• Kingdom Carriers | The Kingdom the Father Delights to Give

    There is a remarkable sentence Jesus spoke that we can easily read too quickly:

    "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom." — Luke 12:32

    Think about those words.

    The Father has been pleased to give you the Kingdom.

    Jesus had just been speaking about worry.

    What will we eat? What will we wear? How will our needs be met?

    These are deeply human concerns.

    Yet Jesus redirects their attention from what they were trying to secure to what the Father was pleased to give.

    The Kingdom.

    Perhaps that's where anxiety often exposes something deeper.

    We become consumed with securing what the Father already knows we need.

    Jesus doesn't deny those needs.

    He changes their order.

    "Seek His kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well." — Luke 12:31

    The world teaches us to build life from the outside in:

    Secure enough. Accumulate enough. Control enough.

    Then perhaps we will have peace.

    Jesus reverses the order.

    Begin with the King and His Kingdom.

    Then allow everything else to find its proper place beneath His rule.

    And perhaps the most beautiful part is this:

    The Father isn't reluctant.

    Jesus says He is pleased to give us the Kingdom.

    We are not trying to persuade an unwilling God to release His purposes.

    We are responding to a Father who delights in bringing His children under the goodness of His reign.

    So maybe Kingdom living isn't primarily about acquiring more from God.

    Perhaps it begins by recognising the magnitude of what He has already invited us into.

    We keep asking for things from the King.

    The Father has given us the Kingdom.

    Grace and peace,

    Jacob

    Kingdom Carriers

    https://books2read.com/u/mlJqo7

    Website

    https://www.jacobisaac.co.nz

    Kingdom Carriers | The Kingdom the Father Delights to Give There is a remarkable sentence Jesus spoke that we can easily read too quickly: "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom." — Luke 12:32 Think about those words. The Father has been pleased to give you the Kingdom. Jesus had just been speaking about worry. What will we eat? What will we wear? How will our needs be met? These are deeply human concerns. Yet Jesus redirects their attention from what they were trying to secure to what the Father was pleased to give. The Kingdom. Perhaps that's where anxiety often exposes something deeper. We become consumed with securing what the Father already knows we need. Jesus doesn't deny those needs. He changes their order. "Seek His kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well." — Luke 12:31 The world teaches us to build life from the outside in: Secure enough. Accumulate enough. Control enough. Then perhaps we will have peace. Jesus reverses the order. Begin with the King and His Kingdom. Then allow everything else to find its proper place beneath His rule. And perhaps the most beautiful part is this: The Father isn't reluctant. Jesus says He is pleased to give us the Kingdom. We are not trying to persuade an unwilling God to release His purposes. We are responding to a Father who delights in bringing His children under the goodness of His reign. So maybe Kingdom living isn't primarily about acquiring more from God. Perhaps it begins by recognising the magnitude of what He has already invited us into. We keep asking for things from the King. The Father has given us the Kingdom. Grace and peace, Jacob 📘 Kingdom Carriers https://books2read.com/u/mlJqo7 🌍 Website https://www.jacobisaac.co.nz
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  • THE PILGRIMS GUIDE

    WEDNESDAY AUGUST 19, 2026

    THE PEACE OF GOD

    A WORD FROM THE WORD:

    "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 NIV.

    The peace that the LORD Jesus speaks about here in our anchor Scripture above ideates, but not just the absence of conflict; more than that, it includes the presence of divine assurance, wholeness, and tranquility that transcends situations and circumstances. In the world system, peace is often conditional on favourable circumstances, but the peace God gives is unshakable and independent of what is happening around you.

    The LORD Jesus promises to leave His peace with us; that is a peace that calms the storm within, even when the storm rages without. This peace guards the hearts and minds of the believing child of God, protecting him from every aspect of anxieties, fears, and overwhelming worries. It’s a peace that provides stability to the emotions and strengthens the believer's trust in God.

    The world is almost filled with people who search for peace from external sources like wealth, relationships, or success; but true peace is found in God through the LORD Jesus Christ alone.
    When your heart is stayed and securely anchored in His presence, external disturbances and seeming upheavals cannot take away the inner peace that comes from His abiding presence within.
    Embrace God’s peace today, knowing it is the inheritance of those who trust in Him.
    As you move through today, let God’s peace rule in your heart, and trust that He is in control; and His peace will sustain you in every situation and circumstance.

    Where in your life do you need to allow God’s peace to replace anxiety and fear? It is up to you.

    PRAYER BULLETS:

    Father, thank You for Your peace that surpasses all understanding. I receive Your peace today and allow it to rule in my heart.

    I trust in God’s perfect plan for my life.

    FURTHER READING:

    Psalm 46:1-3; 10; Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 3:15.
    _________________________________________

    Amaobi Nwachukwu 2026.

    If you're blessed by this, please, do share with others.

    And if you'll like to partner with us, kindly check page 3 of our hard copy edition or better still send us a WhatsApp message or call on +234 8098421967.

    #ThePilgrimsGuide.
    THE PILGRIMS GUIDE WEDNESDAY AUGUST 19, 2026 THE PEACE OF GOD A WORD FROM THE WORD: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 NIV. The peace that the LORD Jesus speaks about here in our anchor Scripture above ideates, but not just the absence of conflict; more than that, it includes the presence of divine assurance, wholeness, and tranquility that transcends situations and circumstances. In the world system, peace is often conditional on favourable circumstances, but the peace God gives is unshakable and independent of what is happening around you. The LORD Jesus promises to leave His peace with us; that is a peace that calms the storm within, even when the storm rages without. This peace guards the hearts and minds of the believing child of God, protecting him from every aspect of anxieties, fears, and overwhelming worries. It’s a peace that provides stability to the emotions and strengthens the believer's trust in God. The world is almost filled with people who search for peace from external sources like wealth, relationships, or success; but true peace is found in God through the LORD Jesus Christ alone. When your heart is stayed and securely anchored in His presence, external disturbances and seeming upheavals cannot take away the inner peace that comes from His abiding presence within. Embrace God’s peace today, knowing it is the inheritance of those who trust in Him. As you move through today, let God’s peace rule in your heart, and trust that He is in control; and His peace will sustain you in every situation and circumstance. Where in your life do you need to allow God’s peace to replace anxiety and fear? It is up to you. PRAYER BULLETS: Father, thank You for Your peace that surpasses all understanding. I receive Your peace today and allow it to rule in my heart. I trust in God’s perfect plan for my life. FURTHER READING: Psalm 46:1-3; 10; Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 3:15. _________________________________________ ©️ Amaobi Nwachukwu 2026. If you're blessed by this, please, do share with others. And if you'll like to partner with us, kindly check page 3 of our hard copy edition or better still send us a WhatsApp message or call on +234 8098421967. #ThePilgrimsGuide.
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  • How to have the peace of God 
    Jude 1 Kullie Mawolo
    [vs: 2] Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied.
    Sin brings fear of God's judgement, but when repent of our sins and revieve Jesus into our hearts we receive pardon for our sins through the mercy of God and are assured in our hearts that we are his children, his peace fills our hearts, the peace refers in this verse is the inner calmness in our soul that comes as a result of our reconciliation with God . there is the presence of God and a settled assurance in our hearts that drives away fear of his judgement when we truly become his children. When we do his will we have confidence with him because our lives pleases him and his anger is turned away from us, it is the assurance that we belongs to God that brings  peace to our hearts . Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, Romans 5:1
    26 February 2026

    How to have the peace of God  Jude 1 [KJV] [vs: 2] Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. Sin brings fear of God's judgement, but when repent of our sins and revieve Jesus into our hearts we receive pardon for our sins through the mercy of God and are assured in our hearts that we are his children, his peace fills our hearts, the peace refers in this verse is the inner calmness in our soul that comes as a result of our reconciliation with God . there is the presence of God and a settled assurance in our hearts that drives away fear of his judgement when we truly become his children. When we do his will we have confidence with him because our lives pleases him and his anger is turned away from us, it is the assurance that we belongs to God that brings  peace to our hearts . Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, Romans 5:1 26 February 2026
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  • DOMINION DAILY DEVOTION ~ DAY 231
    DATE: 19TH AUGUST 2026
    TOPIC: UNITY COMMANDS THE BLESSING
    ANCHOR SCRIPTURE: Psalm 133:1–3 (NKJV)
    1 - Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity!2 - It is like the precious ointment poured on the head, that ran down on the beard, even the beard of Aaron [the first high priest], that came down upon the collar and skirts of his garments [consecrating the whole body].3 - It is like the dew of Hermon, Descending upon the mountains of Zion; For there the LORD commanded the blessing-- Life forevermore.
    Devotional message:

    Yesterday, we saw that embracing our uniqueness brings order, order produces peace, and peace creates an environment for unity. Today, we see another powerful truth: unity creates an atmosphere where God commands His blessing.

    The Psalmist declares how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. He then reveals something significant: “For there the LORD commanded the blessing.”

    Notice that the blessing was commanded where brethren were dwelling together in unity.

    God delights when His people walk together in love, honour one another, acknowledge one another's contribution, and function according to the grace He has given each person. Unity does not mean that everyone has the same gift, personality, assignment, or function. Rather, it means that our differences do not divide us because we recognize that we belong to one body and serve one Lord.

    When the Church embraces this principle, competition gives way to cooperation, jealousy gives way to honour, confusion gives way to order, and division gives way to unity.

    And where God commands His blessing, His presence becomes evident among His people. The blessing of God is not limited to spiritual manifestations alone. God's desire is that His people experience His goodness in every dimension of life according to His will—spiritually, materially, relationally, and in the work He has entrusted to them.

    The blessing is ultimately connected to God's presence. Psalm 133 presents the blessing as flowing from the place where God is pleased to dwell among His people. Where there is genuine unity, love, and harmony, there is an atmosphere that honours God.

    This is why the enemy continually seeks to introduce division into the Church. He understands that a divided house loses strength, but a united people become a powerful testimony of the Gospel.

    Jesus Himself prayed:John.17.21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. (NKJV)

    Therefore, child of God, do not allow differences in gifts, positions, backgrounds, or responsibilities to become reasons for division. Honour the grace upon another person's life. Take your rightful place. Serve faithfully. Celebrate the success of others. Walk in love.

    When every member functions according to the grace God has given them and everyone honours the contribution of others, the Church becomes orderly, peaceful, and united—and God is glorified in the midst of His people.

    Prayer

    Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessing of belonging to the body of Christ.Let there be order, peace, love, and unity among Your people. May Your presence dwell richly among us and may You command Your blessing upon Your Church for the glory of Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.
    Daily bible reading:John 17:21, Genesis 11:6

    Author : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
    Contact :
    Email : DominionvoicesminisrtyAnderson Mwila.com
    Facebook : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi
    Dominion Daily Devotion, 2026
    © Dominion Voices Ministry
    🕊️ DOMINION DAILY DEVOTION ~ DAY 231 DATE: 19TH AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: UNITY COMMANDS THE BLESSING ANCHOR SCRIPTURE: Psalm 133:1–3 (NKJV) 1 - Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity!2 - It is like the precious ointment poured on the head, that ran down on the beard, even the beard of Aaron [the first high priest], that came down upon the collar and skirts of his garments [consecrating the whole body].3 - It is like the dew of Hermon, Descending upon the mountains of Zion; For there the LORD commanded the blessing-- Life forevermore. Devotional message: Yesterday, we saw that embracing our uniqueness brings order, order produces peace, and peace creates an environment for unity. Today, we see another powerful truth: unity creates an atmosphere where God commands His blessing. The Psalmist declares how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. He then reveals something significant: “For there the LORD commanded the blessing.” Notice that the blessing was commanded where brethren were dwelling together in unity. God delights when His people walk together in love, honour one another, acknowledge one another's contribution, and function according to the grace He has given each person. Unity does not mean that everyone has the same gift, personality, assignment, or function. Rather, it means that our differences do not divide us because we recognize that we belong to one body and serve one Lord. When the Church embraces this principle, competition gives way to cooperation, jealousy gives way to honour, confusion gives way to order, and division gives way to unity. And where God commands His blessing, His presence becomes evident among His people. The blessing of God is not limited to spiritual manifestations alone. God's desire is that His people experience His goodness in every dimension of life according to His will—spiritually, materially, relationally, and in the work He has entrusted to them. The blessing is ultimately connected to God's presence. Psalm 133 presents the blessing as flowing from the place where God is pleased to dwell among His people. Where there is genuine unity, love, and harmony, there is an atmosphere that honours God. This is why the enemy continually seeks to introduce division into the Church. He understands that a divided house loses strength, but a united people become a powerful testimony of the Gospel. Jesus Himself prayed:John.17.21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. (NKJV) Therefore, child of God, do not allow differences in gifts, positions, backgrounds, or responsibilities to become reasons for division. Honour the grace upon another person's life. Take your rightful place. Serve faithfully. Celebrate the success of others. Walk in love. When every member functions according to the grace God has given them and everyone honours the contribution of others, the Church becomes orderly, peaceful, and united—and God is glorified in the midst of His people. Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessing of belonging to the body of Christ.Let there be order, peace, love, and unity among Your people. May Your presence dwell richly among us and may You command Your blessing upon Your Church for the glory of Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen. Daily bible reading:John 17:21, Genesis 11:6 Author : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi Contact : Email : Dominionvoicesminisrty[gmail].com Facebook : Alfred Wabuko Manyasi 🌐 Dominion Daily Devotion, 2026 © Dominion Voices Ministry
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  • Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 15–16 | Galatians 3

    Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading)

    2 Kings 15

    God’s Faithfulness Through Unstable Times

    2 Kings 15 presents a rapid succession of kings in both Judah and Israel, revealing increasing political instability and spiritual decline. Although several rulers come to power, the repeated evaluation of their reigns remains remarkably consistent. Most continue walking in the sinful patterns established by those before them, refusing to lead the people back to wholehearted worship of the Lord.

    The chapter begins with Azariah (Uzziah) in Judah. He generally follows the Lord, and God grants him a long and prosperous reign. Yet even during his leadership, the high places remain, showing that incomplete reform often leaves room for continued spiritual compromise. Outward stability cannot replace complete devotion to God.

    The narrative then shifts repeatedly to the northern kingdom, where kings rise and fall through conspiracy, assassination, and violence. Political power changes hands rapidly, demonstrating that kingdoms built on rebellion and self-interest can never experience lasting peace. Human ambition repeatedly promises security but produces only greater instability.

    As the chapter progresses, the growing influence of Assyria becomes increasingly evident. God begins allowing foreign powers to discipline His people because of their persistent refusal to repent. The decline does not happen suddenly but develops gradually through years of compromise, idolatry, and disobedience.

    Despite the nation's instability, one truth remains unchanged: God continues preserving the Davidic line in Judah according to His covenant promise. Kings fail, governments collapse, and nations weaken, yet God's redemptive plan continues moving forward exactly as He intended.

    Theologically, 2 Kings 15 reveals that political stability cannot substitute for spiritual faithfulness. Nations and leaders rise and fall, but God's covenant promises remain secure. The chapter also demonstrates that small compromises, when left unaddressed, eventually produce larger consequences.

    This chapter points to Christ, whose kingdom stands in complete contrast to the unstable kingdoms of this world. Earthly rulers come and go, but Jesus reigns forever. His throne is established upon righteousness, justice, and truth, never threatened by conspiracy, corruption, or rebellion.

    For believers today, 2 Kings 15 reminds us not to place our ultimate confidence in human leadership or earthly systems. Our hope rests in Christ alone. While the world around us may experience uncertainty and instability, God's kingdom remains unshakable. We are called to remain faithful to Him, trusting that His purposes continue unfolding even during difficult and uncertain times.

    2 Kings 16

    The Cost of Compromise

    2 Kings 16 focuses on the reign of Ahaz, one of Judah's most ungodly kings. Unlike many of his predecessors who mixed obedience with compromise, Ahaz openly rejects the ways of the Lord and embraces the practices of the surrounding pagan nations. His reign demonstrates how quickly spiritual compromise can deepen into outright rebellion against God.

    When Judah faces military threats, Ahaz refuses to trust the Lord for deliverance. Instead, he turns to Assyria for protection. Humanly speaking, the alliance appears practical and successful, but spiritually it reveals a heart that places greater confidence in political power than in God's covenant promises.

    The compromise does not end with foreign alliances. During a visit to Damascus, Ahaz becomes impressed by a pagan altar and orders one like it to be constructed in Jerusalem. He replaces God's ordained pattern of worship with one borrowed from a pagan culture. His actions reveal a dangerous desire to reshape worship according to human preference rather than divine instruction.

    As Ahaz continues altering the temple and its furnishings, the chapter illustrates that spiritual compromise often begins subtly but eventually affects every area of worship. When God's Word is no longer the standard, human opinion gradually replaces divine authority.

    Although Ahaz achieves temporary political security, his spiritual decisions leave lasting damage. His reign becomes another step in Judah's gradual decline, demonstrating that worldly success achieved apart from God always carries a high spiritual cost.

    Yet even amid Judah's unfaithfulness, God's covenant remains secure. The Lord does not abandon His redemptive plan. His promises continue moving toward their fulfillment through the preserved line of David, despite the failures of individual kings.

    Theologically, 2 Kings 16 teaches that compromise often begins by seeking human solutions instead of trusting God. It also reveals the danger of reshaping worship and truth according to cultural influences rather than God's revealed Word.

    This chapter points to Christ, who remained perfectly faithful to the Father's will. Jesus never compromised truth for acceptance or convenience. He fulfilled God's purposes completely and now calls His followers to worship the Father in spirit and truth rather than according to the changing standards of the world.

    For believers today, 2 Kings 16 serves as a warning against allowing culture, fear, or convenience to shape our relationship with God. We are called to trust the Lord rather than worldly solutions and to remain faithful to His Word regardless of the pressures around us. In Christ, we have a perfect King who never compromised and who gives us the grace to stand faithfully in a world that constantly invites us to lower God's standards.

    Galatians 3 — Justified by Faith and United in the Christ

    Galatians chapter 3 stands at the heart of Paul's defense of the gospel, explaining that God's redemptive plan has always been based on faith rather than human effort. After confronting the danger of adding works to salvation, Paul now demonstrates from Scripture that the Christ, the Son of God, fulfills God's promises and that righteousness has always been received through faith. This chapter calls believers to rest completely in the finished work of the Christ and to reject every attempt to earn what God freely gives by grace.

    The chapter begins with Paul's astonishment that the Galatian believers had begun relying on human effort after receiving the gospel by faith. He reminds them that their Christian life began through the work of the Holy Spirit, not through keeping religious requirements. Christian living follows the same pattern. The Son of God not only saves by grace but also sustains believers by grace. The redemptive plan cannot be completed through human strength because it was never begun that way.

    Paul then points to Abraham as the great example of faith. Long before the Law was given, Abraham was counted righteous because he believed God's promise. This demonstrates that faith has always been the foundation of God's relationship with His people. The redemptive plan did not begin with the Law but with God's promise, which ultimately found its fulfillment in the Christ. Those who place their faith in the Son of God become children of Abraham through faith, sharing in the blessing God promised from the beginning.

    The chapter explains that relying upon the Law for righteousness places people under its condemnation because no one is able to keep it perfectly. The Law reveals God's holiness and exposes humanity's sinfulness, but it cannot save. This reveals humanity's desperate need for the Christ. The Son of God entered the world to accomplish what the Law could never accomplish—complete redemption from the curse of sin.

    Paul then presents one of the chapter's most beautiful truths: the Christ willingly took upon Himself the curse that belonged to humanity. Through His sacrificial death, He redeemed those who were under condemnation so that God's promised blessing could come to all who believe. This is the very heart of the redemptive plan. The Son of God bore our judgment so that we might receive His righteousness and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

    The chapter also explains the proper purpose of the Law. It was never intended to replace God's promise but to prepare people for the coming of the Christ. By revealing sin and humanity's inability to save itself, the Law pointed people toward their need for a Savior. Once the Christ came, the purpose of the Law as a guardian was fulfilled because salvation had arrived through Him.

    Paul emphasizes that through faith in the Christ, believers become sons and daughters of God. Their identity is no longer determined by ethnicity, social standing, gender, or religious background but by their relationship with the Son of God. The redemptive plan creates one family united in the Christ. Every believer shares equally in the promises of God because all stand on the same foundation of grace.

    The chapter concludes by declaring that those who belong to the Christ are heirs according to God's promise. Everything promised to Abraham ultimately belongs to those who are united with the Son of God through faith. Christian living is therefore lived from a position of acceptance rather than striving. Believers do not work to become heirs; they live because they already are heirs through the grace of the Christ.

    Throughout this chapter, the focus remains firmly upon the Son of God. He fulfills God's promises, bears humanity's curse, provides true righteousness, and unites all believers into one family. The redemptive plan is entirely centered upon His finished work and received through faith alone.

    For believers today, this chapter reminds us to rest completely in the grace of the Christ. Christian living is not sustained by religious performance but by continual dependence upon the Son of God. We are called to reject every form of legalism and rejoice in the freedom that comes through faith. As children of God and heirs of His promises, we walk confidently in His grace, knowing that the redemptive plan has been fully accomplished through the Christ and that our hope rests securely in Him alone.

    #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod
    📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 15–16 | Galatians 3 📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 15 God’s Faithfulness Through Unstable Times 2 Kings 15 presents a rapid succession of kings in both Judah and Israel, revealing increasing political instability and spiritual decline. Although several rulers come to power, the repeated evaluation of their reigns remains remarkably consistent. Most continue walking in the sinful patterns established by those before them, refusing to lead the people back to wholehearted worship of the Lord. The chapter begins with Azariah (Uzziah) in Judah. He generally follows the Lord, and God grants him a long and prosperous reign. Yet even during his leadership, the high places remain, showing that incomplete reform often leaves room for continued spiritual compromise. Outward stability cannot replace complete devotion to God. The narrative then shifts repeatedly to the northern kingdom, where kings rise and fall through conspiracy, assassination, and violence. Political power changes hands rapidly, demonstrating that kingdoms built on rebellion and self-interest can never experience lasting peace. Human ambition repeatedly promises security but produces only greater instability. As the chapter progresses, the growing influence of Assyria becomes increasingly evident. God begins allowing foreign powers to discipline His people because of their persistent refusal to repent. The decline does not happen suddenly but develops gradually through years of compromise, idolatry, and disobedience. Despite the nation's instability, one truth remains unchanged: God continues preserving the Davidic line in Judah according to His covenant promise. Kings fail, governments collapse, and nations weaken, yet God's redemptive plan continues moving forward exactly as He intended. Theologically, 2 Kings 15 reveals that political stability cannot substitute for spiritual faithfulness. Nations and leaders rise and fall, but God's covenant promises remain secure. The chapter also demonstrates that small compromises, when left unaddressed, eventually produce larger consequences. This chapter points to Christ, whose kingdom stands in complete contrast to the unstable kingdoms of this world. Earthly rulers come and go, but Jesus reigns forever. His throne is established upon righteousness, justice, and truth, never threatened by conspiracy, corruption, or rebellion. For believers today, 2 Kings 15 reminds us not to place our ultimate confidence in human leadership or earthly systems. Our hope rests in Christ alone. While the world around us may experience uncertainty and instability, God's kingdom remains unshakable. We are called to remain faithful to Him, trusting that His purposes continue unfolding even during difficult and uncertain times. 2 Kings 16 The Cost of Compromise 2 Kings 16 focuses on the reign of Ahaz, one of Judah's most ungodly kings. Unlike many of his predecessors who mixed obedience with compromise, Ahaz openly rejects the ways of the Lord and embraces the practices of the surrounding pagan nations. His reign demonstrates how quickly spiritual compromise can deepen into outright rebellion against God. When Judah faces military threats, Ahaz refuses to trust the Lord for deliverance. Instead, he turns to Assyria for protection. Humanly speaking, the alliance appears practical and successful, but spiritually it reveals a heart that places greater confidence in political power than in God's covenant promises. The compromise does not end with foreign alliances. During a visit to Damascus, Ahaz becomes impressed by a pagan altar and orders one like it to be constructed in Jerusalem. He replaces God's ordained pattern of worship with one borrowed from a pagan culture. His actions reveal a dangerous desire to reshape worship according to human preference rather than divine instruction. As Ahaz continues altering the temple and its furnishings, the chapter illustrates that spiritual compromise often begins subtly but eventually affects every area of worship. When God's Word is no longer the standard, human opinion gradually replaces divine authority. Although Ahaz achieves temporary political security, his spiritual decisions leave lasting damage. His reign becomes another step in Judah's gradual decline, demonstrating that worldly success achieved apart from God always carries a high spiritual cost. Yet even amid Judah's unfaithfulness, God's covenant remains secure. The Lord does not abandon His redemptive plan. His promises continue moving toward their fulfillment through the preserved line of David, despite the failures of individual kings. Theologically, 2 Kings 16 teaches that compromise often begins by seeking human solutions instead of trusting God. It also reveals the danger of reshaping worship and truth according to cultural influences rather than God's revealed Word. This chapter points to Christ, who remained perfectly faithful to the Father's will. Jesus never compromised truth for acceptance or convenience. He fulfilled God's purposes completely and now calls His followers to worship the Father in spirit and truth rather than according to the changing standards of the world. For believers today, 2 Kings 16 serves as a warning against allowing culture, fear, or convenience to shape our relationship with God. We are called to trust the Lord rather than worldly solutions and to remain faithful to His Word regardless of the pressures around us. In Christ, we have a perfect King who never compromised and who gives us the grace to stand faithfully in a world that constantly invites us to lower God's standards. Galatians 3 — Justified by Faith and United in the Christ Galatians chapter 3 stands at the heart of Paul's defense of the gospel, explaining that God's redemptive plan has always been based on faith rather than human effort. After confronting the danger of adding works to salvation, Paul now demonstrates from Scripture that the Christ, the Son of God, fulfills God's promises and that righteousness has always been received through faith. This chapter calls believers to rest completely in the finished work of the Christ and to reject every attempt to earn what God freely gives by grace. The chapter begins with Paul's astonishment that the Galatian believers had begun relying on human effort after receiving the gospel by faith. He reminds them that their Christian life began through the work of the Holy Spirit, not through keeping religious requirements. Christian living follows the same pattern. The Son of God not only saves by grace but also sustains believers by grace. The redemptive plan cannot be completed through human strength because it was never begun that way. Paul then points to Abraham as the great example of faith. Long before the Law was given, Abraham was counted righteous because he believed God's promise. This demonstrates that faith has always been the foundation of God's relationship with His people. The redemptive plan did not begin with the Law but with God's promise, which ultimately found its fulfillment in the Christ. Those who place their faith in the Son of God become children of Abraham through faith, sharing in the blessing God promised from the beginning. The chapter explains that relying upon the Law for righteousness places people under its condemnation because no one is able to keep it perfectly. The Law reveals God's holiness and exposes humanity's sinfulness, but it cannot save. This reveals humanity's desperate need for the Christ. The Son of God entered the world to accomplish what the Law could never accomplish—complete redemption from the curse of sin. Paul then presents one of the chapter's most beautiful truths: the Christ willingly took upon Himself the curse that belonged to humanity. Through His sacrificial death, He redeemed those who were under condemnation so that God's promised blessing could come to all who believe. This is the very heart of the redemptive plan. The Son of God bore our judgment so that we might receive His righteousness and the gift of the Holy Spirit. The chapter also explains the proper purpose of the Law. It was never intended to replace God's promise but to prepare people for the coming of the Christ. By revealing sin and humanity's inability to save itself, the Law pointed people toward their need for a Savior. Once the Christ came, the purpose of the Law as a guardian was fulfilled because salvation had arrived through Him. Paul emphasizes that through faith in the Christ, believers become sons and daughters of God. Their identity is no longer determined by ethnicity, social standing, gender, or religious background but by their relationship with the Son of God. The redemptive plan creates one family united in the Christ. Every believer shares equally in the promises of God because all stand on the same foundation of grace. The chapter concludes by declaring that those who belong to the Christ are heirs according to God's promise. Everything promised to Abraham ultimately belongs to those who are united with the Son of God through faith. Christian living is therefore lived from a position of acceptance rather than striving. Believers do not work to become heirs; they live because they already are heirs through the grace of the Christ. Throughout this chapter, the focus remains firmly upon the Son of God. He fulfills God's promises, bears humanity's curse, provides true righteousness, and unites all believers into one family. The redemptive plan is entirely centered upon His finished work and received through faith alone. For believers today, this chapter reminds us to rest completely in the grace of the Christ. Christian living is not sustained by religious performance but by continual dependence upon the Son of God. We are called to reject every form of legalism and rejoice in the freedom that comes through faith. As children of God and heirs of His promises, we walk confidently in His grace, knowing that the redemptive plan has been fully accomplished through the Christ and that our hope rests securely in Him alone. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    WEDNESDAY AUGUST 19, 2026.
    "TRUST YOUR BIBLE, IT'S TRUE!"

    ‘…that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled...’ Matthew 26:56 NIV

    THE DEATH, burial and resurrection of Jesus fulfilled no less than twenty-nine different Old Testament prophecies. The odds of that happening are virtually impossible! Mathematician Peter Stoner explains it this way: ‘If you were to cover the state of Texas two feet deep in pound coins, then on one, place a mark. What is the probability that a blindfolded person could, on their first attempt, select that coin? That’s the likelihood of just eight prophecies being fulfilled in one lifetime. And Jesus fulfilled twenty-nine of them in one day!’ Let’s look at some of the prophecies He fulfilled: 1) ‘…They pierced My hands and… feet’ (Psalms 22:16 NKJV). 2) ‘They divide my garments…and…cast lots’ (Psalms 22:18 NKJV). 3) ‘…in that day…I will make the sun go down at noon, and…darken the earth in…daylight’ (Amos 8:9 NKJV). Jesus predicted both His death and His resurrection. He told His critics, ‘…“Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”…the temple he had spoken of was his body’ (John 2:19-21 NIV). Jesus orchestrated every event, including Judas’ betrayal, the high priest’s hypocrisy, and Peter’s denial. Why? ‘That the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.’ So you can trust your Bible because it’s true. And something else is true too. God is ‘…able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…’ (Ephesians 3:20 NIV). Note the words ‘immeasurably more.’ What seems impossible to you at the moment, is all in a day’s work for Him. So start trusting Him to work on your behalf.

    Bible In A Year: Gal 4-6, Matt 19:1-14, Ps 119:113-120, Pro 18:10-12. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation
    *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*.

    MD.ii. [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

    WEDNESDAY, 19TH AUGUST, 2026.

    *THE PRICE OF DWELLING TOGETHER IN LOVE AND UNITY*

    *TEXT:* GENESIS 33:5-15.

    5 And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are those with thee? And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant.
    6 Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves.
    7 And Leah also with her children came near, and bowed themselves: and after came Joseph near and Rachel, and they bowed themselves.
    8 And he said, What meanest thou by all this drove which I met? And he said, These are to find grace in the sight of my lord.
    9 And Esau said, I have enough, my brother; keep that thou hast unto thyself.
    10 And Jacob said, Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy sight, then receive my present at my hand: for therefore I have seen thy face, as though I had seen the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me.
    11 Take, I pray thee, my blessing that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt graciously with me, and because I have enough. And he urged him, and he took it.
    12 And he said, Let us take our journey, and let us go, and I will go before thee.
    13 And he said unto him, My lord knoweth that the children are tender, and the flocks and herds with young are with me: and if men should overdrive them one day, all the flock will die.
    14 Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according as the cattle that goeth before me and the children be able to endure, until I come unto my lord unto Seir.
    15 And Esau said, Let me now leave with thee some of the folk that are with me. And he said, What needeth it? let me find grace in the sight of my lord.

    *Timeless Truth:*
    _"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"_ (Psalm 133:1).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    Love and unity are the indispensable catalysts of human relationships that make life worthwhile. Without these two graces, life ceases to have meaning and will breed heartaches, emotional troubles, bitter enmity and rivalries, anguish of the soul and all sorts of relational problems. The fulfilment and joy of natural and spiritual families, communities, nations etc rest on love and unity. *"Behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity"*. Satan's delight is to fuel relational problems and thereby make the earth another hell for relations. When the foundation of happy relationship and co-existence is destroyed, what shall the righteous do? The foundation of a happy and united family life of Isaac was broken and it had its toll on the children. Parental disunity and favoritism led to bitter rivalry between Esau and Jacob. The result was not a sweet experience for each member of the family. After 20 years of separation between the children, the need for peace and unity, so as to end the ugly experience became imperative. They must be commended that they did not die in that situation. They allowed God and let go of their differences. What can we learn from them about how to build the broken walls and foundation of life and unity among brethren? Read on.

    *1. Bridge the Communication Gap*

    a. The main reason Jesus came to pay the ultimate price of redemption is to break the communication barrier between man and God due to sin. Once that barrier is broken, it will be possible to break the communication barrier among fellow brethren. The fact that Jesus paid this price underscores the importance of love and unity among brethren. No man can claim to be godly without conscious and deliberate commitment to living in peace and love with fellow brethren and neighbours. A graceless person will be content with disunity and loveless relationships while true grace makes true reconciliation possible. Jacob initiated it and this shows he had grace. He first settled the problem in the spiritual realm by wrestling with God on a lonely night at Jabbok. His personal encounter with God first changed his life, blew his ego to the wind of heaven, brought a deep transformation into his life and melted his hardened heart of deception. The change must start with you. The godly who desires to live at peace and pleases God must be ready to pray through until his heart is melted with the grace to forgive, forget and fall into the love of God. Ego or self is often the main problem that must bow in order to live at peace and unity.
    b. For the first time after 20 years, Jacob opted to take the lead by asking for a face to face meeting with his estranged brother and bridge the communication gap. *"And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are those with thee?"*. Take the godly initiative and step: bridge the Communication Gap. Sink all your pride, anger, hatred, bitterness and desire for revenge at the cross and take the initiative. Unknown to him, Esau, though a violent man, secretly desired peace too. It only takes one to bell the cat. Surprisingly, the God of peace that had broken Jacob at the altar of prayer and grace had also dealt with Esau too. Broken communication became mended. *"And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant"*. In bringing peace to a troubled or broken relationship, there may be the need to bring a third party that is respected by both sides and has the wisdom and grace to mend relationships.

    *Question*

    Are you willing to please and bridge the communication gap with someone? How do you want to demonstrate your willingness?

    *2. Bind Your Character with Grace*

    a. Jacob had trained all his wives and children on how to show respect and give honour to the one who had been hurt and might be breathing out revenge and anger. It was not the time prove who was wrong or right. In reconciliation, self defence is minimized. *"Why do ye not rather accept wrong? Why not rather let yourselves suffer wrong and be deprived of what is your due? Why do you not rather take wrong?"* (1Corinthians 6:7). The crucified saint will be willing to accept blame even when he is not convinced that he is wrong for the sake of peace. This is where grace is also needed. *"Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves"*. All the people with Jacob went humbly and bowed to their Daddy's brother. Jacob had depoisoned the hearts of his people so that they could sincerely give the needed and expected honour to Esau. The peaceful person will not be a hypocritical person who will pretend to seek for peace and unity and privately he will be poisoning the hearts of others.
    b. Humility is an essential part of living in love and unity and building again love and unity in a broken relationship. Many apologies, though may be simple, have a way of healing hurt hearts and broken bones and barriers in relationships. It takes humility to bend when the other person is standing on his points which may even be wrong and unacceptable altogether. *"The fruit of peace is shown by them which make peace"*. *"Blessed are the peace makers for they shall be called the children of GOD"*.

    *Question*

    Are you willing to pay the price of love and unity so that your life receives the immeasurable blessings of obedience to God or you still want to stick to your gun and end up in perdition?

    *3. Bless Your Companion With Gifts*

    God paid the price of reconciliation with man by giving us the gift of Jesus Christ and all other spiritual and earthly gifts and blessings. True reconciliation must also be sealed up with exchange and acceptance of godly and helpful gifts. Jacob was smart to have prepared gifts for Esau ahead of their encounter. In fact, at first, Esau wanted to wisely reject the gifts. If he had refused, then know that the problem was only solved superficially. *"And he said, These are to find grace in the sight of my lord"*. The Scripture says, *"A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men"* (Proverbs 18:16). It is not how much that is affordable, but the heart of love and reconciliation that is behind it. Jacob insisted that the gift should be taken though Esau himself was well to do. *"Take, I pray thee, my blessing that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt graciously with me, and because I have enough. And he urged him, and he took it"*. Look at the choice of words of wisdom and humility of Jacob. He was not using words that will fuel the ember of hatred, but words that will calm down nerves. *"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger"* (Proverbs 15:1). Apart from exchanging and acceptance of gifts and visits, true reconciliation will also be manifested by willingness to walk together and experience godly partnership. *"And he said, Let us take our journey, and let us go"*.

    *Question*

    How genuine was your previous reconciliation with others?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Father, examine my heart, expose and remove all tendencies in me contrary to abiding in love and unity .
    2.Lord, give me a definite life changing encounter like Jacob that will make me full of grace to initiate and advance peace and love in my family, church and community .
    3.Make me a peacemaker and promoter of reconciliation among people .
    4.Lord, visit all families with broken relationships and help all to open up to true communication and reconciliations .

    *HYMN:* Let love be among us

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* JOB 38-42.
    [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST, 2026```


    *ENDURING RECONCILIATION* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:GENESIS 33:5-15```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are those with thee? And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant" (GENESIS 33:5).*_

    *After the horrific genocide in 1994, Rwanda focused heavily on national reconciliation. The Gacaca Courts, a system of community-based justice, allowed perpetrators of the genocide to confess their crimes and ask for forgiveness, while victims could voice their suffering. The emphasis on unity and a shared vision for rebuilding the country contributed to Rwanda's remarkable recovery and the avoidance of further ethnic conflict. Although there are ongoing challenges, the national narrative of "unity and reconciliation" has continued to play a central role in Rwanda's politics and society.*

    *Jacob had lived for years under the shadow of a broken relationship with his brother, Esau. Their past was filled with deceit, betrayal, and conflict. Having stolen Esau's birth right and blessing, the resultant rift was so deep that Esau had vowed to kill Jacob. After years of separation, Jacob now had to face Esau, but with trepidation and fear of retribution. However, what ensued was a stunning picture of grace and a lasting reconciliation, with no record of relapse into hostilities.*

    *Their reconciliation must have been mutual. That "... Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept" showed his willingness to forgive Jacob and let go of his anger and bitterness, and the pain of the past - a rare display of grace. On the other hand, Jacob exemplifies a posture of humility. His bowing before Esau, offering gifts of homage, and acknowledging his wrongs demonstrate the humility required for true reconciliation.*

    *We are called to the same grace and reconciliation that Jacob and Esau experienced. Perhaps there are areas where we need to humble ourselves and seek forgiveness. We are called to extend grace, even when the hurt is deep.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Reconciliation draws the curtain on a dark past and opens a door for a brighter future.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *JOB 39-42*


    Enduring Reconciliation
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 232: BLEST BE THE TIE THAT BINDS; GHS 117: SHOW A LITTLE BIT OF LOVE AND KINDNESS; AND GHS 75: THE CHURCH'S IS ONE FOUNDATION*

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#DailyManna19thAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*HIGHER EVERYDY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_

    ✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

    ```WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *SNUB SATAN* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🫷🏽🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```TEXT:JAMES 4:4-8```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (JAMES 4:7).*_

    *The end of all things draws nearer and nearer every day. This should make us think deeply about the imminent coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and the impending punishment that would be unleashed on sinners who have chosen to remain adamant and unrepentant now.*

    *The signs of the last days are visible - increased wickedness all over the world, surging compromise of faith among believers, and so on. The devil is out there like a roaring lion looking for those he could devour. Would you snub him or fall into his snares?*

    *Beloved, the time we are in now calls for patience and perseverance. Some have given up already because they have fallen into the hands of the devil by believing it is impossible to maintain their faith considering the pressure associated with this perilous time.*

    *Friend, please hold on to the faith, snub the devil, and keep marching forward. Remember that Lot's wife missed a blissful eternity because she could not snub Satan and resist the temptation of looking back. On the other hand, the young Joseph snubbed Satan by resisting Potiphar's wife's invitation to sin.*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*Lot's wife missed a blissful eternity.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Stand firm and snub the devil.*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, help me to hold on to the faith.*_


    Snub Satan
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#HigherEveryday19thAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣)*_

    🏼🏼🏼🏼🏼‍

    ```WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *JOHN'S TESTIMONY ABOUT JESUS* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽

    ```JOHN 1:29-34```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).*_



    The Bible refers to John the Baptist as the forerunner who came to prepare the way for the Lord. Though John was born before Jesus, he was not greater than Jesus. In fact, John himself declared that someone greater than him would come after, and he was not even qualified to untie his shoe latchet.

    This is to show the high esteem in which John rightly placed Jesus. John proclaimed the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ as the Saviour of the world. He told the people that Jesus was before him, meaning that Jesus had been before the time of creation.

    John was baptizing people in River Jordan, and it was he who also baptized Jesus Christ. John did not know Jesus, but the Holy Spirit descended and stayed on Christ at His baptism. He diverted attention away from himself, and made men to see Jesus Christ as *"...the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."*

    *Do you know Jesus? Can you point to Him that He is your Friend, Saviour and Lord? If your answer is No, then surrender your life to Him, repent and ask Him to forgive you all your sins. Tell Him to be your Friend and tell others about Him everywhere you go.*



    ```rayer:``` _*Lord Jesus, please take away my sins and make me Your friend today.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *Matthew 3:1-12*


    John's Testimony About Jesus
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
    *#SincereMilk19thAugust2026*
    *#GCK*
    *#WorshipNuggets*
    *#BibleNuggets*
    *#LeadershipNuggets*
    *#RevivalNuggets*
    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]

    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but Manikya Kumar one thing [I do,] forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. ⏤ Philippians 3:13-14

    Prayer is the acid test of devotion. ⏤ Samuel Chadwick

    O Lord, You’ve taught us through Your apostle to forget what lies behind and to reach forward to what lies ahead. Give us the grace to let go of the past and press on toward the goal of our high calling. Help us to cast aside every weight and the sins that so easily trip us up, and to run with endurance the race set before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

    This world pulls us back, holding us from aspiring heavenward. May we have the strength to resist these earthly temptations and instead be drawn toward the blessings of a heavenly life. Help us to live more and more for the things that are unseen and eternal. Earthly things, though sweet and beautiful, are temporary—like flowers that are fragrant today but wilted tomorrow. May these fleeting blessings remind us of You and turn our thoughts to You. Let us not rest in these temporary joys or build our hopes on them. Instead, teach us to rest in You and build our hopes on the enduring rock of Your eternity. Then, no matter what earthly disaster or loss comes our way, we will be safe and secure in You, our unchanging God.

    As we step into the world today, fill our hearts with thoughts of Your love and grace. Go before us, lead us, and help us follow You wherever You guide. Give us wisdom to respond rightly in every situation. Grant us courage to face difficulties and overcome obstacles. And give us gentle hearts so we may be a blessing to others. We ask all this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/45/morning

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀🌺🌹🎁🎀💝 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY WEDNESDAY AUGUST 19, 2026. "TRUST YOUR BIBLE, IT'S TRUE!" ‘…that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled...’ Matthew 26:56 NIV THE DEATH, burial and resurrection of Jesus fulfilled no less than twenty-nine different Old Testament prophecies. The odds of that happening are virtually impossible! Mathematician Peter Stoner explains it this way: ‘If you were to cover the state of Texas two feet deep in pound coins, then on one, place a mark. What is the probability that a blindfolded person could, on their first attempt, select that coin? That’s the likelihood of just eight prophecies being fulfilled in one lifetime. And Jesus fulfilled twenty-nine of them in one day!’ Let’s look at some of the prophecies He fulfilled: 1) ‘…They pierced My hands and… feet’ (Psalms 22:16 NKJV). 2) ‘They divide my garments…and…cast lots’ (Psalms 22:18 NKJV). 3) ‘…in that day…I will make the sun go down at noon, and…darken the earth in…daylight’ (Amos 8:9 NKJV). Jesus predicted both His death and His resurrection. He told His critics, ‘…“Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”…the temple he had spoken of was his body’ (John 2:19-21 NIV). Jesus orchestrated every event, including Judas’ betrayal, the high priest’s hypocrisy, and Peter’s denial. Why? ‘That the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.’ So you can trust your Bible because it’s true. And something else is true too. God is ‘…able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…’ (Ephesians 3:20 NIV). Note the words ‘immeasurably more.’ What seems impossible to you at the moment, is all in a day’s work for Him. So start trusting Him to work on your behalf. Bible In A Year: Gal 4-6, Matt 19:1-14, Ps 119:113-120, Pro 18:10-12. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation 🌹🎀 *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*💝🌹🌷🎀. MD.ii. [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* WEDNESDAY, 19TH AUGUST, 2026. *THE PRICE OF DWELLING TOGETHER IN LOVE AND UNITY* *TEXT:* GENESIS 33:5-15. 5 And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are those with thee? And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant. 6 Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves. 7 And Leah also with her children came near, and bowed themselves: and after came Joseph near and Rachel, and they bowed themselves. 8 And he said, What meanest thou by all this drove which I met? And he said, These are to find grace in the sight of my lord. 9 And Esau said, I have enough, my brother; keep that thou hast unto thyself. 10 And Jacob said, Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy sight, then receive my present at my hand: for therefore I have seen thy face, as though I had seen the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me. 11 Take, I pray thee, my blessing that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt graciously with me, and because I have enough. And he urged him, and he took it. 12 And he said, Let us take our journey, and let us go, and I will go before thee. 13 And he said unto him, My lord knoweth that the children are tender, and the flocks and herds with young are with me: and if men should overdrive them one day, all the flock will die. 14 Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according as the cattle that goeth before me and the children be able to endure, until I come unto my lord unto Seir. 15 And Esau said, Let me now leave with thee some of the folk that are with me. And he said, What needeth it? let me find grace in the sight of my lord. *Timeless Truth:* _"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"_ (Psalm 133:1). *INTRODUCTION* Love and unity are the indispensable catalysts of human relationships that make life worthwhile. Without these two graces, life ceases to have meaning and will breed heartaches, emotional troubles, bitter enmity and rivalries, anguish of the soul and all sorts of relational problems. The fulfilment and joy of natural and spiritual families, communities, nations etc rest on love and unity. *"Behold how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity"*. Satan's delight is to fuel relational problems and thereby make the earth another hell for relations. When the foundation of happy relationship and co-existence is destroyed, what shall the righteous do? The foundation of a happy and united family life of Isaac was broken and it had its toll on the children. Parental disunity and favoritism led to bitter rivalry between Esau and Jacob. The result was not a sweet experience for each member of the family. After 20 years of separation between the children, the need for peace and unity, so as to end the ugly experience became imperative. They must be commended that they did not die in that situation. They allowed God and let go of their differences. What can we learn from them about how to build the broken walls and foundation of life and unity among brethren? Read on. *1. Bridge the Communication Gap* a. The main reason Jesus came to pay the ultimate price of redemption is to break the communication barrier between man and God due to sin. Once that barrier is broken, it will be possible to break the communication barrier among fellow brethren. The fact that Jesus paid this price underscores the importance of love and unity among brethren. No man can claim to be godly without conscious and deliberate commitment to living in peace and love with fellow brethren and neighbours. A graceless person will be content with disunity and loveless relationships while true grace makes true reconciliation possible. Jacob initiated it and this shows he had grace. He first settled the problem in the spiritual realm by wrestling with God on a lonely night at Jabbok. His personal encounter with God first changed his life, blew his ego to the wind of heaven, brought a deep transformation into his life and melted his hardened heart of deception. The change must start with you. The godly who desires to live at peace and pleases God must be ready to pray through until his heart is melted with the grace to forgive, forget and fall into the love of God. Ego or self is often the main problem that must bow in order to live at peace and unity. b. For the first time after 20 years, Jacob opted to take the lead by asking for a face to face meeting with his estranged brother and bridge the communication gap. *"And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are those with thee?"*. Take the godly initiative and step: bridge the Communication Gap. Sink all your pride, anger, hatred, bitterness and desire for revenge at the cross and take the initiative. Unknown to him, Esau, though a violent man, secretly desired peace too. It only takes one to bell the cat. Surprisingly, the God of peace that had broken Jacob at the altar of prayer and grace had also dealt with Esau too. Broken communication became mended. *"And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant"*. In bringing peace to a troubled or broken relationship, there may be the need to bring a third party that is respected by both sides and has the wisdom and grace to mend relationships. *Question* Are you willing to please and bridge the communication gap with someone? How do you want to demonstrate your willingness? *2. Bind Your Character with Grace* a. Jacob had trained all his wives and children on how to show respect and give honour to the one who had been hurt and might be breathing out revenge and anger. It was not the time prove who was wrong or right. In reconciliation, self defence is minimized. *"Why do ye not rather accept wrong? Why not rather let yourselves suffer wrong and be deprived of what is your due? Why do you not rather take wrong?"* (1Corinthians 6:7). The crucified saint will be willing to accept blame even when he is not convinced that he is wrong for the sake of peace. This is where grace is also needed. *"Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves"*. All the people with Jacob went humbly and bowed to their Daddy's brother. Jacob had depoisoned the hearts of his people so that they could sincerely give the needed and expected honour to Esau. The peaceful person will not be a hypocritical person who will pretend to seek for peace and unity and privately he will be poisoning the hearts of others. b. Humility is an essential part of living in love and unity and building again love and unity in a broken relationship. Many apologies, though may be simple, have a way of healing hurt hearts and broken bones and barriers in relationships. It takes humility to bend when the other person is standing on his points which may even be wrong and unacceptable altogether. *"The fruit of peace is shown by them which make peace"*. *"Blessed are the peace makers for they shall be called the children of GOD"*. *Question* Are you willing to pay the price of love and unity so that your life receives the immeasurable blessings of obedience to God or you still want to stick to your gun and end up in perdition? *3. Bless Your Companion With Gifts* God paid the price of reconciliation with man by giving us the gift of Jesus Christ and all other spiritual and earthly gifts and blessings. True reconciliation must also be sealed up with exchange and acceptance of godly and helpful gifts. Jacob was smart to have prepared gifts for Esau ahead of their encounter. In fact, at first, Esau wanted to wisely reject the gifts. If he had refused, then know that the problem was only solved superficially. *"And he said, These are to find grace in the sight of my lord"*. The Scripture says, *"A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men"* (Proverbs 18:16). It is not how much that is affordable, but the heart of love and reconciliation that is behind it. Jacob insisted that the gift should be taken though Esau himself was well to do. *"Take, I pray thee, my blessing that is brought to thee; because God hath dealt graciously with me, and because I have enough. And he urged him, and he took it"*. Look at the choice of words of wisdom and humility of Jacob. He was not using words that will fuel the ember of hatred, but words that will calm down nerves. *"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger"* (Proverbs 15:1). Apart from exchanging and acceptance of gifts and visits, true reconciliation will also be manifested by willingness to walk together and experience godly partnership. *"And he said, Let us take our journey, and let us go"*. *Question* How genuine was your previous reconciliation with others? *Prayer Points* 1.Father, examine my heart, expose and remove all tendencies in me contrary to abiding in love and unity 🙏. 2.Lord, give me a definite life changing encounter like Jacob that will make me full of grace to initiate and advance peace and love in my family, church and community 🙏. 3.Make me a peacemaker and promoter of reconciliation among people 🙏. 4.Lord, visit all families with broken relationships and help all to open up to true communication and reconciliations 🙏. *HYMN:* Let love be among us *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* JOB 38-42. [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST, 2026``` *ENDURING RECONCILIATION* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️👥🫂🤝🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:GENESIS 33:5-15```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And he lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, Who are those with thee? And he said, The children which God hath graciously given thy servant" (GENESIS 33:5).*_ *After the horrific genocide in 1994, Rwanda focused heavily on national reconciliation. The Gacaca Courts, a system of community-based justice, allowed perpetrators of the genocide to confess their crimes and ask for forgiveness, while victims could voice their suffering. The emphasis on unity and a shared vision for rebuilding the country contributed to Rwanda's remarkable recovery and the avoidance of further ethnic conflict. Although there are ongoing challenges, the national narrative of "unity and reconciliation" has continued to play a central role in Rwanda's politics and society.* *Jacob had lived for years under the shadow of a broken relationship with his brother, Esau. Their past was filled with deceit, betrayal, and conflict. Having stolen Esau's birth right and blessing, the resultant rift was so deep that Esau had vowed to kill Jacob. After years of separation, Jacob now had to face Esau, but with trepidation and fear of retribution. However, what ensued was a stunning picture of grace and a lasting reconciliation, with no record of relapse into hostilities.* *Their reconciliation must have been mutual. That "... Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept" showed his willingness to forgive Jacob and let go of his anger and bitterness, and the pain of the past - a rare display of grace. On the other hand, Jacob exemplifies a posture of humility. His bowing before Esau, offering gifts of homage, and acknowledging his wrongs demonstrate the humility required for true reconciliation.* *We are called to the same grace and reconciliation that Jacob and Esau experienced. Perhaps there are areas where we need to humble ourselves and seek forgiveness. We are called to extend grace, even when the hurt is deep.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Reconciliation draws the curtain on a dark past and opens a door for a brighter future.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *JOB 39-42*📜📜 Enduring Reconciliation https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 232: BLEST BE THE TIE THAT BINDS; GHS 117: SHOW A LITTLE BIT OF LOVE AND KINDNESS; AND GHS 75: THE CHURCH'S IS ONE FOUNDATION* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna19thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST, 2026``` *SNUB SATAN* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️👿👺❌🫷🏽🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:JAMES 4:4-8```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (JAMES 4:7).*_ *The end of all things draws nearer and nearer every day. This should make us think deeply about the imminent coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and the impending punishment that would be unleashed on sinners who have chosen to remain adamant and unrepentant now.* *The signs of the last days are visible - increased wickedness all over the world, surging compromise of faith among believers, and so on. The devil is out there like a roaring lion looking for those he could devour. Would you snub him or fall into his snares?* *Beloved, the time we are in now calls for patience and perseverance. Some have given up already because they have fallen into the hands of the devil by believing it is impossible to maintain their faith considering the pressure associated with this perilous time.* *Friend, please hold on to the faith, snub the devil, and keep marching forward. Remember that Lot's wife missed a blissful eternity because she could not snub Satan and resist the temptation of looking back. On the other hand, the young Joseph snubbed Satan by resisting Potiphar's wife's invitation to sin.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Lot's wife missed a blissful eternity.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Stand firm and snub the devil.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, help me to hold on to the faith.*_ Snub Satan https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday19thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [18/08, 9:45 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```WEDNESDAY 19TH AUGUST, 2026``` *JOHN'S TESTIMONY ABOUT JESUS* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🗣️📢📣🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```JOHN 1:29-34```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 The Bible refers to John the Baptist as the forerunner who came to prepare the way for the Lord. Though John was born before Jesus, he was not greater than Jesus. In fact, John himself declared that someone greater than him would come after, and he was not even qualified to untie his shoe latchet. This is to show the high esteem in which John rightly placed Jesus. John proclaimed the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ as the Saviour of the world. He told the people that Jesus was before him, meaning that Jesus had been before the time of creation. John was baptizing people in River Jordan, and it was he who also baptized Jesus Christ. John did not know Jesus, but the Holy Spirit descended and stayed on Christ at His baptism. He diverted attention away from himself, and made men to see Jesus Christ as *"...the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."* *Do you know Jesus? Can you point to Him that He is your Friend, Saviour and Lord? If your answer is No, then surrender your life to Him, repent and ask Him to forgive you all your sins. Tell Him to be your Friend and tell others about Him everywhere you go.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord Jesus, please take away my sins and make me Your friend today.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Matthew 3:1-12* John's Testimony About Jesus https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk19thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do,] forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. ⏤ Philippians 3:13-14 Prayer is the acid test of devotion. ⏤ Samuel Chadwick O Lord, You’ve taught us through Your apostle to forget what lies behind and to reach forward to what lies ahead. Give us the grace to let go of the past and press on toward the goal of our high calling. Help us to cast aside every weight and the sins that so easily trip us up, and to run with endurance the race set before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. This world pulls us back, holding us from aspiring heavenward. May we have the strength to resist these earthly temptations and instead be drawn toward the blessings of a heavenly life. Help us to live more and more for the things that are unseen and eternal. Earthly things, though sweet and beautiful, are temporary—like flowers that are fragrant today but wilted tomorrow. May these fleeting blessings remind us of You and turn our thoughts to You. Let us not rest in these temporary joys or build our hopes on them. Instead, teach us to rest in You and build our hopes on the enduring rock of Your eternity. Then, no matter what earthly disaster or loss comes our way, we will be safe and secure in You, our unchanging God. As we step into the world today, fill our hearts with thoughts of Your love and grace. Go before us, lead us, and help us follow You wherever You guide. Give us wisdom to respond rightly in every situation. Grant us courage to face difficulties and overcome obstacles. And give us gentle hearts so we may be a blessing to others. We ask all this in the name of Jesus. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/45/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • Words Reveal the Heart

    Scripture

    Judges 12:6 (NKJV)
    Then they said to him Say now Shibboleth And he said Sibboleth for he could not pronounce it right Then they would take him and kill him at the fords of the Jordan There fell at that time forty two thousand Ephraimites

    Guarding Against Division and Pride

    Judges chapter 12 records a tragic conflict not between Israel and foreign enemies but within Israel itself. After Jephthah’s victory the tribe of Ephraim confronts him in anger. Pride and accusation lead to civil strife. What begins as disagreement escalates into deadly division.

    Verse 6 shows how something as small as pronunciation became a test of identity and ultimately a cause of death. The word Shibboleth became a dividing line that exposed differences and fueled hostility. Pride and rivalry turned brothers into enemies.

    This chapter reminds us that internal division can be more destructive than external opposition. The enemy was no longer outside Israel but within. Pride wounded relationships and caused unnecessary loss.

    For believers today Judges 12 is a warning about the power of words and attitudes. Pride and rivalry can damage unity in families churches and communities. God calls His people to humility reconciliation and peace. Division often begins with small offenses that grow when left unchecked.

    Reflection Questions

    1. Have I allowed pride or offense to create division in my relationships

    2. Do my words build unity or contribute to conflict

    3. How can I pursue peace when disagreement arises

    Prayer

    Lord God guard my heart from pride and division. Help me to speak words that build unity and reflect Your love. Teach me to pursue peace and humility rather than rivalry and accusation. In Jesus name Amen.
    Words Reveal the Heart Scripture Judges 12:6 (NKJV) Then they said to him Say now Shibboleth And he said Sibboleth for he could not pronounce it right Then they would take him and kill him at the fords of the Jordan There fell at that time forty two thousand Ephraimites Guarding Against Division and Pride Judges chapter 12 records a tragic conflict not between Israel and foreign enemies but within Israel itself. After Jephthah’s victory the tribe of Ephraim confronts him in anger. Pride and accusation lead to civil strife. What begins as disagreement escalates into deadly division. Verse 6 shows how something as small as pronunciation became a test of identity and ultimately a cause of death. The word Shibboleth became a dividing line that exposed differences and fueled hostility. Pride and rivalry turned brothers into enemies. This chapter reminds us that internal division can be more destructive than external opposition. The enemy was no longer outside Israel but within. Pride wounded relationships and caused unnecessary loss. For believers today Judges 12 is a warning about the power of words and attitudes. Pride and rivalry can damage unity in families churches and communities. God calls His people to humility reconciliation and peace. Division often begins with small offenses that grow when left unchecked. Reflection Questions 1. Have I allowed pride or offense to create division in my relationships 2. Do my words build unity or contribute to conflict 3. How can I pursue peace when disagreement arises Prayer Lord God guard my heart from pride and division. Help me to speak words that build unity and reflect Your love. Teach me to pursue peace and humility rather than rivalry and accusation. In Jesus name Amen.
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  • Good evening to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you.

    Catawampus. That is my word of the day. Catawampus. It is a beautifully weird word that can be used in a myriad of ways to describe the perfect blend of chaos and dumbness in any given situation. The definition actually is: going badly, awkwardly, or in the wrong direction. Most Mondays are, by definition, catawampus. As you read from last night’s post, mine was extremely catawampus. Today tried to slide sideways but quickly smoothed out.

    Another vibrant way to describe something going haywire is “off-kilter”. The actual definition of this word is: out of balance.

    So, if your catawampus is off-kilter … is that good or bad?

    The purpose of this paper today is to make you laugh with the playfulness of words. We make up words every day depending on how our brains and mouths communicate. Sometimes real words come out; sometimes weird syllables that formulate a weird concoction of letters into a word come out. Most of those situations result in gut-filled laughter and a sense of relief because of the guffaw.

    What if we approached our off-kilter moments in life in the same manner? Throwing off the stress of the catawampus event and finding the hilarity in the guffaw. If we look, most any stressful situation can find some humor or light, even if it is deemed ‘inappropriate’. Such as, a friend of mine had a falling-out with their dad. They got sick, and when asked if the dad had been notified, I was promptly told no. For whatever the reason, I simply stated that had they called the dad, my friend may have just died on the table, to prove the point that they did not want to speak to him. Dark humor, yes. Somewhat funny in the moment, yes. Appropriate, not really. However, the levity of looking at something bad in a light that can bring a smile … totally worth it.

    A business deal is heating up. Everyone involved is losing patience. Someone sneezes softly. Another person belts out, “No need to bring in biological warfare.” Inappropriate, yes. Funny, yes.

    Mowing the yard with my borrowed mower, I missed a stump. Yes, a stump. Did not know or see it there. When the mower locked up and stopped mowing, instantly I saw my retirement check fly out the window. This mower was in my care; I was not careful enough, and instant panic set in … when explaining to the owner, he laughed and said he would like small bills. (FYI the mower was fixable)

    There are going to be times in life when the situation or circumstance is not good. It is the habit that we have formed to always go dark and negative. That is fine if you only stay there for the moment, but immediately you should be searching for the bright side, the humor, the sarcastic satire. Something that shows you, in your heart, that God is in control and it will all work itself out.

    Catawampus and off-kilter moments are a part of life. Do not allow them to remain permanent residents in your lane; find that inappropriate giggle line, and give it back to God. You will find that it helps alleviate your stress level and replace it with His love.

    Be blessed.

    **Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. – Colossians 3:2
    Good evening to everyone. Grace and Peace be with you. Catawampus. That is my word of the day. Catawampus. It is a beautifully weird word that can be used in a myriad of ways to describe the perfect blend of chaos and dumbness in any given situation. The definition actually is: going badly, awkwardly, or in the wrong direction. Most Mondays are, by definition, catawampus. As you read from last night’s post, mine was extremely catawampus. Today tried to slide sideways but quickly smoothed out. Another vibrant way to describe something going haywire is “off-kilter”. The actual definition of this word is: out of balance. So, if your catawampus is off-kilter … is that good or bad? The purpose of this paper today is to make you laugh with the playfulness of words. We make up words every day depending on how our brains and mouths communicate. Sometimes real words come out; sometimes weird syllables that formulate a weird concoction of letters into a word come out. Most of those situations result in gut-filled laughter and a sense of relief because of the guffaw. What if we approached our off-kilter moments in life in the same manner? Throwing off the stress of the catawampus event and finding the hilarity in the guffaw. If we look, most any stressful situation can find some humor or light, even if it is deemed ‘inappropriate’. Such as, a friend of mine had a falling-out with their dad. They got sick, and when asked if the dad had been notified, I was promptly told no. For whatever the reason, I simply stated that had they called the dad, my friend may have just died on the table, to prove the point that they did not want to speak to him. Dark humor, yes. Somewhat funny in the moment, yes. Appropriate, not really. However, the levity of looking at something bad in a light that can bring a smile … totally worth it. A business deal is heating up. Everyone involved is losing patience. Someone sneezes softly. Another person belts out, “No need to bring in biological warfare.” Inappropriate, yes. Funny, yes. Mowing the yard with my borrowed mower, I missed a stump. Yes, a stump. Did not know or see it there. When the mower locked up and stopped mowing, instantly I saw my retirement check fly out the window. This mower was in my care; I was not careful enough, and instant panic set in … when explaining to the owner, he laughed and said he would like small bills. (FYI the mower was fixable) There are going to be times in life when the situation or circumstance is not good. It is the habit that we have formed to always go dark and negative. That is fine if you only stay there for the moment, but immediately you should be searching for the bright side, the humor, the sarcastic satire. Something that shows you, in your heart, that God is in control and it will all work itself out. Catawampus and off-kilter moments are a part of life. Do not allow them to remain permanent residents in your lane; find that inappropriate giggle line, and give it back to God. You will find that it helps alleviate your stress level and replace it with His love. Be blessed. **Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. – Colossians 3:2
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  • My God, I did not thank You because I have so much,
    but because so much of what I have has become ordinary to me,
    and still, You have not taken it away.

    I thank You for the things I no longer ask for,
    because I have grown accustomed to finding them
    whenever I open my eyes each morning.

    For a home I return to,
    until I began to believe that returning was something I was entitled to.

    For a body that carries me through every day,
    until I forgot to thank You simply because it does not hurt.

    For faces I love, still where they have always been.
    For voices I can still hear,
    until I forgot that somewhere, someone is longing
    to hear just one more word from a voice they have lost.

    How many blessings do we never thank You for
    simply because they never changed?

    We mistake stability for something ordinary,
    protection for something passing,
    peace for something we deserve,
    and the people we love for a permanent part of life.

    Until one of them is gone.

    And only then do we realize, too late,
    that it was never ordinary at all.

    My God, teach me not to wait for loss
    to understand the value of what You have given me.

    Not to wait for sickness
    to understand the gift of health.

    Not to wait for loneliness
    to understand the blessing of companionship.

    Not to wait for fear
    to understand the meaning of safety.

    Teach me to see the blessing while it is still here,
    and to thank You for what I have stopped noticing.

    Not because I am afraid of losing it,
    but because I finally understand
    that its staying was never something ordinary.

    Perhaps the greatest of Your blessings
    are the ones we do not even have the courage to call blessings,

    because we have grown so accustomed to their presence
    that we began to believe they were ours by right.

    And how much of what we called our right
    was, in truth…

    mercy.
    My God, I did not thank You because I have so much, but because so much of what I have has become ordinary to me, and still, You have not taken it away. I thank You for the things I no longer ask for, because I have grown accustomed to finding them whenever I open my eyes each morning. For a home I return to, until I began to believe that returning was something I was entitled to. For a body that carries me through every day, until I forgot to thank You simply because it does not hurt. For faces I love, still where they have always been. For voices I can still hear, until I forgot that somewhere, someone is longing to hear just one more word from a voice they have lost. How many blessings do we never thank You for simply because they never changed? We mistake stability for something ordinary, protection for something passing, peace for something we deserve, and the people we love for a permanent part of life. Until one of them is gone. And only then do we realize, too late, that it was never ordinary at all. My God, teach me not to wait for loss to understand the value of what You have given me. Not to wait for sickness to understand the gift of health. Not to wait for loneliness to understand the blessing of companionship. Not to wait for fear to understand the meaning of safety. Teach me to see the blessing while it is still here, and to thank You for what I have stopped noticing. Not because I am afraid of losing it, but because I finally understand that its staying was never something ordinary. Perhaps the greatest of Your blessings are the ones we do not even have the courage to call blessings, because we have grown so accustomed to their presence that we began to believe they were ours by right. And how much of what we called our right was, in truth… mercy.
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  • God Is Bigger Than What You're Worried About
    The problem that's keeping you up at night is not bigger than the God who holds your future.
    Worry has a way of making our problems feel bigger than they really are. We replay worst-case scenarios, try to figure everything out, and carry burdens that were never meant to rest on our shoulders. Before long, our fears begin to feel greater than
    our faith. But the size of your problem doesn't change the size of your God. The One who created the universe, parted the Red Sea, and raised Jesus from the dead is more than able to handle whatever you're facing today.
    Give Your Worries to God
    “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7

    God never asked you to carry every burden by yourself. He invites you to bring every fear, every uncertainty, and every anxious thought to Him. The moment you surrender your worries to God is the moment you make room for His peace. What feels too heavy for you is never too heavy for Him.
    God Is Bigger Than What You're Worried About The problem that's keeping you up at night is not bigger than the God who holds your future. Worry has a way of making our problems feel bigger than they really are. We replay worst-case scenarios, try to figure everything out, and carry burdens that were never meant to rest on our shoulders. Before long, our fears begin to feel greater than our faith. But the size of your problem doesn't change the size of your God. The One who created the universe, parted the Red Sea, and raised Jesus from the dead is more than able to handle whatever you're facing today. Give Your Worries to God “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 God never asked you to carry every burden by yourself. He invites you to bring every fear, every uncertainty, and every anxious thought to Him. The moment you surrender your worries to God is the moment you make room for His peace. What feels too heavy for you is never too heavy for Him.
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