Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* TUESDAY 25TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD’S GRACE. *TOPIC:* HANDLING YOUR THOUGHTS. *TEXTS:* ROMANS 12:2; 2 CORINTHIANS 10:5. *ROMANS 12:2.* 2. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will. *CORINTHIANS 10:5.* 5. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. *TOPIC:* HANDLING YOUR THOUGHTS. *THE MESSAGE;* Each day, our minds are flood with streams of thoughts - some uplifting, others discouraging. If we are not vigilant, negative thoughts can take hold, dragging us into a state of despair that God never intended for us to experience. The first text urges us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, while the second reminds us to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. This means we must not allow any thought that contradicts God's word to go unchecked. The moment you recognise a harmful or untrue thought creeping in, stand firm in your identity in Christ. Reject it, confront it, and replace it with the truth of the Scripture. The more you study scriptures, the easier it will be for you to recognise lies and false teachings. This will prompt you to turn away from them and walk in the truth. *REFLECTION:* Let the scriptures guide your thoughts. *PRAYER:* Lord, help me to think rightly. Amen. *MEMORY VERSE FOR THE MONTH:* 2 TIMOTHY 2:21. "If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be instruments for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work." *TODAY'S BIBLE READING PLAN:* EZEKIEL 34-36. ED.ii. SHAMGAR'S CATTLE STICK "After Ehud came Shamgar son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an ox goad. He too saved Israel." - Judges 3:31 Shamgar was a farmer and one day while he was plowing the enemy, the Philistines, came. They were out to rob, kill and destroy Israel. Shamgar had no sword, spear or shield like the Philistines who were well-armed and trained men. In 1 Samuel 13:19 it says: 'The Philistines wouldn't allow them for fear they would make swords and spears for the Hebrews.' The hero Shamgar The only thing Shamgar had was a cattle stick - a stick of about three meters long and four to five centimeters thick. On this cattle stick, there was a small point sticking out which is used to spur the oxen. On the other side of the stick, there was a chisel to scrape the plowshares. There was an army of 600 armed men and there was Shamgar with his cattle stick. Many of us would choose the easiest way out and leave. But Shamgar approached them with his cane and struck them down one after the other. Can you imagine this: 600 men beaten by one man with a stick? Shamgar became a hero on that day and was appointed to judge in Israel. Today we also have enemies, from whom the evil one is the worst. The Bible says he came to steal, kill, and destroy. And he comes with many demons. Use what you have Shamgar did not wait like so many people do but he used what he had. Let us also confront the enemy with what we have. Jesus is with us and with Him we are more than conquerors! Do not wait for what you do not have but use what you have. God is on your side. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer for today. EP.i. Evening Prayer Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. ⏤ Proverbs 3:5-6 The man who prays grows; and the muscles of the soul swell from this whipcord to iron bands. ⏤ Leonard Ravenhill O God, the Author of our being and the Preserver of our lives—we come to Your throne of grace this evening, placing ourselves under Your care for the night. Bless us and grant us Your special peace. Cleanse our hearts before You, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from us. Shine the light of Your countenance upon us, and grant us Your salvation. The evening is here; come, O Jesus, and abide with us. Keep us securely in Your care. Strengthen our faith so that it will not fail. May we always keep our eyes on You, setting You before us, so that we do not lose our way. We are too prone to trust our own desires and to choose our own ways. Help us to always do what pleases You so that we do not sin against You. Keep us from discouragement and despair. May we learn to leave all the affairs of our lives in Your hands, trusting You to bring about what is best for us and for Your glory. Teach us how to commit our way to You so that You may bring forth our righteousness. We bring before You each member of our home. You know each one of us and all our needs. You know the temptations each of us faces—they are not the same, though we live under the same roof. Match Your grace to our specific dangers and needs. Reveal Yourself to us always as the Friend we need, offering the help we need. Sanctify all the experiences of the day for us. May our disappointments prove to be Your appointments, and may the way You have led us be indeed the right way. In Your great mercy, forgive all our sins, and bring us into Your heavenly kingdom through Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/51/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

Going to church does not automatically make you spiritually mature. Yes, you heard me. You can attend church every Sunday and still be far from God. You can sit in the front row, carry your Bible, sing every worship song, shout “Amen!” to every prayer, and still have a heart that has not truly surrendered to God. Church attendance is good. But church attendance alone is not spiritual maturity. Imagine someone who goes to the gym every single day. They wear gym clothes. They take pictures in the gym. They know the names of all the machines. They even tell people, “I am always at the gym.” But they never exercise. Will their body change? No. They were physically present, but they were not participating. That is how some people are spiritually. They are always in church… But they don’t pray. They hear the Word… But they don’t obey it. They sing about forgiveness… But they refuse to forgive. They preach about love… But they hate people. They shout about holiness… But secretly live a completely different life. They know Bible verses… But they don’t know the God behind the verses. And this is where we need to be brutally honest with ourselves. You can be a church member and still be spiritually immature. You can know the language of Christianity without carrying the character of Christ. You can know when to say “Praise the Lord” while your heart is full of pride, bitterness, lust, jealousy, unforgiveness and selfishness. And sometimes, the most dangerous person is not the person who knows nothing about God… It is the person who knows the Word, hears the Word, teaches the Word, but refuses to live the Word. Because knowledge without obedience can become self-deception. Spiritual maturity is not measured by how many years you have been going to church. It is seen in how you behave when nobody is watching. Can you control yourself when temptation comes? Can you forgive when you have been deeply hurt? Can you walk away from sin even when nobody would ever know? Can you say “no” to something you desperately want because you know God is saying no? Can you love people who cannot do anything for you? Can you admit when you are wrong? Can you humble yourself? Can you obey God even when obedience is painful? That is where spiritual maturity begins. Because Christianity is not just about being found in church. It is about allowing Christ to be found in you. And maybe this is the question we need to stop asking: “Did I go to church today?” And start asking: “Did I become more like Christ today?” Because one day, God will not be impressed by the number of Sundays you occupied a church seat. He will look at the life you lived after you left that seat. So please… Don’t just be a regular churchgoer. Be a growing Christian. Don’t just hear the Word. Live it. Don’t just carry the Bible. Let the Bible change you. Because the greatest evidence that you have been with God is not how loudly you worship in public… It is how differently you live when nobody is watching. I am Anthony Chukwuebuka - THE BOO OF THE BOOLESS; Yes, you can spend your whole life sitting in God’s house and still never allow God to build His house inside your heart. Think about that.

few days ago I explained an issue that happened in the spirit about someone in this platform whom after seeing what I preached here, went as far as mocking me in the spirit, but the LORD also revealed someone together with him, and that person is a well known Nigerian pastor with the first letter of his name starting with J and the surname starting with S, this particular pastor after the mockery of me this pastor arrested me in the spirit, but after his arrest a spiritual police came to me and they where two in numbers, but when they got to where I am, they where about taking me away, until one of them said no he will not allow me to follow the other officer and he pulled me back from the other officer and set me free to go, GOD delivered me!!! some pastors don't have a decerning spirit they just go ahead doing things on their own knowledge, if I was not real that arrest would have worked for him, but thank GOD I had victory over him, and I believe the person who mocked me in this platform in the spirit is much connected to that pastor to carry out that assignment against me

The purpose of the sermon is not to impart knowledge but to influence behavior - not to inform but to transform. The goal is not to make listeners more educated but more Christlike. - Donald R. Sunukjian

DBF-001-031 continues with John 2:10. The master of the feast recognizes that something unusual has happened: the best wine has been kept until now. We should keep the focus on Christ’s provision and avoid turning the verse into a promise of material abundance. DAILY BREAD FELLOWSHIP DBF-001-032 Today’s Scripture John 2:11 (ESV) “This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him.” Opening the Scriptures John identifies Jesus’ turning water into wine as the first of His signs. This was not merely a remarkable act of kindness at a wedding. It was a sign. A sign points beyond itself. The miracle revealed something about Jesus’ identity, authority, and glory. He was not simply a teacher, prophet, or miracle worker. He was the Son of God, possessing divine power and acting with divine authority. Jesus did not perform this sign to draw attention to Himself in a worldly way. He revealed His glory so that His disciples would see more clearly who He was and believe in Him. The miracle met a real need, but its deepest purpose was spiritual. The wine was temporary. The revelation of Christ was eternal. Living God’s Word Today It is possible to experience God’s blessings without truly recognizing what they reveal about Him. We may thank God for answered prayer, provision, healing, or protection, yet fail to grow in our knowledge of Christ. But God’s works are meant to lead us to worship. Every answered prayer should deepen our trust. Every provision should remind us of God’s faithfulness. Every moment of grace should direct our hearts toward the Savior. The disciples saw what Jesus had done, and they believed in Him. Their faith was not based on vague optimism or personal feelings. It was strengthened by seeing His glory revealed through His works. Our faith also rests on the revelation God has given us through Scripture. We may not witness Jesus turning water into wine, but we have the testimony of those who saw Him, heard Him, and recorded His works for us. John wrote his Gospel so that we would believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing we would have life in His name. Do not stop at admiring what Jesus does. Ask what His works reveal about who He is. He is powerful. He is compassionate. He is faithful. He is worthy of trust and worship. The purpose of every true encounter with Christ is not merely to make life easier. It is to make Him known. Let God’s works lead you to greater faith in Jesus. Question for Today What has God done in your life that has helped you see more clearly who Jesus is? Respond: “Jesus is worthy of my faith and worship.”

Amazing Facts Daily Devotionals What does Isaiah 45:7 mean when it says God creates calamity? August 25, 2026 Read Time: 2 min You can couple this verse with the Bible story in which Micaiah the prophet reports that he saw the Lord send a lying spirit to the prophets of Ahab. In these passages and in others, it appears that evil is proceeding from God, yet the Bible says that every good and perfect gift comes from God. In the book of Job, you find the key that unlocks this relationship between good and evil and God’s involvement. The devil is asking permission of God to tempt and torment Job. The devil cannot do anything without God allowing it. The Lord must withdraw His protection, He must lift the hedge, and He must pull back His protective forces. In that sense, it appears that God is allowing evil. The Lord is the one who placed the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in Eden. That doesn’t mean the Lord wants us to “eat” evil. It means that He gives us the freedom to choose. Sometimes the Lord withdraws His angels that protect us, and in that sense, you could say that He is allowing evil to come. But the book of James tells us that the Lord Himself does not tempt anyone, neither can He be tempted. The devil is an individual being, roaming about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may destroy and devour. God is constantly putting him in check, to the degree of what He allows the devil to do. From time to time, the Lord draws back His hand of protection to accomplish some purpose. This is why Paul says, “God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able” (1 Corinthians 10:13). So when Isaiah says that evil comes from the Lord, it simply means that the devil can’t do anything unless God allows it in His sovereign plan. Key Bible Texts I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things. (Isaiah 45:7 KJV)

To Live and Then Live --- Civilization is like a coin tossed in the air, waiting to fall to the ground. On one side, it promises progress. On the other, it crushes millions beneath its weight. Most of humanity comes from humble beginnings. For them, the universal basics—food, clothing, shelter—remain unmet. When your energy is consumed entirely by survival, there is little room left for anything else. The motivation to pursue higher callings doesn't even register. You're trapped in a relentless rat race, chasing what should be fundamental, yet experiencing unending failure and dissatisfaction. This is the tragedy of modern life: being too busy staying alive to actually live. But flip the coin. Once basic needs are met, once there is psychological comfort, something shifts. The desire to fulfill why we were created becomes the focus. The question transforms from "How will I survive?" to "What am I here for?" This is where civilization fulfills its noblest purpose—as a stepping stone for self-actualization. Civilization is an ongoing work in progress—the refining of ideas from generation to generation, adapting knowledge into daily life, forming a progressive paradigm. Yet here we are. The majority of people today are stranded in life. They find themselves: · Influenced · Lived (instead of living) · Controlled · Manipulated · Surrounded by the ideas of others So consumed are they by external voices that they lose the ability to focus on their own thoughts, their own ideas, their own lives. You were not born to merely survive. You were not born to be a vessel for someone else's vision. You were born to contribute your unique piece to this ongoing work of civilization. First, live—meet your needs, find your footing. Then, truly live—discover your purpose, nurture your ideas, and bring them into the world. The coin is still in the air. Which side will you choose to land on? What idea have you been neglecting? What thought have you buried beneath the noise of survival? Today might be the day to let it breathe. https://a.co/d/0dJqZ3x8https://

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 23–24 | Ephesians 1 📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 23 Revival Through the Word of God 2 Kings 23 records one of the greatest seasons of spiritual reform in Judah's history under King Josiah. After hearing the Book of the Law and humbling himself before the Lord, Josiah immediately begins leading the nation back to covenant faithfulness. His response demonstrates that genuine revival always begins with God's Word and continues through obedient action. Josiah gathers the people and publicly renews the covenant before the Lord. He does not keep God's truth private but calls the entire nation to return to faithful worship. The king understands that spiritual renewal must involve both personal repentance and public obedience. The reforms that follow are comprehensive. Josiah removes idols, destroys pagan altars, eliminates false worship, and cleanses the temple. Nothing that competes with devotion to the Lord is left untouched. His actions reveal that true repentance is more than sorrow over sin—it involves turning away from everything that dishonors God. One of the most significant moments in the chapter is the restoration of the Passover. For generations, this central celebration of God's redeeming work had been neglected. By restoring it, Josiah calls the nation to remember God's covenant faithfulness and their identity as His redeemed people. Worship becomes centered once again on God's saving acts rather than human traditions. Yet despite Josiah's remarkable faithfulness, the chapter reminds us that the accumulated rebellion of previous generations has consequences. God delays His judgment because of Josiah's humility, but the coming exile will still occur. National reform, though sincere, cannot erase centuries of persistent rebellion. Josiah's death at the end of the chapter marks the conclusion of a bright season in Judah's history. His passing prepares the way for the nation's final decline. Nevertheless, his example remains a testimony of wholehearted devotion to the Lord. Theologically, 2 Kings 23 teaches that God's Word produces genuine repentance, which in turn leads to practical obedience. Revival is never merely emotional; it transforms worship, priorities, and daily living. The chapter also reveals that while God's mercy is abundant, sin carries consequences that cannot always be avoided. This chapter points to Christ, who fulfills the meaning of the Passover as the true Lamb of God. Josiah restored the celebration that pointed forward to Jesus, whose sacrifice would accomplish the ultimate redemption from sin. Christ brings the complete spiritual renewal that even Judah's greatest reforms could never fully achieve. For believers today, 2 Kings 23 reminds us that true revival begins when we humbly submit ourselves to God's Word. We are called to remove every idol from our hearts, renew our devotion to the Lord, and remember the redemption we have received through Christ. Genuine faith is demonstrated not merely by hearing God's truth but by obeying it wholeheartedly. 2 Kings 24 The Faithfulness of God in the Midst of Judgment 2 Kings 24 marks the beginning of Judah's final collapse before the Babylonian exile. After Josiah's death, a series of kings lead the nation back into rebellion against the Lord. Though prophets continue warning the people, they refuse to repent. The chapter records the fulfillment of what God had patiently declared for generations. Babylon rises to become the dominant world power, and Judah gradually falls under its control. Political alliances fail, military strength proves insufficient, and the nation experiences the consequences of years of covenant unfaithfulness. The writer emphasizes that these events are not simply the result of Babylon's military superiority but the outworking of God's righteous judgment. The chapter repeatedly points back to the sins of Manasseh and the persistent rebellion that followed him. Judah has consistently rejected God's Word, ignored His prophets, and embraced idolatry. The exile is therefore presented not as God's abandonment of His people but as His faithful response to His covenant warnings. King Jehoiakim rebels against Babylon despite God's clear purposes, bringing additional suffering upon the nation. His successors continue the same pattern of disobedience. Eventually, King Jehoiachin surrenders, and many of Judah's leaders, craftsmen, and treasures are carried away to Babylon. The exile has begun. Even in this difficult chapter, however, hope remains. God preserves the line of David by allowing Jehoiachin to live. Though the kingdom appears to have collapsed, God's covenant has not failed. His redemptive plan continues quietly through the preserved royal line, preparing the way for the coming Messiah. The chapter reminds us that God's judgment is always purposeful. His discipline is designed not to destroy His covenant but to purify His people and accomplish His larger redemptive purposes. Theologically, 2 Kings 24 reveals God's complete faithfulness. He fulfills both His promises of blessing and His warnings of judgment. The chapter also demonstrates that God's sovereign purposes continue even during seasons of loss, discipline, and apparent defeat. This chapter points to Christ, the faithful Son of David who remained obedient where Judah's kings repeatedly failed. Though the earthly kingdom entered exile, God's promise of an eternal King remained secure. Jesus fulfills that promise by establishing an everlasting kingdom that can never be conquered or carried away. For believers today, 2 Kings 24 reminds us that God's discipline flows from His faithfulness, not from His abandonment. Seasons of correction are opportunities to return to Him with humble hearts. In Christ, we have the assurance that even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain, God's redemptive purposes continue unfolding. Our hope is not found in earthly kingdoms or temporary security but in the eternal reign of Jesus Christ, whose kingdom will never end. Ephesians — The Riches of God's Grace in the Christ The book of Ephesians presents one of the fullest pictures of God's eternal redemptive plan through the Christ, the Son of God. It begins by revealing everything believers have received in Him and then shows how those spiritual blessings are to shape everyday Christian living. The first half of the letter focuses on doctrine—who believers are in the Christ. The second half focuses on practice—how believers are to live because they belong to Him. A central theme throughout the book is God's eternal purpose in the Christ. Before the foundation of the world, God established His plan to redeem a people for Himself through His Son. Every promise, every blessing, and every aspect of salvation finds its fulfillment in the Christ. The redemptive plan is not an afterthought but the unfolding of God's eternal purpose. Another major emphasis is the believer's identity. Those who trust in the Christ are forgiven, adopted into God's family, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and seated with the Christ in heavenly places. They are no longer defined by their past but by their relationship with the Son of God. The book also highlights the unity of the Church. Through the Christ, God has brought together people from every background into one body. Walls of division have been removed, and believers now share one faith, one hope, one Lord, and one Spirit. Christian living reflects this unity through love, humility, and mutual service. Ephesians also emphasizes spiritual growth. Believers are called to put away the old way of life and grow into the likeness of the Christ. They are strengthened by the Holy Spirit, equipped for ministry, and encouraged to walk in holiness, wisdom, and love. The letter concludes with the reality of spiritual warfare. The Christian life involves ongoing conflict, not against people, but against spiritual forces. Yet believers do not fight in their own strength. The Son of God provides everything necessary to stand firm through the armor of God and the power of His Spirit. For believers today, Ephesians reminds us that our identity, purpose, strength, and hope are all found in the Christ. Christian living flows from understanding who we are because of what the Son of God has accomplished. As we walk in His grace, grow in His love, and stand firm in His truth, we display the beauty of His eternal redemptive plan to the world. Ephesians 1 — Every Spiritual Blessing in the Christ Ephesians chapter 1 opens with a magnificent celebration of God's eternal plan of salvation through the Christ, the Son of God. Rather than beginning with human need, Paul begins with God's grace, showing that every aspect of salvation originates with Him. The chapter reveals the immeasurable spiritual riches believers possess because they are united with the Christ. Christian living begins by understanding what God has already accomplished through His Son. The chapter begins by praising God for every spiritual blessing given through the Christ. These blessings are not earned through human effort but freely given by God's grace. The redemptive plan begins with God's initiative, not humanity's achievement. Every blessing believers enjoy flows from their relationship with the Son of God. Paul explains that God's purpose was established before the foundation of the world. Long before humanity fell into sin, God had already planned redemption through the Christ. This demonstrates the certainty and sovereignty of His redemptive plan. The Son of God did not come as a response to an unexpected problem but as the fulfillment of God's eternal purpose to redeem a people for Himself. The chapter then describes the privilege of adoption. Through the Christ, believers are brought into God's family as sons and daughters. This new relationship is based entirely upon God's love and grace. Christian living flows from the security of belonging to the Father through the Son. The believer no longer approaches God as a stranger but as a beloved child. Paul also emphasizes redemption through the blood of the Christ. Forgiveness is possible because the Son of God willingly gave Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin. Every debt has been paid, every sin forgiven, and every barrier between God and humanity removed through His finished work. The redemptive plan reaches its fulfillment in the sacrifice of the Christ. Another major theme is God's purpose to bring everything together under the authority of the Christ. History is moving toward the complete fulfillment of His kingdom. The Son of God reigns over all creation, and every promise God has made will ultimately find its completion in Him. Christian living is therefore marked by hope and confidence because believers know that God's purposes cannot fail. The chapter also highlights the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Those who believe in the Christ are sealed with the Spirit as God's own possession. The Holy Spirit serves as the guarantee of the inheritance awaiting believers. This assurance provides confidence that God's redemptive plan will be completed exactly as He has promised. Paul then prays that believers would grow in spiritual understanding. He desires that they know the hope of God's calling, the riches of their inheritance, and the greatness of His power. Christian living is strengthened as believers continually grow in their knowledge of the Son of God and understand the incredible blessings already given to them through Him. The chapter concludes by declaring the supreme authority of the Christ. God has exalted His Son above every ruler, authority, power, and dominion. The Church is described as His body, living under His headship and displaying His presence in the world. The redemptive plan reaches beyond individual salvation to the creation of a people who live under the lordship of the Christ and proclaim His glory. Throughout Ephesians chapter 1, the Christ stands at the center of every spiritual blessing. He is the source of election, adoption, redemption, forgiveness, inheritance, and eternal hope. Everything God has planned and accomplished is found in His beloved Son. For believers today, this chapter reminds us to begin our Christian lives by focusing on what God has already done through the Christ. Christian living is not driven by fear or striving but by gratitude for His abundant grace. We are called to live as God's adopted children, secure in His love, confident in His promises, and empowered by His Spirit. As we grow in our understanding of the Son of God, we increasingly reflect His glory and participate in His eternal redemptive plan. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: THE MOST DANGEROUS BELIEVERS ARE NOT THOSE WHO LEAVE THE CHURCH. Theme: Examining the danger of remaining around the things of God while the heart is far from God Scripture: Matthew 7:21–23; Revelation 3:1–3; Luke 18:9–14 Church, let me begin with a statement that may shock you: The most dangerous believer is not always the one who leaves the church. Sometimes, it is the one who remains in the church but leaves Christ in the heart. Some people leave the church physically, and everybody notices. But there are others who remain in the congregation, sing the songs, carry the Bible, attend services, shout “Amen,” give offerings, quote Scriptures—and yet their hearts have slowly moved away from God. They have not left the building, but they have left the Presence. Jesus warned us that there would be people who would say, “Lord, Lord,” and yet He would say, “I never knew you.” — Matthew 7:23. This means church attendance is not the same thing as spiritual transformation. You can sit in church and still be far from God. You can know Christian language and not know Christ. You can serve in a department and secretly serve your flesh. You can have a title without having a testimony. The question is not merely: “Am I in church?” The deeper question is: “Is Christ truly ruling my life?” KEY BIBLE VERSES. 1. Matthew 7:21–23 — “Lord, Lord” Jesus said: «“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven…”» Notice something frightening: these people called Jesus “Lord.” They knew the language of faith. They even claimed to have done mighty works. Yet Jesus said, “I never knew you.” Spiritual lesson: It is possible to be familiar with the things of God without having a genuine relationship with God. Church activity cannot replace spiritual intimacy. 2. Revelation 3:1 — “You have a name that you are alive” Jesus told the church at Sardis: «“Thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.”» What a frightening diagnosis! The church had a reputation for being alive, but Jesus saw something different. People saw activity. Jesus saw the heart. People saw the appearance. Jesus saw the condition. Spiritual lesson: God is more interested in who you are privately than who you appear to be publicly. 3. Isaiah 29:13 «“This people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me; but have removed their heart far from me.”» Their lips were close. Their hearts were far away. This is the danger of religious appearance without genuine surrender. 5 TYPES OF DANGEROUS BELIEVERS 1. THE BELIEVER WHO KNOWS SCRIPTURE BUT REFUSES TO OBEY IT There is a difference between knowing God's Word and living God's Word. James 1:22 says: «“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only…”» Some believers can explain forgiveness but refuse to forgive. They can preach holiness but live carelessly. They can quote Scripture but manipulate people. They know what God says, but they have decided to obey themselves. Deep insight: Information without transformation can produce religious pride. The devil does not necessarily fear a Christian who knows many Bible verses. He fears the Christian who believes, obeys, and lives the Word. 2. THE BELIEVER WHO HAS A FORM OF GODLINESS BUT NO POWER 2 Timothy 3:5 speaks about people: «“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.”» A form is an outward appearance. It looks right. It sounds right. But something is missing inside. You can dress like a Christian. Talk like a Christian. Post Christian messages. Attend Christian programs. And still refuse to surrender your character to Christ. Ask yourself: What happens to my Christianity when nobody is watching? That is where genuine Christianity is tested. Your secret life is a better measurement of your spiritual condition than your public reputation. 3. THE BELIEVER WHO HAS BECOME COMFORTABLE WITH SIN One of the most dangerous conditions is not falling into sin accidentally. It is becoming comfortable with sin deliberately. The believer begins by saying: «“It is only once.”» Then: «“Everybody is doing it.”» Then: «“God understands.”» Eventually, the conscience becomes quiet. Romans 6:1–2 warns against continuing in sin because grace abounds. Deep spiritual truth: Grace is not permission to remain in sin. Grace is God's power to bring us out of sin. If something is destroying your relationship with God, don't defend it. Repent from it. 4. THE BELIEVER WHO LOVES THE CHURCH BUT DOES NOT LOVE CHRIST This may sound strange, but it happens. Someone can love: - The choir - The pastor - The church building - Christian conferences - Christian music - Christian social media - Christian friendships …but fail to love Jesus with all their heart. Jesus told the church at Ephesus: «“Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.” — Revelation 2:4» They were working. They were enduring. They were doctrinally discerning. But they had lost their first love. Important lesson: You can be busy doing things for Jesus while becoming distant from Jesus. Don't allow ministry to replace relationship. Don't allow your assignment to replace intimacy. Don't allow the work of God to become more important than the God of the work. 5. THE BELIEVER WHO REFUSES CORRECTION A dangerous believer is one who cannot be corrected. When the pastor preaches against something they are doing, they become angry. When a mature Christian warns them, they say: «“Don't judge me.”» When Scripture confronts their lifestyle, they look for another interpretation. Proverbs 12:1 says: «“Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.”» Spiritual maturity means: I am willing to be corrected because I want to become more like Christ. A person who cannot receive correction will eventually become a prisoner of their own deception. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: JUDAS ISCARIOT Judas is one of the most sobering examples in Scripture. Judas walked with Jesus. He heard Jesus teach. He witnessed miracles. He traveled with the disciples. He was part of the ministry. He was close enough to Jesus to call Him Master. Yet Judas eventually betrayed Him. This teaches us something frightening: Being close to spiritual things does not automatically mean your heart belongs to God. You can be around anointed people and remain unchanged. You can witness miracles and still struggle with unbelief. You can carry a Bible and still carry bitterness. You can occupy a position and lose your spiritual condition. But there is hope. Peter also failed Jesus. The difference was that Peter returned in repentance. Judas allowed his failure to lead him into destruction. Failure does not have to be the end of your story. Repentance can become the beginning of restoration. PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. EXAMINE YOUR HEART Psalm 139:23–24: «“Search me, O God, and know my heart…”» Don't only ask, “What is wrong with others?” Ask: “Lord, what needs to change in me?” 2. RETURN TO YOUR FIRST LOVE If prayer has become a duty, return. If Bible reading has become routine, return. If worship has become performance, return. If your passion for Christ has disappeared, return. 3. STOP JUSTIFYING WHAT GOD IS ASKING YOU TO REPENT OF Don't rename sin. Don't call disobedience “weakness.” Don't call compromise “wisdom.” Don't call rebellion “freedom.” When God reveals something, respond with repentance. 4. PRACTICE PRIVATE CHRISTIANITY Pray when nobody is watching. Read the Word when nobody is applauding. Give when nobody knows. Forgive when nobody forces you. Serve when nobody celebrates you. What you do privately reveals what you truly value. 5. STAY TEACHABLE Allow God's Word to correct you. Allow mature believers to challenge you. Allow the Holy Spirit to convict you. A heart that can still be corrected is a heart that can still be transformed. DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS 1. PROXIMITY TO HOLY THINGS DOES NOT GUARANTEE HOLINESS. Judas was close to Jesus physically, but his heart was not surrendered. 2. RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY CAN HIDE SPIRITUAL DECLINE. A person can become busier in church while becoming colder toward God. 3. GOD LOOKS BEYOND THE PLATFORM. People may see your preaching. God sees your private life. People hear your words. God knows your motives. 4. THE GREATEST DANGER IS SELF-DECEPTION. A sinner who knows he is lost may seek help. But someone who is lost and believes he is spiritually healthy may never seek rescue. 5. JESUS DOES NOT ONLY WANT YOUR CHURCH ATTENDANCE. He wants your heart. He wants your character. He wants your obedience. He wants your entire life. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. Am I following Jesus or merely following Christian activities? 2. Does my private life agree with my public confession? 3. Is there any sin I have become comfortable with? 4. Can I receive correction without becoming offended? 5. Have I lost my first love for Christ? 6. Am I more concerned about what people think about me than what God thinks about me? 7. If Jesus examined my heart today, what would He find? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Father, search my heart and expose everything in me that is not pleasing to You, in Jesus' name. 2. Lord Jesus, deliver me from religious appearance without spiritual reality. 3. Father, restore my first love for You. Let my passion for Christ become stronger again. 4. Lord, give me grace to obey Your Word, not merely hear it. 5. Every spirit of hypocrisy and self-deception, be broken over my life, in Jesus' name. 6. Father, give me a heart that receives correction and grows in wisdom. 7. Lord, let my private life and public testimony agree. 8. Holy Spirit, create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. 9. Father, keep me faithful to Christ until the end of my journey. CALL TO ACTION Beloved, don't leave this message thinking about another believer. Think about yourself. Don't ask: «“Who in my church needs to hear this?”» Ask: «“Lord, what are You saying to me?”» The goal of Christianity is not simply to remain in church. The goal is to remain in Christ. Jesus said in John 15:4: «“Abide in me, and I in you.”» Don't just carry the name Christian. Carry Christ in your heart. Don't just attend church. Become the church wherever you go. Don't just quote the Word. Live the Word. Don't just raise your hands in worship. Surrender your heart in obedience. And don't wait until you stand before Jesus to discover that you were close to church but far from Christ. TODAY, RETURN TO JESUS. Return to your first love. Return to prayer. Return to the Word. Return to holiness. Return to obedience. Return to genuine fellowship with Christ. The greatest question is not, “Did I attend church?” It is: “DOES JESUS TRULY KNOW ME?” May we never be believers who merely look alive. May we be believers who are truly alive in Christ. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen. FINAL DECLARATION I will not merely look like a Christian; I will live for Christ. I will not only hear God's Word; I will obey it. I will not hide behind religious activity; I will pursue genuine relationship with Jesus. My heart belongs to Christ, my life belongs to Christ, and my future belongs to Christ. In Jesus' name. Amen. Give your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church. You can get inspirational ebooks from my sela/Amazon shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks https://afrikdp.com/author/umohedem-9128 CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com

Daily Devotion. .. Tuesday August 25, 2026 John 13:34-35 "'A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.'" The Mark of a Disciple Love is often spoken of as a feeling, but in the upper room, Jesus redefined it as an action. In John 13:34-35, He gives His followers a new command to love one another just as He has loved them. This standard changes everything. Jesus did not love conditionally or conveniently; He loved sacrificially, washing the feet of the very disciples who would soon scatter and deny Him. When we look at our daily lives, applying this kind of love can feel daunting. It is easy to care for those who agree with us, treat us well, or share our interests. Yet, Christ calls us higher. He invites us to love the difficult coworker, the impatient neighbor, and the family member who tests our patience. This love requires laying down our pride, extending quick forgiveness, and choosing kindness over being right. Notice the purpose behind this radical love. Jesus says that it serves as the ultimate witness: "By this all people will know that you are My disciples." Our theological knowledge, church attendance, and spoken words matter, but without genuine love, they ring hollow. To a watching world skeptical of faith, authentic love is undeniable proof of a transformed heart. Today, look for one intentional opportunity to step past your comfort zone, serve someone practically, and let Christ's love flow through you. What is one practical way you can show this kind of intentional love to someone today? Here are 3 spiritual truths gleaned from John 13:34-35: 1. Love is a deliberate command, not just an emotion: Jesus calls this a new commandment, framing love as an intentional choice of obedience and sacrificial action rather than a passive feeling. 2. Christ’s love is the ultimate measure: We are not told to love others based on human standards or reciprocity, but as He has loved us—unconditionally, humbly, and sacrificially. 3. Love is the primary signature of a true believer: Acts of service and genuine love for one another serve as the most powerful, unmistakable public witness to a watching world that we belong to Christ. "We are all dealt a set of circumstances. Some are good, some are bad, some are downright ugly. But what defines us is not what happens to us, but how we respond to what happens—and the greatest response is always love, grace, and forgiveness." — Charles R. Swindoll Pastor, Teacher, Author