• DAY 24 - Morning
    Theme: BUILDING A SAFE HOME: Creating a Marriage Where Love Respect and Peace Can Grow

    Reflection
    Money Should Not Become the Master

    Good morning,
    Money can provide opportunities, but money can also become a source of serious tension in marriage.
    One spouse may be a saver.
    The other may be a spender.
    One may believe in supporting extended family generously.
    The other may be thinking about school fees, rent, investments and the future.
    These differences need conversation—not secrecy.
    A marriage becomes stronger when couples can sit together and honestly discuss:
    What do we have?
    What do we owe?
    What do we need?
    What are we saving for?
    How can we help family without damaging our own household?
    Money should serve the marriage.
    It should not rule it.

    God's Word
    "The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty." — Proverbs 21:5

    Today's Love Action
    Have a calm conversation with your spouse about one financial goal you want to pursue together.

    Let's Talk
    What financial habit would strengthen our marriage most?

    Prayer
    Father, give us wisdom, discipline and unity in managing the resources You have entrusted to us. Amen.

    From The Counselor's Chair
    Financial disagreements are often not only about money. They can involve security, expectations, family obligations and different experiences from childhood. Listen for the concern underneath the disagreement.

    Marriage Nugget
    "Don't let money become the third voice controlling your marriage."

    Remember
    In marriage, it is not about winning the argument; it is about winning each other's hearts.
    DAY 24 - Morning Theme: BUILDING A SAFE HOME: Creating a Marriage Where Love Respect and Peace Can Grow 🌅 Reflection Money Should Not Become the Master Good morning, Money can provide opportunities, but money can also become a source of serious tension in marriage. One spouse may be a saver. The other may be a spender. One may believe in supporting extended family generously. The other may be thinking about school fees, rent, investments and the future. These differences need conversation—not secrecy. A marriage becomes stronger when couples can sit together and honestly discuss: What do we have? What do we owe? What do we need? What are we saving for? How can we help family without damaging our own household? Money should serve the marriage. It should not rule it. 📖 God's Word "The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty." — Proverbs 21:5 ❤️ Today's Love Action Have a calm conversation with your spouse about one financial goal you want to pursue together. 💬 Let's Talk What financial habit would strengthen our marriage most? 🙏 Prayer Father, give us wisdom, discipline and unity in managing the resources You have entrusted to us. Amen. 🌿 From The Counselor's Chair Financial disagreements are often not only about money. They can involve security, expectations, family obligations and different experiences from childhood. Listen for the concern underneath the disagreement. 💎 Marriage Nugget "Don't let money become the third voice controlling your marriage." Remember In marriage, it is not about winning the argument; it is about winning each other's hearts.
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 16 Ansichten
  • SPEAKING HIS MIND......

    A Wake-Up Call to Every Believer

    By Apostle Jeremiah Nyamvura

    Scripture Reading: Revelation 3:14-22

    "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." — Revelation 3:22

    DEVOTION: WHEN GOD SPEAKS, THE CHURCH MUST LISTEN

    There are moments in history when God does not only want to comfort His people; He wants to correct, awaken, and redirect them. We are living in days where many voices are competing for the attention of believers — the voice of culture, the voice of human wisdom, the voice of materialism, and the voice of personal desires. Yet above all these voices, there is still a voice that must be heard: the voice of God.

    God is speaking His mind in these days.

    He is calling His people back to prayer.
    He is calling His people back to holiness.
    He is calling His people back to truth.
    He is calling His people back to a genuine relationship with Him.

    The greatest danger facing believers today is not only persecution from outside the church, but spiritual blindness within the church. A person can be surrounded by spiritual activities and still lose sensitivity to the voice of God.

    Jesus warned the church of Laodicea that they had become lukewarm. They thought they were rich, successful, and in need of nothing, but spiritually they were poor, blind, and naked. This is a powerful warning for our generation: we must never measure spiritual health by outward appearance, popularity, wealth, or human approval.

    God is looking for hearts that are surrendered.

    A CALL TO WAKE UP

    Romans 13:11 says:

    "It is time to wake up from your sleep, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed."

    This is a divine alarm ringing over the body of Christ. Many believers have become comfortable when they should be watchful. Many have become distracted when they should be focused. Many have become silent when they should be declaring the truth of God.

    The enemy does not always destroy faith through open attacks; sometimes he destroys faith through gradual compromise. Little by little, prayer becomes less important. The Word of God becomes less valued. Sin becomes acceptable. The fear of God becomes forgotten.

    But today, God is calling His people to arise.

    GOD IS RESTORING TRUE WORSHIP

    The days we are living in require believers who do not only speak about God but walk with God.

    God is not impressed by religious performance without obedience. He is not looking for crowds without commitment. He is not looking for people who only seek His blessings but refuse His correction.

    True worship begins when our hearts are completely surrendered to Him.

    Jesus said in John 4:23:

    "The true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth."

    The world needs believers who carry the presence of God. Families need believers who demonstrate Christ-like character. Communities need believers who are examples of righteousness and love.

    DO NOT LOSE YOUR SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT

    In Matthew 24:24, Jesus warned that deception would increase in the last days. This means every believer must grow in spiritual maturity and discernment.

    Not everything that looks spiritual is from God.
    Not every voice that mentions God represents God.
    Not every opportunity is a divine opportunity.

    We must return to the Word of God, because the Word gives us direction, correction, and protection.

    A MESSAGE TO THE CHURCH TODAY

    Beloved believer, this is the hour to examine your heart.

    Ask yourself:

    - Am I still passionate about the things of God?
    - Has my love for Christ grown stronger or weaker?
    - Am I seeking God or only seeking what God can give me?
    - Am I living as a light in a dark world?

    God is not calling us to fear the days ahead; He is calling us to prepare for them.

    A prepared believer will not be shaken by confusion.
    A praying believer will not be overcome by fear.
    A believer rooted in Christ will stand when everything else is changing.

    PRAYER

    Father, open our spiritual ears so that we may hear Your voice clearly. Remove every distraction that has taken our attention away from You. Restore our hunger for Your Word, our passion for prayer, and our desire for holiness.

    Help us to be faithful witnesses in these last days. Let our lives reflect Christ wherever we go. Wake up Your church and prepare us for the coming of Your Kingdom.

    In Jesus Christ's name, Amen.

    "The greatest need of this generation is not more noise; it is a people who can hear the voice of God."

    — Apostle Jeremiah Nyamvura- Voice in the Wilderness @ Pointing you to Jesus Christ.
    +263 772 808 580
    SPEAKING HIS MIND...... A Wake-Up Call to Every Believer By Apostle Jeremiah Nyamvura Scripture Reading: Revelation 3:14-22 "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." — Revelation 3:22 DEVOTION: WHEN GOD SPEAKS, THE CHURCH MUST LISTEN There are moments in history when God does not only want to comfort His people; He wants to correct, awaken, and redirect them. We are living in days where many voices are competing for the attention of believers — the voice of culture, the voice of human wisdom, the voice of materialism, and the voice of personal desires. Yet above all these voices, there is still a voice that must be heard: the voice of God. God is speaking His mind in these days. He is calling His people back to prayer. He is calling His people back to holiness. He is calling His people back to truth. He is calling His people back to a genuine relationship with Him. The greatest danger facing believers today is not only persecution from outside the church, but spiritual blindness within the church. A person can be surrounded by spiritual activities and still lose sensitivity to the voice of God. Jesus warned the church of Laodicea that they had become lukewarm. They thought they were rich, successful, and in need of nothing, but spiritually they were poor, blind, and naked. This is a powerful warning for our generation: we must never measure spiritual health by outward appearance, popularity, wealth, or human approval. God is looking for hearts that are surrendered. A CALL TO WAKE UP Romans 13:11 says: "It is time to wake up from your sleep, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed." This is a divine alarm ringing over the body of Christ. Many believers have become comfortable when they should be watchful. Many have become distracted when they should be focused. Many have become silent when they should be declaring the truth of God. The enemy does not always destroy faith through open attacks; sometimes he destroys faith through gradual compromise. Little by little, prayer becomes less important. The Word of God becomes less valued. Sin becomes acceptable. The fear of God becomes forgotten. But today, God is calling His people to arise. GOD IS RESTORING TRUE WORSHIP The days we are living in require believers who do not only speak about God but walk with God. God is not impressed by religious performance without obedience. He is not looking for crowds without commitment. He is not looking for people who only seek His blessings but refuse His correction. True worship begins when our hearts are completely surrendered to Him. Jesus said in John 4:23: "The true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth." The world needs believers who carry the presence of God. Families need believers who demonstrate Christ-like character. Communities need believers who are examples of righteousness and love. DO NOT LOSE YOUR SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT In Matthew 24:24, Jesus warned that deception would increase in the last days. This means every believer must grow in spiritual maturity and discernment. Not everything that looks spiritual is from God. Not every voice that mentions God represents God. Not every opportunity is a divine opportunity. We must return to the Word of God, because the Word gives us direction, correction, and protection. A MESSAGE TO THE CHURCH TODAY Beloved believer, this is the hour to examine your heart. Ask yourself: - Am I still passionate about the things of God? - Has my love for Christ grown stronger or weaker? - Am I seeking God or only seeking what God can give me? - Am I living as a light in a dark world? God is not calling us to fear the days ahead; He is calling us to prepare for them. A prepared believer will not be shaken by confusion. A praying believer will not be overcome by fear. A believer rooted in Christ will stand when everything else is changing. PRAYER Father, open our spiritual ears so that we may hear Your voice clearly. Remove every distraction that has taken our attention away from You. Restore our hunger for Your Word, our passion for prayer, and our desire for holiness. Help us to be faithful witnesses in these last days. Let our lives reflect Christ wherever we go. Wake up Your church and prepare us for the coming of Your Kingdom. In Jesus Christ's name, Amen. "The greatest need of this generation is not more noise; it is a people who can hear the voice of God." — Apostle Jeremiah Nyamvura- Voice in the Wilderness @ Pointing you to Jesus Christ. +263 772 808 580
    Like
    1
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 9 Ansichten
  • THE CALVARY MINISTRY – ONLINE

    THE CROSS OF CALVARY 🏽

    MONDAY, 24TH AUGUST, 2026

    TEXT: JOHN 18:1–40

    KEY VERSE:

    «“Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world.” — John 18:36 (KJV)»

    JESUS — THE KING WHO STOOD FIRM

    John 18 takes us into the final hours before the Cross.

    Jesus enters the garden knowing exactly what awaits Him. He knows betrayal is coming. He knows arrest is coming. He knows suffering is coming. He knows Calvary is before Him.

    Yet Jesus does not run.

    He does not hide.

    He does not surrender His mission.

    He willingly stands firm because He came to accomplish the Father's will.

    THREE TRUTHS FROM JOHN 18

    JESUS WAS NOT A VICTIM—HE WILLINGLY GAVE HIMSELF.

    When the soldiers came to arrest Jesus, He asked them whom they sought.

    When they answered, Jesus said:

    «“I am he.” — John 18:5»

    They went backward and fell to the ground.

    This moment reminds us that Jesus was not powerless.

    He could have escaped.

    He could have called for heavenly help.

    But He chose to remain.

    Why?

    Because He was committed to the Cross.

    His arrest was part of God's redemptive plan.

    Calvary was not an accident.

    Jesus willingly laid down His life for us.

    JESUS' KINGDOM IS GREATER THAN THIS WORLD.

    Pilate questioned Jesus about His kingship.

    Jesus answered:

    «“My kingdom is not of this world.” — John 18:36»

    The kingdoms of this world are temporary.

    Positions change.

    Money disappears.

    Human power fades.

    Fame does not last forever.

    But the Kingdom of Christ is eternal.

    Therefore, do not build your entire life around things that cannot last.

    Build your life around Christ.

    Seek His Kingdom.

    Obey His Word.

    Live for eternal things.

    Jesus is King—not only over heaven, but Lord over our hearts.

    WE MUST STAND FOR TRUTH.

    Jesus said:

    «“Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.” — John 18:37»

    Pilate responded:

    «“What is truth?” — John 18:38»

    The world continues to ask that question.

    But for the believer, truth is not merely an idea.

    Truth is found in Christ and revealed through God's Word.

    In a world filled with compromise, confusion and changing opinions, followers of Jesus must remain anchored in truth.

    Do not compromise your faith because of pressure.

    Do not deny Christ to gain acceptance.

    Do not exchange holiness for popularity.

    Stand for Jesus, even when standing is costly.

    TODAY'S REFLECTION

    Jesus knew the Cross was ahead, yet He remained faithful.

    What about you?

    Will you remain faithful when obedience becomes difficult?

    Will you stand for Christ when people disagree with you?

    Will you choose holiness when temptation is strong?

    Will you choose truth when compromise seems easier?

    Jesus stood firm for you.

    He endured rejection for you.

    He accepted suffering for you.

    He walked toward Calvary for you.

    Therefore, stand firm for Him.

    Your faith may be tested.

    Your obedience may cost you something.

    People may misunderstand you.

    But remember:

    You are serving an eternal King.

    Do not allow temporary pressure to make you abandon eternal truth.

    🏽 PRAYER

    Heavenly Father,

    Thank You for Jesus Christ, our King and Saviour.

    Thank You that He willingly stood firm and went toward the Cross for our salvation.

    Lord Jesus, give me the grace to remain faithful when my faith is tested.

    Help me not to compromise Your truth for acceptance, popularity, comfort or worldly gain.

    Give me courage to stand for righteousness.

    When I am afraid, strengthen me.

    When I am pressured, remind me of Your example.

    When temptation comes, help me remember the price You paid for me.

    Let my life demonstrate that Jesus Christ is truly Lord and King over my life.

    May I seek Your Kingdom above everything else and remain faithful until the end.

    In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. 🏽

    CALVARY BLESSING

    May the King of kings strengthen you today.

    May you remain firm when your faith is tested.

    May God's truth guide your decisions.

    May you never exchange eternal treasures for temporary pleasures.

    May courage rise within you to stand for Christ.

    And may your life continually declare:

    Jesus is my King.
    Jesus is my Lord.
    Jesus is my Truth.
    Jesus is my Saviour.

    STAND FIRM. THE KING IS COMING!

    THE CROSS STILL SPEAKS!

    By: BR. Emmanuel Dankwah 🏽
    THE CALVARY MINISTRY – ONLINE ✝️ THE CROSS OF CALVARY 🙏🏽 📅 MONDAY, 24TH AUGUST, 2026 📜 TEXT: JOHN 18:1–40 📜 🔑📖 KEY VERSE: «“Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world.” — John 18:36 (KJV)» 👑✝️ JESUS — THE KING WHO STOOD FIRM John 18 takes us into the final hours before the Cross. Jesus enters the garden knowing exactly what awaits Him. He knows betrayal is coming. He knows arrest is coming. He knows suffering is coming. He knows Calvary is before Him. Yet Jesus does not run. He does not hide. He does not surrender His mission. He willingly stands firm because He came to accomplish the Father's will. ✝️❤️‍🔥 🔥 THREE TRUTHS FROM JOHN 18 1️⃣ JESUS WAS NOT A VICTIM—HE WILLINGLY GAVE HIMSELF. ✝️ When the soldiers came to arrest Jesus, He asked them whom they sought. When they answered, Jesus said: «“I am he.” — John 18:5» They went backward and fell to the ground. This moment reminds us that Jesus was not powerless. He could have escaped. He could have called for heavenly help. But He chose to remain. Why? Because He was committed to the Cross. His arrest was part of God's redemptive plan. Calvary was not an accident. Jesus willingly laid down His life for us. ❤️‍🔥 2️⃣ JESUS' KINGDOM IS GREATER THAN THIS WORLD. 👑 Pilate questioned Jesus about His kingship. Jesus answered: «“My kingdom is not of this world.” — John 18:36» The kingdoms of this world are temporary. Positions change. Money disappears. Human power fades. Fame does not last forever. But the Kingdom of Christ is eternal. Therefore, do not build your entire life around things that cannot last. Build your life around Christ. Seek His Kingdom. Obey His Word. Live for eternal things. Jesus is King—not only over heaven, but Lord over our hearts. 👑✝️ 3️⃣ WE MUST STAND FOR TRUTH. 📖🔥 Jesus said: «“Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.” — John 18:37» Pilate responded: «“What is truth?” — John 18:38» The world continues to ask that question. But for the believer, truth is not merely an idea. Truth is found in Christ and revealed through God's Word. In a world filled with compromise, confusion and changing opinions, followers of Jesus must remain anchored in truth. Do not compromise your faith because of pressure. Do not deny Christ to gain acceptance. Do not exchange holiness for popularity. Stand for Jesus, even when standing is costly. 🔥 🌿 TODAY'S REFLECTION Jesus knew the Cross was ahead, yet He remained faithful. What about you? Will you remain faithful when obedience becomes difficult? Will you stand for Christ when people disagree with you? Will you choose holiness when temptation is strong? Will you choose truth when compromise seems easier? Jesus stood firm for you. He endured rejection for you. He accepted suffering for you. He walked toward Calvary for you. Therefore, stand firm for Him. Your faith may be tested. Your obedience may cost you something. People may misunderstand you. But remember: You are serving an eternal King. 👑 Do not allow temporary pressure to make you abandon eternal truth. 🙏🏽 PRAYER Heavenly Father, Thank You for Jesus Christ, our King and Saviour. Thank You that He willingly stood firm and went toward the Cross for our salvation. Lord Jesus, give me the grace to remain faithful when my faith is tested. Help me not to compromise Your truth for acceptance, popularity, comfort or worldly gain. Give me courage to stand for righteousness. When I am afraid, strengthen me. When I am pressured, remind me of Your example. When temptation comes, help me remember the price You paid for me. Let my life demonstrate that Jesus Christ is truly Lord and King over my life. May I seek Your Kingdom above everything else and remain faithful until the end. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. 🙏🏽✝️ 🌹 CALVARY BLESSING May the King of kings strengthen you today. May you remain firm when your faith is tested. May God's truth guide your decisions. May you never exchange eternal treasures for temporary pleasures. May courage rise within you to stand for Christ. And may your life continually declare: Jesus is my King. Jesus is my Lord. Jesus is my Truth. Jesus is my Saviour. 👑✝️ STAND FIRM. THE KING IS COMING! 🔥 THE CROSS STILL SPEAKS! 🔥 By: BR. Emmanuel Dankwah 🙏🏽
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 15 Ansichten
  • *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:*
    Begin with faith: Thank Jesus because He is still able to intervene in every situation.

    Read Mark 5:25–34: Meditate on the faith and determination of the woman who reached out to Jesus.

    Declare: “By faith, I reach out to Jesus. My hope is in Him, and I will not give up.”

    Bring one long-standing concern to God: Pray about it again—not from desperation, but from renewed faith.

    Take a faith-filled step: Do something constructive today toward a God-honoring goal you have been postponing.

    Encourage someone: Remind someone who has been waiting for a breakthrough that they should continue trusting God.

    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: clementoyadosuAnderson Mwila.com
    *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
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 22 Ansichten
  • **JESUS IS CALLING TODAY**

    Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?

    This question from Jesus, in Luke 6:46, needs to touch your heart deeply. We live in a time when much is said about the love of Jesus, about blessing, healing, and prosperity, but little is said about repentance, obedience, and holiness.

    It is true that Jesus is love, for those who also love him (Proverbs 8:17), but the same Jesus who said come to me also declared that if you want to follow him, you must deny yourself and take up your cross daily. Following Christ has a cost: dying to sin and living for Jesus. He himself said that whoever loves him keeps his commandments.

    I ask you, you who say you are a Christian: are you truly following Jesus, or just using his name?

    The Word of God does not call sin a weakness; it calls it sin, and it confronts the attitude of those who claim to be Christian yet live out, day to day, practices such as lying, greed, envy, pride, hatred, adultery, sexual immorality, idolatry, theft, addictions, corruption, slander, and hypocrisy. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 6, lists several of these practices. But right after, he reminds us that some of the believers in Corinth had once lived this way, and were washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of Jesus.

    Jesus says to you: repent and turn away from sin.

    Jesus told the parable of the rich man who built bigger barns, thinking he had many years ahead, and God said to him: Fool, this very night your soul will be required of you; then who will own what you have prepared?

    You may have a house, a car, a job, a good salary, plans but what does it profit you to gain the whole world and lose your soul?

    If you are in Jesus Christ, you are a new creation, and the evil one cannot touch you or your household.

    The book of Acts 3:19 says: Repent and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out.

    Jesus does not look only for those who call him Lord, but for those who follow him and do what he commands, being doers of the word and not hearers only. Your life is short, eternity is real. Do not treat grace as a license to sin, and do not put it off until tomorrow.

    If today you hear his voice, do not harden your heart.
    **JESUS IS CALLING TODAY** Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say? This question from Jesus, in Luke 6:46, needs to touch your heart deeply. We live in a time when much is said about the love of Jesus, about blessing, healing, and prosperity, but little is said about repentance, obedience, and holiness. It is true that Jesus is love, for those who also love him (Proverbs 8:17), but the same Jesus who said come to me also declared that if you want to follow him, you must deny yourself and take up your cross daily. Following Christ has a cost: dying to sin and living for Jesus. He himself said that whoever loves him keeps his commandments. I ask you, you who say you are a Christian: are you truly following Jesus, or just using his name? The Word of God does not call sin a weakness; it calls it sin, and it confronts the attitude of those who claim to be Christian yet live out, day to day, practices such as lying, greed, envy, pride, hatred, adultery, sexual immorality, idolatry, theft, addictions, corruption, slander, and hypocrisy. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 6, lists several of these practices. But right after, he reminds us that some of the believers in Corinth had once lived this way, and were washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of Jesus. Jesus says to you: repent and turn away from sin. Jesus told the parable of the rich man who built bigger barns, thinking he had many years ahead, and God said to him: Fool, this very night your soul will be required of you; then who will own what you have prepared? You may have a house, a car, a job, a good salary, plans but what does it profit you to gain the whole world and lose your soul? If you are in Jesus Christ, you are a new creation, and the evil one cannot touch you or your household. The book of Acts 3:19 says: Repent and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out. Jesus does not look only for those who call him Lord, but for those who follow him and do what he commands, being doers of the word and not hearers only. Your life is short, eternity is real. Do not treat grace as a license to sin, and do not put it off until tomorrow. If today you hear his voice, do not harden your heart.
    Like
    1
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 22 Ansichten
  • TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

    SERMON TOPIC:

    HOW CAN YOU PRAY SO THAT GOD HEARS YOU?

    Main Text: Psalm 66:18–20; 1 John 5:14–15
    Supporting Texts: Matthew 6:5–13; James 5:16; Proverbs 15:29; Mark 11:24–25

    GOD IS STILL LISTENING.

    One of the deepest questions a believer can ask is:
    “When I pray, does God really hear me?”
    You may have prayed for months and seen no answer. You may have cried in secret, knelt beside your bed, prayed in church, prayed while travelling, prayed when nobody knew what you were going through—and still wondered, “God, are You hearing me?”
    Here is the good news:
    God hears prayer.
    But the Bible also teaches us that there is a way to approach God in prayer.
    Prayer is not merely talking loudly.
    Prayer is not using many religious words.
    Prayer is not trying to manipulate God.
    Prayer is fellowship with the Father.
    Jesus said:
    «“Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.” — Matthew 6:8»
    So the question is not simply, “How much do I pray?”
    The deeper question is:
    “How do I position my heart when I pray?”
    1. PRAY WITH A SINCERE AND HUMBLE HEART
    God is not impressed by religious performance. He looks at the heart.
    Psalm 51:17 says:
    «“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart…”»
    David understood something important: God values the condition of the heart more than the appearance of the prayer.
    You can pray beautiful words with a proud heart and miss the heart of prayer.
    But you can come before God with tears, weakness, and simple words and experience His presence.

    Jesus' illustration

    In Luke 18:9–14, Jesus told the story of two men who went to the temple to pray.
    One was a Pharisee. He boasted about himself.
    The other was a tax collector. He simply cried:
    «“God be merciful to me a sinner.” — Luke 18:13»
    Jesus said the humble man went home justified.

    Spiritual lesson

    God is not looking for impressive prayers; He is looking for surrendered hearts.
    Come to God honestly.
    If you are hurting, tell Him.
    If you are confused, tell Him.
    If you have failed, confess it.
    If you are afraid, tell Him.
    Prayer begins when pretending ends.
    2. PRAY WITH FAITH
    James 1:6 says:
    «“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.”»
    Faith does not mean that you dictate to God what He must do.
    Faith means that you trust who God is, even when you do not understand what He is doing.
    Mark 11:24 says:
    «“What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”»
    Faith says:
    “Father, I believe You are able.”
    And when the answer does not come immediately:
    “Father, I still trust You.”
    Faith does not disappear because the answer is delayed.
    Remember the three possible answers to prayer:

    YES — God grants the request.

    WAIT — God is working, but the timing is different.

    NO — God knows something you do not know.
    A “no” from God is not proof that God has abandoned you.
    Sometimes God's refusal is protection.
    Sometimes His delay is preparation.
    Sometimes His silence is developing your spiritual maturity.
    3. PRAY ACCORDING TO GOD'S WILL
    One of the most powerful scriptures on prayer is:
    «“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.” — 1 John 5:14»
    Notice the words:
    “According to His will.”
    Prayer is not about making God's will submit to ours.
    Prayer is about bringing our desires into alignment with God's will.
    Jesus demonstrated this in Gethsemane.
    He prayed:
    «“Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” — Luke 22:42»
    Jesus was facing the cross, yet He surrendered to the Father's will.
    That is mature prayer.
    A child may say:
    “God, give me what I want.”
    But spiritual maturity says:
    “God, give me what You know is best.”
    A powerful prayer to learn:
    “Lord, if this desire is from You, establish it. If it is not from You, remove it. And if I must wait, give me grace to wait.”
    4. DEAL WITH UNFORGIVENESS AND SIN

    We must be careful here.

    The Bible does not teach that every unanswered prayer means a person has committed some hidden sin.
    Job suffered greatly without being guilty of the accusations brought against him.
    However, Scripture clearly teaches that deliberate, unrepentant sin can affect our relationship and fellowship with God.
    Psalm 66:18 says:
    «“If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.”»
    And Isaiah 59:2 says:
    «“But your iniquities have separated between you and your God…”»
    God is merciful, but we should not treat sin casually.
    What about unforgiveness?
    Jesus taught:
    «“And when ye stand praying, forgive…” — Mark 11:25»
    You cannot continuously ask God for mercy while deliberately refusing to show mercy to others.
    Forgiveness does not mean saying that what happened was acceptable.
    Forgiveness means releasing vengeance into God's hands.
    Ask yourself:
    “Is there somebody I need to forgive?”
    “Is there something God has been asking me to surrender?”
    “Am I asking God to bless something He has already told me to leave?”
    5. PRAY WITH PERSISTENCE
    Some answers require persistent prayer.
    Jesus taught this through the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1–8.
    The purpose of the parable was clear:
    «“Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” — Luke 18:1»
    Do not stop praying simply because you have not yet seen the answer.
    Daniel gives us another powerful example.
    In Daniel 10, Daniel prayed and fasted. His answer was delayed, but heaven had heard him from the beginning.
    The angel told him:
    «“From the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand… thy words were heard.” — Daniel 10:12»
    Think about that!
    Daniel was praying on earth while heaven was already responding.
    The delay did not mean God had ignored him.

    BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

    HANNAH — A WOMAN WHO POURED OUT HER SOUL

    Hannah's story in 1 Samuel 1 is one of the clearest pictures of persistent prayer.
    She was deeply troubled because she had no child.
    She went to the house of the Lord and prayed.
    She didn't simply perform a religious ritual.
    She poured out her soul before God.
    Eli initially misunderstood her.
    But Hannah kept praying.
    Eventually, God answered her prayer and gave her Samuel.
    Her story teaches us:
    1. You can bring your deepest pain to God.
    2. People may misunderstand your prayer, but God understands your heart.
    3. Delay does not mean denial.
    4. God can turn tears into testimony.
    Hannah went into the presence of God carrying sorrow.
    She came out carrying peace.
    The circumstances had not immediately changed—but something had changed inside her.
    That is one of the miracles of prayer.
    Sometimes prayer changes the situation.
    Sometimes prayer changes the person going through the situation.
    And sometimes God does both.

    WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT GOD "HEARS" PRAYER?

    When Scripture says God hears prayer, it means far more than God simply detecting our words.
    It means God attends to, receives, and responds according to His wisdom and will.
    God hears the prayer of His children.
    Proverbs 15:29 says:
    «“The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.”»
    And James 5:16 declares:
    «“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”»
    Your prayer may look small on earth, but it is not small when it reaches heaven.

    PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS

    1. SET A CONSISTENT PRAYER TIME
    Do not pray only when there is an emergency.
    Build a prayer life.
    2. BEGIN WITH WORSHIP
    Before presenting your shopping list to God, acknowledge who He is.
    “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name…” — Matthew 6:9
    3. CONFESS YOUR SINS
    Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart.
    Psalm 139:23–24
    4. PRAY SCRIPTURE
    Use God's Word as the foundation of your prayers.
    5. ASK SPECIFICALLY
    Instead of only saying, “Lord, bless me,” tell God what you are trusting Him for.
    6. LEARN TO LISTEN
    Prayer is not a one-way conversation.
    After speaking, become quiet before God.
    Read Scripture.
    Pay attention to the convictions and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
    7. KEEP A PRAYER JOURNAL
    Write down your requests.
    Record dates.
    Record answers.
    One day you will look back and realize how many prayers God answered.

    DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS

    1. God's silence is not necessarily God's absence.
    You may not hear anything, but God may still be working.
    2. Prayer is not primarily about getting things; it is about knowing God.
    The greatest answer to prayer is not always a possession.
    Sometimes it is God Himself.
    3. Prayer changes the atmosphere of the person praying.
    You may enter prayer anxious and leave with peace.
    4. God's answer may be different from your expectation.
    Never limit God to one method of answering.
    5. The strongest prayer is surrendered prayer.
    “Lord, have Your way” is one of the deepest expressions of faith.

    QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

    1. When I pray, am I seeking God's will or only demanding my own will?
    2. Is there any known sin I need to confess?
    3. Is there someone I need to forgive?
    4. Have I stopped praying because my answer is delayed?
    5. Do I genuinely trust God when His answer is different from what I expected?
    6. Is my prayer life based on relationship with God or only on emergency needs?
    7. What prayer have I abandoned that God may be asking me to continue bringing before Him?

    POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

    1. PRAYER FOR A DEEPER PRAYER LIFE
    Father, awaken in me a fresh hunger for prayer. Take away spiritual laziness and teach me to seek Your face consistently, in Jesus' name.
    2. PRAYER FOR A PURE HEART
    Lord, search my heart. Reveal anything that is displeasing to You and give me grace to repent and walk in righteousness.
    3. PRAYER FOR FAITH
    Father, increase my faith. When answers are delayed, help me trust You. When I cannot see the way, help me believe that You are still working.
    4. PRAYER FOR GOD'S WILL
    Lord, deliver me from insisting on my own way. Align my desires with Your purpose and give me grace to say, “Your will be done.”
    5. PRAYER FOR PERSISTENCE
    Father, give me strength not to faint in prayer. Help me continue believing until Your appointed time.
    6. PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS
    Lord, give me grace to forgive those who have hurt me. Heal my heart and remove bitterness from my spirit.
    7. PRAYER FOR DIVINE ANSWERS
    Father, concerning every legitimate request I have brought before You, let Your perfect will be established. Open the right doors, close the wrong doors, and lead me according to Your purpose.
    8. PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL SENSITIVITY
    Holy Spirit, teach me to recognize Your voice. Help me distinguish Your leading from my emotions, fears, and human desires.

    DON'T JUST PRAY—BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

    Beloved, prayer is not a religious emergency button.
    Prayer is relationship.
    Do not wait until everything is falling apart before you seek God.
    Pray when you are happy.
    Pray when you are confused.
    Pray when you have money.
    Pray when you have nothing.
    Pray when the door opens.
    Pray when the door closes.
    Pray when you understand.
    Pray when you don't understand.
    And above all, pray with a heart that trusts God.
    Remember:
    A delayed answer is not necessarily a denied prayer.
    God's silence is not necessarily God's absence.
    God's “no” is not a rejection of you.
    And God's “wait” is not a waste of your time.
    There is a God who hears.
    There is a God who sees.
    There is a God who knows.
    There is a God who answers.
    So keep praying. Keep believing. Keep trusting. Keep walking with God.

    FINAL DECLARATION

    I will not give up in prayer.
    I will not allow delay to destroy my faith.
    I will seek God's face, not merely His hands.
    I will surrender my will to His will.
    I will forgive.
    I will believe.
    I will persevere.
    And I will trust the God who hears me.
    In Jesus' mighty 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 sela shops below

    https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1

    https://selar com/m/umoedem

    https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks

    https://afrikdp.com/author/9128a016-dd79-4f17-9e60-bf11f65f1a34

    CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540

    Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
    TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: HOW CAN YOU PRAY SO THAT GOD HEARS YOU? Main Text: Psalm 66:18–20; 1 John 5:14–15 Supporting Texts: Matthew 6:5–13; James 5:16; Proverbs 15:29; Mark 11:24–25 GOD IS STILL LISTENING. One of the deepest questions a believer can ask is: “When I pray, does God really hear me?” You may have prayed for months and seen no answer. You may have cried in secret, knelt beside your bed, prayed in church, prayed while travelling, prayed when nobody knew what you were going through—and still wondered, “God, are You hearing me?” Here is the good news: God hears prayer. But the Bible also teaches us that there is a way to approach God in prayer. Prayer is not merely talking loudly. Prayer is not using many religious words. Prayer is not trying to manipulate God. Prayer is fellowship with the Father. Jesus said: «“Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.” — Matthew 6:8» So the question is not simply, “How much do I pray?” The deeper question is: “How do I position my heart when I pray?” 1. PRAY WITH A SINCERE AND HUMBLE HEART God is not impressed by religious performance. He looks at the heart. Psalm 51:17 says: «“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart…”» David understood something important: God values the condition of the heart more than the appearance of the prayer. You can pray beautiful words with a proud heart and miss the heart of prayer. But you can come before God with tears, weakness, and simple words and experience His presence. Jesus' illustration In Luke 18:9–14, Jesus told the story of two men who went to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee. He boasted about himself. The other was a tax collector. He simply cried: «“God be merciful to me a sinner.” — Luke 18:13» Jesus said the humble man went home justified. Spiritual lesson God is not looking for impressive prayers; He is looking for surrendered hearts. Come to God honestly. If you are hurting, tell Him. If you are confused, tell Him. If you have failed, confess it. If you are afraid, tell Him. Prayer begins when pretending ends. 2. PRAY WITH FAITH James 1:6 says: «“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.”» Faith does not mean that you dictate to God what He must do. Faith means that you trust who God is, even when you do not understand what He is doing. Mark 11:24 says: «“What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”» Faith says: “Father, I believe You are able.” And when the answer does not come immediately: “Father, I still trust You.” Faith does not disappear because the answer is delayed. Remember the three possible answers to prayer: YES — God grants the request. WAIT — God is working, but the timing is different. NO — God knows something you do not know. A “no” from God is not proof that God has abandoned you. Sometimes God's refusal is protection. Sometimes His delay is preparation. Sometimes His silence is developing your spiritual maturity. 3. PRAY ACCORDING TO GOD'S WILL One of the most powerful scriptures on prayer is: «“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.” — 1 John 5:14» Notice the words: “According to His will.” Prayer is not about making God's will submit to ours. Prayer is about bringing our desires into alignment with God's will. Jesus demonstrated this in Gethsemane. He prayed: «“Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” — Luke 22:42» Jesus was facing the cross, yet He surrendered to the Father's will. That is mature prayer. A child may say: “God, give me what I want.” But spiritual maturity says: “God, give me what You know is best.” A powerful prayer to learn: “Lord, if this desire is from You, establish it. If it is not from You, remove it. And if I must wait, give me grace to wait.” 4. DEAL WITH UNFORGIVENESS AND SIN We must be careful here. The Bible does not teach that every unanswered prayer means a person has committed some hidden sin. Job suffered greatly without being guilty of the accusations brought against him. However, Scripture clearly teaches that deliberate, unrepentant sin can affect our relationship and fellowship with God. Psalm 66:18 says: «“If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.”» And Isaiah 59:2 says: «“But your iniquities have separated between you and your God…”» God is merciful, but we should not treat sin casually. What about unforgiveness? Jesus taught: «“And when ye stand praying, forgive…” — Mark 11:25» You cannot continuously ask God for mercy while deliberately refusing to show mercy to others. Forgiveness does not mean saying that what happened was acceptable. Forgiveness means releasing vengeance into God's hands. Ask yourself: “Is there somebody I need to forgive?” “Is there something God has been asking me to surrender?” “Am I asking God to bless something He has already told me to leave?” 5. PRAY WITH PERSISTENCE Some answers require persistent prayer. Jesus taught this through the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1–8. The purpose of the parable was clear: «“Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” — Luke 18:1» Do not stop praying simply because you have not yet seen the answer. Daniel gives us another powerful example. In Daniel 10, Daniel prayed and fasted. His answer was delayed, but heaven had heard him from the beginning. The angel told him: «“From the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand… thy words were heard.” — Daniel 10:12» Think about that! Daniel was praying on earth while heaven was already responding. The delay did not mean God had ignored him. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: HANNAH — A WOMAN WHO POURED OUT HER SOUL Hannah's story in 1 Samuel 1 is one of the clearest pictures of persistent prayer. She was deeply troubled because she had no child. She went to the house of the Lord and prayed. She didn't simply perform a religious ritual. She poured out her soul before God. Eli initially misunderstood her. But Hannah kept praying. Eventually, God answered her prayer and gave her Samuel. Her story teaches us: 1. You can bring your deepest pain to God. 2. People may misunderstand your prayer, but God understands your heart. 3. Delay does not mean denial. 4. God can turn tears into testimony. Hannah went into the presence of God carrying sorrow. She came out carrying peace. The circumstances had not immediately changed—but something had changed inside her. That is one of the miracles of prayer. Sometimes prayer changes the situation. Sometimes prayer changes the person going through the situation. And sometimes God does both. WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT GOD "HEARS" PRAYER? When Scripture says God hears prayer, it means far more than God simply detecting our words. It means God attends to, receives, and responds according to His wisdom and will. God hears the prayer of His children. Proverbs 15:29 says: «“The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.”» And James 5:16 declares: «“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”» Your prayer may look small on earth, but it is not small when it reaches heaven. PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. SET A CONSISTENT PRAYER TIME Do not pray only when there is an emergency. Build a prayer life. 2. BEGIN WITH WORSHIP Before presenting your shopping list to God, acknowledge who He is. “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name…” — Matthew 6:9 3. CONFESS YOUR SINS Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Psalm 139:23–24 4. PRAY SCRIPTURE Use God's Word as the foundation of your prayers. 5. ASK SPECIFICALLY Instead of only saying, “Lord, bless me,” tell God what you are trusting Him for. 6. LEARN TO LISTEN Prayer is not a one-way conversation. After speaking, become quiet before God. Read Scripture. Pay attention to the convictions and guidance of the Holy Spirit. 7. KEEP A PRAYER JOURNAL Write down your requests. Record dates. Record answers. One day you will look back and realize how many prayers God answered. DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS 1. God's silence is not necessarily God's absence. You may not hear anything, but God may still be working. 2. Prayer is not primarily about getting things; it is about knowing God. The greatest answer to prayer is not always a possession. Sometimes it is God Himself. 3. Prayer changes the atmosphere of the person praying. You may enter prayer anxious and leave with peace. 4. God's answer may be different from your expectation. Never limit God to one method of answering. 5. The strongest prayer is surrendered prayer. “Lord, have Your way” is one of the deepest expressions of faith. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. When I pray, am I seeking God's will or only demanding my own will? 2. Is there any known sin I need to confess? 3. Is there someone I need to forgive? 4. Have I stopped praying because my answer is delayed? 5. Do I genuinely trust God when His answer is different from what I expected? 6. Is my prayer life based on relationship with God or only on emergency needs? 7. What prayer have I abandoned that God may be asking me to continue bringing before Him? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. PRAYER FOR A DEEPER PRAYER LIFE Father, awaken in me a fresh hunger for prayer. Take away spiritual laziness and teach me to seek Your face consistently, in Jesus' name. 2. PRAYER FOR A PURE HEART Lord, search my heart. Reveal anything that is displeasing to You and give me grace to repent and walk in righteousness. 3. PRAYER FOR FAITH Father, increase my faith. When answers are delayed, help me trust You. When I cannot see the way, help me believe that You are still working. 4. PRAYER FOR GOD'S WILL Lord, deliver me from insisting on my own way. Align my desires with Your purpose and give me grace to say, “Your will be done.” 5. PRAYER FOR PERSISTENCE Father, give me strength not to faint in prayer. Help me continue believing until Your appointed time. 6. PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS Lord, give me grace to forgive those who have hurt me. Heal my heart and remove bitterness from my spirit. 7. PRAYER FOR DIVINE ANSWERS Father, concerning every legitimate request I have brought before You, let Your perfect will be established. Open the right doors, close the wrong doors, and lead me according to Your purpose. 8. PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL SENSITIVITY Holy Spirit, teach me to recognize Your voice. Help me distinguish Your leading from my emotions, fears, and human desires. DON'T JUST PRAY—BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD Beloved, prayer is not a religious emergency button. Prayer is relationship. Do not wait until everything is falling apart before you seek God. Pray when you are happy. Pray when you are confused. Pray when you have money. Pray when you have nothing. Pray when the door opens. Pray when the door closes. Pray when you understand. Pray when you don't understand. And above all, pray with a heart that trusts God. Remember: A delayed answer is not necessarily a denied prayer. God's silence is not necessarily God's absence. God's “no” is not a rejection of you. And God's “wait” is not a waste of your time. There is a God who hears. There is a God who sees. There is a God who knows. There is a God who answers. So keep praying. Keep believing. Keep trusting. Keep walking with God. FINAL DECLARATION I will not give up in prayer. I will not allow delay to destroy my faith. I will seek God's face, not merely His hands. I will surrender my will to His will. I will forgive. I will believe. I will persevere. And I will trust the God who hears me. In Jesus' mighty 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 sela shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks https://afrikdp.com/author/9128a016-dd79-4f17-9e60-bf11f65f1a34 CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com
    Like
    1
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 21 Ansichten
  • Psalm 19:1-5 KJV
    The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. [2] Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. [3] There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. [4] Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, [5] Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
    Psalm 19:1-5 KJV The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. [2] Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. [3] There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. [4] Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, [5] Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 10 Ansichten
  • Psalm 19:1-6 JPS
    (19-1) For the Leader. A Psalm of David. (19-2) The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth His handiwork; @2 (19-3) Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night revealeth knowledge; @3 (19-4) There is no speech, there are no words, neither is their voice heard. @4 (19-5) Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath He set a tent for the sun, @5 (19-6) Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run his course.
    Psalm 19:1-6 JPS (19-1) For the Leader. A Psalm of David. (19-2) The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth His handiwork; @2 (19-3) Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night revealeth knowledge; @3 (19-4) There is no speech, there are no words, neither is their voice heard. @4 (19-5) Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath He set a tent for the sun, @5 (19-6) Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run his course.
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 10 Ansichten
  • Psalm 47 Reminder: God Reigns!

    Whatever this week brings, remember:

    God is above your circumstances.
    God is greater than your fears.
    God is faithful through every trial.
    God is King over all the earth.

    So clap your hands, lift your voice, and sing praises to the King!

    #Psalm47 #SundayScripture #GodIsKing #PraiseTheLord #ChristianMotivation #BibleStudy #JesusChrist
    https://youtube.com/shorts/EMPmbg8sG_0?feature=share
    👑 Psalm 47 Reminder: God Reigns! Whatever this week brings, remember: God is above your circumstances. God is greater than your fears. God is faithful through every trial. God is King over all the earth. So clap your hands, lift your voice, and sing praises to the King! 🙌 #Psalm47 #SundayScripture #GodIsKing #PraiseTheLord #ChristianMotivation #BibleStudy #JesusChrist https://youtube.com/shorts/EMPmbg8sG_0?feature=share
    0 Kommentare 0 Anteile 48 Ansichten
  • DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS?
    Knowing His Name Is Not the Same as Knowing Him!

    Key Scripture — Acts 19:14–16 (KJV)
    “And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.”

    Thought Of The Day...
    There is a tremendous difference between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Jesus.
    Acts 19 gives us a powerful and sobering picture of this truth. The seven sons of Sceva had heard about the miracles taking place through the Apostle Paul. They had witnessed or heard reports of demons being cast out and lives being transformed through the name of Jesus.
    They saw the results, but they did not understand the relationship behind the results.
    They wanted the authority Paul demonstrated without possessing the relationship Paul had.
    They attempted to use the name of Jesus almost like a spiritual formula. Earlier in the passage they said:
    “We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.”
    — Acts 19:13 (KJV)
    Notice their language.
    They did not say, “Jesus whom we know.”
    They said, “Jesus whom Paul preacheth.”
    Jesus was Paul's testimony, but He had not become their personal testimony.
    And that raises a serious question for every believer:
    Do you know Jesus for yourself?
    It is possible to grow up in church and still only know about Jesus.
    It is possible to know Scripture and still not truly surrender to Jesus.
    It is possible to sing about Jesus, preach about Jesus, teach about Jesus, shout about Jesus, and even use the name of Jesus—yet lack a genuine relationship with Him.
    Christianity was never intended to be secondhand.
    You cannot survive spiritually forever on your mother's relationship with God, your father's prayers, your pastor's anointing, your bishop's revelation, your spouse's faith, or your grandmother's testimony.
    Eventually, you must know Him for yourself.
    Paul could say:
    “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings…”
    — Philippians 3:10 (KJV)
    Paul wasn't satisfied merely knowing facts about Christ. His desire was, “That I may know Him.”
    “JESUS I KNOW, AND PAUL I KNOW; BUT WHO ARE YE?”
    These may be some of the most sobering words in Acts.
    The evil spirit responded:
    “Jesus I know.”
    There was no confusion in the kingdom of darkness concerning Jesus.
    The demons knew exactly who He was.
    During Jesus' earthly ministry, an unclean spirit cried:
    “I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.”
    — Mark 1:24 (KJV)
    James gives us another sobering reminder:
    “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.”
    — James 2:19 (KJV)
    Simply acknowledging that Jesus exists is not the same as belonging to Him.
    But then the spirit said something else:
    “Paul I know.”
    Why was Paul recognized?
    Because Paul's life demonstrated that he belonged to Jesus.
    Paul wasn't borrowing somebody else's faith. He had encountered Christ for himself. His authority did not come from merely repeating Jesus' name; it flowed from his relationship with and commission from Jesus.
    Then came the devastating question:
    “BUT WHO ARE YE?”
    In other words, You are using the name, but where is your relationship with the One whose name you are using?
    The sons of Sceva discovered that the name of Jesus is not a magical phrase.
    There is power in the name of Jesus because of who Jesus is.
    Jesus declared:
    “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.”
    — Matthew 28:18 (KJV)
    His name represents His person, His authority, His victory, His lordship and His kingdom.
    We must never reduce the name of Jesus to something we merely shout when we are in trouble. His name belongs to the Savior to whom we surrender our lives.
    DO YOU KNOW THE JESUS YOU CALL ON?
    Jesus is more than a name mentioned at the end of a prayer.
    He is the Son of God.
    “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
    — Matthew 16:16 (KJV)
    He is the Savior.
    “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
    — Luke 19:10 (KJV)
    He is the Way to the Father.
    “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
    — John 14:6 (KJV)
    He is the Resurrection and the Life.
    “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.”
    — John 11:25 (KJV)
    He is Lord.
    “And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
    — Philippians 2:11 (KJV)
    The question is not merely, “Have you heard about Him?”
    The question is:
    Have you trusted Him?
    Have you surrendered to Him?
    Are you following Him?
    Are you walking with Him?
    Does your life belong to Him?
    YOU CANNOT BORROW SOMEBODY ELSE'S ANOINTING
    The sons of Sceva tried to imitate what they saw Paul doing.
    But spiritual authority cannot be copied like a technique.
    You can imitate someone's preaching style.
    You can imitate someone's prayer language.
    You can imitate someone's worship.
    You can repeat someone's favorite Scriptures.
    But you cannot imitate their relationship with God.
    Jesus said:
    “Abide in me, and I in you… for without me ye can do nothing.”
    — John 15:4–5 (KJV)
    Our strength comes from abiding in Christ.
    The greatest danger is not weakness that drives us toward Jesus. The greater danger is trying to operate spiritually while disconnected from Him.
    The seven sons discovered this painfully.
    The possessed man “overcame them, and prevailed against them.”
    They entered believing they had authority they did not possess and left “naked and wounded.”
    There is a warning here:
    Never attempt to substitute religious activity for genuine relationship with Christ.
    YOUR PRIVATE WALK MATTERS
    Before Paul stood publicly in authority, he had privately surrendered his life to Jesus.
    Our public Christianity must be supported by a private relationship with God.
    Who are you when there is no microphone?
    Who are you when there is no congregation?
    Who are you when nobody sees you praying?
    Who are you when temptation comes?
    Who are you when life becomes difficult?
    Do you still trust Jesus when there is nobody around to applaud your faith?
    Jesus said:
    “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.”
    — John 8:31 (KJV)
    Real discipleship is demonstrated through continued fellowship, obedience, faith and dependence upon Christ.
    KNOW HIM BEFORE THE BATTLE COMES
    Don't wait until trouble arrives to try to discover who Jesus is.
    Know Him now.
    Know Him in prayer.
    Know Him through His Word.
    Know Him in worship.
    Know Him through obedience.
    Know Him when everything is going well so that when everything begins falling apart, you already know where your help comes from.
    David could face Goliath because David already knew God before Goliath appeared.
    Daniel could face the lions because Daniel knew God before he entered the den.
    The three Hebrew boys could face the fiery furnace because they knew God before Nebuchadnezzar heated it.
    Paul could endure persecution because he knew the Christ for whom he suffered.
    And when your day of testing comes, you need more than something somebody told you about Jesus.
    You need to be able to declare:
    I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF!
    Job said:
    “For I know that my redeemer liveth…”
    — Job 19:25 (KJV)
    There are some storms where somebody else's testimony will not be enough.
    You need your own history with God.
    You need memories of prayers He answered.
    You need moments when His Word carried you.
    You need times when you experienced His grace.
    You need the confidence to declare:
    I know who Jesus is because I have walked with Him for myself!
    THE QUESTION STILL STANDS
    Acts 19 leaves us with a question that should cause every believer to examine his or her heart:
    DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS?
    Not just the Jesus your pastor preaches.
    Not just the Jesus your parents taught you about.
    Not just the Jesus you heard about in Sunday School.
    But Jesus Christ for yourself.
    And perhaps an even deeper question is:
    DOES YOUR LIFE SHOW THAT YOU KNOW HIM?
    Jesus said:
    “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
    — John 10:27 (KJV)
    Knowing Jesus should produce following Jesus.
    Following Jesus should produce obedience.
    Obedience should produce transformation.
    And transformation should cause our lives to testify that we have been with Jesus.

    PRAYER...
    Father, in the name of Jesus,
    Thank You for revealing Your Son to us. Lord, forgive us for every time we have been satisfied with simply knowing about Jesus instead of developing a deeper relationship with Him.
    We don't want secondhand faith. We don't want borrowed convictions. We don't want to depend solely upon somebody else's prayers, testimony or relationship with You.
    Lord Jesus, we want to know You for ourselves.
    Draw us closer to You. Give us a hunger for Your Word, a desire for prayer, a heart of worship and a spirit willing to obey Your voice.
    Search our hearts and remove everything that has created distance between us and You.
    Teach us not merely to speak Your name but to honor Your name with the way we live.
    When temptation comes, remind us who You are.
    When storms arise, remind us who You are.
    When fear attacks, remind us who You are.
    When the enemy challenges our faith, help us stand firmly upon the authority of Your Word.
    May our lives testify that we belong to Jesus Christ.
    And Lord, let our greatest desire always be the cry of Paul:
    “That I may know him.”
    We want to know You more deeply, love You more completely, trust You more confidently, obey You more faithfully, and represent You more boldly.
    In the mighty, matchless, powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray.
    Amen.

    DECLARATION...
    I DECLARE that I will not live on borrowed faith!
    I know who Jesus is!
    Jesus is my Savior.
    Jesus is my Redeemer.
    Jesus is my Lord.
    Jesus is my Deliverer.
    Jesus is my Rock.
    Jesus is my Strength.
    Jesus is my Hope.
    Jesus is my King!
    I will seek Him, follow Him, obey Him and grow deeper in my relationship with Him.
    I refuse to merely know about Jesus.
    I WILL KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF!
    And when life asks me, “Do you know who Jesus is?”
    My faith, my testimony, my obedience and my life will answer:
    YES! I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF!
    “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV)

    Enjoy your Sunday Church Services and God Bless!
    DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS? Knowing His Name Is Not the Same as Knowing Him! Key Scripture — Acts 19:14–16 (KJV) “And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.” Thought Of The Day... There is a tremendous difference between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Jesus. Acts 19 gives us a powerful and sobering picture of this truth. The seven sons of Sceva had heard about the miracles taking place through the Apostle Paul. They had witnessed or heard reports of demons being cast out and lives being transformed through the name of Jesus. They saw the results, but they did not understand the relationship behind the results. They wanted the authority Paul demonstrated without possessing the relationship Paul had. They attempted to use the name of Jesus almost like a spiritual formula. Earlier in the passage they said: “We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.” — Acts 19:13 (KJV) Notice their language. They did not say, “Jesus whom we know.” They said, “Jesus whom Paul preacheth.” Jesus was Paul's testimony, but He had not become their personal testimony. And that raises a serious question for every believer: Do you know Jesus for yourself? It is possible to grow up in church and still only know about Jesus. It is possible to know Scripture and still not truly surrender to Jesus. It is possible to sing about Jesus, preach about Jesus, teach about Jesus, shout about Jesus, and even use the name of Jesus—yet lack a genuine relationship with Him. Christianity was never intended to be secondhand. You cannot survive spiritually forever on your mother's relationship with God, your father's prayers, your pastor's anointing, your bishop's revelation, your spouse's faith, or your grandmother's testimony. Eventually, you must know Him for yourself. Paul could say: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV) Paul wasn't satisfied merely knowing facts about Christ. His desire was, “That I may know Him.” “JESUS I KNOW, AND PAUL I KNOW; BUT WHO ARE YE?” These may be some of the most sobering words in Acts. The evil spirit responded: “Jesus I know.” There was no confusion in the kingdom of darkness concerning Jesus. The demons knew exactly who He was. During Jesus' earthly ministry, an unclean spirit cried: “I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.” — Mark 1:24 (KJV) James gives us another sobering reminder: “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” — James 2:19 (KJV) Simply acknowledging that Jesus exists is not the same as belonging to Him. But then the spirit said something else: “Paul I know.” Why was Paul recognized? Because Paul's life demonstrated that he belonged to Jesus. Paul wasn't borrowing somebody else's faith. He had encountered Christ for himself. His authority did not come from merely repeating Jesus' name; it flowed from his relationship with and commission from Jesus. Then came the devastating question: “BUT WHO ARE YE?” In other words, You are using the name, but where is your relationship with the One whose name you are using? The sons of Sceva discovered that the name of Jesus is not a magical phrase. There is power in the name of Jesus because of who Jesus is. Jesus declared: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” — Matthew 28:18 (KJV) His name represents His person, His authority, His victory, His lordship and His kingdom. We must never reduce the name of Jesus to something we merely shout when we are in trouble. His name belongs to the Savior to whom we surrender our lives. DO YOU KNOW THE JESUS YOU CALL ON? Jesus is more than a name mentioned at the end of a prayer. He is the Son of God. “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” — Matthew 16:16 (KJV) He is the Savior. “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” — Luke 19:10 (KJV) He is the Way to the Father. “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” — John 14:6 (KJV) He is the Resurrection and the Life. “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.” — John 11:25 (KJV) He is Lord. “And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” — Philippians 2:11 (KJV) The question is not merely, “Have you heard about Him?” The question is: Have you trusted Him? Have you surrendered to Him? Are you following Him? Are you walking with Him? Does your life belong to Him? YOU CANNOT BORROW SOMEBODY ELSE'S ANOINTING The sons of Sceva tried to imitate what they saw Paul doing. But spiritual authority cannot be copied like a technique. You can imitate someone's preaching style. You can imitate someone's prayer language. You can imitate someone's worship. You can repeat someone's favorite Scriptures. But you cannot imitate their relationship with God. Jesus said: “Abide in me, and I in you… for without me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:4–5 (KJV) Our strength comes from abiding in Christ. The greatest danger is not weakness that drives us toward Jesus. The greater danger is trying to operate spiritually while disconnected from Him. The seven sons discovered this painfully. The possessed man “overcame them, and prevailed against them.” They entered believing they had authority they did not possess and left “naked and wounded.” There is a warning here: Never attempt to substitute religious activity for genuine relationship with Christ. YOUR PRIVATE WALK MATTERS Before Paul stood publicly in authority, he had privately surrendered his life to Jesus. Our public Christianity must be supported by a private relationship with God. Who are you when there is no microphone? Who are you when there is no congregation? Who are you when nobody sees you praying? Who are you when temptation comes? Who are you when life becomes difficult? Do you still trust Jesus when there is nobody around to applaud your faith? Jesus said: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.” — John 8:31 (KJV) Real discipleship is demonstrated through continued fellowship, obedience, faith and dependence upon Christ. KNOW HIM BEFORE THE BATTLE COMES Don't wait until trouble arrives to try to discover who Jesus is. Know Him now. Know Him in prayer. Know Him through His Word. Know Him in worship. Know Him through obedience. Know Him when everything is going well so that when everything begins falling apart, you already know where your help comes from. David could face Goliath because David already knew God before Goliath appeared. Daniel could face the lions because Daniel knew God before he entered the den. The three Hebrew boys could face the fiery furnace because they knew God before Nebuchadnezzar heated it. Paul could endure persecution because he knew the Christ for whom he suffered. And when your day of testing comes, you need more than something somebody told you about Jesus. You need to be able to declare: I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! Job said: “For I know that my redeemer liveth…” — Job 19:25 (KJV) There are some storms where somebody else's testimony will not be enough. You need your own history with God. You need memories of prayers He answered. You need moments when His Word carried you. You need times when you experienced His grace. You need the confidence to declare: I know who Jesus is because I have walked with Him for myself! THE QUESTION STILL STANDS Acts 19 leaves us with a question that should cause every believer to examine his or her heart: DO YOU KNOW WHO JESUS IS? Not just the Jesus your pastor preaches. Not just the Jesus your parents taught you about. Not just the Jesus you heard about in Sunday School. But Jesus Christ for yourself. And perhaps an even deeper question is: DOES YOUR LIFE SHOW THAT YOU KNOW HIM? Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27 (KJV) Knowing Jesus should produce following Jesus. Following Jesus should produce obedience. Obedience should produce transformation. And transformation should cause our lives to testify that we have been with Jesus. PRAYER... Father, in the name of Jesus, Thank You for revealing Your Son to us. Lord, forgive us for every time we have been satisfied with simply knowing about Jesus instead of developing a deeper relationship with Him. We don't want secondhand faith. We don't want borrowed convictions. We don't want to depend solely upon somebody else's prayers, testimony or relationship with You. Lord Jesus, we want to know You for ourselves. Draw us closer to You. Give us a hunger for Your Word, a desire for prayer, a heart of worship and a spirit willing to obey Your voice. Search our hearts and remove everything that has created distance between us and You. Teach us not merely to speak Your name but to honor Your name with the way we live. When temptation comes, remind us who You are. When storms arise, remind us who You are. When fear attacks, remind us who You are. When the enemy challenges our faith, help us stand firmly upon the authority of Your Word. May our lives testify that we belong to Jesus Christ. And Lord, let our greatest desire always be the cry of Paul: “That I may know him.” We want to know You more deeply, love You more completely, trust You more confidently, obey You more faithfully, and represent You more boldly. In the mighty, matchless, powerful name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. DECLARATION... I DECLARE that I will not live on borrowed faith! I know who Jesus is! Jesus is my Savior. Jesus is my Redeemer. Jesus is my Lord. Jesus is my Deliverer. Jesus is my Rock. Jesus is my Strength. Jesus is my Hope. Jesus is my King! I will seek Him, follow Him, obey Him and grow deeper in my relationship with Him. I refuse to merely know about Jesus. I WILL KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! And when life asks me, “Do you know who Jesus is?” My faith, my testimony, my obedience and my life will answer: YES! I KNOW HIM FOR MYSELF! “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection…” — Philippians 3:10 (KJV) Enjoy your Sunday Church Services and God Bless!
    Praying
    1
    0 Kommentare 2 Anteile 247 Ansichten
Suchergebnis