1. The strength of the Father comes from the Body of the Word as his food. 2. The Father uses the strength from the Body of the Word to draw out waters from himself. 3. The Body of the Word as the food and drink of God activate dormant and hidden revelations of who the Father is to speak. Listen to The Kitchen on Amazon Music. Apple podcasts. Audible. Deezer. Spotify https://shows.acast.com/the-kitchen/episodes/6a69bbb78913948796384f17 #foodmoneyshow #bodyoftheword #moneymindset #moneymarket #worldwide

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: MONDAY 24TH AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: NOTHING GOOD TO OFFER MEMORIZE: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7 (KJV) BIBLE READING: LUKE 11:24-26 24 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. 25 And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. 26 Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. MESSAGE: The devil has two types of captives: the willing captives and the unwilling captives. An unwilling captive is someone who has entered either willingly or unwillingly into the trap of the devil but now wants to be delivered. Such a fellow will be set free from the devil’s hold when an anointed child of God prays for him or her. A willing captive, on the other hand, is someone who also gets into the devil’s hold either willingly or unwillingly but refuses to repent or be delivered because of the perceived benefits he or she is getting by serving satan. Even if such a fellow is forcefully delivered, he or she will return to the devil’s camp, and this time around, the bondage will be much worse because the demon(s) that were previously cast out will be multiplied sevenfold (Matthew 12:43-45). Many years ago, we discovered that a witch was among us in the church. We prayed for her to be delivered; however, she remained in bondage. We then asked her if she wanted to be free, and she said, “No. Do you want me to lose the power that I use to control my husband?” Such thinking is very unfortunate because those who serve the devil are headed for eternal damnation if they do not repent. A woman whose children were dying one after the other went to seek help from a prophet because she needed him to pray to God for their protection. While waiting for him, his wife asked her why she wanted to see her husband. She explained why she had come, and the prophet’s wife gave her a kolanut to eat, telling her it would solve her problem and that she didn’t need to wait for her husband again. When she went to sleep that night, she suddenly found herself among some witches in the spirit realm. They welcomed her and promised to protect her children if she joined them. She agreed based on their promise, and after some time, it became her turn to supply the blood that the coven would drink. At that point, she surrendered her husband to be sacrificed. More time passed, and it became her turn again to supply blood. This time, however, the witches asked her to sacrifice her children. That was when she decided to seek God’s help to save her children from the devil’s plan. Thank God she came to the church, and God delivered her. Beloved, the devil offers nothing good or lasting. For everything he gives, he takes a thousandfold in return. I pray that God grants you the grace to avoid his traps, and if he currently has any hold over you and you are willing to be set free, I decree your liberty now, in Jesus’ name. KEY POINT: The devil has nothing good to give. Those who serve him are headed for eternal damnation. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: EZEKIEL 1-4 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 23 : ALL TO JESUS, I SURRENDER 1. All to Jesus I surrender all to Him I freely give; I will ever low and trust Him, in His presence daily live. CHORUS: I surrender all, I surrender all: All to Thee, my blessed saviour I surrender all 2. All to Jesus I surrender, Humbly at His feet l bow; Worldly pleasures all forsaken. Take me, Jesus, take me now. CHORUS: 3. All to Jesus I surrender. Lord, I give myself to Thee; Fill me with Thy love and power, Let Thy blessing fall on me. CHORUS: 4. All to Jesus I surrender, now I feel the sacred flame o the joy of full salvation! Glory, glory to His name! CHORUS: ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL MONDAY, 24TH AUGUST, 2026 *NOTHING GOOD TO OFFER* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the offer of eternal life, peace, joy and holiness in Christ Jesus. I worship You, for every good and perfect gift comes from You above. 2.Father, please fill me with the fullness of Your Holy Spirit, and let there be no room for the devil to occupy in me, in Jesus' name 3.Father, please help me to humble myself before You, and to constantly resist the devil, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please deliver me from every form of captivity that my life might be in, and help me never to return into such captivity again, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, as many captives that are unwilling victim of the devil, and are ready to be set free, I send Your word to them today, let them be set free totally, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please deliver all Your children from the deceits of the devil, and let them accept the free gift of eternal life offered through Christ Jesus. 7.Father, please grant me the grace to avoid satanic traps that may lure me into captivity, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please frustrate the plans of the devil to put me or any member of my household into captivity, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, as many that are currently under satanic hold and they are willing to be free, please set them all at liberty and make them Your children indeed, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please no matter how enticing the offer from the devil might be, help me never to trade my soul for his fake promises, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Help him to abide in You till You come again in glory, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

✝️ THE GOSPEL FROM CALVARY 📅 Monday, 24th August, 2026 🔥 COME TO JESUS AND DRINK! 💧✝️ 📜 TEXT: JOHN 7:1–53 📜 🔑📖 KEY VERSE: «“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” — John 7:37 (KJV)» John 7 reveals Jesus ministering in the midst of opposition, unbelief, confusion, and division. People had different opinions about Him. Some questioned His identity. Others criticized Him. Some wanted to arrest Him. Yet Jesus continued to teach and proclaim the truth. Then, on the final and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried: «“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.”» This was more than an invitation for physical water. Jesus was speaking to the deepest thirst of the human heart. The world cannot satisfy the soul. Only Jesus can. ❤️‍🔥 🔥 THREE LESSONS FROM JOHN 7 1️⃣ COME TO JESUS WHEN YOUR SOUL IS THIRSTY. 💧 Jesus said: «“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” — John 7:37» Everyone experiences a thirst that material things cannot satisfy. You may have money and still be empty. You may have friends and still feel lonely. You may have success and still lack peace. You may have possessions and still desire something more. The soul was created for God. Therefore, don't try to satisfy a spiritual thirst with worldly things. Come to Jesus. He gives peace to the troubled heart. He gives hope to the discouraged. He gives forgiveness to the sinner. He gives purpose to the lost. He gives eternal life to those who believe. ✝️ 🕊️ 2️⃣ THE HOLY SPIRIT FLOWS FROM A LIFE CONNECTED TO CHRIST. 🔥 John 7:38–39 says: «“He that believeth on me... out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”» John explains that Jesus was speaking about the Holy Spirit. God does not want us merely to receive His blessing; He wants His life to flow through us to others. You should not be a container that only receives. You should become a channel that gives. Receive God's love—and show it. Receive His grace—and extend it. Receive His Word—and share it. Receive His comfort—and comfort others. Receive the Gospel—and preach it. A life filled with Christ should become a blessing to others. 🌍🔥 ⚠️ 3️⃣ DON'T ALLOW PEOPLE'S OPINIONS TO KEEP YOU FROM JESUS. John 7 is filled with different opinions about Jesus. Some said He was a good man. Others said He deceived people. Some recognized that He was the Christ. Others questioned where He came from. Even among the people, there was division because of Him. This reminds us that people will always have opinions about Jesus. But your salvation cannot be based on people's opinions. You must personally know Christ. Don't reject Jesus because someone else rejected Him. Don't abandon your faith because someone mocks you. Don't compromise because you want people's approval. Know whom you believe. ❤️‍🔥 📖 SEARCH THE WORD FOR YOURSELF The people questioned Jesus' teaching because they were unfamiliar with His authority. Jesus said: «“My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.” — John 7:16» This teaches us the importance of knowing God's Word. Don't build your faith solely on what someone tells you. Study Scripture. Pray for understanding. Test what you hear. Know the truth. A believer who knows God's Word is less likely to be carried away by deception. Don't just hear the Word—search it, understand it, and live it. 📖🔥 ❤️‍🔥 JESUS CAN SATISFY WHAT THE WORLD CANNOT There is a thirst inside humanity that money cannot quench. The Samaritan woman in John 4 needed Living Water. The crowd in John 6 needed the Bread of Life. And in John 7, Jesus again offers Himself as the One who satisfies the thirsty soul. The message is consistent: JESUS IS ENOUGH. When you have Christ, you have the greatest treasure. When everything else changes, Christ remains. When people leave, Christ remains. When circumstances become difficult, Christ remains. When the world cannot answer your questions, Christ remains. Come to Jesus and drink. 💧✝️ 🔥 LET THE RIVERS FLOW THROUGH YOU Jesus did not say that the living water would remain stagnant. He said: «“Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”» A river flows. Therefore, don't keep your Christianity hidden. Let your faith be visible. Let your kindness speak. Let your character testify. Let your words carry grace. Let your life preach Christ. Someone around you may be spiritually thirsty. Your testimony may encourage them. Your prayer may strengthen them. Your invitation may bring them to church. Your witness may lead them to salvation. Let the living water flow! 🌊🔥 ✝️ JESUS WILL ALWAYS BRING A DECISION John 7 shows that people were divided because of Jesus. Some believed. Some doubted. Some opposed Him. Some wanted to arrest Him. Jesus still demands a response today. You cannot remain neutral forever. The question is not merely: “What do people say about Jesus?” The question is: “WHO IS JESUS TO YOU?” Is He your Saviour? Is He your Lord? Is He your King? Are you following Him? Are you obeying His Word? ✍🏽 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The world offers temporary satisfaction, but Jesus offers Living Water that becomes a river within us. Come to Him, drink deeply, and let His life flow through you. 💧🔥✝️ 🙏🏽 PRAYER Heavenly Father, Thank You for giving us Jesus Christ, the source of Living Water. Lord Jesus, I come to You with every thirst, emptiness, weakness, and need in my heart. Fill me with Your presence and satisfy my soul with what only You can provide. Holy Spirit, work deeply within me. Let rivers of living water flow through my life. Help me not to be controlled by the opinions of people. Give me courage to stand for Christ even when others reject or misunderstand Him. Give me a deeper hunger for Your Word and greater understanding of Your truth. Use my life as a channel of Your love, grace, and Gospel. Let someone encounter Jesus because of my words, actions, and testimony. May I never look to the world for what only Christ can provide. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen. 🙏🏽🔥 📜 THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: PSALMS 94–96 📖 ✝️ THE CALVARY MINISTRY ONLINE Birthright is Evangelism

John 7:37 NIV “...Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. I don't know what you're praying for or what you're fighting against but one thing I am sure is that in Jesus your solution is and dwells. No need to be anxious for Her is the fountain of life that never runs dry. Come and drink... Jesus got your back. Trust Him. He Loves you dearly #JesusIsReal #GodIsLove #Peace #WordOfGod

When a brother or sister comes to you genuinely in need, and you have the means to help, telling them, “God will provide,” “I can’t help you, but I’ll pray for you,” while you have what they need, is not character of Christ. Prayer is powerful, and we should always pray for one another. But sometimes God intends to answer someone’s prayer through us. We should not use spiritual words as an excuse to ignore someone’s genuine need when we are in a position to help. The Bible says: “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?” James 2:15–16 And again: “Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor.” Proverbs 22:9 Jesus Christ also taught us: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink…” Matthew 25:35 Christianity is not only about saying, “I will pray for you.” It is also about showing the love of Christ through our actions. “Let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” 1 John 3:18 If God has blessed you with the ability to meet someone’s need, don't always tell them to wait for God to provide. Sometimes, you are the provision God has placed in their path. May our faith be seen not only in our words, but also in our compassion, generosity, and willingness to help. “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” Proverbs 19:17

PROVERB OF THE DAY (Proverbs 23) 1. When you sit down to eat with a ruler, Consider carefully what is before you; 2. And put a knife to your throat If you are a man given to appetite. 3. Do not desire his delicacies, For they are deceptive food. 4. Do not overwork to be rich; Because of your own understanding, cease! 5. Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; They fly away like an eagle toward heaven. 6. Do not eat the bread of a miser, Nor desire his delicacies; 7. For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, But his heart is not with you. 8. The morsel you have eaten, you will vomit up, And waste your pleasant words. 9. Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, For he will despise the wisdom of your words. 10. Do not remove the ancient landmark, Nor enter the fields of the fatherless; 11. For their Redeemer is mighty; He will plead their cause against you. 12. Apply your heart to instruction, And your ears to words of knowledge. 13. Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die. 14. You shall beat him with a rod, And deliver his soul from hell. 15. My son, if your heart is wise, My heart will rejoice—indeed, I myself; 16. Yes, my inmost being will rejoice When your lips speak right things. 17. Do not let your heart envy sinners, But be zealous for the fear of the LORD all the day; 18. For surely there is a hereafter, And your hope will not be cut off. 19. Hear, my son, and be wise; And guide your heart in the way. 20. Do not mix with winebibbers, Or with gluttonous eaters of meat; 21. For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, And drowsiness will clothe a man with rags. 22. Listen to your father who begot you, And do not despise your mother when she is old. 23. Buy the truth, and do not sell it, Also wisdom and instruction and understanding. 24. The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, And he who begets a wise child will delight in him. 25. Let your father and your mother be glad, And let her who bore you rejoice. 26. My son, give me your heart, And let your eyes observe my ways. 27. For a harlot is a deep pit, And a seductress is a narrow well. 28. She also lies in wait as for a victim, And increases the unfaithful among men. 29. Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? 30. Those who linger long at the wine, Those who go in search of mixed wine. 31. Do not look on the wine when it is red, When it sparkles in the cup, When it swirls around smoothly; 32. At the last it bites like a serpent, And stings like a viper. 33. Your eyes will see strange things, And your heart will utter perverse things. 34. Yes, you will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, Or like one who lies at the top of the mast, saying: 35. “They have struck me, but I was not hurt; They have beaten me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake, that I may seek another drink?”

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

PROVERB OF THE DAY (Proverbs 23) 1. When you sit down to eat with a ruler, Consider carefully what is before you; 2. And put a knife to your throat If you are a man given to appetite. 3. Do not desire his delicacies, For they are deceptive food. 4. Do not overwork to be rich; Because of your own understanding, cease! 5. Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; They fly away like an eagle toward heaven. 6. Do not eat the bread of a miser, Nor desire his delicacies; 7. For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, But his heart is not with you. 8. The morsel you have eaten, you will vomit up, And waste your pleasant words. 9. Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, For he will despise the wisdom of your words. 10. Do not remove the ancient landmark, Nor enter the fields of the fatherless; 11. For their Redeemer is mighty; He will plead their cause against you. 12. Apply your heart to instruction, And your ears to words of knowledge. 13. Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die. 14. You shall beat him with a rod, And deliver his soul from hell. 15. My son, if your heart is wise, My heart will rejoice—indeed, I myself; 16. Yes, my inmost being will rejoice When your lips speak right things. 17. Do not let your heart envy sinners, But be zealous for the fear of the LORD all the day; 18. For surely there is a hereafter, And your hope will not be cut off. 19. Hear, my son, and be wise; And guide your heart in the way. 20. Do not mix with winebibbers, Or with gluttonous eaters of meat; 21. For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, And drowsiness will clothe a man with rags. 22. Listen to your father who begot you, And do not despise your mother when she is old. 23. Buy the truth, and do not sell it, Also wisdom and instruction and understanding. 24. The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, And he who begets a wise child will delight in him. 25. Let your father and your mother be glad, And let her who bore you rejoice. 26. My son, give me your heart, And let your eyes observe my ways. 27. For a harlot is a deep pit, And a seductress is a narrow well. 28. She also lies in wait as for a victim, And increases the unfaithful among men. 29. Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? 30. Those who linger long at the wine, Those who go in search of mixed wine. 31. Do not look on the wine when it is red, When it sparkles in the cup, When it swirls around smoothly; 32. At the last it bites like a serpent, And stings like a viper. 33. Your eyes will see strange things, And your heart will utter perverse things. 34. Yes, you will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, Or like one who lies at the top of the mast, saying: 35. “They have struck me, but I was not hurt; They have beaten me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake, that I may seek another drink?”

Daily Bible Lesson. WE ASK GOD FOR MORE LIGHT—THEN MAKE EXCUSES WHEN HIS LIGHT REQUIRES CHANGE “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” — 1 Samuel 15:22 We pray: “Lord, show me Your will.” Then His light touches something we love— our time, appetite, appearance, character, location, or tongue— and suddenly: “My situation is different.” “Everyone does it.” “I'm not convicted.” Perhaps our greatest problem is not always lack of light. IT IS THE HUMAN HEART'S AMAZING ABILITY TO EXPLAIN AWAY THE LIGHT IT DOES NOT WANT TO OBEY. Jesus asks: “Why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” — Luke 6:46 So here is the question beneath every reform: ARE WE SEEKING GOD'S WILL—OR ASKING GOD TO APPROVE OURS? --- ① SABBATH REFORM—WHO OWNS YOUR TIME? THE EXCUSES: “I have to work.” “Most Christians worship Sunday.” “God knows my heart.” Yes—God knows the heart. And Jesus says: “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” — John 14:15 God's command still reads: “The seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God.” — Exodus 20:10 Obedience may cost convenience, approval, opportunity—even income. But faith asks something deeper: WHAT IS JESUS WORTH? “We ought to obey God rather than men.” — Acts 5:29 Do not merely argue for the Sabbath. KNOW THE LORD OF THE SABBATH—and ask Him for faith to walk in His footsteps. --- ② HEALTH REFORM—HAS APPETITE RENAMED ITSELF “NECESSITY”? THE EXCUSES: “My body needs it.” “I've always eaten this way.” “We're all going to die anyway.” But this body is not ours to abuse. “Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20 “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink… do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31 Health reform is not salvation by menu. It is stewardship of a body purchased by Christ. Inspiration warns of those who “frame excuses and make necessities which have no existence” while resisting health light. — Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 399 What a warning: APPETITE IS A TERRIBLE COUNSELOR WHEN ASKED TO JUDGE ITS OWN HABITS. Stop asking only: “Do I enjoy it?” Ask: “WILL THIS KEEP MY BODY AND MIND FIT FOR CHRIST'S SERVICE?” --- ③ DRESS REFORM—WHO ARE WE TRYING TO PLEASE? THE EXCUSES: “It's only fashion.” “God only looks at the heart.” “I don't want to look different.” Yes: “The LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7 And Scripture also calls for: “Modest apparel.” — 1 Timothy 2:9 The issue is not ugliness. Not neglect. Not a religious uniform. The question is: WHO IS SHAPING MY APPEARANCE—CHRIST OR THE WORLD? Christian dress should reflect modesty, simplicity, health, dignity, and good taste without making self the attraction. CLOTHING CANNOT SAVE THE HEART—BUT THE MASTER OF THE HEART WILL INFLUENCE THE CLOTHING. Let your appearance quietly testify: “I BELONG TO CHRIST.” --- ④ CHARACTER REFORM—“THAT'S JUST HOW I AM.” Perhaps no excuse protects cherished defects more effectively. Anger becomes “my personality.” Pride becomes “confidence.” Bitterness becomes “what they deserve.” Then comes the universal shield: “Nobody is perfect.” True. But Jesus never made imperfection an excuse for refusing transformation. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 2:5 Christ does not merely forgive us in the old life. HE BEGINS MAKING US NEW. “When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 69 Stop defending your defect with: “THAT'S WHO I AM.” Bring it to Jesus: “LORD, MAKE ME LIKE YOU.” --- ⑤ LOCATION REFORM—WHY DID INSPIRATION CRY, “OUT OF THE CITIES”? Here excuses become painfully practical: “My job is here.” “My children's opportunities are here.” “I'll move when everything becomes convenient.” Yet Inspiration repeatedly urged: “Out of the cities, out of the cities! This is the message the Lord has been giving me.” — Country Living, p. 29 Why? Not because soil saves souls. But country surroundings can favor health, simplicity, useful labor, children learning from nature, greater separation from corrupting influences, and preparation for difficult times. God's first home for humanity was not a congested metropolis. “The LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden.” — Genesis 2:8 Abraham lived as a pilgrim. Lot “pitched his tent toward Sodom.” — Genesis 13:12 Their stories remind us: LOCATION CANNOT CONVERT THE HEART—BUT ENVIRONMENT CAN POWERFULLY INFLUENCE IT. Yet Inspiration also counseled: “Out of the cities; but not a moment before God would have us go.” — Country Living, p. 26 So the message is not: PANIC AND RUN. It is: PRAY. PREPARE. SIMPLIFY. LEARN. WATCH PROVIDENCE. AND WHEN GOD OPENS THE WAY—OBEY. And remember: YOU CAN LEAVE BABYLON GEOGRAPHICALLY WHILE BABYLON STILL LIVES IN YOUR HEART. Christ's first relocation project is: SELF OFF THE THRONE—CHRIST ON IT. --- ⑥ SPEECH REFORM—CAN A CONVERTED HEART KEEP AN UNCONVERTED TONGUE? Here the excuses sound innocent: “I'm only joking.” “But it's true!” “I just needed to release my feelings.” Scripture answers: “Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting… but rather giving of thanks.” — Ephesians 5:4 “Speak evil of no man.” — Titus 3:2 And instead: “That which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” — Ephesians 4:29 Imagine that standard: WORDS THAT MINISTER GRACE. No gossip. No slander. No degrading jesting. No cutting sarcasm. No dishonest flattery. No spreading bitterness from heart to heart. “Bless, and curse not.” — Romans 12:14 This does not mean hiding wrongdoing. Jesus rebuked sin. Nathan confronted David. Paul corrected churches. Truth sometimes must hurt before it heals. But Scripture says: “Speaking the truth in love.” — Ephesians 4:15 Before speaking, ask: IS IT TRUE? IS IT NECESSARY? IS IT LOVING? WILL IT BUILD RATHER THAN POISON? WOULD I SAY IT THIS WAY IN THE VISIBLE PRESENCE OF JESUS? “Let the law of kindness be upon your lips and the oil of grace in your heart.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 337 What a standard: **TRUTH ON THE LIPS. GRACE IN THE HEART.** --- ⑦ PERHAPS THE MOST DANGEROUS EXCUSE—“I'M NOT CONVICTED.” Sometimes that is sincere. Conscience must never be forced. But sometimes: “I'M NOT CONVICTED” really means: “I DON'T WANT TO INVESTIGATE THIS DEEPLY ENOUGH TO BECOME CONVICTED.” Jesus reveals a searching principle: “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” — John 7:17 Notice the order: WILLINGNESS → UNDERSTANDING → OBEDIENCE. Before asking, “Is this really required?” ask: “LORD, IF YOUR WORD SHOWS ME THAT I AM WRONG—AM I WILLING TO CHANGE?” That question exposes whether we want truth— or merely reassurance. --- ⑧ BUT HERE IS THE DANGER ON THE OTHER SIDE—REFORM WITHOUT CHRIST Inspiration defines genuine reformation: “Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices.” — Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 128 Truth must reach: the calendar, the kitchen, the wardrobe, the temper, the address, the tongue, and the choices nobody sees. “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” — James 1:22 But never miss this: REFORMATION WITHOUT CHRIST CAN PRODUCE A PHARISEE. You can keep Sabbath— and hate your brother. Eat perfectly— and feed on pride. Dress modestly— and advertise self-righteousness. Move to the country— and take worldliness with you. Guard your tongue publicly— while bitterness rules privately. Jesus did not come merely to rearrange our habits. HE CAME TO RECREATE OUR HEARTS. “Without Me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:5 --- THE QUESTION BENEATH EVERY REFORM When Christ touches your— TIME—will He be Lord? APPETITE—will He be Lord? APPEARANCE—will He be Lord? CHARACTER—will He be Lord? LOCATION—will He be Lord? TONGUE—will He be Lord? There it is. DOES JESUS HAVE PERMISSION TO CHANGE EVERYTHING? “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23 Perhaps we do not need another argument. Perhaps we need another surrender. Instead of continually praying: “LORD, GIVE ME MORE LIGHT,” perhaps we need to pray: “LORD, FORGIVE ME FOR RESISTING THE LIGHT I ALREADY HAVE.” Take my appetite. Take my pride. Take my temper. Take my tongue. Take my plans. Take my home. TAKE MY WHOLE HEART. “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” — Acts 9:6 NO MORE EXCUSES. NO MORE BARGAINING WITH LIGHT. NO MORE TRYING TO OUTREASON GOD. CHRIST BEFORE CONVENIENCE. FAITH BEFORE FEAR. TRUTH BEFORE TRADITION. SURRENDER BEFORE SELF. Because when Jesus truly becomes Lord— REFORMATION IS NO LONGER SOMETHING GOD MUST FORCE FROM US. IT BECOMES SOMETHING LOVE IS WILLING TO SURRENDER TO HIM.

1 Corinthians 10:31 BSB [31] So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God. https://bible.com/bible/3034/1co.10.31.BSB