OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN MEMORIZE: "As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth." Psalm 127:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 1 KINGS 1:15-31 15 And Bathsheba went in unto the king into the chamber: and the king was very old; and Abishag the Shunammite ministered unto the king. 16 And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? 17 And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the Lord thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. 18 And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not: 19 And he hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the sons of the king, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the captain of the host: but Solomon thy servant hath he not called. 20 And thou, my lord, O king, the eyes of all Israel are upon thee, that thou shouldest tell them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21 Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders. 22 And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in. 23 And they told the king, saying, Behold Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the king, he bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground. 24 And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? 25 For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king's sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah. 26 But me, even me thy servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and thy servant Solomon, hath he not called. 27 Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed it unto thy servant, who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him? 28 Then king David answered and said, Call me Bathsheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29 And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30 Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31 Then Bathsheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, and said, Let my lord king David live for ever. MESSAGE: In (1 Kings 1:1-49), one of King David's sons decided to crown himself king by staging a coup to overthrow his father. Solomon's mother was informed of the development, so she went to David and reminded him that he had promised that her son would succeed him as king. That same day, Solomon was crowned king meaning that Israel had three kings on that fateful day: David, Solomon, and the son who decided to make himself king. Solomon might not even have been aware of the events that led to his coronation; however, because his mother rose and entreated the king on his behalf, he was crowned king. There are certain things that children might miss if their parents don't rise to pray for them. A child may not know his or her left from right and may not even be qualified for an exalted position; however, his or her parents' prayers can elevate that child into that position. The authority that parents have over their children, both naturally and spiritually, is great, and they must learn to use it effectively. Any parent who does not pray for his or her child is like a mother hen who watches as a hawk carries her chick away, leaving the chick to fight for itself. The chick lacks sufficient strength to fight a hawk; however, if its mother joins in the fight, it would have a better chance of being saved. If you are a parent, do not keep quiet over your children's destiny so that the devil will not tamper with it. Cry out to God to show your children mercy early in their lives. In Psalm 90:14, Moses prayed that God should satisfy him and the children of Israel early with His mercy so that they would rejoice and be glad all the days of their lives. He knew that the secret to lasting joy and gladness was to start enjoying God's mercy early in life. Beloved, if you are a parent, do not neglect your spiritual responsibility over your children. Like Moses, ask God to show your children His mercy early in their lives. Let your prayers position them for opportunities early in life. Your children will begin to enjoy supernatural favour that some people only get to experience as adults if you pray for them now. I pray that God will shower His mercies over you and your household, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Parents should not neglect their spiritual responsibility over their children. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 3 - 5 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 28 - GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH 1. Guide me, 0 Thou Great Jehovah Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven! Feed me now and evermore (2ce). 2. Open Thou the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Song deliverer! Song deliverer! Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce). 3. If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan's side: Songs of praises! Songs of praises! I will ever give to Thee (2ce). 4. Saviour, come! We long to see thee, long to dwell with thee above and to know in full communion, all the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus! Take thy waiting people home (2ce). [22/08, 10:03 pm] +234 806 008 5461: ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SUNDAY, 23RD AUGUST, 2026 *PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the gift of children. Thank You for Your promise to bless us and make us fruitful, to multiply and to replenish the earth. 2.Father, thank You for Your promise in Your word that none of Your children will be barren. Thank You because You will visit every awaiting couple with children according to Your will. 3.Father, as arrows are in the hands of a mighty man, please empower all Your children to fulfill Your purpose for their lives, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please help all Your children never to go out of Your plan and purpose for their lives. Help them to patiently wait on Your guidance and commands, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help each parent never to fail in their role to pray for their children at all times, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please help me as a father/mother to command the children You have given me after You, so they won't miss Your purpose in life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, please help me as a child to my parents not to fail in my role in walking in the godly counsel of my parents, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please show me and all the children You have given me, Your mercy and favour. Satisfy us early so we can rejoice and be glad all the days of our lives, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, please strengthen all parents to arise in their spiritual responsibility over the children You have given them, and let all their children begin to enjoy supernatural favour, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please let all the children You have given me bring me joy and shower them and every member of my household with Your mercies, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Help him to enjoy the fruits of his labour over his children, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.[22/08, 7:06 pm] +234 806 008 5461: OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN MEMORIZE: "As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth." Psalm 127:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 1 KINGS 1:15-31 15 And Bathsheba went in unto the king into the chamber: and the king was very old; and Abishag the Shunammite ministered unto the king. 16 And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? 17 And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the Lord thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. 18 And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not: 19 And he hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the sons of the king, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the captain of the host: but Solomon thy servant hath he not called. 20 And thou, my lord, O king, the eyes of all Israel are upon thee, that thou shouldest tell them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21 Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders. 22 And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in. 23 And they told the king, saying, Behold Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the king, he bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground. 24 And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? 25 For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king's sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah. 26 But me, even me thy servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and thy servant Solomon, hath he not called. 27 Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed it unto thy servant, who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him? 28 Then king David answered and said, Call me Bathsheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29 And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30 Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31 Then Bathsheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, and said, Let my lord king David live for ever. MESSAGE: In (1 Kings 1:1-49), one of King David's sons decided to crown himself king by staging a coup to overthrow his father. Solomon's mother was informed of the development, so she went to David and reminded him that he had promised that her son would succeed him as king. That same day, Solomon was crowned king meaning that Israel had three kings on that fateful day: David, Solomon, and the son who decided to make himself king. Solomon might not even have been aware of the events that led to his coronation; however, because his mother rose and entreated the king on his behalf, he was crowned king. There are certain things that children might miss if their parents don't rise to pray for them. A child may not know his or her left from right and may not even be qualified for an exalted position; however, his or her parents' prayers can elevate that child into that position. The authority that parents have over their children, both naturally and spiritually, is great, and they must learn to use it effectively. Any parent who does not pray for his or her child is like a mother hen who watches as a hawk carries her chick away, leaving the chick to fight for itself. The chick lacks sufficient strength to fight a hawk; however, if its mother joins in the fight, it would have a better chance of being saved. If you are a parent, do not keep quiet over your children's destiny so that the devil will not tamper with it. Cry out to God to show your children mercy early in their lives. In Psalm 90:14, Moses prayed that God should satisfy him and the children of Israel early with His mercy so that they would rejoice and be glad all the days of their lives. He knew that the secret to lasting joy and gladness was to start enjoying God's mercy early in life. Beloved, if you are a parent, do not neglect your spiritual responsibility over your children. Like Moses, ask God to show your children His mercy early in their lives. Let your prayers position them for opportunities early in life. Your children will begin to enjoy supernatural favour that some people only get to experience as adults if you pray for them now. I pray that God will shower His mercies over you and your household, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Parents should not neglect their spiritual responsibility over their children. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 3 - 5 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 28 - GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH 1. Guide me, 0 Thou Great Jehovah Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven! Feed me now and evermore (2ce). 2. Open Thou the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Song deliverer! Song deliverer! Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce). 3. If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan's side: Songs of praises! Songs of praises! I will ever give to Thee (2ce). 4. Saviour, come! We long to see thee, long to dwell with thee above and to know in full communion, all the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus! Take thy waiting people home (2ce). ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SUNDAY, 23RD AUGUST, 2026 *PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the gift of children. Thank You for Your promise to bless us and make us fruitful, to multiply and to replenish the earth. 2.Father, thank You for Your promise in Your word that none of Your children will be barren. Thank You because You will visit every awaiting couple with children according to Your will. 3.Father, as arrows are in the hands of a mighty man, please empower all Your children to fulfill Your purpose for their lives, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please help all Your children never to go out of Your plan and purpose for their lives. Help them to patiently wait on Your guidance and commands, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help each parent never to fail in their role to pray for their children at all times, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please help me as a father/mother to command the children You have given me after You, so they won't miss Your purpose in life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, please help me as a child to my parents not to fail in my role in walking in the godly counsel of my parents, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please show me and all the children You have given me, Your mercy and favour. Satisfy us early so we can rejoice and be glad all the days of our lives, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, please strengthen all parents to arise in their spiritual responsibility over the children You have given them, and let all their children begin to enjoy supernatural favour, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please let all the children You have given me bring me joy and shower them and every member of my household with Your mercies, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Help him to enjoy the fruits of his labour over his children, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

Queenship of Mary The Feast of the Queenship of Mary is a celebration in the Catholic Church that honors Mary, the mother of Jesus, as the Queen of Heaven and Earth. This feast was officially established by Pope Pius XII on October 11, 1954, through an important Church document called an encyclical titled Ad Caeli Reginam ("To the Queen of Heaven"). The idea of Mary being a queen goes back much further in Christian tradition, but this feast made it an official part of Catholic practice. Title "Theotokos" – Mother of God One of the key teachings about Mary is that she is called the "Theotokos," a Greek word meaning "God-bearer" or "the one who gives birth to God." This title was given to her at the Council of Ephesus in 431 A.D., a significant gathering of Church leaders in the early Christian Church. The council proclaimed this title to affirm that Jesus is both fully God and fully human, and that Mary, as His mother, gave birth to the Son of God in human form. By calling her "Theotokos," the Church recognized her important role in the mystery of the Incarnation—when God became human in the person of Jesus. Queenship of Mary The concept of Mary as queen comes from the belief that since Jesus is the King of all humanity, His mother would naturally share in His kingship. In many cultures, the mother of a king is given a special title of honor, and this applies to Mary as well. Just as Jesus is King of Heaven and Earth, Mary is seen as the Queen of Heaven and Earth. Her queenship is not a role of power or authority but of grace and intercession. Catholics believe that as a loving mother, Mary prays for and cares for all people, guiding them toward her Son, Jesus. In the Book of Revelation (12:1), Mary is described in a vision as "a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head." This image is seen as a symbolic representation of Mary as Queen of Heaven. The crown of twelve stars is often understood to represent the twelve tribes of Israel, showing her connection to the people of God. Mary's Role in Salvation Mary’s role in salvation is deeply tied to her being chosen to be the mother of Jesus. When God sent His only Son into the world, He chose Mary to be the vessel through which Jesus would be born. This makes her central to God’s plan for the salvation of humanity. She accepted God’s will with humility and faith, saying "yes" to becoming the mother of Jesus (known as the Annunciation), which Catholics believe played a crucial role in bringing about the salvation of the world. The Immaculate Conception Another important belief about Mary is the Immaculate Conception. This teaching says that Mary was conceived in her mother’s womb (Saint Anne) without original sin. Original sin is believed to be the state of sin that all humans are born into due to the fall of Adam and Eve. However, because Mary was chosen to be the mother of Jesus, God gave her a special grace to be free from original sin from the moment of her conception. This teaching became official Church dogma in 1854 under Pope Pius IX. Mary as the Gate to Heaven In Catholic belief, Mary is often called the "Gate of Heaven." This title reflects the idea that because of her unique role as the mother of Jesus, she has a special place in helping people come to God. Catholics believe that Mary’s prayers and intercession can help lead people to Jesus and, ultimately, to eternal life with God. This is why prayers like the "Hail Mary" ask for her to "pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death." Conclusion: A Queen Who Cares for Us Mary’s role as Queen of Heaven and Earth is not about ruling with power but about her role as a loving, caring mother who helps guide people to her Son, Jesus. Her queenship is a reflection of her unique position in the history of salvation, and the Catholic Church honors her for saying "yes" to God’s plan and for her continued intercession for humanity. When Catholics pray to Mary, they are asking for her help in bringing their needs to Jesus, much like a child asking their mother for guidance and protection. The feast of the Queenship of Mary serves as a reminder of her special place in the life of the Church and in the hearts of believers. It celebrates her dignity and the honor given to her as the mother of the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. #kingandqueen #king #queen #mothermary #queenofheavenandearth #earthquake #heavenqueen #queenofthechurch #motherofjesuschrist #jesusistheking #maryisthequeen #motheroftheking #Catholic #Christian #trust #truth #custom #tradition #fact #grace #intercession #gateofheaven

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐌𝐞 ✍️ “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳; 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯— 𝘠𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦.” The call to follow Jesus is not casual—it is costly. It is more than a mere invitation; it demands submission. Yet many want the blessing without the burden, the destination without the sacrifice, and the crown without the cross. Whether discipleship feels costly or comfortable, the question is not whether we call ourselves Christians—but whether we have surrendered ourselves to Christ. Jesus declared in 🕮 𝐋𝐮𝐤𝐞 𝟗:𝟐𝟑, “𝘐𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦.” He did not promise an easier life but a call to surrender. Denying ourselves means abandoning self-rule for Christ’s authority. Taking up the cross means dying to our will and embracing obedience. This call is non-negotiable, not optional. Think of a prisoner offered freedom, but only if he leaves his chains behind. He cannot cling to his captivity and walk into the sunlight. To follow the Master, we must drop the heavy, rusted chains of our self-will and step into the liberating yoke of His grace. It means His Word and will govern all our concerns. Scripture makes the cost of discipleship unmistakable. Jesus said, “𝘞𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦” (𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝟖:𝟑𝟒). Paul declared, “𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘤𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵” (𝐆𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟐:𝟐𝟎), and reminded believers to “𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦” (𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟐:𝟏). True discipleship is not merely changing our destination—it is surrendering who holds the steering wheel. Paul counted “𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴” (𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟑:𝟖). Following Christ demands surrender, not negotiation. Don’t carry a cross with one hand while holding tightly to your old life with the other. Jesus calls us not to add Christianity but to surrender our lives fully. Though the path includes sacrifice, rejection, and suffering, He is worth every step. Christ never asks us to walk a road He refused to walk. He humbled Himself, becoming “𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴” (𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟐:𝟖). He died, was buried, and rose again as the Scriptures declare (𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟓:𝟑–𝟒). Our surrender doesn’t earn salvation; Christ’s finished work purchased us. We follow Him not to earn grace, but because His grace has already saved us. What are you still holding that Christ is asking you to surrender? What preference, ambition, comfort, or habit competes with His lordship? You don't need Christ merely to improve your life—you need Him because He is your Lord, worthy of your whole life. Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow Him. When Christ is Lord, surrender is not losing—it is finally knowing whom we belong to. 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫: Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have wanted Christ without the cost of discipleship. Teach us to deny ourselves, surrender our desires, and follow Jesus faithfully each day. Give us grace to obey when the road is difficult and courage to follow wherever You lead. In Jesus’ Name. Amen. Remember, a dose of God’s Word a day will keep you going all day! 𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐝... _____________________________________________________ All scripture references were taken from the KJV Bible. Thank you for allowing this ministry to be a part of your day… If my posts speak to your heart, you may be blessed by the full devotional series created for deeper reflection and journaling: 👉 FREE FlipBook Previews: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/ae17998766.html 📚 Also available now on Amazon (Kindle & Paperback) ✨ Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited! https://www.amazon.com/author/dennislastimoso Also, just in case you need a reliable, dedicated online Bible Study Tool, I created one for you. 👉 Try it here for FREE, anytime at your hand: https://www.baptistry.app Your support helps us continue this ministry, edifying the believers around the world. May God bless you more abundantly…

Before David wore the crown, he learned faithfulness. Before Samuel became a prophet, he learned to hear God’s voice. What is God preparing you for today? Discover timeless biblical principles in FIRST SAMUEL: Lessons in Leadership, Obedience, and Divine Destiny. https://www.electfamily.org/first-samuel-lessons-in-leadership-obedience-and-divine-destiny/

While encouraging Timothy to be faithful to his ministerial calling, Paul summarized his own service for Christ and what he looked forward to after he died: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day” (2 Timothy 4:7-8). As the apostle anticipated his departure from labor to reward (v. 6), he was conscious of what really mattered in life. Each believer in Jesus has been given different tasks to do on this earth. With the Spirit’s help, we can strive to do them faithfully. We all long to hear the voice of Christ, our Savior, say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21).

Ambition is not always wrong—but when ambition becomes more important than obedience, it can quickly become an idol. https://patrickryanlewis.com/2026/08/18/when-ambition-becomes-idolatry-the-rise-of-abimelech/ In Judges 9:1–6, Abimelech wanted power, and he was willing to manipulate relationships, compromise spiritually, surround himself with the wrong people, and ultimately destroy anyone standing between him and the position he desired. He got the crown. But getting what we want does not necessarily mean we have God’s approval. Abimelech’s story is a powerful warning about selfish ambition, pride, leadership, and the danger of trying to build a throne God never gave us. Godly leadership asks a very different question. Instead of asking, “How high can I rise?” we should be asking, “How faithfully can I serve?” Read the newest Bible study on Judges 9:1–6: “When Ambition Becomes Idolatry: The Rise of Abimelech.” Our responsibility is not to build our own throne. Our responsibility is to remain faithful to the King who already sits on His. #Judges9 #Abimelech #BibleStudy #BiblicalLeadership #ChristianLeadership #SelfishAmbition #Humility #ServantLeadership #ChristianLiving #WordOfGod

A Prayer to Lay Down My Crown In Jesus’ name, Amen. Learn More: The Girl in the Pew: Loving Jesus. Loving People. Speaking the truth in love. Philistia Pittman is The Girl in the Pew, a woman of immense spiritual depth and battle-tested resilience. Click here to learn more about The Girl in the Pew: thegirlinthepew.com/about-the-girl-in-the-pew Explore The Girl in the Pew Series (Read & Watch): thegirlinthepew.com/series #TheGirlInThePew #SpeakTheTruthInLove #FaithJourney #SurrenderingYourPlanstoGod #TrustingGodWithDetours #SovereignShifts

This is who he is a Lamb on the throne, This is what He does He dies on his own, This is Jesus, This is Jesus. This is who He is, The king crown with thorns, This is how He reigns Our meek and lowly Lord this is Jesus, This is Jesus.

✟ “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” 1 John 3:16 In some Bible translations, John 19:2 reads "And the soldiers TWISTED together a crown of thorns and placed it on His head..." JESUS is The One King whom the Old Testament book of laws and of prophets all longed for. HE is also the same LORD that the New Testament disciples all looked back on. Today, we see a list of thousands of religious groups that were established even before we were born. Some religions led families to charity, humility, and blessings of heaven, and we should be happy about that. On the other hand, there are still existing congregations that when left unchecked, crush souls, control people, and create even more divisions while protecting and elevating a few, canceling others instead of celebrating shared prosperity together and of keeping alive our hope for eternity through our LORD JESUS CHRIST. This is devastating but not unusual. Sadly, it happens to both the humblest local sects and cathedrals of megachurches. But The Bible ends with "GRACE", not with chronic depression and hopelessness. The consistent pattern throughout the Scriptures is that it redirects all our devotion and attention to GOD. The book of Genesis starts with: "In the beginning, GOD created..." While Revelation ends with: "The grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST be with you all. Amen." The scene where the soldiers thought of twisting together a crown of thorns displays this fallen world and our tendency to join or create yet another religion that may only give us and others headaches instead of leading us to have a vision of our Savior: THE HEAD OF THE CHURCH —JESUS. And just as JESUS bled and was painfully hurt by the soldiers' twisted crown of thorns they designed for His head, we can also expect to experience a similar sense of treatment from others against our mental headspace as we now pursue the glory of GOD through His Son, JESUS CHRIST. Our LORD has done His part. His sacrifice on the cross is finished. THE WORD OF GOD is sufficient. His Holy Spirit is given to our hearts. Reflection questions: Where is He leading you today? What is He directing you to do? When was the last time you had an honest talk with JESUS? Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, You are The GOD of sound mind. You give clarity where there is confusion and provide us with correction when needed. You feed Your children with daily bread through Your incorruptible WORD that nourishes, strengthens, and teaches us to see yet another day of grace through the cross of CHRIST. Despite the twisted crown of thorns You humbly received from fallen humanity, You still finished Your journey then with us in Your mind. Forgive us LORD GOD, for the many times we dishonored Your precious words by how we responded to Your grace through our actions and imaginations. We ask that you also give a forgiving heart to those we have hurt in this earthly journey and comfort us through the pains we still do carry. We ask You to lead us into a lasting and honest fellowship with Your Holy Spirit and keep us joyfully serving You and the people You surround us with as we await Your return. In JESUS' Name, Amen. Matthew 12:49 “And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!” #perception 🤓 #notdeception 🫣 #religion 📜 #LifeWithJESUS ✝️➡️📖⬅️🕊💕👑

SERMON SEGMENT: "Shed Clear Light of Christ About Football & Its Fans" Key Texts: Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 9:24-25, Colossians 3:23, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Galatians 5:16-17, Hebrews 12:1-2 --- INTRO Church, the Lord is speaking to us in this last age. Hebrews 1:2 We must be careful what we pattern our lives after. Because our sanctification is delicate. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 — “For this is the will of God, your sanctification.” Tonight let’s talk about football and its fans — not to condemn people, but to shed the clear light of Christ on it. Ephesians 5:13 — “But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible.” 1. THE WARNING: DON'T BE PATTERNED BY THE WORLD Romans 12:2 — “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Football itself is just a game. But the spirit around football and its fan culture often carries: Pride - Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction” Injustice - cheating, bribes, violence, curses on other teams Flesh desires - gambling, drunkenness, lust, idolatry of players, spending hours that should be for God 1 John 2:15-16 — “Do not love the world or the things in the world... For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father.” Warning to Christians and non-Christians: If our mind, thoughts, and actions are shaped more by football rivalry than by the Spirit, we are being conformed, not transformed. And “no one should think eternal life inheritance in an unclean life.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 — “neither the sexually immoral... nor thieves... will inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:21 — “those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Our sanctification needs the shield of the Spirit and guidance, or it gets corrupted and compromised. Ephesians 6:16 2. THE BALANCE: DISCIPLINE FROM THE BIBLE, NOT FROM THE WORLD Some will say: “But Paul used sports!” Yes. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 — “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.” Paul is not telling us to go play football. He’s using the discipline of athletes to teach us spiritual discipline: Focus. Training. Self-control. Running to win an imperishable crown. Hebrews 12:1 — “let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus.” The world trains the body for 90 minutes. We must train the spirit for eternity. Colossians 3:23 — “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” If you play football, play unto the Lord. With integrity. Without pride. Without cursing. Without idolatry. If you are a fan, fan unto the Lord. With a renewed mind. 3. THE TEST: DOES IT HELP OR HINDER YOUR SALVATION? We are to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” — Philippians 2:12 Not earn it. But keep it clean, not corrupted. Ask yourself 3 questions before the game and after the game: Does this make Jesus increase in me, or decrease? John 3:30 Does this renew my mind, or fill it with pride, hate, and flesh? Romans 12:2 Can I do this and still be pure and blameless before God? 1 Peter 1:15-16 If football causes you to miss prayer, to gossip, to gamble, to hate, to be drunk — then it has become an idol. 1 Corinthians 10:14 — “Flee from idolatry.” 4. APPLICATION: HOW TO ENGAGE WITH A RENEWED MIND Awaken - See the spirit behind the culture. Don’t be blind. Proverbs 29:18 Renew - Let the Spirit transform your thoughts about competition, winning, and identity. Romans 12:2 Obey - If the Spirit says “turn it off, come pray,” obey. John 14:23 Purify - Guard your eyes, your mouth, your time. Psalm 119:9 CLOSING WORD Brothers and sisters, football is not the enemy. The flesh is.