• JOY IN THE MORNING
    By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah.

    This story will bless your life. Ensure you read till the end.

    Daniel was the kind of young man people admired from a distance but rarely helped when he needed them most.

    He was intelligent, hardworking, and full of ideas. At school, he had always been among the best. His teachers spoke highly of him and often said, "Daniel will go far in life."

    Daniel believed them.

    But after graduation, life began to tell him a different story.

    He wrote applications. He attended interviews. He shared business ideas with people who had influence and resources. Again and again, he heard the same words:

    "We'll get back to you."

    They never did.

    Some people praised his intelligence but refused to support him. Others took his ideas, promised partnership, and disappeared. Even friends who once came to him for advice suddenly became too busy when Daniel was the one asking for help.

    Months became years.

    One evening, Daniel sat alone in his small room, staring at his laptop. The battery was almost dead. His rent was overdue. His phone had stopped ringing.

    He felt abandoned.

    "What is the use of being intelligent," he whispered, "if nobody is willing to give me a chance?"

    For the first time in his life, Daniel began to doubt himself.

    That night, he lay awake with tears in his eyes. He was tired—not because he lacked dreams, but because he was exhausted from carrying them alone.

    Before dawn, unable to sleep, Daniel stepped outside. The night was still dark. The streets were quiet.

    He sat on a wooden bench and watched the sky.

    For a long time, nothing happened.

    Then, slowly, the darkness began to change.

    A faint light appeared at the edge of the sky.

    Daniel watched as morning pushed back the night—not with noise, not with force, but gradually and faithfully.

    And something stirred inside him.

    He realized that the darkness had not lasted forever.

    The morning had been on its way even when he could not see it.

    Daniel returned to his room with a different decision. If nobody would help him open a door, he would begin with whatever was in his hands.

    He used his intelligence to solve small problems for people around him. He started offering services online. He read more, learned new skills, and refused to let rejection become his identity.

    It was not easy.

    Some days, he earned nothing. Some days, he wanted to give up again.

    But he remembered that morning.

    One opportunity led to another. A small client introduced him to someone else. The skills he had developed during his lonely years became the foundation of a growing career.

    Years later, Daniel stood before a group of young people and told them something he had learned the hard way:

    "Sometimes, the people you expect to help you will not come. Sometimes, doors will remain closed longer than you hoped. But never conclude that your story has ended because you are in a dark season. Keep moving. Keep learning. Keep believing. There is always another way, another door, another opportunity, and another morning."

    Daniel smiled as he looked at the rising sun through the window.

    He finally understood.

    The night had not destroyed him.

    It had prepared him to recognize the morning.

    Reflection

    No matter what you are going through today, do not surrender to the darkness. Your present situation is not the final chapter of your life. You may feel alone, rejected, forgotten, or unsupported, but there is always a way forward.

    Sometimes the help you are waiting for will come. Sometimes you will discover strength you never knew you had.

    But one thing is certain: the darkest night cannot stop the morning from coming.

    Keep going.

    Joy may not be visible tonight, but joy is still possible in the morning.

    #highlights
    #beinspired
    #dontgiveup
    JOY IN THE MORNING By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah. This story will bless your life. Ensure you read till the end. Daniel was the kind of young man people admired from a distance but rarely helped when he needed them most. He was intelligent, hardworking, and full of ideas. At school, he had always been among the best. His teachers spoke highly of him and often said, "Daniel will go far in life." Daniel believed them. But after graduation, life began to tell him a different story. He wrote applications. He attended interviews. He shared business ideas with people who had influence and resources. Again and again, he heard the same words: "We'll get back to you." They never did. Some people praised his intelligence but refused to support him. Others took his ideas, promised partnership, and disappeared. Even friends who once came to him for advice suddenly became too busy when Daniel was the one asking for help. Months became years. One evening, Daniel sat alone in his small room, staring at his laptop. The battery was almost dead. His rent was overdue. His phone had stopped ringing. He felt abandoned. "What is the use of being intelligent," he whispered, "if nobody is willing to give me a chance?" For the first time in his life, Daniel began to doubt himself. That night, he lay awake with tears in his eyes. He was tired—not because he lacked dreams, but because he was exhausted from carrying them alone. Before dawn, unable to sleep, Daniel stepped outside. The night was still dark. The streets were quiet. He sat on a wooden bench and watched the sky. For a long time, nothing happened. Then, slowly, the darkness began to change. A faint light appeared at the edge of the sky. Daniel watched as morning pushed back the night—not with noise, not with force, but gradually and faithfully. And something stirred inside him. He realized that the darkness had not lasted forever. The morning had been on its way even when he could not see it. Daniel returned to his room with a different decision. If nobody would help him open a door, he would begin with whatever was in his hands. He used his intelligence to solve small problems for people around him. He started offering services online. He read more, learned new skills, and refused to let rejection become his identity. It was not easy. Some days, he earned nothing. Some days, he wanted to give up again. But he remembered that morning. One opportunity led to another. A small client introduced him to someone else. The skills he had developed during his lonely years became the foundation of a growing career. Years later, Daniel stood before a group of young people and told them something he had learned the hard way: "Sometimes, the people you expect to help you will not come. Sometimes, doors will remain closed longer than you hoped. But never conclude that your story has ended because you are in a dark season. Keep moving. Keep learning. Keep believing. There is always another way, another door, another opportunity, and another morning." Daniel smiled as he looked at the rising sun through the window. He finally understood. The night had not destroyed him. It had prepared him to recognize the morning. Reflection No matter what you are going through today, do not surrender to the darkness. Your present situation is not the final chapter of your life. You may feel alone, rejected, forgotten, or unsupported, but there is always a way forward. Sometimes the help you are waiting for will come. Sometimes you will discover strength you never knew you had. But one thing is certain: the darkest night cannot stop the morning from coming. Keep going. Joy may not be visible tonight, but joy is still possible in the morning. #highlights #beinspired #dontgiveup
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  • (long post ahead)

    There is a profound lesson I learned when I read this passage of Scripture:

    “said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him: No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him. And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:”
    ‭‭Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭14‬-‭15‬, ‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

    This passage takes place during Jesus’ trial. He was falsely accused of many things, yet we know that He was completely innocent. He had no sin. Everything He taught was truth, and everything He did, reflected the will of the Father.

    Jesus could have defended Himself. After all, He possessed the very nature of God. He had every power and every right to prove His innocence. Yet He chose to remain silent and willingly submit Himself to the Father’s plan.

    Even Pilate declared before the crowd that he could find no fault in Jesus. Herod found no crime worthy of death either. Still, the people refused to listen. Instead, they shouted louder, demanding that Jesus be crucified.

    This reminds me of a sobering reality:

    Even if God Himself stands before people and speaks the truth, there will still be hearts that choose not to believe. Miracles, truth, and evidence alone cannot change a heart that refuses to surrender.

    Then came the moment of decision.

    The people were given a choice:

    Jesus Christ or Barabbas.

    One was completely innocent.

    The other was a guilty criminal.

    Yet the crowd cried out for Barabbas to be released, while demanding that Jesus be condemned to die.

    As I reflected on this, something deeply touched my heart.

    I realized that Barabbas is a picture of us.

    We are the guilty ones.

    We are the sinners.

    Yet Jesus took our place.

    The punishment that should have fallen upon us was placed upon Him instead.

    The Son of God willingly exchanged His freedom for ours.

    He left the glory of heaven and humbled Himself to be born in a manger. Though He is the King of kings, He did not come to be served but to serve. He walked among the poor, healed the sick, showed mercy to sinners, comforted the brokenhearted, and lived a life of perfect holiness without sin.

    Finally, He gave His life on the cross.

    The release of Barabbas beautifully illustrates the Gospel.

    Barabbas deserved the cross.

    Jesus did not.

    Yet Jesus took the cross that belonged to Barabbas.

    In the same way, we deserve the punishment for our sins…..eternal separation from God. But Jesus took our place.

    (Inangkin Niya ang ating mga kasalanan at pinasan Niya ang kaparusahang nararapat para sa atin upang tayo ay maligtas.)

    That is the greatest picture of God’s mercy.

    And above all, that is the greatest picture of love.

    It was never the nails that kept Jesus on the cross. 🏻

    It was His immeasurable, unconditional, and unfailing love for us.

    “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)

    (HAVE A NICE DAY PIP’z)
    (long post ahead📖) There is a profound lesson I learned when I read this passage of Scripture: “said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him: No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him. And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭14‬-‭15‬, ‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬ This passage takes place during Jesus’ trial. He was falsely accused of many things, yet we know that He was completely innocent. He had no sin. Everything He taught was truth, and everything He did, reflected the will of the Father. Jesus could have defended Himself. After all, He possessed the very nature of God. He had every power and every right to prove His innocence. Yet He chose to remain silent and willingly submit Himself to the Father’s plan. Even Pilate declared before the crowd that he could find no fault in Jesus. Herod found no crime worthy of death either. Still, the people refused to listen. Instead, they shouted louder, demanding that Jesus be crucified. This reminds me of a sobering reality: 😔 Even if God Himself stands before people and speaks the truth, there will still be hearts that choose not to believe. Miracles, truth, and evidence alone cannot change a heart that refuses to surrender. Then came the moment of decision. The people were given a choice: ❓❓Jesus Christ or Barabbas. ❓❓ One was completely innocent. The other was a guilty criminal. Yet the crowd cried out for Barabbas to be released, while demanding that Jesus be condemned to die. 😢 As I reflected on this, something deeply touched my heart. I realized that Barabbas is a picture of us. We are the guilty ones. ✅ We are the sinners. ✅ Yet Jesus took our place. The punishment that should have fallen upon us was placed upon Him instead. The Son of God willingly exchanged His freedom for ours. He left the glory of heaven and humbled Himself to be born in a manger. Though He is the King of kings, He did not come to be served but to serve. He walked among the poor, healed the sick, showed mercy to sinners, comforted the brokenhearted, and lived a life of perfect holiness without sin. Finally, He gave His life on the cross. ✝️ The release of Barabbas beautifully illustrates the Gospel. Barabbas deserved the cross. Jesus did not. Yet Jesus took the cross that belonged to Barabbas. In the same way, we deserve the punishment for our sins…..eternal separation from God. But Jesus took our place. (Inangkin Niya ang ating mga kasalanan at pinasan Niya ang kaparusahang nararapat para sa atin upang tayo ay maligtas.) That is the greatest picture of God’s mercy. And above all, that is the greatest picture of love. It was never the nails that kept Jesus on the cross. 🙏🏻 It was His immeasurable, unconditional, and unfailing love for us. 💚💚💚 “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) (HAVE A NICE DAY PIP’z) 😇
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  • Brenda Walsh Ministries
    Knowing God’s Will.

    Whenever we are at the crossroads of life, trying to decide which way to turn, the best thing to do is go to God for wisdom. Only God knows the end from the beginning and what is best for us! But sometimes trying to decipher what is God’s will and what is ours can be quite confusing. The Bible gives the best advice in Jeremiah 6:16, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk ye in it, and you’ll find rest for your souls.” Sometimes God’s answers come through a friend, a certain sign, or just a strong impression from the Holy Spirit. One thing you can be sure of is that God will never ask you to do anything illegal, immoral, or anything that would go against His Holy Word. Be patient and wait for God’s perfect plan and His perfect timing. You will know God’s will because your mind won’t be in turmoil thinking you made a mistake, but rather you will feel a peace come over you, knowing you made the right decision. If after making a decision and you are awake all night, tossing and turning - chances are, it was a wrong decision! Pray and ask God not only to “know His will,” but for the strength and courage to carry it out. Text: James 1:5, Proverbs 2:1-5, 1 Kings 4:29-31
    Brenda Walsh Ministries Knowing God’s Will. Whenever we are at the crossroads of life, trying to decide which way to turn, the best thing to do is go to God for wisdom. Only God knows the end from the beginning and what is best for us! But sometimes trying to decipher what is God’s will and what is ours can be quite confusing. The Bible gives the best advice in Jeremiah 6:16, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk ye in it, and you’ll find rest for your souls.” Sometimes God’s answers come through a friend, a certain sign, or just a strong impression from the Holy Spirit. One thing you can be sure of is that God will never ask you to do anything illegal, immoral, or anything that would go against His Holy Word. Be patient and wait for God’s perfect plan and His perfect timing. You will know God’s will because your mind won’t be in turmoil thinking you made a mistake, but rather you will feel a peace come over you, knowing you made the right decision. If after making a decision and you are awake all night, tossing and turning - chances are, it was a wrong decision! Pray and ask God not only to “know His will,” but for the strength and courage to carry it out. Text: James 1:5, Proverbs 2:1-5, 1 Kings 4:29-31
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  • Choose Forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32)

    Almost everyone knows what it feels like to be hurt.

    Someone breaks your trust.

    A friend betrays you.

    Someone says something that stays in your heart for years.

    A relationship ends painfully.

    Someone treats you unfairly.

    And sometimes the hardest part isn't the pain itself.

    It's deciding what to do with that pain.

    You may feel like holding on to anger will protect you.

    You may think:

    “They don't deserve my forgiveness.”

    And perhaps what happened was genuinely wrong.

    But Jesus calls us to something greater than revenge.

    The Bible says:

    “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

    Forgiveness doesn't mean pretending that what happened was acceptable.

    It doesn't mean saying that the person didn't hurt you.

    It doesn't mean you must immediately trust someone who has broken your trust.

    And forgiveness doesn't always mean reconciliation.

    Sometimes healthy boundaries are necessary.

    But forgiveness means refusing to allow someone else's wrongdoing to control your heart forever.

    It means releasing your desire for revenge and placing justice in God's hands.

    Jesus gave us the ultimate example.

    He was betrayed.

    Rejected.

    Mocked.

    Beaten.

    Crucified.

    Yet even while suffering on the cross, He prayed for those who were hurting Him.

    That is the power of God's grace.

    And if Christ has forgiven us, we are called to extend that grace to others.

    Think about how much God has forgiven you.

    Every mistake.

    Every sinful thought.

    Every wrong decision.

    Every time you ignored His voice.

    Every time you chose your own way.

    We stand in need of grace too.

    That doesn't make someone else's wrongdoing insignificant.

    It reminds us that we are also people who need forgiveness.

    Maybe today you're carrying anger toward someone.

    You don't have to pretend everything is fine.

    Bring the pain to God.

    Tell Him exactly how you feel.

    Ask Him to heal your heart.

    Ask Him to help you forgive.

    And if necessary, establish wise boundaries.

    But don't let bitterness become your identity.

    Bitterness can consume the person carrying it more than the person who caused the hurt.

    Forgiveness sets your heart free.

    Sometimes forgiveness happens in one decision.

    Sometimes it is a process.

    You may have to surrender the same pain to God repeatedly.

    That's okay.

    Keep giving it to Him.

    Keep praying.

    Keep healing.

    Keep choosing grace.

    And remember that forgiveness doesn't mean you have to forget the lesson.

    You can forgive someone and still learn from what happened.

    You can forgive and still protect yourself.

    You can forgive and still choose wisdom.

    You can forgive without returning to an unhealthy situation.

    Forgiveness is not weakness. It is freedom.

    If you have hurt someone, don't only ask God for forgiveness.

    Where appropriate, have the courage to apologize.

    Say:

    “I was wrong.”

    “I'm sorry.”

    “Please forgive me.”

    Humility can begin the healing of a relationship.

    And if someone has hurt you, ask God for the strength to release the bitterness.

    You may not be able to change what happened.

    But with God's help, you can choose what happens next.

    Don't let yesterday's pain steal today's peace. Give your hurt to God and choose forgiveness.

    Is there someone you need to forgive—or someone you need to ask for forgiveness today?

    #ChooseForgiveness #Ephesians432 #Forgiveness #Grace #Healing #ChristianYouth #FaithInAction #JesusForgives #JesusSaves #ShareJesus #DailyFaith #Lordsbook #JMSM #KNKA
    Choose Forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32) Almost everyone knows what it feels like to be hurt. Someone breaks your trust. A friend betrays you. Someone says something that stays in your heart for years. A relationship ends painfully. Someone treats you unfairly. And sometimes the hardest part isn't the pain itself. It's deciding what to do with that pain. You may feel like holding on to anger will protect you. You may think: “They don't deserve my forgiveness.” And perhaps what happened was genuinely wrong. But Jesus calls us to something greater than revenge. The Bible says: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Forgiveness doesn't mean pretending that what happened was acceptable. It doesn't mean saying that the person didn't hurt you. It doesn't mean you must immediately trust someone who has broken your trust. And forgiveness doesn't always mean reconciliation. Sometimes healthy boundaries are necessary. But forgiveness means refusing to allow someone else's wrongdoing to control your heart forever. It means releasing your desire for revenge and placing justice in God's hands. Jesus gave us the ultimate example. He was betrayed. Rejected. Mocked. Beaten. Crucified. Yet even while suffering on the cross, He prayed for those who were hurting Him. That is the power of God's grace. And if Christ has forgiven us, we are called to extend that grace to others. Think about how much God has forgiven you. Every mistake. Every sinful thought. Every wrong decision. Every time you ignored His voice. Every time you chose your own way. We stand in need of grace too. That doesn't make someone else's wrongdoing insignificant. It reminds us that we are also people who need forgiveness. Maybe today you're carrying anger toward someone. You don't have to pretend everything is fine. Bring the pain to God. Tell Him exactly how you feel. Ask Him to heal your heart. Ask Him to help you forgive. And if necessary, establish wise boundaries. But don't let bitterness become your identity. Bitterness can consume the person carrying it more than the person who caused the hurt. Forgiveness sets your heart free. Sometimes forgiveness happens in one decision. Sometimes it is a process. You may have to surrender the same pain to God repeatedly. That's okay. Keep giving it to Him. Keep praying. Keep healing. Keep choosing grace. And remember that forgiveness doesn't mean you have to forget the lesson. You can forgive someone and still learn from what happened. You can forgive and still protect yourself. You can forgive and still choose wisdom. You can forgive without returning to an unhealthy situation. Forgiveness is not weakness. It is freedom. If you have hurt someone, don't only ask God for forgiveness. Where appropriate, have the courage to apologize. Say: “I was wrong.” “I'm sorry.” “Please forgive me.” Humility can begin the healing of a relationship. And if someone has hurt you, ask God for the strength to release the bitterness. You may not be able to change what happened. But with God's help, you can choose what happens next. Don't let yesterday's pain steal today's peace. Give your hurt to God and choose forgiveness. Is there someone you need to forgive—or someone you need to ask for forgiveness today? #ChooseForgiveness #Ephesians432 #Forgiveness #Grace #Healing #ChristianYouth #FaithInAction #JesusForgives #JesusSaves #ShareJesus #DailyFaith #Lordsbook #JMSM #KNKA
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  • SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST 2026
    IGNITE YOUTH DEVOTIONAL

    Topic: Do Not Ignore the Small Compromise

    Bible Reference
    “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.” Luke 16:10 (NKJV)

    A Short Story
    Blessing had always seen herself as a good Christian. She attended church, joined the youth meetings, prayed regularly, and tried to live according to God's Word.

    One afternoon, she noticed that she had been given too much change at a shop. The difference was not much. She looked at the money in her hand and thought, “It is only a small amount.”She could easily have kept it. Nobody would know.

    She walked a few steps away from the shop, but something inside her made her stop. She remembered that she had been praying for God to trust her with greater responsibilities.

    She turned around and returned the money. The following week, something similar happened. This time, it was not money. A friend asked her to lie about where they had been so that their parents would not find out.

    Again, it seemed like a small matter. Blessing remembered the change she had returned the previous week. She realized that integrity was not something she could practise only when the matter was serious. She refused to lie.

    As she walked home that evening, she understood something she had never considered deeply before. The small decisions she made every day were preparing her for the bigger decisions that would come later.

    Today's Message
    Many people want God to trust them with great things, but they ignore the small things.

    Jesus said that the person who is faithful in little will also be faithful in much. This means that your character is being developed through ordinary decisions.

    A small lie may seem harmless. A little dishonesty may seem insignificant. A secret compromise may appear too small to matter.

    But compromise has a way of growing.

    The enemy does not always begin by asking you to do something obviously wrong. Sometimes, he starts with something that looks too small to deserve your attention.

    Do not measure the seriousness of a decision only by how big it looks. Ask whether it agrees with God's Word.

    Your private decisions are shaping your public character.

    If you want God to trust you with greater responsibility, learn to honour Him in the little things first.

    What To Do Today
    1. Pay attention to the small decisions you normally overlook.

    2. Refuse to justify dishonesty because the matter seems insignificant.

    3. Keep your word, even when nobody will punish you for breaking it.

    4. Remember that character is built through repeated choices.

    Prayer
    Lord, help me to be faithful in little things. Give me the strength to reject every compromise, no matter how small it appears. Build integrity into my character and prepare me for everything You have planned for me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

    Daily Challenge
    Today, choose honesty in one small situation where it would be easier to compromise. Let your decision be an act of worship to God.

    Anthony Ijere
    Christian Author and Revivalist

    WHATSAPP GROUP
    https://chat.whatsapp.com/BDs9qaNMQumKTicv7uU7SJ?s=cl&p=a&mlu=0&ilr=0

    TELEGRAM CHANNEL
    https://t.me/anthonyijere
    SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST 2026 IGNITE YOUTH DEVOTIONAL Topic: Do Not Ignore the Small Compromise Bible Reference “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.” Luke 16:10 (NKJV) A Short Story Blessing had always seen herself as a good Christian. She attended church, joined the youth meetings, prayed regularly, and tried to live according to God's Word. One afternoon, she noticed that she had been given too much change at a shop. The difference was not much. She looked at the money in her hand and thought, “It is only a small amount.”She could easily have kept it. Nobody would know. She walked a few steps away from the shop, but something inside her made her stop. She remembered that she had been praying for God to trust her with greater responsibilities. She turned around and returned the money. The following week, something similar happened. This time, it was not money. A friend asked her to lie about where they had been so that their parents would not find out. Again, it seemed like a small matter. Blessing remembered the change she had returned the previous week. She realized that integrity was not something she could practise only when the matter was serious. She refused to lie. As she walked home that evening, she understood something she had never considered deeply before. The small decisions she made every day were preparing her for the bigger decisions that would come later. Today's Message Many people want God to trust them with great things, but they ignore the small things. Jesus said that the person who is faithful in little will also be faithful in much. This means that your character is being developed through ordinary decisions. A small lie may seem harmless. A little dishonesty may seem insignificant. A secret compromise may appear too small to matter. But compromise has a way of growing. The enemy does not always begin by asking you to do something obviously wrong. Sometimes, he starts with something that looks too small to deserve your attention. Do not measure the seriousness of a decision only by how big it looks. Ask whether it agrees with God's Word. Your private decisions are shaping your public character. If you want God to trust you with greater responsibility, learn to honour Him in the little things first. What To Do Today 1. Pay attention to the small decisions you normally overlook. 2. Refuse to justify dishonesty because the matter seems insignificant. 3. Keep your word, even when nobody will punish you for breaking it. 4. Remember that character is built through repeated choices. Prayer Lord, help me to be faithful in little things. Give me the strength to reject every compromise, no matter how small it appears. Build integrity into my character and prepare me for everything You have planned for me. In Jesus' name, Amen. Daily Challenge Today, choose honesty in one small situation where it would be easier to compromise. Let your decision be an act of worship to God. ©️ Anthony Ijere Christian Author and Revivalist WHATSAPP GROUP https://chat.whatsapp.com/BDs9qaNMQumKTicv7uU7SJ?s=cl&p=a&mlu=0&ilr=0 TELEGRAM CHANNEL https://t.me/anthonyijere
    Love
    1
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  • For far too long, historians have accepted the claim that the conversion of the Emperor Constantine (ca. 285–337) caused the triumph of Christianity. To the contrary, he destroyed its most attractive and dynamic aspects, turning a high-intensity, grassroots movement into an arrogant institution controlled by an elite who often managed to be both brutal and lax.… Constantine’s “favor” was his decision to divert to the Christians the massive state funding on which the pagan temples had always depended. Overnight, Christianity became “the most-favoured recipient of the near limitless resources of imperial favors.” A faith that had been meeting in humble structures was suddenly housed in magnificent public buildings—the new church of Saint Peter in Rome was modeled on the basilican form used for imperial throne halls.
    For far too long, historians have accepted the claim that the conversion of the Emperor Constantine (ca. 285–337) caused the triumph of Christianity. To the contrary, he destroyed its most attractive and dynamic aspects, turning a high-intensity, grassroots movement into an arrogant institution controlled by an elite who often managed to be both brutal and lax.… Constantine’s “favor” was his decision to divert to the Christians the massive state funding on which the pagan temples had always depended. Overnight, Christianity became “the most-favoured recipient of the near limitless resources of imperial favors.” A faith that had been meeting in humble structures was suddenly housed in magnificent public buildings—the new church of Saint Peter in Rome was modeled on the basilican form used for imperial throne halls.
    Like
    1
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  • August 22, 2026 (day 234/365)
    SATURDAY

    GOD'S WORD FOR THE DAY

    “Listen to Wise Counsel”

    1 Kings 12:7

    “If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and answer them and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever.”

    This is the Word of God. When Rehoboam became king, he was given an important choice. The elders advised him to listen to the people and serve them, but he rejected their counsel and followed the advice of his young companions. His prideful decision divided the kingdom.

    Leadership is not about demanding that others serve us; it is about being willing to serve others. We may have authority, knowledge, or position, but we still need humble hearts that listen to wise and godly counsel.

    A single proud decision can damage relationships and create consequences that last for years. Therefore, we should not allow pride to silence wise voices around us.

    May God give us humble hearts to listen, wisdom to discern good counsel, and servant hearts that seek to bless rather than control others. Amen.

    Have a blessed day with the Lord.

    -- Pastor Emmanuel Serto
    August 22, 2026 (day 234/365) SATURDAY GOD'S WORD FOR THE DAY “Listen to Wise Counsel” 1 Kings 12:7 “If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and answer them and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever.” This is the Word of God. When Rehoboam became king, he was given an important choice. The elders advised him to listen to the people and serve them, but he rejected their counsel and followed the advice of his young companions. His prideful decision divided the kingdom. Leadership is not about demanding that others serve us; it is about being willing to serve others. We may have authority, knowledge, or position, but we still need humble hearts that listen to wise and godly counsel. A single proud decision can damage relationships and create consequences that last for years. Therefore, we should not allow pride to silence wise voices around us. May God give us humble hearts to listen, wisdom to discern good counsel, and servant hearts that seek to bless rather than control others. Amen. Have a blessed day with the Lord. -- Pastor Emmanuel Serto
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  • Guidelines for living.
    August 21st, 2026

    Here’s The Only Way to Begin to Love

    This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:10-11



    The greatest rivers in the world usually begin on the cold, frozen slopes of high mountains as the sun begins to melt snow and ice, and from the trickle of crystal-clear water a steam begins to flow and eventually a cascade of water plummets down the mountain. In the valley far below, the stream becomes a river, then a great river which we call the Nile, the Amazon, the Ganges, the Rhine, or whatever. By the time these massive bodies of water reach the ocean, they may be kilometers wide, and they are muddy and polluted.

    Now, apply that same concept to the biblical truth that God is love. John tells us this in the New Testament, and the farther we are from Him, seemingly the more polluted love becomes. By the time it has been filtered through human lust, what we call love is a far cry from the compelling love which caused God to send His Son long ago.

    Love is not a platitude, it is an action, an unconditional commitment to care, a decision of your heart. True, love is what the world needs. The words of a song popular a generation ago said it all: “The world is dying, dying for a little bit of love,” says one verse.

    If you’ve been following this series based on Paul’s great chapter on love, found in the New Testament in 1 Corinthians 13, you have focused on love’s characteristics, but any discussion of the subject would be incomplete without a few words of encouragement for you whose river of love has either evaporated in the desert of life, or else become so polluted you hardly know what the real thing is.

    When God touches your heart, your life will change. God takes up residence in your life, and the mud of sin is washed away. When pollution is eliminated, you start loving. This is the miracle of conversion. This is the answer to the lovelessness and the selfishness which destroys relationships.

    Joining a church, turning over a new leaf, going to confession, just “being religious,” is not the solution. A relationship with God through His son is the only way you will really begin to love.

    I will give you three simple guidelines that will help.

    Guideline #1: Acknowledge you need a relationship with God and confess that sin has stopped the flow of love in your life. It’s easy to point a finger and say, “Well, it was his fault; her fault.” The solution is saying, “God, I need you. Forgive me. Touch my life.”

    Guideline #2: Ask God’s forgiveness for your failure—not the other person’s—and ask Him to be Lord and Savior. Jesus gave us a promise. He said, “I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and have fellowship with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20). That promise has your name on it, friend.

    Guideline #3: Begin loving in simple steps, one day at a time. When you fail and fall back into those old habits and a loveless way, quickly admit your wrong; ask God’s help to overcome it.

    Friend, you can talk about love until you have calluses on your vocal cords, but until you get back to the fountain and the source of love, who is God Himself, you’ll never lay hold of the real thing: the God kind of love that changes the world. So, go back to the source. It’s the only way to fill your cup and have enough left over for someone else in your life. Love is not a pious platitude. It’s the answer.



    Resource Reading: 1 John 4:1-21
    Guidelines for living. August 21st, 2026 Here’s The Only Way to Begin to Love This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:10-11 The greatest rivers in the world usually begin on the cold, frozen slopes of high mountains as the sun begins to melt snow and ice, and from the trickle of crystal-clear water a steam begins to flow and eventually a cascade of water plummets down the mountain. In the valley far below, the stream becomes a river, then a great river which we call the Nile, the Amazon, the Ganges, the Rhine, or whatever. By the time these massive bodies of water reach the ocean, they may be kilometers wide, and they are muddy and polluted. Now, apply that same concept to the biblical truth that God is love. John tells us this in the New Testament, and the farther we are from Him, seemingly the more polluted love becomes. By the time it has been filtered through human lust, what we call love is a far cry from the compelling love which caused God to send His Son long ago. Love is not a platitude, it is an action, an unconditional commitment to care, a decision of your heart. True, love is what the world needs. The words of a song popular a generation ago said it all: “The world is dying, dying for a little bit of love,” says one verse. If you’ve been following this series based on Paul’s great chapter on love, found in the New Testament in 1 Corinthians 13, you have focused on love’s characteristics, but any discussion of the subject would be incomplete without a few words of encouragement for you whose river of love has either evaporated in the desert of life, or else become so polluted you hardly know what the real thing is. When God touches your heart, your life will change. God takes up residence in your life, and the mud of sin is washed away. When pollution is eliminated, you start loving. This is the miracle of conversion. This is the answer to the lovelessness and the selfishness which destroys relationships. Joining a church, turning over a new leaf, going to confession, just “being religious,” is not the solution. A relationship with God through His son is the only way you will really begin to love. I will give you three simple guidelines that will help. Guideline #1: Acknowledge you need a relationship with God and confess that sin has stopped the flow of love in your life. It’s easy to point a finger and say, “Well, it was his fault; her fault.” The solution is saying, “God, I need you. Forgive me. Touch my life.” Guideline #2: Ask God’s forgiveness for your failure—not the other person’s—and ask Him to be Lord and Savior. Jesus gave us a promise. He said, “I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and have fellowship with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20). That promise has your name on it, friend. Guideline #3: Begin loving in simple steps, one day at a time. When you fail and fall back into those old habits and a loveless way, quickly admit your wrong; ask God’s help to overcome it. Friend, you can talk about love until you have calluses on your vocal cords, but until you get back to the fountain and the source of love, who is God Himself, you’ll never lay hold of the real thing: the God kind of love that changes the world. So, go back to the source. It’s the only way to fill your cup and have enough left over for someone else in your life. Love is not a pious platitude. It’s the answer. Resource Reading: 1 John 4:1-21
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  • A Nugget of Truth.
    The most life-changing decisions don't always begin with a major event. Sometimes they start with a whisper, a seemingly harmless idea, or a voice presenting error as the best path. This is what happened to Eve in the Garden of Eden.

    The serpent didn't resort to force or reveal its true intentions from the start. It approached with carefully chosen words, sowing doubt about what God had said. Little by little, deception made what was forbidden seem desirable. What began as a conversation ended up becoming a decision that changed the course of human history.

    The story of Eve reminds us that deception rarely presents itself openly. It often takes on a convincing appearance, offering paths that seem good while concealing consequences that aren't immediately apparent. That's why the Bible emphasizes the importance of remaining attentive to God's truth, which stands firm above any voice that tries to distort it.

    Eve's story remains an invitation to value the wisdom that comes from the Lord and to recognize that His Word continues to be a sure guide in a world where many ideas seek to take the place of truth.

    "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes... she took of its fruit and ate." — Genesis 3:6

    Eve's story reminds us that discernment begins when God's truth stands above any appearance.
    A Nugget of Truth. The most life-changing decisions don't always begin with a major event. Sometimes they start with a whisper, a seemingly harmless idea, or a voice presenting error as the best path. This is what happened to Eve in the Garden of Eden. The serpent didn't resort to force or reveal its true intentions from the start. It approached with carefully chosen words, sowing doubt about what God had said. Little by little, deception made what was forbidden seem desirable. What began as a conversation ended up becoming a decision that changed the course of human history. The story of Eve reminds us that deception rarely presents itself openly. It often takes on a convincing appearance, offering paths that seem good while concealing consequences that aren't immediately apparent. That's why the Bible emphasizes the importance of remaining attentive to God's truth, which stands firm above any voice that tries to distort it. Eve's story remains an invitation to value the wisdom that comes from the Lord and to recognize that His Word continues to be a sure guide in a world where many ideas seek to take the place of truth. "And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes... she took of its fruit and ate." — Genesis 3:6 Eve's story reminds us that discernment begins when God's truth stands above any appearance.
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  • The Default Program: Why You Were Born Running the Wrong Software.

    Every one of us was born into a life we didn't choose and a status we didn't ask for. Before we ever made a single decision of our own, we inherited a condition — one that quietly shapes how we think, how we struggle, and why we so often find ourselves doing the very things we swore we wouldn't do.
    Scripture puts it simply: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). This isn't a verse about a few bad actors. It's a diagnosis of the human condition itself
    adapted from my book,To live and then https://.https://a.co/d/0dJqZ3x8
    The Default Program: Why You Were Born Running the Wrong Software. Every one of us was born into a life we didn't choose and a status we didn't ask for. Before we ever made a single decision of our own, we inherited a condition — one that quietly shapes how we think, how we struggle, and why we so often find ourselves doing the very things we swore we wouldn't do. Scripture puts it simply: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). This isn't a verse about a few bad actors. It's a diagnosis of the human condition itself adapted from my book,To live and then https://.https://a.co/d/0dJqZ3x8
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