reminds believers of their own calling. Many were not considered powerful, influential, or impressive by worldly standards. Yet the Son of God chose them and transformed them. This demonstrates that salvation is entirely a work of grace. Christian living begins with humility, recognizing that everything we have comes from the Christ. The focus repeatedly returns to the cross. It is through the Christ that believers receive righteousness, holiness, and redemption. The redemptive plan is not built on human achievement but on what the Son of God has already accomplished. This truth removes pride and produces gratitude. The chapter concludes by emphasizing that any boasting must be directed toward the Lord alone. The Christ is the source of life, salvation, wisdom, and hope. Everything points back to Him. For believers today, this chapter calls us to keep the Christ at the center of our faith. Christian living requires humility, unity, and a rejection of worldly measures of success. We are reminded that the power of God is revealed through the message of the cross and that our identity is found in the Son of God alone. As we remain focused on Him, we experience the unity, wisdom, and strength that come through His redemptive plan. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

A Nugget of Truth. 12 Steps to Revival, That Will Open Your Eyes in These Last Days. In a world drifting further from God's truth, the Lord is calling His people back to genuine revival. Throughout Scripture, Elijah and John the Baptist stood as powerful messengers raised up to prepare hearts for God's work. Their lives reveal a pattern of faithfulness, courage, humility, and unwavering devotion that God desires to see again before Christ's return. The Bible teaches that the same spirit and power that rested upon Elijah and John will be manifested among God's people in the last days. Their messages were not merely for their generation—they are a prophetic blueprint for end-time revival. As you study these 12 characteristics, prayerfully consider how God may be calling you to participate in this final movement of spiritual awakening, reformation, and preparation for the soon coming of Jesus Christ. "And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias... to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." — Luke 1:17 1. Bold and Fearless Preaching—Even Before Leaders Elijah—Elijah told Ahab, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Baalim” (1 Kings 18:18). • John—“John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother’s wife” (Mark 6:18). Both John the Baptist and Elijah were fearless in preaching a straight message before rulers and governments. Jesus said this would happen again in the last days. “Ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them” (Mark 13:9). " 2. Simple Diet and Lifestyle • Elijah—“Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread in thine hand” (1 Kings 17:11). • John—“He did eat locusts and wild honey” (Mark 1:6). Both Elijah and John were known for their simple diets and wilderness living. These basic rigors kept their mental faculties clear and their bodies strong, that they might be prepared for the special work God called them to do. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Likewise, the church in the last days must be revived to the truth that there is a strong connection between the body and the spirit. What we eat and drink, as well as our personal living habits, has a direct effect on our mental clarity and ability to discern truth. 3. Modest Dress, Simple Clothing • Elijah—“He was an hairy man [with a garment of hair], and girt with a girdle [belt] of leather about his loins [waist]” (2 Kings 1:8). • John—“And John was clothed with camel’s hair, and with a girdle of a skin [leather belt] about his loins [waist]” (Mark 1:6). In a time when kings and priests loved to wear ornaments and long, flowing robes, Elijah and John’s modesty and simplicity were a stinging rebuke. We live in an age where there has never been more arrogant attention given to flamboyance and fashion. The main goal of modern clothing designers is to highlight a person’s sexuality. Sadly, everything from body piercing to tattoos is being indulged even among professed Christians. Once again, the church desperately needs last-day Elijahs to witness for Christ by their example of humility and simplicity through modest clothing and appearance. 4. Discipling Others • Elijah—“So he departed thence, and found Elisha … and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him” (1 Kings 19:19). • John—“And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things” (Luke 7:18). The Scriptures record that Elijah not only discipled Elisha, but he also visited the schools of the prophets (also translated “the disciples of the prophets”), which were scattered all through the land of Israel (2 Kings 2). These training centers combined spiritual instruction with practical work skills, and the young men trained there went throughout Israel to teach others the ways of God. John, likewise, reproduced his faith by teaching the disciples who followed him. Both John and Elijah spent most of their time training not the priests and Levites, but rather the common people. Similarly, the last great movement of God will not be led by clergy alone, but also by Spirit-filled laypersons. This is why the Elijah message must give attention to training, discipling, and mobilizing every member of God’s church. 5. Preaching Baptism of Repentance and Death to Self. • Elijah—“And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the Lord hath sent me to Jordan” (2 Kings 2:6). • John—“Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins” (Matthew 3:5, 6). One identifying mark of the Elijah message is that it calls people to the Jordan River—a symbol of repentance and baptism. The children of Israel had to cross the Jordan to enter the Promised Land, just as we enter the waters of baptism and cross over to a new life. The great commission of Jesus to the church will have its finest hour in the future, when once again modern Elijahs will baptize converts to Christ in explosive, Pentecostal-like numbers. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19)." 6. Manifested Humility. • Elijah—“And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he cast himself down upon the earth, and put his face between his knees” (1 Kings 18:42). • John—“He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear” (Matthew 3:11). Before Jesus comes again, the people of God will have learned to reflect the meek and humble character of Jesus in an age of arrogance and pride. “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8)." 7. Endure Religious Persecution. • Elijah—“Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them [who had been killed] by to morrow about this time” (1 Kings 19:2). • John—“And she went forth, and said unto her mother [Herodias], What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist” (Mark 6:24). In the Old Testament, a pagan queen named Jezebel married Ahab, the king of Israel. Jezebel and her daughter, Athaliah, persecuted God’s people and tried to entice Ahab to kill Elijah and the other prophets. In the New Testament, Herodias, the pagan wife of king Herod, and her daughter Salome succeeded in enticing Herod to kill John the Baptist. The persecution experienced by Elijah and John will soon be repeated. In the last days, Revelation tells us the “Mother of harlots” and her daughters will persecute God’s remnant people, the last-day Elijahs. “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ” (Revelation 12:17). “And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus” (Revelation 17:5, 6)." 8. Running Before the King. • Elijah—“And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel” (1 Kings 18:46). • John—“As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight” (Luke 3:4). When a monarch traveled in Bible times, servants often ran ahead to prepare the path for the approaching king. They cleared the road of rocks and obstacles, filled in potholes, cut down high spots, and straightened the crooked turns. In the same way, those preaching the Elijah message in the last days will help prepare people for the coming of our King Jesus. They will proclaim a message that makes the way of salvation clear, plain, and easy to understand. “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6)." 9. Supreme Interest in Glorifying God • Elijah—“Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the Lord God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again” (1 Kings 18:37). • John—“He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). Those preaching the Elijah message will make glorifying God their top priority. They will be wholly consecrated to God’s cause, just as were John and Elijah. They will be willing to make any sacrifice that others might be saved—in other words, to spend and be spent in the work of God. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1)." 10. Repairing God’s Altar. • Elijah—“And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down” (1 Kings 18:30). • John—“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:1, 2). The Elijah message will be a trumpet call to return to “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 1:3). Today, when so many are telling us that the teachings of the Bible are old-fashioned and need to be revised to better fit the times, we desperately need to be reminded that God said, “For I am the Lord, I change not” (Malachi 3:6). “And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in” (Isaiah 58:12)." 11. Messages Spark Reformation. • Elijah—“Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel. … And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow him” (1 Kings 18:19–21). • John—“John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. And there went out unto him all the land of Judea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins” (Mark 1:4, 5). In the days of Elijah and John the Baptist, God’s people had been corrupted by the pagan influences around them and had compromised God’s truth (1 Kings 19:14; Matthew 3:1, 2). These two brave prophets delivered a message that sparked revival and reform among God’s people. Today, once again, it seems that much of Christianity is lukewarm and worldly. If judgment is going to begin at God’s house (Ezekiel 9:6; 1 Peter 4:17), then certainly the revival must start there too! Since God’s plan is for His people to reach the entire world, He must first send the Elijah message to reach the church." 12. Point People to Christ. • Elijah—“Elijah the prophet came near, and said, Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God” (1 Kings 18:36). • John—“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). The burning desire of modern Elijahs will be to turn people to Jesus, that they might know Him and have everlasting life.