Acts 26: "1 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself: 2 I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews: 3 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently. 4 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews; 5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. 6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers: 7 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews. 8 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? 9 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities. 12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, 13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me. 14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. 16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; 17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. 19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: 20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. 21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me. 22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: 23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles. 24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. 25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. 26 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. 28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. 29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds. 30 And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them: 31 And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds. 32 Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar."

𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 ✍️ “𝘕𝘰 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯— 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘯.” We often compare ourselves with others—wishing we had their talent, their platform, their influence, or their opportunities. Yet comparison can make us overlook what God has already placed in our hands. Whether our gift seems impressive or ordinary, the question is not whether we have ability—but whether we are faithfully using what God has entrusted to us. Peter writes in 🕮 𝟏 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟒:𝟏𝟎, “𝘈𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘧𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘰𝘥.” Spiritual gifts are not trophies for personal recognition but expressions of God’s grace, entrusted to us for the service and strengthening of His people. Grace gives the gift—and grace calls us to use it faithfully. The word “𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥” 𝘪mplies management, not ownership. Our gifts aren’t possessions; they’re meant to build each other up. Like a toolbox, value lies not in impressive tools but in purpose. A hammer can’t replace a screwdriver. Likewise, God equips each of us uniquely. We don’t need another’s gift to fulfill our calling—only faithfulness in stewarding with the gift God gave us. Scripture shows the body of Christ has many members, each with unique roles. “𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘶𝘴, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘶𝘴 𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮” (𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟐:𝟔). Some teach, serve, give, lead, or show mercy, “𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵... 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘥𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺” (𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟐:𝟒; 𝟏𝟒). Different gifts don’t mean different worth. We are not all the same, but we are all called to serve. The danger isn’t just wasting gifts but using them selfishly. Without humility, ministry becomes pride’s stage. Scripture commands, “𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘺, 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦𝘯” (𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟑:𝟐𝟑). Peter urges, “𝘐𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘎𝘰𝘥’𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺” (𝟏 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟒:𝟏𝟏). Don’t turn God’s gift into a platform; we serve not to be seen, but because we have been saved. Before calling us to serve, Christ served us first: “not to be ministered unto, but to minister” (𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝟏𝟎:𝟒𝟓). He humbled Himself, “𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴” (𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟐:𝟕–𝟖). Through His death, burial, and resurrection, He secured our redemption (𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟓:𝟑–𝟒). Now, the risen Lord sends us as stewards—not to hoard grace, but to spread it. Christ gave Himself for us; now we give ourselves in service to Him. What has God placed in your hands that you have been overlooking, comparing, or withholding? Are you using His gift for His glory or your recognition? You don't need Christ merely to discover your gift—you need Him to surrender every gift to His service. The gift is God's. The opportunity is His. The glory must be His. Don't turn God's gift into your glory when He gave it to you for His ministry. 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gifts and opportunities You have entrusted to us. Forgive us for comparing ourselves with others or seeking recognition through what You have given. Teach us to serve faithfully, humbly, and joyfully, using every gift for the blessing of others and the glory of Christ. In Jesus' Name. Amen. Remember, a dose of God’s Word a day will keep you going all day! 𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐆𝐨𝐝... _____________________________________________________ All scripture references were taken from the KJV Bible. Thank you for allowing this ministry to be a part of your day… If my posts speak to your heart, you may be blessed by the full devotional series created for deeper reflection and journaling: 👉 FREE FlipBook Previews: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/ae17998766.html 📚 Also available now on Amazon (Kindle & Paperback) ✨ Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited! https://www.amazon.com/author/dennislastimoso Also, just in case you need a reliable, dedicated online Bible Study Tool, I created one for you. 👉 Try it here for FREE, anytime at your hand: https://www.baptistry.app Your support helps us continue this ministry, edifying the believers around the world. May God bless you more abundantly…

I’ve seen ignorant memes like this circulating on social media. For one thing, Jesus is the healer, but we are His hands and feet. The Great Commission (which includes laying hands on the sick and seeing them recover) applies to all believers. I mostly minister healing on the streets. However, I've done that a few times in hospitals and nursing homes. One involved a woman legally blind. She started seeing better, but later took a turn for the worse. This woman depended on other people praying for her instead of standing on God’s word for herself. Last month, I visited a fellow evangelist in the hospital. Despite my prayers, he died a short time later at 69. I recalled Kathryn Kuhlman was also in her late sixties when she resisted offers of prayer before dying in a hospital bed. She wanted to go home to be with the Lord. Sometimes our prayers go unanswered because of other people’s wills. Still, we shouldn’t let armchair Christians stop us from ministering to others. “For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.” (1 Peter 2:15)

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: 5 THINGS EVERY CHRISTIAN WOMAN SHOULD NEVER COMPROMISE. Key Scripture: Proverbs 31:30 «“Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.”» A Christian woman is not called to fit into the world; she is called to shine in the world without becoming part of its darkness. There will be pressure to compromise your convictions for a relationship, a job, money, acceptance, fashion, popularity, or social media approval. But remember this: What you compromise to gain today may become the very thing that destroys your testimony tomorrow. You can lose money and recover it. You can lose an opportunity and find another. You can lose popularity and still be fulfilled. But when you lose your character, convictions, and fellowship with God, the cost can be far greater. A godly woman must learn to say: “I would rather disappoint people than disappoint God.” 1. NEVER COMPROMISE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD Matthew 6:33 «“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness…”» Before you are a wife, mother, professional, entrepreneur, student, minister, or friend, you are first a woman created by God. Your relationship with God must not become secondary because life becomes busy. Do not abandon prayer because you have entered a relationship. Do not abandon the Word because you have become successful. Do not stop attending fellowship because you have become comfortable. Do not allow a relationship to replace your relationship with Christ. Deep Spiritual Insight Anything that takes God's rightful place in your heart eventually becomes an idol. A Christian woman must be able to say: “God is not part of my life; God is the foundation of my life.” Practical Action - Maintain a consistent prayer life. - Study God's Word. - Fellowship with other believers. - Guard your spiritual environment. - Put God first in your decisions. 2. NEVER COMPROMISE YOUR PURITY AND CHARACTER 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 «“For this is the will of God, even your sanctification…”» The world may tell you that purity is outdated. It is not. Holiness is not old-fashioned. Holiness is still God's standard. Your body is not merely an instrument for attracting attention. It is a temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Paul reminds believers that their bodies belong to God. Therefore, do not allow desperation for marriage, money, attention, or acceptance to push you into sexual immorality or compromising situations. A woman of God must understand: Your value is not determined by who desires you. Your value is determined by the God who created you. Biblical Example: Joseph and Potiphar's Wife Joseph was tempted privately when nobody appeared to be watching. But Joseph said: «“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” — Genesis 39:9» Notice what Joseph considered most important. He did not say, “What will people say?” He said, “I cannot sin against God.” That must also be the conviction of every Christian woman. 3. NEVER COMPROMISE YOUR IDENTITY AND GOD-GIVEN VALUE Psalm 139:14 «“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”» Social media can make women compare themselves with other women. One woman looks more beautiful. Another appears richer. Another has a successful marriage. Another has thousands of followers. Another seems to have everything together. But remember: Comparison can make you despise what God created. You don't have to become somebody else to become valuable. God created you intentionally. Your identity should not be built on: - Physical appearance - Relationship status - Wealth - Social media validation - People's opinions - Titles - Material possessions Your identity must be rooted in Christ. 1 Peter 2:9 You are part of a chosen generation and a royal priesthood. Therefore, don't sell your identity cheaply for acceptance. You are God's workmanship before you are anybody's girlfriend, wife, employee, friend, or follower. 4. NEVER COMPROMISE YOUR VALUES FOR MONEY OR SUCCESS Proverbs 11:1 «“A false balance is abomination to the LORD…”» There is nothing wrong with wanting success. There is nothing wrong with building a business. There is nothing wrong with becoming financially independent. But success without integrity is failure wearing expensive clothes. Never lie to make money. Never cheat to get ahead. Never sleep with someone to secure an opportunity. Never participate in corruption because “everybody is doing it.” Never allow financial pressure to destroy your principles. Biblical Example: The Virtuous Woman Proverbs 31:25 «“Strength and honour are her clothing…”» The woman described in Proverbs 31 was productive, hardworking, intelligent, business-minded, generous, and responsible. She was not weak. She was a woman of strength and honour. God does not require Christian women to be unsuccessful. He requires them to be faithful while pursuing success. 5. NEVER COMPROMISE YOUR PURPOSE AND GODLY INFLUENCE Esther 4:14 «“And who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”» Esther was positioned in the palace for a purpose. Her position was not merely for comfort. It was an opportunity to influence history. Every Christian woman has influence somewhere. You may influence: - Your children - Your husband - Your workplace - Your church - Your community - Your generation - Your social media audience - Young people watching your life Never underestimate your influence. Titus 2:3-5 Older Christian women are instructed to teach and guide younger women. This means Christian women are not merely recipients of spiritual knowledge. They are also carriers and transmitters of godly wisdom. Your life is preaching something even when your mouth is closed. The question is: What is your life preaching? BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: HANNAH 1 Samuel 1:9-20 Hannah experienced deep emotional pain because she had no child. She was mocked and misunderstood. Yet she took her pain to God. She did not allow her disappointment to destroy her faith. She prayed. She waited. She trusted. And eventually, God answered her with Samuel. Lesson for Christian Women Your current situation is not necessarily your final chapter. You may be waiting for: - Marriage - Children - Financial breakthrough - Career advancement - Healing - Ministry growth - Restoration But don't compromise while waiting. Never exchange your destiny for temporary relief. Hannah waited before God, and her story changed. 5 QUESTIONS EVERY CHRISTIAN WOMAN SHOULD ASK HERSELF 1. What am I tempted to compromise because I desperately want something? 2. Has any relationship become more important to me than God? 3. Does my private life agree with my public Christian testimony? 4. Am I allowing society or social media to determine my value? 5. If Jesus examined my decisions today, would I be proud of them? PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. Establish non-negotiable convictions. Decide beforehand what you will and will not compromise. 2. Choose relationships wisely. Anyone who constantly pushes you away from God is not helping your destiny. 3. Protect your private life. Character is revealed by what you do when nobody is watching. 4. Build your identity in Christ. Know God's Word concerning who you are. 5. Find godly women to learn from. Don't walk alone. Learn from mature Christian women who have walked with God through different seasons of life. POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Father, give me the grace to love You above everything else, in Jesus' name. 2. Lord, strengthen me to stand for righteousness when I am under pressure to compromise. 3. Father, protect my heart, mind, body, and destiny from ungodly influences. 4. Lord, deliver me from comparison, insecurity, and the need for human approval. 5. Father, give me wisdom to recognize relationships and opportunities that are not from You. 6. Lord, help me to pursue success without sacrificing my integrity. 7. Father, let my life become a godly example to the generation coming after me. 8. Lord, restore every woman who has fallen through compromise and give her the grace to rise again. CALL TO ACTION Dear woman of God, you don't have to compromise to be accepted. You don't have to compromise to get married. You don't have to compromise to become successful. You don't have to compromise to become beautiful. You don't have to compromise to become influential. You don't have to compromise to survive. God is able to bless you without destroying you. The world may tell you: “Everybody is doing it.” But you must say: “I am not everybody. I belong to Christ.” When everybody is bowing, stand. When everybody is compromising, stand. When everybody is pursuing popularity, pursue holiness. When everybody is choosing temporary pleasure, choose eternal purpose. Your beauty will fade. Your possessions will pass away. Your popularity may disappear. But a life that honours God will leave an eternal testimony. Final Declaration I will not compromise my faith. I will not compromise my purity. I will not compromise my identity. I will not compromise my integrity. I will not compromise my purpose. I am a woman of God. I belong to Christ. My life has purpose. My body is God's temple. My character is my treasure. My faith is my foundation. And by the grace of God, I will stand! “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.” — Proverbs 31:30 Stand firm, woman of God. Your generation needs the woman God has called you to become. If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do so by joining a Bible believing Church. You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/Amazon shops below https://selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://amazon.com/author/umohedembooks CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com

Acts 24: "1 And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul. 2 And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence, 3 We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness. 4 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words. 5 For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes: 6 Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law. 7 But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands, 8 Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him. 9 And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so. 10 Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself: 11 Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship. 12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city: 13 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me. 14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets: 15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. 16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men. 17 Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings. 18 Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult. 19 Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me. 20 Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council, 21 Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day. 22 And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter. 23 And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him. 24 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. 25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee. 26 He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him. 27 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound."

❤️HOW TO KNOW GOD'S WILL FOR IMPORTANT DECISIONS IN YOUR LIFE. Part 6 of 6. How God Makes Known His Will for Specific Decisions and Needs. Continued. In both instances, what we experience by-passes the mind or intellect. Both the witness within our spirits, and the inner voice of the Holy Spirit may at times go contrary to our personal feelings and emotions" regarding some matter but we will know, nevertheless, what God's will is concerning the situation and what we should do. Feelings and emotions can deceive or confuse us if we rely entirely upon them, for this is the realm in which both Satan and the intellect reign; whereas the enlightened spirit of a Christian, and the voice of God's Spirit within will always guide us correctly if we will listen to them (Jn. 16:13) 1 Cor. 2:10-16; 1 Jn. 2:27). Of course, usually what we feel about a situation will be in harmony with what we are inwardly impressed to do, but it is not our feelings or emotions through which God's will is imparted to us. Inasmuch as God frequently desires to alert us to some spiritual or physical danger, prepare us with regarding some event that is about to occur, or inform us concerning His will about some present or future matter, then it is imperative that we become sensitive to the inner voice of the Spirit if we are to hear Him when He speaks. It is a real blessing to be so sensitive to the Spirit's voice that you know when you are moving in the will of God. Being yielded to the Spirit is the secret of being "fruitful in every good work." When we are fully yielded to Him, and sensitive to His voice, then we can always move with Him, fulfilling God's will, and we will not have to waste time planning and scheming, or running all over the place hoping that we are doing God's will and fulfilling His purpose. By Prophecy Occasionally God will inform us of His will regarding some matter, or concerning some problem about which we are praying, through prophecy or the ministry gift of the prophet. Generally, this will be a confirmation of what He has already been speaking inwardly to us about, and not the giving of guidance by prophecy as such. It cannot be overemphasized that it is God's purpose to lead the Christian inwardly by His Spirit or the inward witness (Rom. 8:14; 1 Cor. 2:14-16). Christians are not to seek guidance through prophecy or visions, inasmuch as some people have been misdirected or led astray, sometimes with serious consequences, on the basis of an alleged prophecy or revelation given to them by some overzealous individual who felt that he (or she) had an anointing to "prophesy" to them. In one case a minister who was sure that he had been led of the Spirit to leave a certain church to minister in another place was then prophesied to by a self-appointed prophetess and told that the Lord wanted him to return to the former church which he had recently left. This left him thoroughly confused as to what he was supposed to do, not knowing which of the two conflicting "revelations" was from the Lord. In two other instances, certain individuals who were seeking guidance were informed by overzealous Christians with an "anointing" that they were to move to a certain city and state as this was God's will for them. In neither case was the guidance from the Lord. Some Christians have actually been appointed to some office such as prophet, teacher, elder, or evangelist, and some Christian groups have been set in "divine order" by misguided individuals who interpret emotional feeling, spiritual enthusiasm, or actual delusion by Satan, as an anointing to prophesy. In other instances, a genuine anointing to speak in tongues or to minister the simple gift of prophecy to the church for "edification, and exhortation, and comfort" (1 Cor. 14:3) was misdirected to some particular individual and ended up as personal guidance coming forth from their own spirits instead of the Holy Spirit. In another instance, a woman "prophesied" to the leader of a group that it was time to discontinue teaching them, as God wanted them to begin to stand on their own feet without teaching. Shortly after his ministry was terminated, the leader of the group realized the mistake and contacted him three times wanting to know if he thought the prophecy had been genuine, inasmuch as it was obvious to all that they had not reached such a place of spiritual maturity where they no longer needed Biblical teaching. Christians should not seek guidance by prophecy or visions. We have reference here only to the attempt to seek or give guidance by means of personal prophecy or revelation through some over zealous individual, not to prophecy and visions in general which God does give to His Church for edification, exhortation, and comfort (1 Cor.14:3; Joel 2:28-29). Occasionally, God Himself chooses to speak to us through prophecy and vision in order to lead us, but in every case it will be in harmony with His Word, and it will authenticated by the fact that it is usually a confirmation of what the Spirit has already shown to us personally. Also, occasionally, prophecy becomes the means by which God leads us in order to fulfill His will about some important matter. By Scriptural Teaching; One of the most important channels through which God desires to speak to His people and reveal His will to them is one that few people recognize and appreciate as they should, and that is through the ministry of biblical teaching. Frequently, in a meeting people will come and ask for an appointment for spiritual counseling concerning some question or problem confronting them. Instead, they should first plan to attend all the teaching sessions, inasmuch as God has sent this ministry into their midst at this time to help solve such problems as this for which they feel they need counseling, and that He often gives the necessary guidance through the teaching. On several occasions people who have taken such advice have come afterward and stated that they no longer were in need of counseling as God had given them the answers they needed through the teaching ministry. Certainly God knows the various problems and needs of His people, and that it would be impossible for any one minister to deal with everyone individually who requests counseling and help. Therefore, through the teaching ministry He provides the solution for those who are willing to pay the cost of sacrificing some of their time and interest in other things to avail themselves of it. Sadly, there are some individuals who will not do this. They will insist that you give them individual attention and special time, as they believe that their problems are of such a nature to warrant it, but at the same time they will not avail themselves of the ministry God has sent into their midst to help them. It is useless to expect God to give you special guidance and revelation about some matter when you do not avail yourself of the biblical ministry that He is sending into your locality for precisely this purpose. Your problems and the decisions you must make are not really much different from those of most other Christians. It is only because they affect you personally that you think this. And even if your problems were unusually different, nevertheless, there are certain spiritual principles set forth in God's Word which can be brought forth through teaching which will show you how to deal with your situation and what your responsibility is with regard to it. We have found this to be true time and again. For example, some faith principle which can be applied for healing a disease can also be used to solve a financial or marital problem, if you know what it is and how to apply it. But one must be willing to avail himself of the teaching ministry and literature available in order to learn these truths, for "faith cometh by hearing the Word" (Rom. 10:17). For instance, such passages as Matthew 18:19, Mark 11:22-24; John 14:14; 1 John 5:14-15; Philippians 4:19, and Psalm 37:4 have almost limitless potential for fulfilling practically any need of every description when the believer knows how to apply them and accepts their validity for today. For the thousands who accept the responsibility of learning how to live and walk by faith themselves, they discover that they are able, not only to help themselves, but also liberate others from their problems and oppression. God desires for us to mature to the place where we do not constantly need to be ministered to, but can minister to others and their needs. Through Circumstances; Sometimes God confirms His will to us through circumstances, controlling or changing events in such a way that we are able to recognize His providential hand at work to fulfill His purpose in our lives. God informed Abraham that his descendants would spend 400 years in Egypt before He would bring them forth to inherit the Promised Land (Gen. 15). At the time God told him this, Abraham did not have a single descendant, for as yet Isaac had not been born. From this time, we see God beginning to bring His will for Israel to pass through the providential control of circumstances and events. Twenty-five years later Isaac is born by a miracle to Sarah, who is barren. His son Jacob in turn has twelve sons, one of whom is Joseph, his favorite. Because of envy his brothers sell him into slavery into Egypt, which begins a new phase of the fulfillment of God's plan to get Abraham's descendants into Egypt, a famine later compelling Jacob and all of his descendants to migrate there to live. After several years of hardship and adversity, Joseph had been miraculously elevated to a high position in Egypt by Pharaoh, a divine foresight to prepare the way for the Israelites. Thus, their arrival in Egypt was no accident, nor were they merely victims of circumstances, but we are clearly shown the providential control of God throughout, a fact which Joseph himself discerned (Gen. 50:20). The fulfillment of God's plan for our lives often depends, to some degree at least, upon our awareness of His providential working and controlling our daily affairs and experiences. As stated previously, God's plan for your life did not begin when you were born or when you were converted, but the Scriptures declare that the believer was chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world and called to fulfill His glorious plan and purpose (Rom. 8:28-30, Eph. 1:3-6), Moreover, God has often been working in the circumstances of your life for months or years before He reveals some aspect of His purpose to you. We are not to seek guidance by asking God to reveal His will to us through outward circumstances generally, but as we pray for His leading, usually He will impress upon us what course of action to take. Frequently, He will then confirm this inward leading through circumstances and events in our lives, which, if we are spiritually observant enough, can be discerned. CONCLUSION. We do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding (Col. 1:9) The Apostle prays. It is not sufficient just to have a knowledge of God's will, but as the quotation above indicates, we must also have spiritual wisdom and understanding to be able to apply it and profit from it. Wisdom is the ability to use knowledge correctly and effectively. Solomon knew God's will for his life - he was chosen to be the King of Israel. But he was also aware that if he was to succeed in this task and fulfill God's will as he should, then he would need more than mere human wisdom and the limited understanding man acquires through study and by experience so he prayed for the impartation of divine wisdom, discernment, and understanding. Thus, it is one thing to know God's will; it is another to have the wisdom and understanding to apply it. A man may know a very great deal, and yet not be a wise man. Occasionally, for example, we see a student who graduates from college with a high academic standing sometimes fail completely in some career or profession which he has chosen, simply because he lacks the wisdom to apply his knowledge in a practical way to his life. A wise Christian, therefore, is not just one who knows His Lord's will, but he is one who also understands how to use this knowledge in the proper place, in the proper way, and at the proper time. For instance, every believer knows, on the basis of Jesus' clear teaching in John 15, that the Christian is called to "bear fruit." But the mere possession of the knowledge of this fact does not impart to the believer the wisdom to accomplish it, for the churches are literally exhausting themselves in all manner of religious programs and activities in an effort to accomplish God's will in this regard, without any significant achievement. It is one thing for the Christian to know that he has been called to bear fruit, but only the Holy Spirit can reveal to him the understanding that it is not in doing, but in dying that we bear fruit (Jn. 12:24). Paul's prayer is that "you might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding ... being fruitful in every good work" (Col. 1:9-10), revealing, thereby, that fruitfulness does not lie merely in knowing God's will, but also in possessing the spiritual wisdom and understanding to apply it. As was shown earlier, fruitfulness is not merely religious activity, such as serving in two or three offices in the church, visiting as many homes as possible in the community to invite people to church, giving out tracts, busyness with churchwork, attending all the services, reading the Bible through at least once a year, and so on. Fruitfulness does not come by religious commotion, but through crucifixion; not by doing, but by dying. God calls no one to work for Him, but to learn to move with Him. This truth is not something one can discern with reason or intellect, but comes as a result of the impartation of divine wisdom and understanding to those who ask for it, "For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding" (Prov. 2:6 ). Again, it is one thing to know that the believer is called to experience a measure of trials and tests of his faith (1 Pet. 2:19f; Jam. 1:2-4), but human wisdom will never help him to see the eternal purpose in those trials, nor enable him to respond in such a way that he will profit and not lose by such sufferings and testing. It requires divine wisdom and understanding to meet temptations, and to bear trials, so that such testing, instead of depressing and defeating the believer, will be able to accomplish God's will and purpose in his life. It requires divine understanding for him to see that Romans 8:28 is valid for him in time of trial and adversity, as well as in time of prosperity and blessing. Thus, when you seek a knowledge of God's will for your life, and for making decisions in important matters, also ask Him for wisdom and spiritual understanding to apply the knowledge He imparts to you, for the Scriptures tell us– Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding (Prov. 4:7). Amen and amen! Edited. Shared. ❤️ God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.

Good Morning. I am praying all is well. I will not be silent of the one who transformed my life, Jesus Christ my Lord. If I could speak to you of such a great salvation, to minister a hope, a peace, in a world of uncertainty, I will speak of Christ a surety. To one day we pass, an eternal home. So if it offends, I will speak louder. There is a finality, no turning back, no second chance, when you are standing before a Holy God, a judge of your soul. MARK 16:15. KJV “AND HE SAID UNTO THEM, GO YE INTO ALL THE WORLD, AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY CREATURE My heart was hard, and filled with all kind of wretchedness, and the Lord made my heart new. I was separated from His grace, but He is merciful, and now I am embraced by His grace. So my prayer is for the ones who need the salvation of the Lord. I love you and I am praying for you. TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY. AMEN.🙏

🔥 THE ULTIMATE MANDATE — A NIGHT EVERY MINISTER & WORKER SHOULD NOT MISS! 🔥 Ministry is more than a position—it is a divine assignment, a sacred responsibility, and a call to impact lives. 🙏🏽 Join us for the KADUNA APOSTOLIC IMPACT MINISTERS/WORKERS CONFERENCE — MINISTERS & WORKERS DINNER NIGHT as we gather to fellowship, connect, learn, and be refreshed for greater kingdom impact. 🎯 THEME: THE ULTIMATE MANDATE 📅 Sunday, 16th August 2026 ⏰ 4:00 PM 📍 Christian Evangelical Fellowship of Nations Inc. (CEFN), Victory Line, Kakuri GRA, Kaduna South, Kaduna State 🌟 Featuring: Rev. Sam Alawiye — Convener Rev. Adaji Emanuel — Host Rev. Femi Worship Christy Alabi Ola-Brite This is more than a dinner. It is a divine gathering of people carrying a mandate! 🔥 If you are a pastor, minister, church worker, leader, or kingdom servant, this gathering is for YOU. 👉🏽 Tag a minister or church worker you need to attend with you. 👉🏽 Share this post and invite someone. 👉🏽 Let’s gather, connect and renew our commitment to the Kingdom! 🔥 THE MANDATE IS GREATER. THE TIME IS NOW. #TheUltimateMandate #KadunaApostolicImpact #MinistersAndWorkers #KingdomMandate #ChurchLeaders #Ministry #Kaduna #KingdomImpact #ChristianConference #ApostolicImpact

THE TRUE BREAD OF HEAVEN TEACHING SERIES THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (Part 11) ANCHOR SCRIPTURE: Matthew 10:20 (NKJV) “For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.” Additional Scripture Reading: Exodus 4:10–12; Luke 12:11–12; Acts 4:8–13; 1 Corinthians 2:4–5; John 14:26 We continue with our series on the Ministry of the Holy Spirit. Another vital ministry of the Holy Spirit is that He gives divine utterance when we need it. Jesus assured His disciples that when they stood before authorities because of their testimony and were required to defend their faith, they should not be consumed with anxiety about what they would say. The Holy Spirit would give them the words to speak. This principle also applies to our ministry of the Gospel. We must not depend merely upon human eloquence, intelligence, education, experience, or natural ability. We need the Holy Spirit. When we surrender ourselves to Him, He can give us the right words, the right timing, and the spiritual power necessary to communicate Christ effectively. The words may come through our mouths, but the Holy Spirit is the One who supplies the divine utterance and brings conviction to the hearts of those who hear. We see this demonstrated in the early church. When Peter and John stood before the rulers and elders, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, spoke with such boldness and wisdom that those who heard them marvelled. Their confidence was not merely the product of human education or ability; they were vessels through whom the Holy Spirit spoke. Therefore, child of God, never minister merely from your natural ability. Before you speak, yield to the Holy Spirit. Before you teach, preach, counsel, evangelize, or testify, depend upon Him. There are moments when human wisdom will not be sufficient, but the Holy Spirit knows exactly what needs to be said. He knows the heart of the person listening, the need they carry, and the word that can bring light, conviction, encouragement, and transformation. Depend upon the Holy Spirit for divine utterance. We shall conclude this subject next Sunday, by God's grace, and thereafter commence our exploration of the Ministry of Angels. To be continued… By Alfred Wabuko Manyasi © Holy Spirit

🎂 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈𝐟 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐆𝐨𝐝? 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴𝘬 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘶𝘵. Another candle on the cake. Another year has passed. Is a birthday merely a worldly custom, or can it become an occasion that truly honors Christ? You've celebrated every birthday you've ever had. But have you ever stopped to ask: — 𝘋𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘥𝘢𝘺? Before answering too quickly, let's sit under one verse and allow it to search our hearts. 📖 𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟎:𝟑𝟏 (KJV) “𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘵, 𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬, 𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘴𝘰𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘦 𝘥𝘰, 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘰𝘥.” Paul wasn't speaking only about worship services or special religious occasions. He was talking about everything—ordinary moments, daily activities, celebrations, and yes, even birthdays. Here is the challenging truth: If you're not celebrating your birthday to God's glory, you're not celebrating it according to His purpose. That may be difficult to hear, but it's a question every believer should consider. ✅ The Birthday Checklist That Changes Everything — Look at the glass you're holding during your celebration. 𝘐𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘰𝘥? — Look at the clothes you're wearing. 𝘞𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴? — Look at the music, movies, conversations, guests, and activities surrounding your birthday. Ask yourself: "𝘞𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘺 𝘎𝘰𝘥?" Let's be honest. How many of us can confidently say that our last birthday celebration was truly centered on honoring Him? This isn't meant to rob us of joy. It's meant to sanctify our joy. 📖 𝐓𝐰𝐨 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞: 𝐁𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬 Some people argue that birthdays are neutral because they are rarely mentioned in Scripture. Yet the two birthday celebrations specifically recorded in the Bible should make us pause. 📖 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐬 𝟒𝟎:𝟐𝟎 (KJV) “𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘗𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘰𝘩'𝘴 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴…” 📖 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝟔:𝟐𝟏-𝟐𝟐 (KJV) “𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘏𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘥 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘢 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘦; 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥 𝘏𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘏𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘥…” Pharaoh's birthday was associated with an execution. Herod's birthday eventually led to the beheading of John the Baptist. Does this mean birthdays are evil? 𝐍𝐨. But it does remind us that a celebration without God at the center can quickly become a platform for pride, self-indulgence, and sin. That is why Paul's command in 𝟏 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟎:𝟑𝟏 is so important. It transforms a self-focused day into a God-centered one. ✨ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐨 "𝐃𝐨 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐨𝐝"? Scripture gives us clear guidance. — To glorify God means: — To act with gratitude. Recognizing every breath and every year of life as a gift from Him. — To walk in humility. Refusing to make everything about ourselves. — To seek His approval. Valuing God's pleasure above likes, comments, and human praise. — To live in obedience. Aligning our choices with His Word. 📖 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟑:𝟏𝟕 (KJV) “𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘴𝘰𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘦 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘯 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥 𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘥, 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘥 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴, 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘺 𝘩𝘪𝘮.” Your birthday can become an act of worship, or it can become an act of self-indulgence. The difference isn't found in the cake. It's found in the heart. ❌ 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝟏. "𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐥𝐲, 𝐬𝐨 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧'𝐭 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦." This can drift into legalism. Scripture gives believers liberty in matters not explicitly forbidden, while calling us to honor God in all things. Romans 14:5–6 (KJV): “One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it.” Colossians 2:16 (KJV): “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:” 1 Corinthians 10:23 (KJV): “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.” A birthday can absolutely be celebrated in a God-honoring way. 𝟐. "𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐮𝐧, 𝐬𝐨 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦." If our music, entertainment, speech, or activities do not glorify God, we should not dismiss them as harmless. Colossians 3:17 (KJV): “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” Romans 14:7–8 (KJV): “For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (KJV): “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 𝟑. "𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬, 𝐬𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲'𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥." True. But the Bible does command us to glorify God in everything we do. That part is not optional. 1 Peter 4:11 (KJV): “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” 𝟒. "𝐌𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟𝐢𝐬𝐡." No day belongs to us. Every day belongs to the Lord. Romans 14:8 (KJV): “For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.” Psalm 118:24 (KJV): “This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Luke 9:23 (KJV): “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Galatians 2:20 (KJV): “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” 🎁 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐆𝐨𝐝 𝟏. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 Thank God for the gift of life. 📖 𝐏𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐦 𝟏𝟑𝟗:𝟏𝟒 “𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘦; 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦...” 𝟐. 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐝 Share a testimony. Offer a prayer. Sing songs that exalt Christ. Let your celebration point others to Him. 𝟑. 𝐁𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐎𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 📖 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝟐𝟎:𝟑𝟓 “𝘐𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦.” Consider helping the poor, supporting missions, sponsoring a child, or blessing someone in need. 𝟒. 𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 If the music, jokes, or activities would not honor Christ, they have no place at a celebration meant to glorify Him. 𝟓. 𝐔𝐬𝐞 𝐈𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 Every birthday marks one year closer to eternity. Let it remind you that life is brief and that Christ is worthy of our remaining days. 💭 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐔𝐬 Every birthday you've ever had was either lived for God's glory or for your own. One day, every believer will stand before Christ and give an account of how they lived. 📖 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝟏𝟒:𝟏𝟐 (KJV) “𝘚𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘶𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘵𝘰 𝘎𝘰𝘥.” Will your birthday celebrations be remembered as opportunities used for God's glory? Or opportunities wasted? The choice is before us. And we don't need to wait until our next birthday to make a change. ❤️ 𝐀 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐨𝐩𝐞 This message isn't meant to crush your joy. It's meant to redirect it. God is not against celebration. He is the Author of true joy. 📖 𝐏𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐦 𝟏𝟔:𝟏𝟏 “𝘐𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘫𝘰𝘺...” He created the feast, the family, the laughter, and the blessings we enjoy. So yes, celebrate. Blow out the candles. Eat the cake. Rejoice in the gift of another year. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐝𝐨 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐠𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐲. And may your next birthday be the one where you can honestly say: "𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘠𝘰𝘶, 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘥." 🙏 𝘐𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘷𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘳 𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘵. 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵 𝘣𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.