• *TESTAMENT OF GRACE GLOBAL ASSEMBLY (GRACE REVIVAL CENTRE)*

    *LIFELINES DEVOTIONAL FOR THURSDAY,AUGUST 27, 2026*

    *TOPIC: RESTORED DOMINION*

    *BIBLE VERSE*
    “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.”-Genesis 1:28 (KJV)

    *MEDITATION*
    From the beginning, God created humanity with a mandate of dominion. Genesis 1:28 reveals that dominion was not man's invention but God's gift and responsibility. To have dominion means to exercise responsible authority and stewardship under God's ultimate rule, bringing order, productivity, righteousness, and godly influence into the sphere entrusted to us. Sin, however, damaged humanity's relationship with God and disrupted the proper exercise of this mandate. When Adam disobeyed God, he surrendered himself to sin's power and opened the door to consequences that affected the entire human race (Genesis 3:6–19; Romans 5:12). Believers today can also experience a diminished exercise of their God-given authority when they live in persistent disobedience, surrender to fear, allow destructive habits to control them, or forget their identity and authority in Christ. Dominion is therefore not a license for pride or domination over other people; it is the responsibility to live under God's authority while exercising the authority He has entrusted to us.

    The good news is that Christ came to restore what sin had damaged. Jesus declared, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18), and He commissioned His followers to operate under that authority. When His disciples returned from ministry, Jesus told them, “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy” (Luke 10:19). Through Christ, believers are no longer required to live as slaves to the dominion of sin, fear, or the devil. Romans 6:14 declares, “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” The restoration of dominion therefore begins with understanding what Christ has accomplished. We do not reclaim authority by human strength or spiritual bravado; we receive and exercise our authority through submission to Jesus Christ, whose victory becomes the foundation of our victory.

    One of the clearest biblical examples of restored dominion is found in the life of Samson, although his story also warns us about the consequences of careless living. God gave Samson extraordinary strength and a divine assignment, but his repeated compromise eventually weakened his effectiveness and resulted in his capture by the Philistines (Judges 16:19–21). In his final moments, however, Samson turned his heart toward God and cried, “O Lord GOD, remember me” (Judges 16:28). God answered his prayer, and Samson's strength was restored for one final act of deliverance. His story demonstrates that spiritual compromise can severely damage the exercise of what God has entrusted to us, but it also shows that failure does not have to be the end. Restoration begins when we return to God in humility and allow Him to rebuild what disobedience has weakened.

    Restoring dominion therefore requires repentance, renewal, and a deliberate return to God's Word. James 4:7 gives a simple but powerful pattern: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Notice that submission to God comes before resistance to the devil. We cannot effectively exercise kingdom authority while deliberately resisting the authority of the King. The believer must therefore confess and forsake sin (1 John 1:9), renew the mind through God's Word (Romans 12:2), strengthen the spirit through prayer, and learn to distinguish God's will from personal ambition. Jesus demonstrated this principle when He resisted Satan in the wilderness by standing upon Scripture (Matthew 4:1–11). Dominion is restored when our lives come back into alignment with the One who gave us the mandate in the first place.

    Restored dominion must also be expressed through responsible action and godly influence. Joseph exercised remarkable authority in Egypt, but he did not use his position for selfish domination; he used it to preserve lives during famine (Genesis 41:38–57). Daniel likewise exercised influence in Babylon without abandoning his loyalty to God (Daniel 6:3–5). These men demonstrate that kingdom dominion is not about controlling people but about bringing God's wisdom, righteousness, excellence, and order into the places where He has positioned us. A believer exercises restored dominion when he governs his own appetites, manages his resources wisely, leads his family responsibly, resists destructive influences, serves others, makes righteous decisions, and uses his opportunities to advance God's purposes. Proverbs 16:32 reminds us that ruling one's spirit is greater than conquering a city, showing that genuine dominion begins with self-government.

    If you have allowed sin, fear, failure, addiction, discouragement, or spiritual negligence to weaken your sense and exercise of God-given authority, do not accept defeat as your permanent condition. Return to Christ, because He is the source of your authority and the foundation of your restoration. Remember that your dominion does not mean that you will never encounter opposition or hardship; rather, it means that circumstances, sin, fear, and the enemy do not have the final authority over a believer who remains submitted to Christ. Scripture says that God “hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6). Therefore, rise again in the authority Christ has provided, rebuild your spiritual life upon God's Word, walk in obedience, and exercise your influence with humility and wisdom. What has been weakened can be strengthened, what has been surrendered can be reclaimed, and what has been neglected can be rebuilt. Through Christ, the believer can recover the confidence and capacity to live under God's authority and fulfil the dominion mandate for which he was created.

    *PRAYER*
    Heavenly Father, thank You for the authority and responsibility You have given me through Christ. Restore every area of my life where sin, fear, failure, or disobedience has weakened my dominion. Help me to submit completely to You, stand firmly upon Your Word, resist every work of the enemy, and exercise godly authority with wisdom and humility. Let my life bring order, fruitfulness, righteousness, and glory to Your name. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
    *TESTAMENT OF GRACE GLOBAL ASSEMBLY (GRACE REVIVAL CENTRE)* *LIFELINES DEVOTIONAL FOR THURSDAY,AUGUST 27, 2026* *TOPIC: RESTORED DOMINION* *BIBLE VERSE* “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.”-Genesis 1:28 (KJV) *MEDITATION* From the beginning, God created humanity with a mandate of dominion. Genesis 1:28 reveals that dominion was not man's invention but God's gift and responsibility. To have dominion means to exercise responsible authority and stewardship under God's ultimate rule, bringing order, productivity, righteousness, and godly influence into the sphere entrusted to us. Sin, however, damaged humanity's relationship with God and disrupted the proper exercise of this mandate. When Adam disobeyed God, he surrendered himself to sin's power and opened the door to consequences that affected the entire human race (Genesis 3:6–19; Romans 5:12). Believers today can also experience a diminished exercise of their God-given authority when they live in persistent disobedience, surrender to fear, allow destructive habits to control them, or forget their identity and authority in Christ. Dominion is therefore not a license for pride or domination over other people; it is the responsibility to live under God's authority while exercising the authority He has entrusted to us. The good news is that Christ came to restore what sin had damaged. Jesus declared, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18), and He commissioned His followers to operate under that authority. When His disciples returned from ministry, Jesus told them, “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy” (Luke 10:19). Through Christ, believers are no longer required to live as slaves to the dominion of sin, fear, or the devil. Romans 6:14 declares, “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” The restoration of dominion therefore begins with understanding what Christ has accomplished. We do not reclaim authority by human strength or spiritual bravado; we receive and exercise our authority through submission to Jesus Christ, whose victory becomes the foundation of our victory. One of the clearest biblical examples of restored dominion is found in the life of Samson, although his story also warns us about the consequences of careless living. God gave Samson extraordinary strength and a divine assignment, but his repeated compromise eventually weakened his effectiveness and resulted in his capture by the Philistines (Judges 16:19–21). In his final moments, however, Samson turned his heart toward God and cried, “O Lord GOD, remember me” (Judges 16:28). God answered his prayer, and Samson's strength was restored for one final act of deliverance. His story demonstrates that spiritual compromise can severely damage the exercise of what God has entrusted to us, but it also shows that failure does not have to be the end. Restoration begins when we return to God in humility and allow Him to rebuild what disobedience has weakened. Restoring dominion therefore requires repentance, renewal, and a deliberate return to God's Word. James 4:7 gives a simple but powerful pattern: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Notice that submission to God comes before resistance to the devil. We cannot effectively exercise kingdom authority while deliberately resisting the authority of the King. The believer must therefore confess and forsake sin (1 John 1:9), renew the mind through God's Word (Romans 12:2), strengthen the spirit through prayer, and learn to distinguish God's will from personal ambition. Jesus demonstrated this principle when He resisted Satan in the wilderness by standing upon Scripture (Matthew 4:1–11). Dominion is restored when our lives come back into alignment with the One who gave us the mandate in the first place. Restored dominion must also be expressed through responsible action and godly influence. Joseph exercised remarkable authority in Egypt, but he did not use his position for selfish domination; he used it to preserve lives during famine (Genesis 41:38–57). Daniel likewise exercised influence in Babylon without abandoning his loyalty to God (Daniel 6:3–5). These men demonstrate that kingdom dominion is not about controlling people but about bringing God's wisdom, righteousness, excellence, and order into the places where He has positioned us. A believer exercises restored dominion when he governs his own appetites, manages his resources wisely, leads his family responsibly, resists destructive influences, serves others, makes righteous decisions, and uses his opportunities to advance God's purposes. Proverbs 16:32 reminds us that ruling one's spirit is greater than conquering a city, showing that genuine dominion begins with self-government. If you have allowed sin, fear, failure, addiction, discouragement, or spiritual negligence to weaken your sense and exercise of God-given authority, do not accept defeat as your permanent condition. Return to Christ, because He is the source of your authority and the foundation of your restoration. Remember that your dominion does not mean that you will never encounter opposition or hardship; rather, it means that circumstances, sin, fear, and the enemy do not have the final authority over a believer who remains submitted to Christ. Scripture says that God “hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6). Therefore, rise again in the authority Christ has provided, rebuild your spiritual life upon God's Word, walk in obedience, and exercise your influence with humility and wisdom. What has been weakened can be strengthened, what has been surrendered can be reclaimed, and what has been neglected can be rebuilt. Through Christ, the believer can recover the confidence and capacity to live under God's authority and fulfil the dominion mandate for which he was created. *PRAYER* Heavenly Father, thank You for the authority and responsibility You have given me through Christ. Restore every area of my life where sin, fear, failure, or disobedience has weakened my dominion. Help me to submit completely to You, stand firmly upon Your Word, resist every work of the enemy, and exercise godly authority with wisdom and humility. Let my life bring order, fruitfulness, righteousness, and glory to Your name. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
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  • Look Up

    It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses.

    But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up:

    “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.”
    ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

    As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider:

    - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King.

    - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed.

    - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever.

    - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan.

    So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
    Look Up It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses. But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up: “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider: - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King. - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed. - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever. - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan. So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
    Love
    1
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  • Look Up

    It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses.

    But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up:

    “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.”
    ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

    As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider:

    - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King.

    - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed.

    - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever.

    - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan.

    So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
    Look Up It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses. But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up: “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider: - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King. - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed. - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever. - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan. So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
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  • THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST
    TEXT: REVELATION 20:11-15
    TOPIC: THE GREAT WHITE JUDGMENT THRONE

    REVELATION 20:11-15 (NIV)

    11: Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.

    12: And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.

    13: The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what he had done.

    14: Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.

    15: If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

    THE GREAT WHITE JUDGMENT THRONE

    The time will come for all humans, living or dead, to face the Great White throne of judgment (vs.11-12) based on their deeds.

    Everyone will be judged fairly, as "all have sinned" (Rom.3:23). Believers would have been condemned but Christ's sacrifice paid their penalty (Rom.6:23).

    Regardless of how one dies, all souls will be resurrected for judgment. The lost will be judged, while redeemed believers were raised during the Rapture and previous resurrections.

    Those not found in the Book of Life will face the "second death" (vs.14-15, cf.Rev.3:5).

    QUESTION: How do you treat your faith in light of the Book of Revelation?

    PRAYER: Lord Jesus, let me not stand before the white judgment Throne for Christ's sake, Amen.
    THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST TEXT: REVELATION 20:11-15 TOPIC: THE GREAT WHITE JUDGMENT THRONE REVELATION 20:11-15 (NIV) 11: Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. 12: And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13: The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what he had done. 14: Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15: If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. THE GREAT WHITE JUDGMENT THRONE The time will come for all humans, living or dead, to face the Great White throne of judgment (vs.11-12) based on their deeds. Everyone will be judged fairly, as "all have sinned" (Rom.3:23). Believers would have been condemned but Christ's sacrifice paid their penalty (Rom.6:23). Regardless of how one dies, all souls will be resurrected for judgment. The lost will be judged, while redeemed believers were raised during the Rapture and previous resurrections. Those not found in the Book of Life will face the "second death" (vs.14-15, cf.Rev.3:5). QUESTION: How do you treat your faith in light of the Book of Revelation? PRAYER: Lord Jesus, let me not stand before the white judgment Throne for Christ's sake, Amen.
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  • *TODAY'S PROPHETIC DECLARATION - THURSDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2026.*

    *ASK WISELY, SEEK GOD'S WILL*

    Scripture:
    “And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me in a charger the head of John the Baptist.” — Mark 6:25 (KJV).

    *Reflection – Not Every Desire Should Become a Request*

    Mark 6:25 is part of the tragic account of Herod's birthday celebration, when Herodias' daughter made a request for the head of John the Baptist. Her request was driven by hatred and manipulation, and it ultimately contributed to a terrible injustice.

    This passage reminds us that desire without wisdom can lead to destruction. Not everything we want is good for us, and not every opportunity to ask for something should be taken.

    As God's children, we must learn to bring our desires before Him and ask:

    “Lord, is this truly Your will for me?”

    Our prayers should not simply be about getting everything we want. They should also be about allowing God to shape what we want.

    Today, ask God for wisdom before opportunity, discernment before decision, and God's will before personal desire.

    *Prophetic Declaration:*
    Today, I declare that God gives me wisdom to discern what is right, beneficial, and pleasing to Him. I shall not be controlled by impulsive desires or pressured into decisions that are contrary to God's will.

    I declare that before I make important requests, decisions, commitments, or promises, I shall seek God's wisdom and direction.

    Today, the Lord shall purify my desires. May He remove every ambition that would take me away from His purpose and replace it with desires that glorify His name.

    I declare that my words shall be guided by wisdom. I shall not use my words to destroy, manipulate, insult, discourage, or harm others. My mouth shall become an instrument of grace, truth, encouragement, and peace.

    I proclaim divine discernment over my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny. May God help me recognize what is good, what is dangerous, what is timely, and what is not His will for me.

    I declare that I shall not allow anger, bitterness, envy, revenge, pride, or pressure to determine my actions. The Holy Spirit shall govern my heart and guide my decisions.

    Today, I receive grace to say “No” to opportunities that appear attractive but would compromise my values, character, or relationship with God.

    I declare that God shall give me the wisdom to recognize the difference between an open door and a tempting distraction. I will not pursue everything simply because it is available to me.

    I proclaim that my prayers shall increasingly align with God's purposes. Instead of demanding my own way, I will trust the Lord to give me what is truly best according to His wisdom.

    I declare that every decision I make today shall be guided by truth, wisdom, love, integrity, and prayer.

    May my life never become a source of harm to others through careless words or selfish desires. Instead, may I become a vessel through which God's goodness, compassion, and truth flow.

    I will ask wisely.
    I will speak carefully.
    I will choose prayerfully.
    I will act righteously.
    I will seek God's will above my own.

    Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!

    *Action Steps for today:*
    Begin with prayer: Ask God for wisdom and discernment before making decisions today.

    Read Mark 6:14–29: Reflect on the consequences of Herodias' bitterness, Herod's impulsiveness, and the misuse of power.

    Declare: “Lord, purify my desires and guide my decisions according to Your perfect will.”

    Think before speaking: Before making a request, promise, response, or commitment, pause and consider its consequences.

    Examine your desires: Ask yourself, “Is what I want consistent with God's Word, love, wisdom, and righteousness?”

    Reject destructive emotions: Refuse to allow anger, revenge, jealousy, pride, or bitterness to control your actions.

    Seek godly counsel: When facing an important decision, pray and seek advice from mature and trustworthy believers.

    End with thanksgiving: Thank God for His wisdom and ask Him to continue directing your steps.

    *Prayer:*
    Heavenly Father,
    Thank You for Your Word, which teaches me wisdom and helps me understand the consequences of my choices.

    Lord, give me a discerning heart. Teach me to distinguish between what I want and what You desire for me.

    Purify my motives and desires. Remove from me every ambition, anger, bitterness, pride, envy, or selfish desire that can lead me away from Your purpose.

    Guard my mouth. Let my words bring life rather than destruction, encouragement rather than discouragement, and peace rather than conflict.

    Give me wisdom in my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and every decision I make.

    Help me not to pursue every opportunity simply because it is available. Give me discernment to know which doors are from You and which ones I should leave closed.

    When I am under pressure, help me remain calm. When I am angry, help me exercise self-control. When I am uncertain, help me wait for Your direction.

    Lord, let my desires become aligned with Your will. May I never allow personal ambition to become more important than obedience to You.

    Give me the wisdom to ask wisely, speak carefully, and act righteously.

    May Your will be done in my life, above my own desires and plans.

    In Jesus' mighty name. Amen.

    *Blessing for today:*
    May the Lord fill you with wisdom, discernment, self-control, and spiritual understanding.

    May He guide every request you make, every word you speak, and every decision you take.

    May God protect you from impulsive choices, destructive relationships, harmful influences, and opportunities that would take you away from His purpose.

    May your family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny be governed by divine wisdom.

    May the Lord give you grace to recognize the right opportunities, courage to reject the wrong ones, and patience to wait for His perfect timing.

    May your desires be purified.
    May your words be gracious.
    May your decisions be wise.
    May your motives be pure.
    May God's will prevail in your life.

    “I WILL THAT THOU GIVE ME…” — MARK 6:25

    May the Lord teach you not only what to ask for, but also what is truly worth asking for. May His wisdom guide you today and always.

    Good morning beloved and have a blessed, wise, discerning, and purpose-driven 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 - THURSDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2026.* 🌟*ASK WISELY, SEEK GOD'S WILL*🌟 📖 Scripture: “And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me in a charger the head of John the Baptist.” — Mark 6:25 (KJV). 🔥*Reflection – Not Every Desire Should Become a Request* Mark 6:25 is part of the tragic account of Herod's birthday celebration, when Herodias' daughter made a request for the head of John the Baptist. Her request was driven by hatred and manipulation, and it ultimately contributed to a terrible injustice. This passage reminds us that desire without wisdom can lead to destruction. Not everything we want is good for us, and not every opportunity to ask for something should be taken. As God's children, we must learn to bring our desires before Him and ask: “Lord, is this truly Your will for me?” Our prayers should not simply be about getting everything we want. They should also be about allowing God to shape what we want. Today, ask God for wisdom before opportunity, discernment before decision, and God's will before personal desire. 🔊*Prophetic Declaration:* Today, I declare that God gives me wisdom to discern what is right, beneficial, and pleasing to Him. I shall not be controlled by impulsive desires or pressured into decisions that are contrary to God's will. I declare that before I make important requests, decisions, commitments, or promises, I shall seek God's wisdom and direction. Today, the Lord shall purify my desires. May He remove every ambition that would take me away from His purpose and replace it with desires that glorify His name. I declare that my words shall be guided by wisdom. I shall not use my words to destroy, manipulate, insult, discourage, or harm others. My mouth shall become an instrument of grace, truth, encouragement, and peace. I proclaim divine discernment over my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny. May God help me recognize what is good, what is dangerous, what is timely, and what is not His will for me. I declare that I shall not allow anger, bitterness, envy, revenge, pride, or pressure to determine my actions. The Holy Spirit shall govern my heart and guide my decisions. Today, I receive grace to say “No” to opportunities that appear attractive but would compromise my values, character, or relationship with God. I declare that God shall give me the wisdom to recognize the difference between an open door and a tempting distraction. I will not pursue everything simply because it is available to me. I proclaim that my prayers shall increasingly align with God's purposes. Instead of demanding my own way, I will trust the Lord to give me what is truly best according to His wisdom. I declare that every decision I make today shall be guided by truth, wisdom, love, integrity, and prayer. May my life never become a source of harm to others through careless words or selfish desires. Instead, may I become a vessel through which God's goodness, compassion, and truth flow. I will ask wisely. I will speak carefully. I will choose prayerfully. I will act righteously. I will seek God's will above my own. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen! 🙏🔥 ✅*Action Steps for today:* 1️⃣ Begin with prayer: Ask God for wisdom and discernment before making decisions today. 2️⃣ Read Mark 6:14–29: Reflect on the consequences of Herodias' bitterness, Herod's impulsiveness, and the misuse of power. 3️⃣ Declare: “Lord, purify my desires and guide my decisions according to Your perfect will.” 4️⃣ Think before speaking: Before making a request, promise, response, or commitment, pause and consider its consequences. 5️⃣ Examine your desires: Ask yourself, “Is what I want consistent with God's Word, love, wisdom, and righteousness?” 6️⃣ Reject destructive emotions: Refuse to allow anger, revenge, jealousy, pride, or bitterness to control your actions. 7️⃣ Seek godly counsel: When facing an important decision, pray and seek advice from mature and trustworthy believers. 8️⃣ End with thanksgiving: Thank God for His wisdom and ask Him to continue directing your steps. 🔥*Prayer:* Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Word, which teaches me wisdom and helps me understand the consequences of my choices. Lord, give me a discerning heart. Teach me to distinguish between what I want and what You desire for me. Purify my motives and desires. Remove from me every ambition, anger, bitterness, pride, envy, or selfish desire that can lead me away from Your purpose. Guard my mouth. Let my words bring life rather than destruction, encouragement rather than discouragement, and peace rather than conflict. Give me wisdom in my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and every decision I make. Help me not to pursue every opportunity simply because it is available. Give me discernment to know which doors are from You and which ones I should leave closed. When I am under pressure, help me remain calm. When I am angry, help me exercise self-control. When I am uncertain, help me wait for Your direction. Lord, let my desires become aligned with Your will. May I never allow personal ambition to become more important than obedience to You. Give me the wisdom to ask wisely, speak carefully, and act righteously. May Your will be done in my life, above my own desires and plans. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen. 🙏🕊️ 🌿*Blessing for today:* May the Lord fill you with wisdom, discernment, self-control, and spiritual understanding. May He guide every request you make, every word you speak, and every decision you take. May God protect you from impulsive choices, destructive relationships, harmful influences, and opportunities that would take you away from His purpose. May your family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and destiny be governed by divine wisdom. May the Lord give you grace to recognize the right opportunities, courage to reject the wrong ones, and patience to wait for His perfect timing. 🌟May your desires be purified. 🕊️ May your words be gracious. 🔥 May your decisions be wise. 🙏 May your motives be pure. ✨ May God's will prevail in your life. 🌟 “I WILL THAT THOU GIVE ME…” — MARK 6:25 May the Lord teach you not only what to ask for, but also what is truly worth asking for. May His wisdom guide you today and always. Good morning beloved and have a blessed, wise, discerning, and purpose-driven 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 Comentários 0 Compartilhamentos 18 Visualizações
  • Well, I dont like wars and it seems like the world is in fire right now. Us believers have to stay strong and have faith in God Almighty. Islam is a religion from the devil. i am not going to claim i kmow alot about the religion however. I believe in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit and you guys no why. Jesus was sent to due for us Glory be to God. there are some very evil countries on this earth and matter of fact they all are sinners. but with that said some are more evil than others and think we are pretty much know the ones that are alot of these countries want to drive Israel into the sea and kill them this is talked about this in the Bible . we as Christians can't fix this world all we can do is pray God's will be done .
    Well, I dont like wars and it seems like the world is in fire right now. Us believers have to stay strong and have faith in God Almighty. Islam is a religion from the devil. i am not going to claim i kmow alot about the religion however. I believe in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit and you guys no why. Jesus was sent to due for us Glory be to God. there are some very evil countries on this earth and matter of fact they all are sinners. but with that said some are more evil than others and think we are pretty much know the ones that are alot of these countries want to drive Israel into the sea and kill them this is talked about this in the Bible . we as Christians can't fix this world all we can do is pray God's will be done .
    0 Comentários 0 Compartilhamentos 15 Visualizações
  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY. THURSDAY AUGUST 27, 2O26.
    "THERE'S NOBODY LIKE HIM! (2)"
    ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom...’ Proverbs 9:10 NKJV

    IN A world out of control, we like a god we can control: a comforting presence who blesses, provides, and advises. Kind of like ‘God in a box.’ But when it comes to Christ, no box works. His contemporaries designed an assortment of boxes for Him, but He didn’t fit in any of their boxes. They called Him a revolutionary, but He paid taxes. They labelled Him a country carpenter, but He confounded scholars. They came to see His miracles, but He refused to entertain them. He was a Jew who attracted Gentiles, a rabbi who gave up on synagogues, a holy man who hung around with prostitutes. In a male-dominated society, He recruited females. In an anti-Roman culture, He opted not to denounce Rome. He talked like a king yet lived like a pilgrim. People tried to put Him in a ‘box,’ but they couldn’t. And we can’t either; indeed we must not! ‘…Skilled living gets its start in the Fear-of-God, insight into life from knowing a Holy God…’ (Proverbs 9:7-12TM). Most of our fears are unhealthy. They rob us of peace and joy. But the fear of the Lord does the opposite. One author writes: ‘There is nothing neurotic about fearing God. The neurotic thing is not to be afraid, or to be afraid of the wrong thing. That is why God chooses to be known to us, so that we may stop being afraid of the wrong thing. When God is fully revealed to us and we ‘get it,’ then we experience the conversion of our fear…‘fear of the Lord’ is the deeply sane recognition that we are not God.’

    Bible In A Year: Ezek 10-13, Matt 21:18-32, Ps 84, Pro 19:11. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation

    *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.

    MD.ii. [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

    THURSDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2026.

    *THE DANGER OF RELAPSING INTO RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS WITHOUT THE TRANSFORMING GOSPEL*

    *TEXT:* GALATIANS 4:8-13.

    8 Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.
    9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?
    10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.
    11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.
    12 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all.
    13 Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.

    *Timeless Truth:*_"But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?"_ (Galatians 4:9).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    Religious traditions, as described by D.E. Sherkat,  "are constellations of beliefs, practices and institutions used to describe a common type of religiosity. Religious traditions are broad understandings of the supernatural produced in societies and practiced by groups and individuals". For the sake of continuity, religious traditions are codified in texts considered sacred by individuals and institutions that adhere to and produce that form of religion. Once a conviction is formed on religious traditions, it is very difficult for adherents to give them up for another revelation even when common sense says it is wrong. It has a blinding effect especially, when it is wrong. For example, in the Christian faith, you can see some traditions that worship idols, but never see anything wrong with it, but only explain away such idol worship as traditions handed over by the "elders". Some of the Jews had that problem in the Early Church. The legalistic traditions of the law of Moses was so much built into their conviction that giving it up totally for the gospel was a problem to them. All explanations by enlightened and anointed Christ appointed Apostles fell into deaf ears. At best they were willing to believe the gospel subject to the legalistic tradition. They saw their legalistic traditions as more superior to the gospel and they were willing to continue in it in addition to the gospel. The Galatians believers were almost relapsing into the law of Moses and Paul the apostle had to set out the danger of exalting or mixing any religious traditions with or above the pure gospel.

    *1. The Past Graceless Life*

    a. There is always a clear inward and outward distinction between life before Christ and life after Christ. A reminder of this transformative experience in Christ is always needful so as not to lose faith. Paul the apostle reminded them that when they knew not God, they *"did service unto them which by nature are no gods"*. If you cannot see this transformational and supernatural distinction in your life, it is likely you are just practicing religion and have not experienced the new life in Christ. Before knowing Christ, the Galatians were enslaved to false gods and powerless spiritual systems. Apostle Paul reminded them that ignorance of the true God results in bondage. A life without Christ is a graceless life because no amount of religion can save the soul apart from the redeeming grace of Jesus. We too must never forget the pit from which God's mercy brought us out from, lest we become proud or drift into lifeless religion.
    b. The transforming gospel of Jesus Christ delivers sinners not only from the bondage of sin, but also from the bondage of empty religious traditions. The Galatian believers had received salvation by grace through faith, yet they were being tempted to return to legalistic practices as though human observances could perfect what Christ had accomplished. Paul the apostle lovingly warned them that abandoning the simplicity of the gospel for religious rituals is a dangerous spiritual relapse. Every believer must continually stand in the liberty of Christ and resist every tradition that replaces grace with legalism. There are also religious and denominational traditions that make the gospel of Christ of no effect in the life of a person. Inasmuch as you glue to those traditions that contradict the gospel message, the new life in Christ will continue to elude you. When the pure gospel is made to cohabit with denominational or religious traditions that do not put Christ in its rightful place, the gospel will lose its transforming power.

    *Question*

    What are some of the religious or denominational traditions that make salvation experience impossible in the life of a religious person? Have you remembered that it was God's grace, not religious performance, that brought you into salvation?

    *2. The Pure Gospel Lost*

    a. Apostle Paul expresses deep concern that those who had known God were turning again to weak and beggarly religious observances. Why call those traditions as religious and beggarly elements? They are weak because those Mosaic rules and rituals have zero power to save, justify or change a human heart. They are beggarly
    because they are "poverty-stricken" or bankrupt and offer no spiritual riches compared to Christ. They are called elements because they are merely elementary things given in the law of Moses to reveal the necessity of Christ without really maturing in Christ.
    b. They began emphasizing special days, months, seasons and years as though these could secure righteousness before God. The danger was not in observing days itself, but in trusting such practices as a means of acceptance with God. Whenever Christ is replaced by rituals, the purity of the gospel is compromised and spiritual growth is hindered.

    *Question*

    Is your confidence resting in Christ alone or in religious activities that cannot transform the heart?

    *3. The Persuasion to Part with Legalism*

    a. With tenderness, Paul the apostle pleads, *“Be as I am,”* calling the Galatians back to the freedom of grace. Apostle Paul was entrenched in *"the traditions of the elders"* which he even claimed to be more fanatical than all his equals. When he received Christ, he received Him solely and totally without adding the rudiments of the law of Moses or legalistic traditions. He parted ways with those things totally. He admonished them to do the same because it is in doing that, that they can enjoy the life of Christ to the fullest. Rather than condemning them harshly, he appeals through love and reminds them of the sacrificial relationship they once shared during his ministry among them. *"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain"*. When you got saved by faith in Christ alone and you begin to attach some things as additions that will make salvation complete, your faith has shifted from Christ and you lose your salvation and the presence of Christ within. True spiritual leadership persuades people away from legalism and continually points them back to Christ. The transforming gospel produces loving obedience not compulsory religion.

    *Question*

    Are you willing to abandon every legalistic attitude and embrace the freedom and transforming power of the gospel?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Father, thank You for saving me by grace through the transforming gospel of Jesus Christ.
    2.Lord, deliver me from every form of empty religion and traditions with all its legalistic bondage.
    3.Father, help me to remain steadfast in the liberty and truth of the pure gospel and be not drifted away from Christ.
    4.Lord, deliver those who are deceived by religious traditions that are contrary to the pure gospel .

    *HYMN:* I have no other plea

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* ZEPHANIAH 1-3.
    [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026```


    *BETWEEN JUDAIZERS AND THE JUSTIFIER* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:GALATIANS 4:8-13```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain" (GALATIANS 4:11).*_

    *John Newton's conversion as his foundering, wreck-bound ship sailed into the eye of the storm on a turbulent, raging sea on the 10th of March 1748, and his unflinching adherence to the faith till death remains a classical model in the evangelical circle. Newton never forgot how God mercifully spared his life, saved his soul and delivered him from wasteful living and a blasphemous lifestyle. He lived the rest of his life juxtaposing what he had previously been with the transformation God had wrought in him. To keep this memory alive, he wrote out the fifteenth verse of the fifteenth chapter of Deuteronomy in bold letters and fastened it to the wall of his study.*

    *Had the Galatians exercised Newton's wisdom and spiritual intelligence, a thrilling testimony would have trailed their Christian walk. They had spent their lives, plumbing the depths of human sin and degradation of idolatry, before Paul reached them with the gospel. They responded positively to the gospel, became truly converted and free from an idolatrous lifestyle. Of them, Paul said they "received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus". But their experiences became short-lived. Glib-tongued Judaizers invaded the Galatian Church and swayed the nascent assembly off the pure New Testament faith Paul had laboured to teach and impart.*

    *Would Paul be cowed down, cave in or contend with the detractors of faith? It hurt him to see these Gentile Christians drawn into the spider-web of Judaizing Christians once again. Paul, after the manner of a passionate pastor, pleads with the Galatians in this letter not to return to their former spiritual slavery but rather break away from every Pharisaic bondage and enjoy the liberty Christ gave them freely. He wants them to understand their new identity - saints saved by grace, void of any allegiance to a race, culture or tradition.*

    *These are instructive scriptures for both shepherds and the flock in the fold. While shepherds and leaders of God's people diligently labour and watch over the flock, fencing out all modern Judaizers, every believer has the responsibility to resist the subtle penetration of the enemies of the cross and make an intelligent choice between Judaizers and the Justifier. We must, in the words of Christ, "Watch and pray" at all times to avoid being beguiled.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*You can never be deceived without your consent.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *ZEPHANIAH 1-3*


    Between Judaizers And The Justifier
    https://dailymanna.app//
    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 246: O BROTHER, LIFE'S JOURNEY BEGINNING; GHS 6: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION; AND GHS 77: I HAVE DECIDED TO FOLLOW JESUS*
    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#DailyManna27thAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*HIGHER EVERYDY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_

    ✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

    ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *FORNICATION FORBIDDEN* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:1 THESSALONIANS 4:1-5```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication" (1 THESSALONIANS 4:3).*_

    *Despite the attendant shame, sorrow, and disgrace that fornication brings to those who indulge in it, some youths still engage in this heinous sin. Celebrities of note, kings, paupers, princes and professors have become objects of ridicule as a result of fornication. Fornication has brought many people from all societal strata to degradation and disrepute; from fame to folly, and from honour to dishonour.*

    *Believers must abstain from all appearances of evil. Fornication is evil. It is a deadly poison. Do not meddle with immorality. Abandon anything that has the tendency to inflame the sinful passion in you as a holy Christian. Amorous discussion, romantic literature, comics, posters, and videos must be avoided like leprosy.*

    *As you flee from fornication, you must be daring and resolute to resist it, no matter the person who is making the attempt to defile you, to avoid being consumed. Sinful body contact with the opposite gender is anathema. Never permit defiling behaviours like patting, caressing, hugging and kissing because they are booby traps. They are the crucible where fornication is bred. Avoid them like plagues.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*Never permit defiling behaviours.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Dare to be another Joseph - flee fornication!*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to keep myself pure.*_



    Fornication Forbidden
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#HigherEveryday27thAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣)*_

    🏼🏼🏼🏼🏼‍

    ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *JOCHEBED - A COURAGEOUS MOTHER* 🫵🏽🏻‍🏻‍🏻‍🏽🏻‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```EXODUS 2:1-10;NUMBERS 26:59```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"And the name of Amram's wife was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, whom her mother bare to Levi in Egypt: and she bare unto Amram Aaron and Moses, and Miriam their sister" (Numbers 26:59).*_



    Jochebed was the mother of the great and courageous leader - Moses, in the Bible. She was the mother of three prominent children - Miriam, Aaron and Moses. She gave birth to Moses at a time when Pharaoh made a decree to kill every Hebrew male baby to stop their growth and expansion.

    In spite of the challenge, Jochebed was willing to risk everything for her child's safety. She hid him for the first three months and trusted God in the face of danger and uncertainty. She took another bold step of faith by placing him in a basket by the bank of River Nile.

    By divine arrangement, Moses was found and adopted by Pharaoh's daughter. He still ended up with his mother who taught him the values of faith, courage, selflessness, humility and resilience, thereby preparing him for his role as a future leader.

    *Jochebed knew her God, and because she did not give up too soon, God rewarded her courage with a son who did exploits for God. You too must be courageous to stand for the word of God, no matter the challenge. God will bless you in return.*



    ```rayer:``` _*God, please give me the courage to see situations through the eye of faith and not walk by sight.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *Exodus 6:20*


    Jochebed - A Courageous Mother
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#SincereMilk27thAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]

    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

    THURSDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2026.

    *THE DANGER OF RELAPSING INTO RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS WITHOUT THE TRANSFORMING GOSPEL*

    *TEXT:* GALATIANS 4:8-13.

    8 Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.
    9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?
    10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.
    11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.
    12 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all.
    13 Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.

    *Timeless Truth:*_"But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?"_ (Galatians 4:9).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    Religious traditions, as described by D.E. Sherkat,  "are constellations of beliefs, practices and institutions used to describe a common type of religiosity. Religious traditions are broad understandings of the supernatural produced in societies and practiced by groups and individuals". For the sake of continuity, religious traditions are codified in texts considered sacred by individuals and institutions that adhere to and produce that form of religion. Once a conviction is formed on religious traditions, it is very difficult for adherents to give them up for another revelation even when common sense says it is wrong. It has a blinding effect especially, when it is wrong. For example, in the Christian faith, you can see some traditions that worship idols, but never see anything wrong with it, but only explain away such idol worship as traditions handed over by the "elders". Some of the Jews had that problem in the Early Church. The legalistic traditions of the law of Moses was so much built into their conviction that giving it up totally for the gospel was a problem to them. All explanations by enlightened and anointed Christ appointed Apostles fell into deaf ears. At best they were willing to believe the gospel subject to the legalistic tradition. They saw their legalistic traditions as more superior to the gospel and they were willing to continue in it in addition to the gospel. The Galatians believers were almost relapsing into the law of Moses and Paul the apostle had to set out the danger of exalting or mixing any religious traditions with or above the pure gospel.

    *1. The Past Graceless Life*

    a. There is always a clear inward and outward distinction between life before Christ and life after Christ. A reminder of this transformative experience in Christ is always needful so as not to lose faith. Paul the apostle reminded them that when they knew not God, they *"did service unto them which by nature are no gods"*. If you cannot see this transformational and supernatural distinction in your life, it is likely you are just practicing religion and have not experienced the new life in Christ. Before knowing Christ, the Galatians were enslaved to false gods and powerless spiritual systems. Apostle Paul reminded them that ignorance of the true God results in bondage. A life without Christ is a graceless life because no amount of religion can save the soul apart from the redeeming grace of Jesus. We too must never forget the pit from which God's mercy brought us out from, lest we become proud or drift into lifeless religion.
    b. The transforming gospel of Jesus Christ delivers sinners not only from the bondage of sin, but also from the bondage of empty religious traditions. The Galatian believers had received salvation by grace through faith, yet they were being tempted to return to legalistic practices as though human observances could perfect what Christ had accomplished. Paul the apostle lovingly warned them that abandoning the simplicity of the gospel for religious rituals is a dangerous spiritual relapse. Every believer must continually stand in the liberty of Christ and resist every tradition that replaces grace with legalism. There are also religious and denominational traditions that make the gospel of Christ of no effect in the life of a person. Inasmuch as you glue to those traditions that contradict the gospel message, the new life in Christ will continue to elude you. When the pure gospel is made to cohabit with denominational or religious traditions that do not put Christ in its rightful place, the gospel will lose its transforming power.

    *Question*

    What are some of the religious or denominational traditions that make salvation experience impossible in the life of a religious person? Have you remembered that it was God's grace, not religious performance, that brought you into salvation?

    *2. The Pure Gospel Lost*

    a. Apostle Paul expresses deep concern that those who had known God were turning again to weak and beggarly religious observances. Why call those traditions as religious and beggarly elements? They are weak because those Mosaic rules and rituals have zero power to save, justify or change a human heart. They are beggarly
    because they are "poverty-stricken" or bankrupt and offer no spiritual riches compared to Christ. They are called elements because they are merely elementary things given in the law of Moses to reveal the necessity of Christ without really maturing in Christ.
    b. They began emphasizing special days, months, seasons and years as though these could secure righteousness before God. The danger was not in observing days itself, but in trusting such practices as a means of acceptance with God. Whenever Christ is replaced by rituals, the purity of the gospel is compromised and spiritual growth is hindered.

    *Question*

    Is your confidence resting in Christ alone or in religious activities that cannot transform the heart?

    *3. The Persuasion to Part with Legalism*

    a. With tenderness, Paul the apostle pleads, *“Be as I am,”* calling the Galatians back to the freedom of grace. Apostle Paul was entrenched in *"the traditions of the elders"* which he even claimed to be more fanatical than all his equals. When he received Christ, he received Him solely and totally without adding the rudiments of the law of Moses or legalistic traditions. He parted ways with those things totally. He admonished them to do the same because it is in doing that, that they can enjoy the life of Christ to the fullest. Rather than condemning them harshly, he appeals through love and reminds them of the sacrificial relationship they once shared during his ministry among them. *"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain"*. When you got saved by faith in Christ alone and you begin to attach some things as additions that will make salvation complete, your faith has shifted from Christ and you lose your salvation and the presence of Christ within. True spiritual leadership persuades people away from legalism and continually points them back to Christ. The transforming gospel produces loving obedience not compulsory religion.

    *Question*

    Are you willing to abandon every legalistic attitude and embrace the freedom and transforming power of the gospel?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Father, thank You for saving me by grace through the transforming gospel of Jesus Christ.
    2.Lord, deliver me from every form of empty religion and traditions with all its legalistic bondage.
    3.Father, help me to remain steadfast in the liberty and truth of the pure gospel and be not drifted away from Christ.
    4.Lord, deliver those who are deceived by religious traditions that are contrary to the pure gospel .

    *HYMN:* I have no other plea

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* ZEPHANIAH 1-3.
    [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026```


    *BETWEEN JUDAIZERS AND THE JUSTIFIER* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:GALATIANS 4:8-13```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain" (GALATIANS 4:11).*_

    *John Newton's conversion as his foundering, wreck-bound ship sailed into the eye of the storm on a turbulent, raging sea on the 10th of March 1748, and his unflinching adherence to the faith till death remains a classical model in the evangelical circle. Newton never forgot how God mercifully spared his life, saved his soul and delivered him from wasteful living and a blasphemous lifestyle. He lived the rest of his life juxtaposing what he had previously been with the transformation God had wrought in him. To keep this memory alive, he wrote out the fifteenth verse of the fifteenth chapter of Deuteronomy in bold letters and fastened it to the wall of his study.*

    *Had the Galatians exercised Newton's wisdom and spiritual intelligence, a thrilling testimony would have trailed their Christian walk. They had spent their lives, plumbing the depths of human sin and degradation of idolatry, before Paul reached them with the gospel. They responded positively to the gospel, became truly converted and free from an idolatrous lifestyle. Of them, Paul said they "received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus". But their experiences became short-lived. Glib-tongued Judaizers invaded the Galatian Church and swayed the nascent assembly off the pure New Testament faith Paul had laboured to teach and impart.*

    *Would Paul be cowed down, cave in or contend with the detractors of faith? It hurt him to see these Gentile Christians drawn into the spider-web of Judaizing Christians once again. Paul, after the manner of a passionate pastor, pleads with the Galatians in this letter not to return to their former spiritual slavery but rather break away from every Pharisaic bondage and enjoy the liberty Christ gave them freely. He wants them to understand their new identity - saints saved by grace, void of any allegiance to a race, culture or tradition.*

    *These are instructive scriptures for both shepherds and the flock in the fold. While shepherds and leaders of God's people diligently labour and watch over the flock, fencing out all modern Judaizers, every believer has the responsibility to resist the subtle penetration of the enemies of the cross and make an intelligent choice between Judaizers and the Justifier. We must, in the words of Christ, "Watch and pray" at all times to avoid being beguiled.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*You can never be deceived without your consent.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *ZEPHANIAH 1-3*


    Between Judaizers And The Justifier
    https://dailymanna.app//
    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 246: O BROTHER, LIFE'S JOURNEY BEGINNING; GHS 6: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION; AND GHS 77: I HAVE DECIDED TO FOLLOW JESUS*
    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#DailyManna27thAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
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    *#LeadershipNuggets*
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    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*HIGHER EVERYDY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_

    ✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

    ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *FORNICATION FORBIDDEN* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:1 THESSALONIANS 4:1-5```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication" (1 THESSALONIANS 4:3).*_

    *Despite the attendant shame, sorrow, and disgrace that fornication brings to those who indulge in it, some youths still engage in this heinous sin. Celebrities of note, kings, paupers, princes and professors have become objects of ridicule as a result of fornication. Fornication has brought many people from all societal strata to degradation and disrepute; from fame to folly, and from honour to dishonour.*

    *Believers must abstain from all appearances of evil. Fornication is evil. It is a deadly poison. Do not meddle with immorality. Abandon anything that has the tendency to inflame the sinful passion in you as a holy Christian. Amorous discussion, romantic literature, comics, posters, and videos must be avoided like leprosy.*

    *As you flee from fornication, you must be daring and resolute to resist it, no matter the person who is making the attempt to defile you, to avoid being consumed. Sinful body contact with the opposite gender is anathema. Never permit defiling behaviours like patting, caressing, hugging and kissing because they are booby traps. They are the crucible where fornication is bred. Avoid them like plagues.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*Never permit defiling behaviours.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Dare to be another Joseph - flee fornication!*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to keep myself pure.*_



    Fornication Forbidden
    https://dailymanna.app//

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    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣)*_

    🏼🏼🏼🏼🏼‍

    ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *JOCHEBED - A COURAGEOUS MOTHER* 🫵🏽🏻‍🏻‍🏻‍🏽🏻‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```EXODUS 2:1-10;NUMBERS 26:59```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"And the name of Amram's wife was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, whom her mother bare to Levi in Egypt: and she bare unto Amram Aaron and Moses, and Miriam their sister" (Numbers 26:59).*_



    Jochebed was the mother of the great and courageous leader - Moses, in the Bible. She was the mother of three prominent children - Miriam, Aaron and Moses. She gave birth to Moses at a time when Pharaoh made a decree to kill every Hebrew male baby to stop their growth and expansion.

    In spite of the challenge, Jochebed was willing to risk everything for her child's safety. She hid him for the first three months and trusted God in the face of danger and uncertainty. She took another bold step of faith by placing him in a basket by the bank of River Nile.

    By divine arrangement, Moses was found and adopted by Pharaoh's daughter. He still ended up with his mother who taught him the values of faith, courage, selflessness, humility and resilience, thereby preparing him for his role as a future leader.

    *Jochebed knew her God, and because she did not give up too soon, God rewarded her courage with a son who did exploits for God. You too must be courageous to stand for the word of God, no matter the challenge. God will bless you in return.*



    ```rayer:``` _*God, please give me the courage to see situations through the eye of faith and not walk by sight.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *Exodus 6:20*


    Jochebed - A Courageous Mother
    https://dailymanna.app//

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    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i.😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY. THURSDAY AUGUST 27, 2O26. "THERE'S NOBODY LIKE HIM! (2)" ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom...’ Proverbs 9:10 NKJV IN A world out of control, we like a god we can control: a comforting presence who blesses, provides, and advises. Kind of like ‘God in a box.’ But when it comes to Christ, no box works. His contemporaries designed an assortment of boxes for Him, but He didn’t fit in any of their boxes. They called Him a revolutionary, but He paid taxes. They labelled Him a country carpenter, but He confounded scholars. They came to see His miracles, but He refused to entertain them. He was a Jew who attracted Gentiles, a rabbi who gave up on synagogues, a holy man who hung around with prostitutes. In a male-dominated society, He recruited females. In an anti-Roman culture, He opted not to denounce Rome. He talked like a king yet lived like a pilgrim. People tried to put Him in a ‘box,’ but they couldn’t. And we can’t either; indeed we must not! ‘…Skilled living gets its start in the Fear-of-God, insight into life from knowing a Holy God…’ (Proverbs 9:7-12TM). Most of our fears are unhealthy. They rob us of peace and joy. But the fear of the Lord does the opposite. One author writes: ‘There is nothing neurotic about fearing God. The neurotic thing is not to be afraid, or to be afraid of the wrong thing. That is why God chooses to be known to us, so that we may stop being afraid of the wrong thing. When God is fully revealed to us and we ‘get it,’ then we experience the conversion of our fear…‘fear of the Lord’ is the deeply sane recognition that we are not God.’ Bible In A Year: Ezek 10-13, Matt 21:18-32, Ps 84, Pro 19:11. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068. MD.ii. [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* THURSDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2026. *THE DANGER OF RELAPSING INTO RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS WITHOUT THE TRANSFORMING GOSPEL* *TEXT:* GALATIANS 4:8-13. 8 Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. 9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? 10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. 11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. 12 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. 13 Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. *Timeless Truth:*_"But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?"_ (Galatians 4:9). *INTRODUCTION* Religious traditions, as described by D.E. Sherkat,  "are constellations of beliefs, practices and institutions used to describe a common type of religiosity. Religious traditions are broad understandings of the supernatural produced in societies and practiced by groups and individuals". For the sake of continuity, religious traditions are codified in texts considered sacred by individuals and institutions that adhere to and produce that form of religion. Once a conviction is formed on religious traditions, it is very difficult for adherents to give them up for another revelation even when common sense says it is wrong. It has a blinding effect especially, when it is wrong. For example, in the Christian faith, you can see some traditions that worship idols, but never see anything wrong with it, but only explain away such idol worship as traditions handed over by the "elders". Some of the Jews had that problem in the Early Church. The legalistic traditions of the law of Moses was so much built into their conviction that giving it up totally for the gospel was a problem to them. All explanations by enlightened and anointed Christ appointed Apostles fell into deaf ears. At best they were willing to believe the gospel subject to the legalistic tradition. They saw their legalistic traditions as more superior to the gospel and they were willing to continue in it in addition to the gospel. The Galatians believers were almost relapsing into the law of Moses and Paul the apostle had to set out the danger of exalting or mixing any religious traditions with or above the pure gospel. *1. The Past Graceless Life* a. There is always a clear inward and outward distinction between life before Christ and life after Christ. A reminder of this transformative experience in Christ is always needful so as not to lose faith. Paul the apostle reminded them that when they knew not God, they *"did service unto them which by nature are no gods"*. If you cannot see this transformational and supernatural distinction in your life, it is likely you are just practicing religion and have not experienced the new life in Christ. Before knowing Christ, the Galatians were enslaved to false gods and powerless spiritual systems. Apostle Paul reminded them that ignorance of the true God results in bondage. A life without Christ is a graceless life because no amount of religion can save the soul apart from the redeeming grace of Jesus. We too must never forget the pit from which God's mercy brought us out from, lest we become proud or drift into lifeless religion. b. The transforming gospel of Jesus Christ delivers sinners not only from the bondage of sin, but also from the bondage of empty religious traditions. The Galatian believers had received salvation by grace through faith, yet they were being tempted to return to legalistic practices as though human observances could perfect what Christ had accomplished. Paul the apostle lovingly warned them that abandoning the simplicity of the gospel for religious rituals is a dangerous spiritual relapse. Every believer must continually stand in the liberty of Christ and resist every tradition that replaces grace with legalism. There are also religious and denominational traditions that make the gospel of Christ of no effect in the life of a person. Inasmuch as you glue to those traditions that contradict the gospel message, the new life in Christ will continue to elude you. When the pure gospel is made to cohabit with denominational or religious traditions that do not put Christ in its rightful place, the gospel will lose its transforming power. *Question* What are some of the religious or denominational traditions that make salvation experience impossible in the life of a religious person? Have you remembered that it was God's grace, not religious performance, that brought you into salvation? *2. The Pure Gospel Lost* a. Apostle Paul expresses deep concern that those who had known God were turning again to weak and beggarly religious observances. Why call those traditions as religious and beggarly elements? They are weak because those Mosaic rules and rituals have zero power to save, justify or change a human heart. They are beggarly because they are "poverty-stricken" or bankrupt and offer no spiritual riches compared to Christ. They are called elements because they are merely elementary things given in the law of Moses to reveal the necessity of Christ without really maturing in Christ. b. They began emphasizing special days, months, seasons and years as though these could secure righteousness before God. The danger was not in observing days itself, but in trusting such practices as a means of acceptance with God. Whenever Christ is replaced by rituals, the purity of the gospel is compromised and spiritual growth is hindered. *Question* Is your confidence resting in Christ alone or in religious activities that cannot transform the heart? *3. The Persuasion to Part with Legalism* a. With tenderness, Paul the apostle pleads, *“Be as I am,”* calling the Galatians back to the freedom of grace. Apostle Paul was entrenched in *"the traditions of the elders"* which he even claimed to be more fanatical than all his equals. When he received Christ, he received Him solely and totally without adding the rudiments of the law of Moses or legalistic traditions. He parted ways with those things totally. He admonished them to do the same because it is in doing that, that they can enjoy the life of Christ to the fullest. Rather than condemning them harshly, he appeals through love and reminds them of the sacrificial relationship they once shared during his ministry among them. *"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain"*. When you got saved by faith in Christ alone and you begin to attach some things as additions that will make salvation complete, your faith has shifted from Christ and you lose your salvation and the presence of Christ within. True spiritual leadership persuades people away from legalism and continually points them back to Christ. The transforming gospel produces loving obedience not compulsory religion. *Question* Are you willing to abandon every legalistic attitude and embrace the freedom and transforming power of the gospel? *Prayer Points* 1.Father, thank You for saving me by grace through the transforming gospel of Jesus Christ🙏. 2.Lord, deliver me from every form of empty religion and traditions with all its legalistic bondage🙏. 3.Father, help me to remain steadfast in the liberty and truth of the pure gospel and be not drifted away from Christ🙏. 4.Lord, deliver those who are deceived by religious traditions that are contrary to the pure gospel 🙏. *HYMN:* I have no other plea *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* ZEPHANIAH 1-3. [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026``` *BETWEEN JUDAIZERS AND THE JUSTIFIER* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🗣️🆚✝️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:GALATIANS 4:8-13```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain" (GALATIANS 4:11).*_ *John Newton's conversion as his foundering, wreck-bound ship sailed into the eye of the storm on a turbulent, raging sea on the 10th of March 1748, and his unflinching adherence to the faith till death remains a classical model in the evangelical circle. Newton never forgot how God mercifully spared his life, saved his soul and delivered him from wasteful living and a blasphemous lifestyle. He lived the rest of his life juxtaposing what he had previously been with the transformation God had wrought in him. To keep this memory alive, he wrote out the fifteenth verse of the fifteenth chapter of Deuteronomy in bold letters and fastened it to the wall of his study.* *Had the Galatians exercised Newton's wisdom and spiritual intelligence, a thrilling testimony would have trailed their Christian walk. They had spent their lives, plumbing the depths of human sin and degradation of idolatry, before Paul reached them with the gospel. They responded positively to the gospel, became truly converted and free from an idolatrous lifestyle. Of them, Paul said they "received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus". But their experiences became short-lived. Glib-tongued Judaizers invaded the Galatian Church and swayed the nascent assembly off the pure New Testament faith Paul had laboured to teach and impart.* *Would Paul be cowed down, cave in or contend with the detractors of faith? It hurt him to see these Gentile Christians drawn into the spider-web of Judaizing Christians once again. Paul, after the manner of a passionate pastor, pleads with the Galatians in this letter not to return to their former spiritual slavery but rather break away from every Pharisaic bondage and enjoy the liberty Christ gave them freely. He wants them to understand their new identity - saints saved by grace, void of any allegiance to a race, culture or tradition.* *These are instructive scriptures for both shepherds and the flock in the fold. While shepherds and leaders of God's people diligently labour and watch over the flock, fencing out all modern Judaizers, every believer has the responsibility to resist the subtle penetration of the enemies of the cross and make an intelligent choice between Judaizers and the Justifier. We must, in the words of Christ, "Watch and pray" at all times to avoid being beguiled.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*You can never be deceived without your consent.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *ZEPHANIAH 1-3*📜📜 Between Judaizers And The Justifier https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 246: O BROTHER, LIFE'S JOURNEY BEGINNING; GHS 6: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION; AND GHS 77: I HAVE DECIDED TO FOLLOW JESUS* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna27thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026``` *FORNICATION FORBIDDEN* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️💋❌🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:1 THESSALONIANS 4:1-5```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication" (1 THESSALONIANS 4:3).*_ *Despite the attendant shame, sorrow, and disgrace that fornication brings to those who indulge in it, some youths still engage in this heinous sin. Celebrities of note, kings, paupers, princes and professors have become objects of ridicule as a result of fornication. Fornication has brought many people from all societal strata to degradation and disrepute; from fame to folly, and from honour to dishonour.* *Believers must abstain from all appearances of evil. Fornication is evil. It is a deadly poison. Do not meddle with immorality. Abandon anything that has the tendency to inflame the sinful passion in you as a holy Christian. Amorous discussion, romantic literature, comics, posters, and videos must be avoided like leprosy.* *As you flee from fornication, you must be daring and resolute to resist it, no matter the person who is making the attempt to defile you, to avoid being consumed. Sinful body contact with the opposite gender is anathema. Never permit defiling behaviours like patting, caressing, hugging and kissing because they are booby traps. They are the crucible where fornication is bred. Avoid them like plagues.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Never permit defiling behaviours.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Dare to be another Joseph - flee fornication!*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to keep myself pure.*_ Fornication Forbidden https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday27thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026``` *JOCHEBED - A COURAGEOUS MOTHER* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽👩🏻‍🦳🧔🏻‍♂️👩🏻‍🦰👨🏽👱🏻‍♂️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```EXODUS 2:1-10;NUMBERS 26:59```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"And the name of Amram's wife was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, whom her mother bare to Levi in Egypt: and she bare unto Amram Aaron and Moses, and Miriam their sister" (Numbers 26:59).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 Jochebed was the mother of the great and courageous leader - Moses, in the Bible. She was the mother of three prominent children - Miriam, Aaron and Moses. She gave birth to Moses at a time when Pharaoh made a decree to kill every Hebrew male baby to stop their growth and expansion. In spite of the challenge, Jochebed was willing to risk everything for her child's safety. She hid him for the first three months and trusted God in the face of danger and uncertainty. She took another bold step of faith by placing him in a basket by the bank of River Nile. By divine arrangement, Moses was found and adopted by Pharaoh's daughter. He still ended up with his mother who taught him the values of faith, courage, selflessness, humility and resilience, thereby preparing him for his role as a future leader. *Jochebed knew her God, and because she did not give up too soon, God rewarded her courage with a son who did exploits for God. You too must be courageous to stand for the word of God, no matter the challenge. God will bless you in return.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*God, please give me the courage to see situations through the eye of faith and not walk by sight.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Exodus 6:20* Jochebed - A Courageous Mother https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk27thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* THURSDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 2026. *THE DANGER OF RELAPSING INTO RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS WITHOUT THE TRANSFORMING GOSPEL* *TEXT:* GALATIANS 4:8-13. 8 Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. 9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? 10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. 11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. 12 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. 13 Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. *Timeless Truth:*_"But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?"_ (Galatians 4:9). *INTRODUCTION* Religious traditions, as described by D.E. Sherkat,  "are constellations of beliefs, practices and institutions used to describe a common type of religiosity. Religious traditions are broad understandings of the supernatural produced in societies and practiced by groups and individuals". For the sake of continuity, religious traditions are codified in texts considered sacred by individuals and institutions that adhere to and produce that form of religion. Once a conviction is formed on religious traditions, it is very difficult for adherents to give them up for another revelation even when common sense says it is wrong. It has a blinding effect especially, when it is wrong. For example, in the Christian faith, you can see some traditions that worship idols, but never see anything wrong with it, but only explain away such idol worship as traditions handed over by the "elders". Some of the Jews had that problem in the Early Church. The legalistic traditions of the law of Moses was so much built into their conviction that giving it up totally for the gospel was a problem to them. All explanations by enlightened and anointed Christ appointed Apostles fell into deaf ears. At best they were willing to believe the gospel subject to the legalistic tradition. They saw their legalistic traditions as more superior to the gospel and they were willing to continue in it in addition to the gospel. The Galatians believers were almost relapsing into the law of Moses and Paul the apostle had to set out the danger of exalting or mixing any religious traditions with or above the pure gospel. *1. The Past Graceless Life* a. There is always a clear inward and outward distinction between life before Christ and life after Christ. A reminder of this transformative experience in Christ is always needful so as not to lose faith. Paul the apostle reminded them that when they knew not God, they *"did service unto them which by nature are no gods"*. If you cannot see this transformational and supernatural distinction in your life, it is likely you are just practicing religion and have not experienced the new life in Christ. Before knowing Christ, the Galatians were enslaved to false gods and powerless spiritual systems. Apostle Paul reminded them that ignorance of the true God results in bondage. A life without Christ is a graceless life because no amount of religion can save the soul apart from the redeeming grace of Jesus. We too must never forget the pit from which God's mercy brought us out from, lest we become proud or drift into lifeless religion. b. The transforming gospel of Jesus Christ delivers sinners not only from the bondage of sin, but also from the bondage of empty religious traditions. The Galatian believers had received salvation by grace through faith, yet they were being tempted to return to legalistic practices as though human observances could perfect what Christ had accomplished. Paul the apostle lovingly warned them that abandoning the simplicity of the gospel for religious rituals is a dangerous spiritual relapse. Every believer must continually stand in the liberty of Christ and resist every tradition that replaces grace with legalism. There are also religious and denominational traditions that make the gospel of Christ of no effect in the life of a person. Inasmuch as you glue to those traditions that contradict the gospel message, the new life in Christ will continue to elude you. When the pure gospel is made to cohabit with denominational or religious traditions that do not put Christ in its rightful place, the gospel will lose its transforming power. *Question* What are some of the religious or denominational traditions that make salvation experience impossible in the life of a religious person? Have you remembered that it was God's grace, not religious performance, that brought you into salvation? *2. The Pure Gospel Lost* a. Apostle Paul expresses deep concern that those who had known God were turning again to weak and beggarly religious observances. Why call those traditions as religious and beggarly elements? They are weak because those Mosaic rules and rituals have zero power to save, justify or change a human heart. They are beggarly because they are "poverty-stricken" or bankrupt and offer no spiritual riches compared to Christ. They are called elements because they are merely elementary things given in the law of Moses to reveal the necessity of Christ without really maturing in Christ. b. They began emphasizing special days, months, seasons and years as though these could secure righteousness before God. The danger was not in observing days itself, but in trusting such practices as a means of acceptance with God. Whenever Christ is replaced by rituals, the purity of the gospel is compromised and spiritual growth is hindered. *Question* Is your confidence resting in Christ alone or in religious activities that cannot transform the heart? *3. The Persuasion to Part with Legalism* a. With tenderness, Paul the apostle pleads, *“Be as I am,”* calling the Galatians back to the freedom of grace. Apostle Paul was entrenched in *"the traditions of the elders"* which he even claimed to be more fanatical than all his equals. When he received Christ, he received Him solely and totally without adding the rudiments of the law of Moses or legalistic traditions. He parted ways with those things totally. He admonished them to do the same because it is in doing that, that they can enjoy the life of Christ to the fullest. Rather than condemning them harshly, he appeals through love and reminds them of the sacrificial relationship they once shared during his ministry among them. *"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain"*. When you got saved by faith in Christ alone and you begin to attach some things as additions that will make salvation complete, your faith has shifted from Christ and you lose your salvation and the presence of Christ within. True spiritual leadership persuades people away from legalism and continually points them back to Christ. The transforming gospel produces loving obedience not compulsory religion. *Question* Are you willing to abandon every legalistic attitude and embrace the freedom and transforming power of the gospel? *Prayer Points* 1.Father, thank You for saving me by grace through the transforming gospel of Jesus Christ🙏. 2.Lord, deliver me from every form of empty religion and traditions with all its legalistic bondage🙏. 3.Father, help me to remain steadfast in the liberty and truth of the pure gospel and be not drifted away from Christ🙏. 4.Lord, deliver those who are deceived by religious traditions that are contrary to the pure gospel 🙏. *HYMN:* I have no other plea *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* ZEPHANIAH 1-3. [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026``` *BETWEEN JUDAIZERS AND THE JUSTIFIER* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🗣️🆚✝️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:GALATIANS 4:8-13```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain" (GALATIANS 4:11).*_ *John Newton's conversion as his foundering, wreck-bound ship sailed into the eye of the storm on a turbulent, raging sea on the 10th of March 1748, and his unflinching adherence to the faith till death remains a classical model in the evangelical circle. Newton never forgot how God mercifully spared his life, saved his soul and delivered him from wasteful living and a blasphemous lifestyle. He lived the rest of his life juxtaposing what he had previously been with the transformation God had wrought in him. To keep this memory alive, he wrote out the fifteenth verse of the fifteenth chapter of Deuteronomy in bold letters and fastened it to the wall of his study.* *Had the Galatians exercised Newton's wisdom and spiritual intelligence, a thrilling testimony would have trailed their Christian walk. They had spent their lives, plumbing the depths of human sin and degradation of idolatry, before Paul reached them with the gospel. They responded positively to the gospel, became truly converted and free from an idolatrous lifestyle. Of them, Paul said they "received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus". But their experiences became short-lived. Glib-tongued Judaizers invaded the Galatian Church and swayed the nascent assembly off the pure New Testament faith Paul had laboured to teach and impart.* *Would Paul be cowed down, cave in or contend with the detractors of faith? It hurt him to see these Gentile Christians drawn into the spider-web of Judaizing Christians once again. Paul, after the manner of a passionate pastor, pleads with the Galatians in this letter not to return to their former spiritual slavery but rather break away from every Pharisaic bondage and enjoy the liberty Christ gave them freely. He wants them to understand their new identity - saints saved by grace, void of any allegiance to a race, culture or tradition.* *These are instructive scriptures for both shepherds and the flock in the fold. While shepherds and leaders of God's people diligently labour and watch over the flock, fencing out all modern Judaizers, every believer has the responsibility to resist the subtle penetration of the enemies of the cross and make an intelligent choice between Judaizers and the Justifier. We must, in the words of Christ, "Watch and pray" at all times to avoid being beguiled.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*You can never be deceived without your consent.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *ZEPHANIAH 1-3*📜📜 Between Judaizers And The Justifier https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 246: O BROTHER, LIFE'S JOURNEY BEGINNING; GHS 6: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION; AND GHS 77: I HAVE DECIDED TO FOLLOW JESUS* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna27thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026``` *FORNICATION FORBIDDEN* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️💋❌🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:1 THESSALONIANS 4:1-5```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication" (1 THESSALONIANS 4:3).*_ *Despite the attendant shame, sorrow, and disgrace that fornication brings to those who indulge in it, some youths still engage in this heinous sin. Celebrities of note, kings, paupers, princes and professors have become objects of ridicule as a result of fornication. Fornication has brought many people from all societal strata to degradation and disrepute; from fame to folly, and from honour to dishonour.* *Believers must abstain from all appearances of evil. Fornication is evil. It is a deadly poison. Do not meddle with immorality. Abandon anything that has the tendency to inflame the sinful passion in you as a holy Christian. Amorous discussion, romantic literature, comics, posters, and videos must be avoided like leprosy.* *As you flee from fornication, you must be daring and resolute to resist it, no matter the person who is making the attempt to defile you, to avoid being consumed. Sinful body contact with the opposite gender is anathema. Never permit defiling behaviours like patting, caressing, hugging and kissing because they are booby traps. They are the crucible where fornication is bred. Avoid them like plagues.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Never permit defiling behaviours.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Dare to be another Joseph - flee fornication!*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to keep myself pure.*_ Fornication Forbidden https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday27thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [26/08, 9:20 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST, 2026``` *JOCHEBED - A COURAGEOUS MOTHER* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽👩🏻‍🦳🧔🏻‍♂️👩🏻‍🦰👨🏽👱🏻‍♂️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```EXODUS 2:1-10;NUMBERS 26:59```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"And the name of Amram's wife was Jochebed, the daughter of Levi, whom her mother bare to Levi in Egypt: and she bare unto Amram Aaron and Moses, and Miriam their sister" (Numbers 26:59).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 Jochebed was the mother of the great and courageous leader - Moses, in the Bible. She was the mother of three prominent children - Miriam, Aaron and Moses. She gave birth to Moses at a time when Pharaoh made a decree to kill every Hebrew male baby to stop their growth and expansion. In spite of the challenge, Jochebed was willing to risk everything for her child's safety. She hid him for the first three months and trusted God in the face of danger and uncertainty. She took another bold step of faith by placing him in a basket by the bank of River Nile. By divine arrangement, Moses was found and adopted by Pharaoh's daughter. He still ended up with his mother who taught him the values of faith, courage, selflessness, humility and resilience, thereby preparing him for his role as a future leader. *Jochebed knew her God, and because she did not give up too soon, God rewarded her courage with a son who did exploits for God. You too must be courageous to stand for the word of God, no matter the challenge. God will bless you in return.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*God, please give me the courage to see situations through the eye of faith and not walk by sight.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Exodus 6:20* Jochebed - A Courageous Mother https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk27thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS].
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  • TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

    SERMON TOPIC:

    THE REAL REASON BARABBAS WAS SET FREE AND NOT JESUS.

    Main Text:

    Matthew 27:15–26; Mark 15:6–15; Luke 23:13–25; John 18:38–40


    There are moments in Scripture that make us stop and ask, “How could this happen?”
    Jesus was innocent.
    Barabbas was guilty.
    Jesus healed the sick.
    Barabbas was a criminal.
    Jesus preached love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God.
    Barabbas was associated with rebellion and violence.
    Yet the crowd shouted:
    “Release Barabbas!”
    And concerning Jesus:
    “Crucify Him!”
    It looks like injustice won.
    But here is the deeper truth:
    Barabbas was not simply released because Jesus lost the argument. Barabbas was released because Jesus was going to take his place.
    The story of Barabbas is actually a picture of the Gospel.
    Barabbas represents the guilty sinner.
    Jesus represents the innocent Savior.
    Barabbas walked away free because Jesus walked toward the cross.

    And that is the mystery of grace:
    The guilty goes free because the innocent One takes his place.
    1. BARABBAS WAS GUILTY, BUT JESUS WAS INNOCENT
    Pilate examined Jesus and repeatedly found no sufficient reason to condemn Him.
    Luke 23:22 says:
    «“I have found no reason for death in Him.”»
    Jesus was innocent.
    But Barabbas had committed serious crimes.
    Mark 15:7 tells us that Barabbas had been involved in rebellion and murder.
    So, humanly speaking, the choice should have been obvious.
    But the crowd chose Barabbas.
    Why?
    Because the cross was not an accident.
    Jesus had already declared that He came to give His life for others.
    Mark 10:45 says:
    «“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”»
    Jesus knew why He came.
    He came to become the substitute.

    Spiritual Insight

    Sometimes we ask, “Why did Jesus have to die?”
    The answer is partly found in Barabbas.
    Someone had to bear the consequence of sin.
    And Jesus willingly took that place.
    2. BARABBAS RECEIVED WHAT JESUS DESERVED
    This is the shocking part of the story.
    Barabbas deserved punishment.
    Jesus deserved no punishment.
    Yet Barabbas walked out of prison.
    Jesus walked toward Golgotha.
    Barabbas went free.
    Jesus was condemned.
    Barabbas was released.
    Jesus was crucified.
    This is substitution.
    The guilty person goes free because the innocent person takes his place.
    Isaiah 53:5 declares:
    «“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.”»

    Notice the language:
    Our transgressions.
    Our iniquities.
    Our punishment.
    The cross was personal.
    Jesus was not dying because He had sinned.
    He was dying because we had sinned.

    Think About This

    Barabbas probably did not understand everything that was happening.
    He may have walked out of that prison wondering how he escaped death.
    But we know something he may not have understood:
    Another Man died in his place.
    And spiritually, that is our story.
    We were guilty.
    Christ took our place.
    3. THE RELEASE OF BARABBAS REVEALS THE DEPTH OF GOD'S GRACE
    Grace is not God pretending that sin does not matter.
    Grace is God dealing with sin through the sacrifice of Christ.
    Romans 5:8 says:
    «“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”»
    That means Jesus did not wait for us to become perfect before He loved us.
    He loved us while we were still sinners.
    Barabbas did not earn his freedom.
    He did not negotiate his release.
    He did not pay the governor.
    He simply received an unexpected release.
    That is grace.
    Grace is receiving what you could never earn because someone else paid the price.
    You cannot boast about salvation.
    You cannot say, “I saved myself.”
    No.
    Jesus saved you.
    4. THE CROWD CHOSE BARABBAS, BUT GOD WAS WORKING THROUGH THE CROSS
    The crowd thought they were making the final decision.
    But heaven had already established a redemptive purpose.
    Acts 2:23 says that Jesus was delivered according to the “determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.”
    This does not mean the people were innocent.
    Their choices were still sinful.
    But God was able to accomplish His redemptive plan through what sinful people intended for evil.
    This is one of the mysteries of God's sovereignty.
    People thought:
    “We are getting rid of Jesus.”
    God was accomplishing:
    “I am providing salvation for humanity.”

    The cross looked like defeat.
    But it became victory.
    The grave looked like the end.
    But resurrection was coming.
    Never Judge God's Work Too Early
    There may be seasons in your life when everything looks like it is going in the wrong direction.
    But remember Calvary.
    Friday looked like defeat. Sunday revealed the victory.
    Do not conclude the story while God is still writing it.
    5. BARABBAS IS A PICTURE OF EVERY SINNER WHO RECEIVES SALVATION
    We often read the story and say:
    “Why did they release Barabbas?”
    But there is another question:
    “What if I were Barabbas?”
    What if you were the one sitting in that prison?
    What if you knew punishment was coming?
    What if you knew you were guilty?
    Then suddenly, the story becomes personal.
    Barabbas walked out because Jesus took his place.
    And every person who comes to Christ in genuine faith can say:
    “I deserved judgment, but Christ took my place.”
    2 Corinthians 5:21 says:
    «“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”»
    That is the Gospel.
    Jesus took our place so that we could receive His righteousness.

    BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

    THE CROSS

    Look at the sequence.
    Barabbas: Guilty.
    Jesus: Innocent.
    Barabbas: Imprisoned.
    Jesus: Free.
    Barabbas: Released.
    Jesus: Condemned.
    Barabbas: Walked away.
    Jesus: Walked toward the cross.
    Barabbas: Lived because another died.
    Believers: Receive eternal life because Christ died and rose again.
    The cross is therefore more than a religious symbol.
    It is the place where justice and mercy met.
    Justice says sin must be dealt with.
    Mercy says sinners can be saved.
    At the cross, Jesus bore the judgment so that mercy could reach us.

    PRACTICAL LESSONS FOR CHRISTIANS.

    1. Never take salvation for granted.
    You were not saved because you were better than someone else.
    You were saved by grace.
    Therefore, remain humble.
    2. Stop trying to earn God's love
    You cannot work your way into salvation.
    Serve God because you love Him, not because you are trying to purchase His acceptance.
    3. Forgive others
    If Christ has forgiven you, you must learn to extend forgiveness to others.
    4. Live like someone who has been set free
    Barabbas walked out of prison.
    The believer has also been delivered from the dominion of sin.
    Do not keep living like a prisoner when Christ has made you free.
    5. Tell someone about Jesus
    Your testimony may be simple:
    “I was guilty, but Jesus took my place.”
    That is powerful enough.

    QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

    1. Have I truly understood what Jesus accomplished for me on the cross?
    2. Am I trying to earn God's acceptance instead of receiving His grace?
    3. Do I live like someone who has been set free?
    4. Have I truly repented of my sins?
    5. Who can I tell about the saving grace of Jesus Christ?
    6. Do I extend to others the same mercy I have received from Christ?

    POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

    1. Prayer of Thanksgiving
    Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to take my place. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. I will never take my salvation for granted. In Jesus' name, Amen.
    2. Prayer of Repentance
    Lord Jesus, forgive me for every sin, disobedience, pride, and rebellion in my life. Cleanse me and help me walk faithfully with You. Amen.
    3. Prayer for Freedom
    Every chain of sin, addiction, fear, and spiritual bondage in my life, break in the name of Jesus. I declare that whom the Son sets free is free indeed. Amen.
    4. Prayer for Grace
    Father, help me to understand the depth of Your grace and to live every day with gratitude for what Christ has done for me. Amen.
    5. Prayer for Others
    Lord, use my life to bring other Barabbases to Jesus—people who feel condemned, rejected, broken, and far from You. Let my testimony point them to the cross. Amen.

    DEEP SPIRITUAL TRUTH

    Here is the heart of the message:
    Barabbas was released, not because he was innocent, but because another took his place.
    And that is the Gospel.
    We are not saved because we are perfect.
    We are saved because Jesus is perfect.
    We are not accepted because we deserve it.
    We are accepted because Christ paid the price.
    We are not standing before God because of our righteousness.
    We stand because of His righteousness.
    The cross says:
    “Your sin is serious, but God's grace is greater.”

    CALL TO ACTION

    Today, do not simply admire the story of Barabbas.
    See yourself in it.
    You were guilty.
    Christ took your place.
    You were condemned.
    Christ bore the condemnation.
    You were far from God.
    Christ opened the way back to the Father.
    The question is not merely:
    “Why was Barabbas released?”
    The deeper question is:
    “What will I do with the Jesus who took my place?”
    Will you continue living for yourself?
    Or will you surrender your life completely to Him?
    Will you keep returning to the prison of sin?
    Or will you walk in the freedom Christ purchased for you?
    Jesus took your place.
    Now give Him your life.
    «“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36»
    You are not free because you were innocent.
    You are free because Jesus became your substitute.
    THE CROSS WAS HIS PLACE.
    THE FREEDOM WAS YOURS.
    THE SACRIFICE WAS HIS.
    THE GRACE IS YOURS.
    Come to Jesus. Remain in Jesus. Live for Jesus. And tell the world about Jesus.
    Amen.

    Give your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you.
    You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below

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    TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: THE REAL REASON BARABBAS WAS SET FREE AND NOT JESUS. Main Text: Matthew 27:15–26; Mark 15:6–15; Luke 23:13–25; John 18:38–40 There are moments in Scripture that make us stop and ask, “How could this happen?” Jesus was innocent. Barabbas was guilty. Jesus healed the sick. Barabbas was a criminal. Jesus preached love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God. Barabbas was associated with rebellion and violence. Yet the crowd shouted: “Release Barabbas!” And concerning Jesus: “Crucify Him!” It looks like injustice won. But here is the deeper truth: Barabbas was not simply released because Jesus lost the argument. Barabbas was released because Jesus was going to take his place. The story of Barabbas is actually a picture of the Gospel. Barabbas represents the guilty sinner. Jesus represents the innocent Savior. Barabbas walked away free because Jesus walked toward the cross. And that is the mystery of grace: The guilty goes free because the innocent One takes his place. 1. BARABBAS WAS GUILTY, BUT JESUS WAS INNOCENT Pilate examined Jesus and repeatedly found no sufficient reason to condemn Him. Luke 23:22 says: «“I have found no reason for death in Him.”» Jesus was innocent. But Barabbas had committed serious crimes. Mark 15:7 tells us that Barabbas had been involved in rebellion and murder. So, humanly speaking, the choice should have been obvious. But the crowd chose Barabbas. Why? Because the cross was not an accident. Jesus had already declared that He came to give His life for others. Mark 10:45 says: «“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”» Jesus knew why He came. He came to become the substitute. Spiritual Insight Sometimes we ask, “Why did Jesus have to die?” The answer is partly found in Barabbas. Someone had to bear the consequence of sin. And Jesus willingly took that place. 2. BARABBAS RECEIVED WHAT JESUS DESERVED This is the shocking part of the story. Barabbas deserved punishment. Jesus deserved no punishment. Yet Barabbas walked out of prison. Jesus walked toward Golgotha. Barabbas went free. Jesus was condemned. Barabbas was released. Jesus was crucified. This is substitution. The guilty person goes free because the innocent person takes his place. Isaiah 53:5 declares: «“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.”» Notice the language: Our transgressions. Our iniquities. Our punishment. The cross was personal. Jesus was not dying because He had sinned. He was dying because we had sinned. Think About This Barabbas probably did not understand everything that was happening. He may have walked out of that prison wondering how he escaped death. But we know something he may not have understood: Another Man died in his place. And spiritually, that is our story. We were guilty. Christ took our place. 3. THE RELEASE OF BARABBAS REVEALS THE DEPTH OF GOD'S GRACE Grace is not God pretending that sin does not matter. Grace is God dealing with sin through the sacrifice of Christ. Romans 5:8 says: «“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”» That means Jesus did not wait for us to become perfect before He loved us. He loved us while we were still sinners. Barabbas did not earn his freedom. He did not negotiate his release. He did not pay the governor. He simply received an unexpected release. That is grace. Grace is receiving what you could never earn because someone else paid the price. You cannot boast about salvation. You cannot say, “I saved myself.” No. Jesus saved you. 4. THE CROWD CHOSE BARABBAS, BUT GOD WAS WORKING THROUGH THE CROSS The crowd thought they were making the final decision. But heaven had already established a redemptive purpose. Acts 2:23 says that Jesus was delivered according to the “determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.” This does not mean the people were innocent. Their choices were still sinful. But God was able to accomplish His redemptive plan through what sinful people intended for evil. This is one of the mysteries of God's sovereignty. People thought: “We are getting rid of Jesus.” God was accomplishing: “I am providing salvation for humanity.” The cross looked like defeat. But it became victory. The grave looked like the end. But resurrection was coming. Never Judge God's Work Too Early There may be seasons in your life when everything looks like it is going in the wrong direction. But remember Calvary. Friday looked like defeat. Sunday revealed the victory. Do not conclude the story while God is still writing it. 5. BARABBAS IS A PICTURE OF EVERY SINNER WHO RECEIVES SALVATION We often read the story and say: “Why did they release Barabbas?” But there is another question: “What if I were Barabbas?” What if you were the one sitting in that prison? What if you knew punishment was coming? What if you knew you were guilty? Then suddenly, the story becomes personal. Barabbas walked out because Jesus took his place. And every person who comes to Christ in genuine faith can say: “I deserved judgment, but Christ took my place.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 says: «“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”» That is the Gospel. Jesus took our place so that we could receive His righteousness. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: THE CROSS Look at the sequence. Barabbas: Guilty. Jesus: Innocent. Barabbas: Imprisoned. Jesus: Free. Barabbas: Released. Jesus: Condemned. Barabbas: Walked away. Jesus: Walked toward the cross. Barabbas: Lived because another died. Believers: Receive eternal life because Christ died and rose again. The cross is therefore more than a religious symbol. It is the place where justice and mercy met. Justice says sin must be dealt with. Mercy says sinners can be saved. At the cross, Jesus bore the judgment so that mercy could reach us. PRACTICAL LESSONS FOR CHRISTIANS. 1. Never take salvation for granted. You were not saved because you were better than someone else. You were saved by grace. Therefore, remain humble. 2. Stop trying to earn God's love You cannot work your way into salvation. Serve God because you love Him, not because you are trying to purchase His acceptance. 3. Forgive others If Christ has forgiven you, you must learn to extend forgiveness to others. 4. Live like someone who has been set free Barabbas walked out of prison. The believer has also been delivered from the dominion of sin. Do not keep living like a prisoner when Christ has made you free. 5. Tell someone about Jesus Your testimony may be simple: “I was guilty, but Jesus took my place.” That is powerful enough. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. Have I truly understood what Jesus accomplished for me on the cross? 2. Am I trying to earn God's acceptance instead of receiving His grace? 3. Do I live like someone who has been set free? 4. Have I truly repented of my sins? 5. Who can I tell about the saving grace of Jesus Christ? 6. Do I extend to others the same mercy I have received from Christ? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer of Thanksgiving Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to take my place. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. I will never take my salvation for granted. In Jesus' name, Amen. 2. Prayer of Repentance Lord Jesus, forgive me for every sin, disobedience, pride, and rebellion in my life. Cleanse me and help me walk faithfully with You. Amen. 3. Prayer for Freedom Every chain of sin, addiction, fear, and spiritual bondage in my life, break in the name of Jesus. I declare that whom the Son sets free is free indeed. Amen. 4. Prayer for Grace Father, help me to understand the depth of Your grace and to live every day with gratitude for what Christ has done for me. Amen. 5. Prayer for Others Lord, use my life to bring other Barabbases to Jesus—people who feel condemned, rejected, broken, and far from You. Let my testimony point them to the cross. Amen. DEEP SPIRITUAL TRUTH Here is the heart of the message: Barabbas was released, not because he was innocent, but because another took his place. And that is the Gospel. We are not saved because we are perfect. We are saved because Jesus is perfect. We are not accepted because we deserve it. We are accepted because Christ paid the price. We are not standing before God because of our righteousness. We stand because of His righteousness. The cross says: “Your sin is serious, but God's grace is greater.” CALL TO ACTION Today, do not simply admire the story of Barabbas. See yourself in it. You were guilty. Christ took your place. You were condemned. Christ bore the condemnation. You were far from God. Christ opened the way back to the Father. The question is not merely: “Why was Barabbas released?” The deeper question is: “What will I do with the Jesus who took my place?” Will you continue living for yourself? Or will you surrender your life completely to Him? Will you keep returning to the prison of sin? Or will you walk in the freedom Christ purchased for you? Jesus took your place. Now give Him your life. «“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36» You are not free because you were innocent. You are free because Jesus became your substitute. THE CROSS WAS HIS PLACE. THE FREEDOM WAS YOURS. THE SACRIFICE WAS HIS. THE GRACE IS YOURS. Come to Jesus. Remain in Jesus. Live for Jesus. And tell the world about Jesus. Amen. Give your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you. 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 https://afrikdp.com/author/umohedem-9128 https://www.facebook.com/share/14futvERWUD/
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  • Seek God's Direction Before the Battle

    Scripture

    Judges 20:18 (NKJV)

    So the children of Israel arose and went up to the house of God to inquire of God. They said, Which of us shall go up first to battle against the children of Benjamin? The LORD said, Judah first!

    Obedience Is More Than Asking God for Direction

    Judges 20 records Israel's response to the horrific events of Judges 19. The nation gathered together in unity to confront the tribe of Benjamin because of the wickedness committed in Gibeah. Their desire for justice was right, but the chapter reveals that even a righteous cause must be pursued with humble dependence upon God.

    Before going to battle, the people sought the Lord and asked which tribe should lead the attack. God answered their question, and Judah went first. Yet despite seeking God's direction, Israel suffered a devastating defeat. They returned to the Lord weeping and inquiring again, and once more God instructed them to fight. Again they experienced heavy losses.

    Only after they humbled themselves through fasting, worship, sacrifices, and sincere dependence upon the Lord did God give them complete victory over Benjamin.

    This chapter teaches an important spiritual lesson. It is possible to ask God for guidance while still relying upon our own strength. Israel initially wanted God's direction, but they had not yet reached the place of complete surrender. As the battle continued, their confidence shifted from their own military strength to total dependence upon God.

    Believers often make the same mistake. We ask God to bless our plans while still trusting in our own wisdom, abilities, or resources. God desires more than our questions; He desires our hearts. True faith is not simply asking God what to do but trusting Him completely as we obey Him.

    Judges 20 also reminds us that God's timing and methods are sometimes different from our expectations. Temporary setbacks do not always mean we are outside God's will. Sometimes God uses difficulty to deepen our dependence upon Him and to teach us humility before He grants victory.

    The Lord desires His people to seek Him with sincerity, worship Him with humility, and trust Him completely. Victory belongs to those who rely on His strength rather than their own.

    Reflection Questions

    1. Am I seeking God's direction while still depending on my own strength?

    2. How do I respond when God allows temporary setbacks in my life?

    3. What area of my life needs greater surrender and trust in the Lord today?

    Prayer

    Heavenly Father, teach me to depend completely on You. Help me not only to seek Your guidance but also to trust Your timing, Your wisdom, and Your strength. When I face challenges or disappointments, keep me from becoming discouraged. Instead, draw me closer to You and deepen my faith. May my confidence always rest in Your power and not in my own abilities. In Jesus' name, Amen.
    Seek God's Direction Before the Battle Scripture Judges 20:18 (NKJV) So the children of Israel arose and went up to the house of God to inquire of God. They said, Which of us shall go up first to battle against the children of Benjamin? The LORD said, Judah first! Obedience Is More Than Asking God for Direction Judges 20 records Israel's response to the horrific events of Judges 19. The nation gathered together in unity to confront the tribe of Benjamin because of the wickedness committed in Gibeah. Their desire for justice was right, but the chapter reveals that even a righteous cause must be pursued with humble dependence upon God. Before going to battle, the people sought the Lord and asked which tribe should lead the attack. God answered their question, and Judah went first. Yet despite seeking God's direction, Israel suffered a devastating defeat. They returned to the Lord weeping and inquiring again, and once more God instructed them to fight. Again they experienced heavy losses. Only after they humbled themselves through fasting, worship, sacrifices, and sincere dependence upon the Lord did God give them complete victory over Benjamin. This chapter teaches an important spiritual lesson. It is possible to ask God for guidance while still relying upon our own strength. Israel initially wanted God's direction, but they had not yet reached the place of complete surrender. As the battle continued, their confidence shifted from their own military strength to total dependence upon God. Believers often make the same mistake. We ask God to bless our plans while still trusting in our own wisdom, abilities, or resources. God desires more than our questions; He desires our hearts. True faith is not simply asking God what to do but trusting Him completely as we obey Him. Judges 20 also reminds us that God's timing and methods are sometimes different from our expectations. Temporary setbacks do not always mean we are outside God's will. Sometimes God uses difficulty to deepen our dependence upon Him and to teach us humility before He grants victory. The Lord desires His people to seek Him with sincerity, worship Him with humility, and trust Him completely. Victory belongs to those who rely on His strength rather than their own. Reflection Questions 1. Am I seeking God's direction while still depending on my own strength? 2. How do I respond when God allows temporary setbacks in my life? 3. What area of my life needs greater surrender and trust in the Lord today? Prayer Heavenly Father, teach me to depend completely on You. Help me not only to seek Your guidance but also to trust Your timing, Your wisdom, and Your strength. When I face challenges or disappointments, keep me from becoming discouraged. Instead, draw me closer to You and deepen my faith. May my confidence always rest in Your power and not in my own abilities. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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  • COMMUNISTS EXECUTED THEM FOR THEIR FAITH. THEIR HIDDEN BABY SURVIVED IN A RICE BASKET.

    John and Betty Stam met at Moody Bible Institute, both individually feeling called to serve as missionaries in China, and married there in 1933 through the China Inland Mission. In September 1934, their daughter Helen Priscilla was born, and just two months later, the young family settled into a new post in Anhui Province, in the small town of Jingde. Two weeks after arriving, Communist soldiers unexpectedly overran the town and took the entire family prisoner.

    John wrote a letter to mission headquarters that night, informing them of the Communists' $20,000 ransom demand, knowing full well the mission's strict policy against ever paying ransoms. He closed the letter with the words, "The Lord bless and guide you, and as for us, may God be glorified whether by life or by death." The next morning, the couple was marched to a hill outside the nearby town of Miaoshou to be executed, a Chinese medicine seller who pleaded on his knees for their release, and who was later found to own a Bible and hymnbook, executed alongside them for his own faith.

    Before the couple was led away, Betty found a way to hide their three month old daughter, tucking her into a sleeping bag with a change of clothes and money pinned inside her diaper. Two days later, a Chinese evangelist named Dr. Lo found baby Helen alive, concealed her in a rice basket, and carried her to safety, eventually delivering her to Betty's parents, who were still serving as missionaries elsewhere in China. Helen grew up, became a teacher, and raised her own family in the eastern United States. News of the Stams' deaths spread around the world and, in the decades since, has continued to inspire generations of believers to serve overseas despite the risk.

    Do you think you could have found the peace John wrote about, in that same letter, facing what he faced?

    #JohnAndBettyStam #MissionaryMartyrs #FaithUnderFire
    COMMUNISTS EXECUTED THEM FOR THEIR FAITH. THEIR HIDDEN BABY SURVIVED IN A RICE BASKET. John and Betty Stam met at Moody Bible Institute, both individually feeling called to serve as missionaries in China, and married there in 1933 through the China Inland Mission. In September 1934, their daughter Helen Priscilla was born, and just two months later, the young family settled into a new post in Anhui Province, in the small town of Jingde. Two weeks after arriving, Communist soldiers unexpectedly overran the town and took the entire family prisoner. John wrote a letter to mission headquarters that night, informing them of the Communists' $20,000 ransom demand, knowing full well the mission's strict policy against ever paying ransoms. He closed the letter with the words, "The Lord bless and guide you, and as for us, may God be glorified whether by life or by death." The next morning, the couple was marched to a hill outside the nearby town of Miaoshou to be executed, a Chinese medicine seller who pleaded on his knees for their release, and who was later found to own a Bible and hymnbook, executed alongside them for his own faith. Before the couple was led away, Betty found a way to hide their three month old daughter, tucking her into a sleeping bag with a change of clothes and money pinned inside her diaper. Two days later, a Chinese evangelist named Dr. Lo found baby Helen alive, concealed her in a rice basket, and carried her to safety, eventually delivering her to Betty's parents, who were still serving as missionaries elsewhere in China. Helen grew up, became a teacher, and raised her own family in the eastern United States. News of the Stams' deaths spread around the world and, in the decades since, has continued to inspire generations of believers to serve overseas despite the risk. Do you think you could have found the peace John wrote about, in that same letter, facing what he faced? #JohnAndBettyStam #MissionaryMartyrs #FaithUnderFire
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