Daily devotion for August 17th The Way Of Health They found written in the Law, which the LORD had commanded through Moses, that the Israelites were to live in booths during the feast of the seventh month. Nehemiah 8:14 The way of health is dramatically demonstrated for us in the closing verses of this chapter. God had anticipated the needs of these people. Centuries before, He had provided a most remarkable visual aid to remind them of the truth that would keep them from further destruction. This is the Feast of Tabernacles, a reminder that they were called as a people out of Egypt. Their departure was sudden and precipitous. They were not even to sit down when they ate the Passover meal. They had to eat it standing, with their staffs in their hands, dressed in traveling clothes, ready to leave. They went out at a word of command and left Egypt in one night. When they got into the desert, one day's journey out, and night fell, where were they to find shelter? Moses had been told by God that they were to collect boughs and tree limbs and build booths for shelter. Then God ordained that they were to do this once every year. Even though later they had homes to dwell in, they were to build these booths and live in them for seven days. This was to teach them that they were always pilgrims and strangers on the earth. This world was not their home. All the great blessings of life would not necessarily be found in this present time but were waiting for them in glory. Therefore, they did not need to be distressed if they did not have everything that those around them were trying to get in this life. That is the truth that will deliver us from the pressures of the times. We must hold things lightly. We must not think that houses, cars, money, and material gain are all that important. Even if we lack these things, the great treasures of our life remain untouched. To strive constantly to gain what everyone else has is a mistake. God teaches us to hold these things lightly. We must never forget that we are in the world but not of it. We are never to settle down here for good. I love the way C. S. Lewis has put it: Our kind heavenly Father has provided many wonderful inns for us along our journey, but he takes special care to see that we never mistake any of them for home. We are pilgrims and strangers, passing through this world. We are involved in it, deeply sometimes, but we are never to see ourselves as a part of it. What will enable us to remember that? Verse 18 gives us the answer. Every day they read the Scripture. Every day they saturated themselves in the thinking of God. That is what makes for realism: When you think like God thinks, you are thinking realistically. You are beginning to see yourself the way you really are. You are seeing your children, your home, and your nation the way they really are. For the first time you are able to divest yourself of the illusions and delusions of a mistaken, confused world. You are beginning to work toward wholeness, healing, and strengthening of the things that abide. What a wonderful picture this is, Lord, of the fact that I am a stranger on this earth. Far too often I have lived as if this were my home. Renew my mind with Your truth that there is so much more to live for than what this world offers.

Daily Devotional. Work for the needy. And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. Matthew 9:35 What a busy life Christ led! Day by day He might be seen entering the humble abodes of want and sorrow, speaking hope to the downcast and peace to the distressed. The poor and suffering received the greatest share of His attention. Children loved Him. They were drawn to Him by His ready sympathy. By His simple, loving words He settled many a difficulty arising among them. Often He took them on His knee and talked with them in a way that won their hearts.... Humble, gracious, tenderhearted, pitiful, He went about doing good, feeding the hungry, lifting up the bowed down, comforting the sorrowing. None who came to Him for aid went away unrelieved. Not a thread of selfishness was woven into the pattern He has left for His children to follow. He lived the life that He would have all live who believe on Him. It was His meat and drink to do the will of His Father. To all who came to Him for help He brought faith and hope and life. Wherever He went He carried blessing. The tender sympathies of our Saviour were aroused for fallen and suffering humanity. If you would be His followers, you must cultivate compassion and sympathy. Indifference to human woes must give place to lively interest in the sufferings of others. The widow, the orphan, the sick and the dying, will always need help. Here is an opportunity to proclaim the gospel—to hold up Jesus, the hope and consolation of all men. When the suffering body has been relieved, and you have shown a lively interest in the afflicted, the heart is opened, and you can pour in the heavenly balm. If you are looking to Jesus, and drawing from Him knowledge and strength and grace, you can impart His consolation to others, because the Comforter is with you. [231]

SHAKEN, BUT NOT STIRRED BECAUSE OF MY FAITH! Key Scripture: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…” — 1 Corinthians 15:58 (KJV) Thought for the Day... There are moments in life when your faith will not prevent the shaking—it will keep the shaking from destroying you. Sometimes we mistakenly believe that strong faith means we will never experience fear, disappointment, uncertainty, pressure, betrayal, loss, or unexpected trouble. But the Bible never promises that believers will live unshaken lives. Instead, Scripture teaches us how to remain unmoved while everything around us is shaking. You may be shaken by what happened, but you don't have to be stirred away from what you believe. You can say: “I felt it, but I didn't fold.” “I cried, but I didn't quit.” “I was disappointed, but I didn't stop trusting God.” “The storm shook my surroundings, but it couldn't shake my foundation.” Why? BECAUSE OF MY FAITH! FAITH DOESN'T ALWAYS STOP THE SHAKING—SOMETIMES IT HOLDS YOU THROUGH IT Jesus told Peter: “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not…” — Luke 22:31–32 (KJV) Notice that Jesus didn't tell Peter, “You won't be sifted.” He said, essentially, “When you're sifted, I'm praying that your faith survives.” That's powerful! Sometimes God doesn't immediately remove the situation. Instead, He strengthens you in the situation. The enemy wants the shaking to become a breaking. But God says: “You may shake, but you will not shatter.” Your emotions may shake. Your finances may shake. Your relationships may shake. Your plans may shake. Your confidence may shake. But when your faith is anchored in Jesus Christ, your foundation remains secure. THE STORM CAN SHAKE THE HOUSE, BUT IT CANNOT MOVE THE FOUNDATION Jesus said: “…a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not…” — Matthew 7:24–25 (KJV) Notice something important. The house built on the rock still experienced the storm. The rain still fell. The floods still came. The winds still blew. And the storm still beat upon the house. The difference wasn't the absence of a storm. The difference was the foundation. Somebody looking at your life may wonder: "How are you still standing after everything you've been through?" The answer is simple: MY FOUNDATION IS JESUS! I've been shaken—but my foundation hasn't moved. I've been wounded—but my foundation hasn't moved. I've been disappointed—but my foundation hasn't moved. I've had nights when I didn't understand what God was doing—but my foundation hasn't moved! WHAT SHAKES YOU REVEALS WHAT'S HOLDING YOU! Hebrews declares: “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace…” — Hebrews 12:28 (KJV) Sometimes shaking reveals what we have unknowingly depended upon. We trusted the job—until the job changed. We trusted people—until people disappointed us. We trusted our plans—until life interrupted them. We trusted our own strength—until we discovered we weren't strong enough. Then the shaking reminded us: God was supposed to be our foundation all along. When temporary things start moving, faith grabs hold of the One who never changes. “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” — Hebrews 13:8 (KJV) Everything around you can change while the God underneath you remains the same. FAITH SAYS, “EVEN IF GOD DOESN'T CHANGE IT YET, I STILL TRUST HIM!” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced a fiery furnace because they refused to bow. Their response was remarkable: “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us…” — Daniel 3:17 (KJV) But then they said: “But if not… we will not serve thy gods…” — Daniel 3:18 (KJV) That's shaken-but-not-stirred faith! They knew God could deliver them, but their faith wasn't dependent upon God doing exactly what they wanted. “God can—but even if He doesn't, He's still God.” That's mature faith. If He heals me—I trust Him. If I'm still waiting—I trust Him. If the door opens—I trust Him. If the door stays closed—I trust Him. If I understand—I trust Him. If I don't understand—I STILL TRUST HIM! My circumstances don't determine God's character. God is faithful even when life doesn't make sense. YOU MAY BEND UNDER PRESSURE WITHOUT BREAKING Paul described the Christian journey this way: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.” — 2 Corinthians 4:8–9 (KJV) Look at those contrasts: Troubled—but not distressed. Perplexed—but not hopeless. Persecuted—but not abandoned. Knocked down—but not destroyed. In other words: SHAKEN—BUT STILL STANDING! Faith doesn't mean you never have difficult moments. Faith means difficult moments don't get the final word. WHEN THE SHAKING STOPS One day you'll look back and realize: What you thought was going to destroy you actually developed you. The shaking taught you how to pray. The shaking taught you how to trust. The shaking taught you who was really for you. The shaking exposed what wasn't stable. The shaking drove you deeper into God's Word. And the shaking taught you something about yourself: “I didn't know my faith was this strong until life gave me something heavy enough to test it.” James 1:3 declares: “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” Your faith isn't merely being tested. Your faith is being strengthened. Prayer... Heavenly Father, thank You for being my Rock when everything around me feels unstable. When life shakes me, strengthen my faith. When fear tries to enter my heart, remind me of Your promises. When I don't understand what You're doing, help me trust who You are. Lord, let every storm drive me closer to You. Give me faith that refuses to quit, worship that refuses to stop, and confidence that declares, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in him” (Job 13:15). I declare that trouble will not destroy me, disappointment will not define me, and fear will not control me. My life is built upon Jesus Christ, the Solid Rock. I may be shaken, but I will not be stirred away from my faith. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen! DECLARATION... I may be shaken, but I will not be stirred away from my faith! I will not allow fear to replace my faith. I will not allow disappointment to replace my worship. I will not allow delay to make me doubt God's promises. I will not allow what I see to make me forget what God said. My faith is anchored. My hope is secure. My foundation is Jesus Christ. The winds may blow. The rain may fall. The ground around me may shake. BUT I WILL STILL BE STANDING! Because I've discovered something about God: HE IS FAITHFUL IN THE FIRE. HE IS FAITHFUL IN THE STORM. HE IS FAITHFUL IN THE WAITING. HE IS FAITHFUL IN THE SHAKING. I'M SHAKEN, BUT I'M NOT STIRRED—BECAUSE OF MY FAITH!

Daily Devotional. Work for the children. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 19:14 Wherever the Saviour went, the benignity of His countenance and His gentle, kindly manner won the love and confidence of children.... One mother with her child had left her home to find Jesus. On the way she told a neighbor her errand, and the neighbor wanted to have Jesus bless her children. Thus several mothers came together, with their little ones. Some of the children had passed beyond the years of infancy to childhood and youth.... But He waited to see how the disciples would treat them. When He saw them send the mothers away, thinking to do Him a favor, He showed them their error, saying, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” He took the children in His arms, He laid His hands upon them, and gave them the blessing for which they came. God wants every child of tender age to be His child, to be adopted into His family. Young though they may be, the youth may be members of the household of faith, and have a most precious experience.... Christ will make them little missionaries. The whole current of their thoughts may be changed, so that sin will not appear a thing to be enjoyed but to be hated and shunned.... The Lord will give an experience to these children in missionary lines. We may bring hundreds and thousands of children to Christ if we will work for them. The children should be so educated that they will sympathize with the aged and afflicted and will seek to alleviate the sufferings of the poor and distressed. They should be taught to be diligent in missionary work; and from their earliest years self-denial and sacrifice for the good of others and the advancement of Christ’s cause should be inculcated, that they may be laborers together with God. [229]

And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. 1 Samuel 30:6 It is important to know that we don't have the ability and privilege to select or determine the challenges we would face in life. But, we can determine how to respond or react to them. Some challenges will happen just to expose the people around us so we can know who they truly are and their inner thoughts towards us. David's own people whom he has led, trained, blessed and sacrificed for considered stoning him because of the challenge they were facing at that time. David was not the cause of the challenge but they wanted to kill him for it. Yet, instead of David fighting back and defending himself, he chose to encourage himself in the Lord. He turned to God and eventually he overcame the challenge. Please, I want to encourage you to respond to every challenge by running to God. He will give you the best strategy to approach the situation. People may react to you because of their person frustration and disappointment. So, don't be quick to react to them. Learn to be calm and seek the LORD for a way out. Seeking God is key to winning in life. You will win. YAHWEH IS ON YOUR SIDE TODAY PST EMAMUZO PETER

❤️HOW TO KNOW GOD'S WILL FOR IMPORTANT DECISIONS IN YOUR LIFE. Part 4 of 6. How God Makes Known His Will for Specific Decisions and Needs. Continued. This is, in the final analysis, merely an attempt to sanctify doubt and unbelief about healing, as well as an attempt to place the responsibility back on God for the healing. However, if those who attempt to do this knew the Word as they should they would know that God has already placed the responsibility for receiving anything from Him on them, saying, "all things whatsoever YOU shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive" (Mt. 21:22). God has promised that "the prayer of faith shall heal the sick." He did not qualify this by adding "sometimes"; nor did He say that "the prayer of faith shall heal only some types of diseases." If those who are confused would examine the Scriptures carefully on the subject of healing, they would discover that, although there are conditions one must meet, nevertheless, there are no exceptions to God's promises (Num. 23:19, 2 Cor. 1:20). Occasionally someone will relate an alleged exception, citing some instance which they have heard of where some individual had asked God for healing, or was anointed with oil and prayed for, but who, nevertheless, failed to receive healing, or actually died. Invariably, however, when it has been possible to ascertain all the facts in the case, we find that the so-called "exception" to divine healing was not an exception at all, but the failure on someone's part to meet the necessary "conditions." Without reservation God promises in James 5:15 that "the prayer of faith will heal the sick." He gives no exceptions to this promise; but He does, within the same context in which He gives us this promise, set forth several conditions for receiving it. For instance, He states that (1) it is the responsibility of the sick person to call for the elders of the church for prayer for healing (often you will find in the case of an individual who did not receive healing after anointing and prayer that the elders were called to come and pray by some sympathetic friend or member of the family, not by the sick individual himself, who in reality did not know what the Scriptures had to say about the matter, and as a consequence he did not have the faith to appropriate his healing. The reason God requires this condition to be met is simply because that it implies faith on the part of the sick individual for him to take the initiative and call for the elders to come and pray for his healing, (2) the sick are to be anointed with oil; (3) this is to be done in the name of the Lord (Jesus), (4) the sick should confess his faults so that he may be healed; and (5) the prayer of faith is to be offered (Jam. 5:15-16). The neglect of any one of these conditions, when healing is applied for on the basis of James 5, is sufficient reason to nullify the promise. Again in Exodus 15:26 God promises that sickness shall not come upon His people, saying, "I am the Lord that heals you." There are no exceptions to this promise, since the meaning of His Name, Yahweh Ropheka, signifies "I am the Lord that heals you," but there is a condition set forth in this same verse for receiving its application - obedience to His Word. There is prevalent today the popular but unscriptural notion that it is God's will to allow sickness, which He often places upon His children for His glory, or as a blessing in disguise, in order to teach them patience and humility, or to develop a deeper trust in Him. Thus, for most Christians there is only the unhappy prospect of an endless round of going to the doctors and the hospital, being subjected to surgery, and taking medicines and drugs while the medical insurance companies are growing rich in consequence of the mental and physical afflictions which result from their fears and unscriptural ideas concerning sickness. Therefore, Christians must be liberated from their erroneous ideas concerning sickness and healing if they are ever to be able to exercise sufficient faith for healing and health. There is but one way this can be done: through the Word of God, which is a revelation of His will concerning the believer's spiritual, physical, mental, and temporal welfare. It is in God's Word that they will discover that sickness is from Satan (Job 2:6-7; Lu. 13:10-16; 1Cor. 5:5; Acts 10:38), and that healing has been provided and promised by God (Isa. 53:4 with Mt. 8:16-17. Isaiah 53:4 reads Literally in the Hebrew: "Surely he hath carried away our diseases, and borne our pain." Ex. 15:26, Ps. 103:3; Mk. 16:17-18; l Cor.12:28; Jam. 5:14-16, I Pet. 2:24; 3 John 2). Did you know that every believer is invited to walk through life on a pathway literally paved with the promises of God? Did you know that you are promised health and your needs met, as well as spiritual blessings? Did you know that God has promised to give you wisdom, help, and guidance, as well as direct your steps day to day? A promise of God is to be looked upon as you do a check, it is to be endorsed by faith and taken to the bank and cashed. God invites you to open His Word and see just what is on deposit to your account as a joint-heir with Christ. When you do, you will find thousands of promises such as - "My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:19). "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give you the desires of thine heart" Ps 37:4) . "All things, whatsoever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive" (Matt. 21:22). "Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers" (3 John 2). "There shall no evil befall you, neither shall any plague come near your dwelling" (Ps. 91:10). "These signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out demons; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" (Mk. 16:17-18). "If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed ... nothing shall be impossible unto you" (Matt. 17:20). "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you" (Isa. 26:3). "The prayer of faith shall heal the sick" (Jam. 5:15). "He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him, and show him my salvation" (Ps. 91:15-16). "I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring" (Isa. 44:3; Acts 16:31). "Seek you first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things (temporal blessings) shall be added unto you" (Matt. 6:33). "Behold, I give unto you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt You"( Lu. 10:19). "If you shall ask anything in my name, I will do it" (Jn. 14:14). "If two of you agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them by my Father which is in heaven" (Matt. 18:19). "What things soever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them" (Mk. 11:24). "No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly" (Ps. 84:11). "All things are yours; whether the world, or life, or death, all things present, all things to come, all are yours" (1 Cor. 3:21-22). "Bless the Lord, O my soul…who forgives all your iniquities; who heals all your diseases; who redeemed your life from destruction; who crowns you with loving kindness and tender mercies; who satisfied your mouth with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's" (Ps. 103:1-5). "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us, and if we know that if he hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him" (1 Jn. 5:14-15). "We may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me" (Heb. 13:6). For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (2 Tim. 1:7). "Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find, knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for everyone that asks receives; and he that seeks, finds; and to him that knocks It shall be opened" (Matt. 7:7-8). These are just some of the countless promises God has made to us, each of which may be appropriated by an act of faith on our part. In Psalm 37 alone there are over forty promises made to the believers! Most Christians, however, because of erroneous teaching concerning their rights, privileges, position, and inheritance, are going through life like beggars and paupers while walking on a pathway paved with the promises of God. What is the reason for this? The answer is to be found in Jesus' words in John 15:7, "If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you." Because His Word is not abiding in them in any meaningful way the vast majority of Christians today find it difficult to believe that God is also interested in their physical and temporal needs, just as He is in their spiritual welfare. In spite of the fact that He clearly states, "Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers" (3 Jn. 2). As a result of erroneous teaching, most seem obsessed with the unscriptural notion that a Christian cannot really be spiritual, healthy, and prosperous at the same time. They seem to think that God objects to them being out of debt or a success in life. But you can search the Scriptures from cover to cover and you will not find any place where God encourages His people to be failures in life, sick and diseased, bound to a bed of affliction, or so financially burdened and distressed that they have no time for serving him, or for growth in the spirit. On the contrary, He admonishes us five times in Matthew 8:19f. to "take no thought" for our temporal needs but to put the needs of the kingdom first and that He will supply all that we need. The scriptures declare that our inheritance belongs to us now, whereas the unbelieving contemporary church has insisted that we are not to benefit from these blessings in the present life, but only in the world to come. However, God says that all things are yours now - the world, life, death, things present, as well as things to come (1 Cor. 3:21-22). These blessings and promises do not have to be begged for. God does not have to be persuaded to fulfill His Word to us. Why? Simply because He has already said "yes" to all that He has promised us, even before we ask, "For all the promises of God in him (Christ) are yes, and in him Amen" (2 Cor. 1:20). Do you believe what God offers you in the Scriptures? Do you really accept God's promise that "all things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive?" Do you believe God's declaration that you are a joint-heir with Christ? A joint-heir with whom? He did not say that you are a joint-heir with the angels, or with the cherubim or seraphim; He did not say that you are a joint-heir with the apostles or the prophets, but that you are a joint-heir with Christ– He who said that "the gold and silver and the cattle on a thousand hills are mine, and you are a joint-heir with Me". He who said, "All power is given me in heaven and in earth," and I in turn give it unto you, for "in my name you shall cast out devils and lay hands on the sick and they shall recover"; He who said, "My God will supply all your need according to his riches in glory;" yes, it is He who said, "Whatsoever you shall ask the Father in my name, He will give it to you." If you really believe that you are a joint-heir with Christ, and that all things are yours now, then why do you content yourself any longer with a stone when He offers you bread Lu. 11:9-13)? Why be satisfied with only a drink of water (Jn. 4), when He also promises that a river of water will flow out of you (Jn.7:37-39)? Why lament any longer as the elder brother did because of his lack? Rise up and take your inheritance as his father invited him to do, saying to him, "All things are yours and you have merely to lift up your voice and ask for whatsoever you desire and you shall receive it" (Lu 15:11-31). It is tragic that the churches today are filled with sick and diseased Christians, many of whom are dying prematurely, simply because they have not been taught that God has provided healing for them in Christ's atonement (Isa. 53) and promised it to them in His Word, and that they could appropriate it for themselves if they too would but ask! God said long ago that "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hos. 4:6). When God's Word abides in your heart as it should, then you will come to see that it is God's will that you begin to possess your possessions now by faith as a testimony that His Word is true, and in order that you might be free of sickness, fear, worry, and anxiety, and also liberated from financial bondage in order to serve Him effectively. But until you search the Word and believe your inheritance, then life will consist for you, as for most Christians, of 365 days of just getting by somehow, days filled with cares, problems and worries, hoping that you can stay well for a few weeks at a time, praying that the old car will hold out through the winter, begging God to help you keep your head above water financially and pay of the mortgage eventually before you die, hoping and praying that God, some day and some how, will save your children, and so on. Such a mediocre form of existence is not God's will for His children, because He has revealed in the Scriptures the key to victorious living 385 days a year, for it is in the Word that we find that God has given an extensive revelation of His will and purpose for us. The Scriptures are filled with divine assurances and promises of our rights, privileges, position, and authority. God assures us that we are joint-heirs with Christ, seated in the heavens with Him, far above all principalities and powers, and that He has made adequate provision for our every temporal and spiritual need, as well as for the accomplishment of His will. He has promised us that all these provisions and blessings are available to the extent that we are willing to press through by faith and appropriate them. To be ignorant of this abundance of revelation concerning His will, either because of our neglect of study, or due to a lack of biblical teaching, is to be ignorant of the main source of knowledge concerning His will for us. Therefore, it is useless to pray for God to reveal His will for you, or give you special guidance regarding such matters as, for example, healing, deliverance, divine protection, salvation of loved ones, walking by faith, provision for temporal needs, the baptism in the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues, marriage and divorce, the crucified life, our rights and inheritance, or how to obtain His blessings and promises. He has already furnished a written revelation of His will for us concerning such matters, saying, "all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." Thus, the Scriptures themselves are one of the main sources of knowledge concerning God's will and how we are to apply it to our needs; it is only to the extent we know His Word that we will know His will, for the Psalmist tells us, "Your word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Ps. 119:105). Through Prayer: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that gives to all men liberally, and upbraids not; and it shall be given him (Jam. 1:5). We have clearly offered here, a gracious encouragement to ask for divine guidance, with the definite promise that the necessary impartation of wisdom will be given. This method of ascertaining the will of God is so obvious it is often overlooked by many Christians. Do you need wisdom in making some important decisions? Is there a problem confronting you that seems to defy solution? Do you desire to know God's will about some matter before taking action? Have you tried asking God? "Ask God?" is often the puzzled reply. "No, I have asked the pastor. Our family physician was consulted once or twice, as was our analyst. And the opinion of some close friends has been occasionally sought, but ask God? Frankly I was not aware that we were supposed to ask Him concerning daily personal decisions which we must make. Such as regarding a solution to things such as domestic problems, changing places of employment, selling a home or business, moving to another state to live, which church to attend, whom to marry, or planning a career. Are we really to pray about such things? Will God actually give us the solution to such problems and needs? Can we receive divine guidance merely by asking for it?" many bewildered Christians inquire. Yes. You may learn God's will about some particular matter by asking Him to show you, "for everyone that asks receives" (Mt 7:8), and "you have not because you ask not" (Jam. 4:2). If you lack an understanding concerning God's will about some matter, if you are confused or uncertain about some decision you must make, and you have met the the conditions just discussed concerning consecration and abiding in His Word, then it can only mean that you have not asked in faith for the solution, for He clearly states in James 1:5 that if we lack wisdom, we need but to ask and it shall be given. Assuming you have met the other conditions, then your knowledge of God's will in your life will come in direct proportion to your asking. God does not make such a promise carelessly. If we lack understanding, it is because we do not ask of Him. Too many Christians find it easier to ask for advice from the pastor, marriage counselor, psychiatrist, or some acquaintance, instead of devoting this time to meeting the necessary conditions, then asking of God and waiting upon Him to reveal His will in the matter. Yes, it is necessary to wait upon the Lord to answer in His own time and way, for although He promises in Psalm 91:15, "He shall call upon me, and I will answer him," God has also told us to "wait on the Lord: be at good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord" (Ps 27:14). Because they feel that a more direct approach to the matter will not only bring an easier but also a more prompt solution to the problem, most Christians seem to favor seeking local assistance from others, reserving their communications with heaven to those instances when all other avenues seem to be closed. As a result, they have come to look upon prayer much as they do a fire escape–to be used only in case of an emergency. Although God promises to reveal His will to those who will ask, it must be emphasized, however, that prayer is only as effective as our obedience to the conditions God has set forth. This illustrates the importance of being grounded in the Word of God, for only in this way can we remove any hindrance to the revelation of His will. He invites us to ask for wisdom and guidance, but He conditions this, for instance, by saying that if we regard iniquity in our hearts He will not hear our prayers (Ps. 66:18; Isa. 59:1-2). He tells us in 1 John 5:14-15 that we must conform our prayers to His Word, for we are promised that if we ask anything according to His will, then He hears us and grants to us the petition which we desire. Again, we are told that "He that turns away his ear from hearing the Word, even his prayer shall be an abomination" (Prov. 28:9). Edited. Shared. To be Continued. ❤️ God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.

Good even ing, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* SUNDAY 26TH JULY, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* THE CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING GOD'S GRACE. *TOPIC:* MENTAL AFFLICTION. *TEXTS:* 1 SAMUEL 16:14; 18:6-11 *1 SAMUEL 16:14.* 14. Now the Spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him. *1 SAMUEL 18:6-11.* 6. When the men were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out from all the towns of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs and with timbrels and lyres. 7. As they danced, they sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” 8. Saul was very angry; this refrain displeased him greatly. “They have credited David with tens of thousands, he thought, “but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?” 9. And from that time on Saul kept a close eye on David. 10. The next day an evil spirit from God came forcefully on Saul. He was prophesying in his house, while David was playing the lyre, as he usually did. Saul had a spear in his hand. 11. and he hurled it, saying to himself, “I’ll pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice. *TOPIC:* MENTAL AFFLICTION. *THE MESSAGE:* Rejecting God's grace leads to mental affliction. Excessive jealousy can lead to mental disorders or health issues. Today's text reveals how God gave David victory over Goliath and was praised for bringing honour to Israel. But King Saul became jealous of him. Consequently, the Spirit of God left Saul and an evil spirit possessed him that he became mentally disoriented and loss the path of peace. David sang and played the harp to bring respite to Saul. But Saul always wanted to kill him. Are you jealous of your neighbour's achievements and will want to harm them? Be careful, and do not incur God's wrath upon yourself. You stand to enjoy peace and other benefits when you rejoice and celebrate the achievements of others. *REFLECTION:* Jealousy devastates the mind. *PRAYER:* Lord, may your Spirit continually dwell in me. Amen. *MEMORY VERSE FOR THE MONTH:* HEBREWS 10:29. How much more severely do you think one deserves to be punished who has trampled on the Son of God, profaned the blood of the covenant that sanctified him, and insulted the Spirit of grace? *TODAY'S BIBLE READING PLAN:* Isaiah 44-45. ED.ii. WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD FATHER? "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." - Proverbs 22:6 A growing problem in the world today is fathers who are absent. For some reason, more and more fathers are leaving their families. Another problem is that though fathers are physically present, they are not available for their children. Of course, there are many fathers who take good care of their families, but they are only a provider and not an educator. Every child needs a good upbringing. A father has an important role in the family structure. Love, time and attention Dear fathers, your children do not envision you as a good father because you bring home a bag of money. They do not judge you if you give an expensive gift or not. The most important thing for your child is your love, time and attention. Is your career, sport or hobby more important than your children? Children sense this and are deeply hurt if there's a lack of love, time and attention for them. When you give birth to a living soul, you have to understand in advance that there will be sacrifices too. Many fathers think they are indispensable at work, but nobody is indispensable. As the father of your children though, you are irreplaceable. You are the only father they have on earth. Yet I want to tell all fatherless children that God in heaven wants to be your Dad. He is the best Father. He will never leave you. Children copy behavior Fathers, if you acknowledge this message is for you, go also to your Heavenly Father. Read the Bible, you will find the answers there. Children copy behavior, they imitate you when they hear you talk, swear or curse. When they hear such things at home, they think it is normal. However, they will also copy you if you pray and read the Bible every day, if you forgive, love, attend church meetings, etc. Are you willing to adjust your lifestyle when needed? God will help you and give you strength for this. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening prayer for today. ED.i. Evening Prayer Come unto me, all [ye] that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ⏤ Matthew 11:28 If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within, you’ll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you’ll be at rest. ⏤ Corrie Ten Boom This quiet Sunday evening, our Father, we come to You with glad hearts. We thank You for the Sunday that comes after six days of work, giving us the opportunity for rest and renewal of strength. If we had to go on without rest, we couldn't bear the burden. Sunday reminds us of Your love for us, providing little sanctuaries among the days. We thank You for Sunday because it keeps the memory of our Savior's victory over death alive in our hearts. It tells us that we have a living Savior, who lives to be our Friend, Companion, and Guide! We also thank You for all the Sundays that have been part of our lives. We thank You for this Sunday, now ending, and for all the grace, comfort, and renewed strength it has brought us. We have looked into Your face and received blessings in Christian fellowship. We have read and heard Your word, and its truths linger in our hearts. We have sung Your praise and called upon You in prayer. May all this day's impressions stay with us as part of our character from now on. May the strength we have received make us stronger in body, mind, and spirit for the tasks of the coming week. May the songs of this day keep singing in our hearts for many days to come. So may this day indeed be a blessing to us, leaving us with a richer character, new visions of beauty, and higher ideals to strive for. Draw us close to You now for a blessing, then fold us away in Your love for the night. We ask all this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/21/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 1 Samuel 21–22 | Romans 13📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 1 Samuel 21 God’s Provision in Seasons of Fear and Uncertainty 1 Samuel 21 begins a new phase in David’s life as he becomes a fugitive. The man who was once celebrated as a national hero now finds himself fleeing for his life. The contrast is striking. God’s anointed king is not sitting on a throne but wandering in uncertainty. Yet even in this difficult season, God continues to provide. David arrives at Nob and seeks assistance from the priest Ahimelech. His circumstances force him into a position of vulnerability. Hungry, weary, and uncertain of what lies ahead, he receives provision through bread that had been set apart for sacred use. This moment demonstrates that God is attentive to the needs of His servants, even in times of crisis. David also receives Goliath’s sword, the very weapon connected to one of God’s greatest victories in his life. The sword serves as a reminder that the God who delivered him before remains faithful in the present. Yet the chapter also reveals David’s humanity. Fear influences some of his decisions, and he finds himself seeking refuge among the Philistines. When danger increases, David resorts to behavior that reflects desperation rather than confidence. Scripture does not hide these weaknesses. It honestly portrays the struggles of a man learning to trust God through difficult circumstances. Despite David’s imperfections, God’s hand remains upon him. The chapter reveals that divine faithfulness does not depend upon flawless human performance. God continues working even when His servants struggle. Theologically, 1 Samuel 21 teaches that God provides for His people in unexpected ways during seasons of uncertainty. It also reveals the tension between faith and fear that believers often experience. God remains faithful even when our confidence wavers. This chapter points to Christ, who also experienced rejection, suffering, and dependence upon the Father. Jesus understands what it means to walk through hardship and uncertainty. Yet unlike David, Christ trusted the Father perfectly in every circumstance. For believers today, 1 Samuel 21 reminds us that God’s provision often appears in unexpected places. When fear and uncertainty arise, we can trust that God sees our needs and remains faithful. In Christ, we have a Savior who understands our struggles and provides grace for every season of life. 1 Samuel 22 A Refuge for the Broken and a Warning Against Evil 1 Samuel 22 continues David’s journey as a fugitive and reveals both God’s provision and the devastating consequences of Saul’s rebellion. David retreats to the cave of Adullam, where an unexpected community begins to gather around him. Those who are distressed, in debt, and discouraged come to David seeking hope and leadership. This gathering is significant because it reflects the kind of people God often uses. They are not the powerful, influential, or accomplished. They are broken and struggling. Yet under David’s leadership, they begin a transformation that will eventually produce mighty men of faith and courage. The chapter highlights David’s growing dependence on God. Though hunted and rejected, he continues seeking the Lord’s guidance. God is preparing him for future leadership through adversity rather than comfort. In sharp contrast, Saul continues his downward spiral. Consumed by jealousy and suspicion, he increasingly isolates himself from truth and wisdom. His fear causes him to view everyone as a threat. The deeper Saul drifts from God, the more destructive his actions become. The most tragic moment of the chapter occurs when Saul orders the slaughter of the priests at Nob. This shocking act demonstrates how far his heart has moved from God. What began as insecurity has grown into open rebellion against the Lord’s purposes. Yet even in the midst of tragedy, God preserves a remnant. One priest escapes and joins David. The line of priestly ministry continues because God remains faithful to His covenant purposes. Theologically, 1 Samuel 22 reveals two very different responses to hardship. David responds by seeking God and becoming a refuge for others. Saul responds by hardening his heart and acting out of fear and pride. The chapter demonstrates that adversity reveals what truly governs the heart. This chapter points to Christ, who becomes the ultimate refuge for the broken, weary, and outcast. Just as distressed people gathered to David, sinners and sufferers came to Jesus and found grace, hope, and restoration. He welcomes those whom the world overlooks and transforms them through His presence. For believers today, 1 Samuel 22 reminds us that God often builds His kingdom through broken people who trust Him. We are called to become people of refuge and encouragement rather than fear and suspicion. In Christ, we find a safe place for our souls and the strength to help others find that same refuge in Him. Romans 13 — Living Under Authority and Walking in the Light of the Christ Romans chapter 13 continues to unfold what Christian living looks like in light of the redemptive plan of the Christ, the Son of God. This chapter addresses how believers are to live in relation to authority, to others, and in view of the time in which they live. It calls for a life that reflects order, love, and readiness, all grounded in the work of the Christ. The chapter begins with a clear understanding of authority. All authority ultimately exists under the sovereignty of God. This means that order in society is not random, but allowed within the framework of God’s greater purpose. Christian living includes recognizing this structure and responding with respect and submission where it does not contradict obedience to the Christ. The Son of God remains the highest authority, and all earthly authority is subject to Him. There is also an emphasis on responsibility. Believers are called to live with integrity, fulfilling obligations and conducting themselves in a way that reflects the righteousness of the Christ. This includes practical aspects of life, showing that the redemptive plan is not separate from everyday actions. The Christ transforms not only belief, but behavior. The chapter then centers on love as the fulfillment of what God requires. Love is not abstract—it is active and expressed in how people treat one another. The Christ, the Son of God, demonstrated this love perfectly, and His followers are called to reflect it. Christian living is defined by love that seeks the good of others and aligns with God’s truth. There is a sense of urgency throughout the chapter. The time is moving forward, and the completion of the redemptive plan is drawing nearer. This calls for awareness and intentional living. The Christ has already brought salvation, and He will bring it to full completion. Believers are called to live in light of that reality, not passively, but with purpose. The imagery shifts to that of light and darkness, highlighting a clear contrast. Life in the Christ is to be lived openly, with clarity and righteousness. There is a call to put away what belongs to darkness and to walk in a way that reflects the truth. The Son of God has brought light, and Christian living is meant to reflect that light in every area. The chapter concludes with a strong call to put on the Christ. This speaks to identity and alignment—living in a way that reflects who He is. The redemptive plan is not only about being saved, but about being conformed to the likeness of the Christ. This transformation shapes both inward desires and outward actions. Romans 13 emphasizes order under God’s authority, love as the expression of righteousness, and urgency in light of the advancing redemptive plan. The Christ, the Son of God, is central to all of it, guiding how believers live in every context. For believers today, this chapter calls us to live with awareness and purpose. Christian living includes honoring authority, walking in love, and living in the light of the Christ. We are reminded that our lives should reflect His truth in both public and private ways. As we put on the Christ and align our lives with Him, we participate in the redemptive plan, living in a way that points others to the reality of the Son of God and His transforming power. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

Three Angels Broadcasting Network Devotional. She Made Me Pie. By Eric Durant June 29th, 2026 “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.” Romans 12:10 There are little things that may seem minor to you, even forgettable. But those little things can change someone’s world forever. After almost a decade in ministry, there are things that warm my heart like no other—and one of those things was from a dear lady named Mollie. My wife and I had been there for a little over a year when Mollie asked me for some help with her computer at home. I gladly assisted her, and in return, she invited my wife and me over for lunch. She was one of those people you trusted within seconds of meeting her. Elegant, wise, kind, yet stern, delicate, yet intimidating. Over lunch, we shared our history with her, trusting her with perhaps too many details of a traumatic past. But her gaze inspired trust. We felt at home, like family. After lunch, she asked a strange question. “What kind of pie do you like?” I didn’t want to say I didn’t particularly like pie—too much sweet goo and all that, so I thought back to one of the few happy memories I had as a child when my parents took us to Hershey, Pennsylvania, and I had a slice of a pie I’ll never forget. So I answered, “Shoo-fly pie!” and Mollie said she would make us one! A week later, she gave me the pie, and when we got home, Marilyn and I ate a few slices. It was more delicious than I remembered! Who knew that so many happy memories could be attached to a slice of pie. I’m not a crybaby, but the memories of happy parents who are no longer here and the adventure of exploring another amazing land called Hershey with my sisters came flooding back to my memory. I had a lump in my throat, along with the pie. I recalled sitting in that restaurant with the big wagon wheel on the wall. I remembered my dad insisting that I try the pie and my stubborn reluctance to eat anything with flies in it! He was always forcing me to eat something, so I frowned and took a bite—to my delight. I remembered the road trip from the big city to the country. The visit to the chocolate factory. The smelly horse ride. The green hills and the twinkling stars on the drive home, with my sisters fast asleep. It all came back and more. All from a slice of pie. From a person that didn’t know us all that well but cared enough to warm the hearts of a distressed pair of souls. So do something kind for a stranger with a broken heart. It will help to heal many wounds. A delicate act of kindness can warm the heart forever—as does a slice of good pie. “Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.” Proverbs 3:3–4. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” John 13:34.

Conflict and Courage. Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth. Psalm 71:9. David entreated the Lord not to forsake him in old age. And why did he thus pray? He saw that most of the aged around him were unhappy, because of the unfortunate traits of their character being increased with their age. If they had been naturally close and covetous, they were most disagreeably so in mature years. If they had been jealous, fretful, and impatient, they were especially so when aged.51The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 3:1148. David was distressed as he saw that kings and nobles who seemed to have the fear of God before them while in the strength of manhood, became jealous of their best friends and relatives when aged. They were in continual fear that it was selfish motives which led their friends to manifest an interest for them. They would listen to the hints and the deceptive advice of strangers in regard to those in whom they should confide. Their unrestrained jealousy sometimes burned into a flame because all did not agree with their failing judgment. Their covetousness was dreadful. They often thought that their own children and relatives were wishing them to die in order to take their place and possess their wealth, and receive the homage which had been bestowed upon them. And some were so controlled by their jealous, covetous feelings as to destroy their own children. David marked that although the lives of some while in the strength of manhood had been righteous, as old age came upon them they seemed to lose their self-control. Satan stepped in and guided their minds, making them restless and dissatisfied.... David was deeply moved; he was distressed as he looked forward to the time when he should be aged. He feared that God would leave him and that he would be as unhappy as other aged persons whose course he had noticed, and would be left to the reproach of the enemies of the Lord. With his burden upon him he earnestly prays: “Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth.” 52Testimonies For The Church 1:422, 423.