🔊🔊🔊 1 Pierre 2:9 Vous, au contraire, vous êtes une race élue, un sacerdoce royal, une nation sainte, un peuple acquis, afin que vous annonciez les vertus de celui qui vous a appelés des ténèbres à son admirable lumière 😇✨

THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN IN A CHALLENGING WORLD By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah Introduction We are living in a world that is changing rapidly. Values are shifting, truth is being questioned, morality is being redefined, and many people are under pressure to compromise their convictions just to fit into society. Yet, the Christian is called to live differently. Jesus never promised His followers a life without challenges. In fact, He said, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NKJV). The Christian life is not a promise of the absence of trouble; it is a promise of God's presence in the midst of trouble. We may walk through difficult seasons, but we do not walk through them alone. A challenging world requires Christians who know their God, understand their identity, stand firmly on God's Word, and refuse to allow the darkness around them to extinguish the light within them. 1. THE CHRISTIAN MUST KNOW WHO HE IS One of the greatest dangers in a challenging world is losing your identity. The world constantly tells us who we should become, what we should value, what success should look like, and what standards we should follow. But the believer must derive his identity from God, not from society. 1 Peter 2:9 says: «“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.”» You are not merely a product of your environment. You are God's possession. When you know who you are in Christ, you will not need the approval of everyone around you to feel valuable. Your identity is not determined by your failures, your past, your social status, your possessions, or people's opinions about you. You belong to Christ. 2. THE CHRISTIAN MUST STAND ON GOD'S WORD A changing world needs an unchanging standard. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God's Word gives us direction when culture becomes confusing. It gives us conviction when compromise becomes attractive. It gives us hope when circumstances become discouraging. The Christian who neglects Scripture will eventually become vulnerable to the philosophies of the world. We must therefore become students of the Word. Do not build your life solely on what people say. Build it on what God has said. People can change. Circumstances can change. Governments can change. Economies can change. Relationships can change. But the Word of our God stands forever. 3. THE CHRISTIAN MUST REFUSE TO CONFORM Romans 12:2 says: «“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”» There is a difference between living in the world and becoming like the world. Jesus prayed for His disciples in John 17:15-16. He did not ask the Father to remove them from the world but to preserve them while they remained in it. This means Christianity is not an escape from society. It is a divine assignment within society. We are called to influence the world without allowing the world to influence our convictions. You can work in a corrupt environment without becoming corrupt. You can live among people who compromise without compromising. You can be surrounded by darkness and still carry light. 4. THE CHRISTIAN MUST DEVELOP SPIRITUAL STRENGTH A challenging world requires spiritual strength. Ephesians 6:10 says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” Our strength does not come merely from personality, education, wealth, connections, or experience. There are battles that human strength cannot win. Therefore, we must strengthen our relationship with God through prayer, worship, fasting, the study of Scripture, fellowship, and obedience. A weak spiritual life makes a believer vulnerable to temptation, fear, discouragement, bitterness, and compromise. Prayer is not simply an emergency telephone call to God. Prayer is fellowship with our Father. We must learn to seek God not only when we need something from Him but because we desire Him. 5. THE CHRISTIAN MUST LEARN TO FACE TRIALS WITH FAITH Challenges are part of the journey. James 1:2-4 teaches believers to count it joy when they face various trials because testing produces patience and spiritual maturity. This does not mean that pain is pleasant. It means that God can use difficult seasons to produce something valuable in us. Sometimes God changes the situation. Sometimes He gives us grace to endure it. Sometimes He uses the situation to change us. Whatever the case may be, we must refuse to allow adversity to destroy our faith. Your trial is not the end of your story. The fact that you are going through something does not mean that God has abandoned you. David passed through valleys and still testified of God's presence. Daniel faced the lions and discovered that God was with him. The three Hebrew young men entered the fiery furnace, but they were not alone. God remains faithful in the fire. 6. THE CHRISTIAN MUST GUARD HIS HEART Proverbs 4:23 says: «“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.”» The world constantly feeds our hearts with fear, hatred, lust, greed, envy, anger, and materialism. If we are not careful, what surrounds us will eventually influence what is within us. That is why believers must guard what they watch, what they listen to, what they celebrate, what they meditate upon, and the relationships they cultivate. Not everything that is popular is profitable. Not everything that is trending is godly. Not every opportunity is an assignment from God. A Christian must learn to say NO when necessary. 7. THE CHRISTIAN MUST BE LIGHT IN A DARK WORLD Jesus said in Matthew 5:14: “You are the light of the world.” Notice that Jesus did not say, “You will become light someday.” He said, “You are the light.” Light has no argument with darkness. It simply shines. The world does not necessarily need Christians who shout the loudest; it needs Christians whose lives demonstrate the reality of Christ. Your workplace should experience your integrity. Your family should experience your love. Your community should experience your kindness. Your generation should see Christ through your character. We preach with our mouths, but we also preach through our lives. 8. THE CHRISTIAN MUST LOVE PEOPLE IN A HURTING WORLD A challenging world is also a hurting world. People are carrying wounds that we cannot see. Some are fighting silent battles. Some have lost hope. Some have been disappointed by life, relationships, institutions, and even religion. The Christian must therefore become an instrument of God's love. Jesus said in John 13:35: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” Our Christianity must not become merely a collection of religious activities. We must love. We must forgive. We must encourage. We must help. We must show compassion. Sometimes the greatest sermon you will preach is the kindness you show to someone who is hurting. 9. THE CHRISTIAN MUST KEEP HIS EYES ON ETERNITY One of the reasons believers compromise is that they become too attached to temporary things. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:18 to focus not merely on the things that are seen, but on the things that are eternal. This world is not our final destination. Our possessions are temporary. Our positions are temporary. Our earthly achievements are temporary. But eternity is forever. Therefore, we must live with eternity in view. Do not gain the whole world and lose your soul. Do not sacrifice your relationship with God for temporary pleasure. Do not exchange eternal treasures for temporary applause. 10. THE CHRISTIAN MUST NEVER GIVE UP Perhaps the greatest testimony in a challenging world is simply refusing to quit. Galatians 6:9 says: «“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”» There may be moments when you feel tired. There may be moments when your prayers seem unanswered. There may be moments when you wonder whether your faith is worth the struggle. But keep going. Keep praying. Keep believing. Keep serving. Keep loving. Keep trusting God. Your present struggle does not cancel God's purpose for your life. CONCLUSION The life of a Christian in a challenging world is not always easy, but it is possible by the grace of God. We are called to live differently—not because we are better than others, but because Christ has called us to represent Him. We are called to stand when others fall. To shine when others walk in darkness. To speak truth when falsehood becomes popular. To demonstrate love when hatred increases. To maintain faith when circumstances become difficult. And to remain faithful until the end. Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Beloved, the world may be challenging, but God is still faithful. The culture may be changing, but God's Word has not changed. The pressure may be increasing, but God's grace is sufficient. The darkness may be growing, but your light can still shine. Therefore, stand firm. Stay prayerful. Stay in the Word. Stay holy. Stay humble. Stay faithful. And above all, keep your eyes on Jesus. PRAYER Father, in the name of Jesus, give me the grace to live faithfully in this challenging world. Strengthen my heart when I am weak, guide me when I am confused, preserve me when I am tempted, and help me to remain a light wherever You have planted me. Let my life bring glory to Your name. May I never compromise my faith, abandon my calling, or lose sight of eternity. In Jesus' name, amen. — Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah #LifeofaChristian #PJCares

Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* MONDAY 17TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD'S GRACE. *TOPIC:* OVERCOMING TEMPTATIONS. *TEXT:* GENESIS 39:11-14. 11. One day he went into the house to attend to his duties, and none of the household servants was inside. 12. She caught him by his cloak and said, “Come to bed with me!” But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house. 13. When she saw that he had left his cloak in her hand and had run out of the house, 14. she called her household servants. “Look,” she said to them, “this Hebrew has been brought to us to make sport of us! He came in here to sleep with me, but I screamed. *TOPIC:* OVERCOMING TEMPTATIONS. *THE MESSAGE:* Temptation is a common test that comes in various forms and from different sources. Joseph faced a powerful and subtle temptation from Potiphar's wife, yet he refused to yield, relying on God's help. Though his resistance was reciprocated with harsh punishment, he remained faithful. Many young people, though called by God, have fallen into temptation and lost their voices and vitality. Today, many innocent young men and ladies have fallen victims of rape, sexual harassment in places of work or sex for good grades. Some church workers are not exempted from this awful sin. Have you harass or have been harassed sexually? Do not give the enemy a foothold. God's grace is available to all who desire victory. You can overcome temptation and live in freedom through His grace and word. *REFLECTION:* No temptation will pass your ability to resist. *PRAYER:* Lord, help me to resist and flee temptation. Amen. *MEMORY VERSE FOR THE MONTH:* 2 TIMOTHY 2:21. "If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be instruments for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work." *TODAY'S BIBLE READING PLAN:* EZEKIEL 4-6. ED.ii. GOD'S COVENANT WITH MAN "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the Lord God commanded the man: You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die." - Genesis 2:15-17 God's covenant or agreement with man was: 1) God said that man should cultivate the garden; 2) God said he had to take care of the garden. Adam's position as the ruler of the garden had to be preserved; 3) God said they could freely eat from all trees except from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If they ate from it, they would certainly die. The consequence of the fall But Adam and Eve broke this agreement. They believed the evil one and preferred to follow him, that creature who had disobeyed God, opposed God and was therefore thrown out of heaven. When this sin occurred, everything seemed lost. God made everything so beautiful and appointed Adam as ruler over this. However, when Adam and Eve sinned, Adam lost his position as ruler. They both became slaves to sin. God's rescue plan However, no one but God knew that He already had an escape route for man so man could regain his previous position. The Lamb of God, He was chosen before the creation of the world (see 1 Peter 1:20). This plan to save mankind was there before the world was created. The reason God allowed His Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross was because He wanted to give back to man the position he once had. Now man was able to rule over sin, over the evil one and over this earth. He could walk with God again and come into His presence. The human being is allowed to reign together with God as a Royal child. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer for today. EP.i. Evening Prayer He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth [shall be thy] shield and buckler. ⏤ Psalm 91:4 God does not want us to worry about the future. He wants us to trust Him today. ⏤ Corrie ten Boom Father, we are like little children in this vast world and cannot take care of ourselves. But we are so grateful that we are Your children and that You are our Father. We trust in Your eternal care. We know that You will never let us fall out of Your love and protection. As night falls again, we come close to You. We hide ourselves in the secret place of Your love and protection. We ask You to forgive all the sins we’ve committed against You today. Renew our hearts more deeply, so that we may keep Your commandments and live in harmony with Your will in both our thoughts and actions. Tonight, Father, we also remember Your other children around us. Some of them are happy; may they not forget You in their joy. Bless all pure happiness and let it lead to a closer relationship with You. Some of Your children are facing challenges. Some are struggling to find their daily bread. Some have sickness in their homes. Others have loved ones who are not living as they should, who do not love You or walk in Your ways, and their hearts are heavy with concern. Some have lost dear ones and are grieving deeply. For all these neighbors, we pray tonight. Bless them all. Give them the grace they need. Send relief and comfort in the way You know is best. And give us the grace to do our part in helping them in Your name, through Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/43/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

Charles Spurgeon Morning Devotion August 17th "The mercy of God." Psalm 52:8 Meditate a little on this mercy of the Lord. It is tender mercy. With gentle, loving touch, he healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. He is as gracious in the manner of his mercy as in the matter of it. It is great mercy. There is nothing little in God; his mercy is like himself--it is infinite. You cannot measure it. His mercy is so great that it forgives great sins to great sinners, after great lengths of time, and then gives great favors and great privileges, and raises us up to great enjoyments in the great heaven of the great God. It is undeserved mercy, as indeed all true mercy must be, for deserved mercy is only a misnomer for justice. There was no right on the sinner's part to the kind consideration of the Most High; had the rebel been doomed at once to eternal fire he would have richly merited the doom, and if delivered from wrath, sovereign love alone has found a cause, for there was none in the sinner himself. It is rich mercy. Some things are great, but have little efficacy in them, but this mercy is a cordial to your drooping spirits; a golden ointment to your bleeding wounds; a heavenly bandage to your broken bones; a royal chariot for your weary feet; a bosom of love for your trembling heart. It is manifold mercy. As Bunyan says, "All the flowers in God's garden are double." There is no single mercy. You may think you have but one mercy, but you shall find it to be a whole cluster of mercies. It is abounding mercy. Millions have received it, yet far from its being exhausted; it is as fresh, as full, and as free as ever. It is unfailing mercy. It will never leave thee. If mercy be thy friend, mercy will be with thee in temptation to keep thee from yielding; with thee in trouble to prevent thee from sinking; with thee living to be the light and life of thy countenance; and with thee dying to be the joy of thy soul when earthly comfort is ebbing fast.

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 11–12 | Galatians 1 📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 11 God Preserves His Covenant Promise 2 Kings 11 unfolds during one of the darkest moments in Judah's history. Following the death of King Ahaziah, Athaliah seizes the throne and attempts to eliminate every royal heir from the house of David. Her actions appear to threaten the very covenant God had made with David—that his descendants would continue until the coming of the promised King. Humanly speaking, it seems as though God's redemptive plan is in danger. Yet behind the scenes, God is quietly preserving His promise. Jehosheba courageously rescues the infant Joash and hides him in the temple for six years. While Athaliah believes she has secured her kingdom, God has already protected the rightful heir. The Lord's covenant does not depend upon human power or political stability. He faithfully guards His purposes even when they appear hidden. After six years, the priest Jehoiada carefully organizes the restoration of the kingdom. His leadership is marked by wisdom, patience, and reverence for God's timing. Rather than acting impulsively, he waits until the proper moment to reveal Joash publicly as the rightful king. When Joash is crowned, the people rejoice, and Athaliah's reign comes to an end. The covenant between the Lord, the king, and the people is renewed, and the temple of Baal is destroyed. Worship is restored, and Judah experiences peace because the nation once again acknowledges the Lord as its true King. The chapter demonstrates that God's promises cannot be destroyed by human rebellion. Though evil may appear to triumph for a season, God's covenant purposes always prevail. His faithfulness quietly sustains what human eyes often fail to see. Theologically, 2 Kings 11 reveals God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with David. The preservation of Joash ensures that the Messianic line remains intact. The chapter also highlights the importance of faithful individuals like Jehosheba and Jehoiada, whose quiet obedience becomes part of God's larger redemptive plan. This chapter points directly to Christ. The preservation of David's royal line ultimately leads to Jesus, the promised Son of David whose kingdom will never end. Though many throughout history attempted to destroy God's redemptive plan, the Lord faithfully preserved the line through which the Savior would come. For believers today, 2 Kings 11 reminds us that God is always at work, even when His purposes seem hidden. Evil never has the final word because God's promises are secure. In Christ, we belong to an unshakable kingdom established by God's faithfulness. We are called to remain faithful in our own generation, trusting that God uses ordinary acts of obedience to accomplish extraordinary purposes. 2 Kings 12 Restoring the House of the Lord 2 Kings 12 begins with the early reign of Joash, who comes to the throne under the godly influence of Jehoiada the priest. During these early years, Joash desires to restore the temple, which had been neglected during Athaliah's reign. His concern for the house of the Lord reflects a recognition that true national renewal begins with proper worship. The temple had suffered because God's people had neglected their relationship with Him. Rather than merely repairing a building, Joash seeks to restore the center of Israel's worship. The chapter reminds us that outward restoration should always reflect an inward desire to honor the Lord. As the work begins, practical challenges arise. Initial plans do not move as expected, requiring adjustments in leadership and organization. Eventually, a faithful system is established, allowing the people to give generously and the repairs to proceed with integrity. The workers are described as trustworthy, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in handling what belongs to God. The restoration of the temple becomes a community effort. The people willingly participate because they recognize the value of honoring the Lord. Their generosity demonstrates that worship involves not only words but also faithful stewardship of the resources God provides. Yet the chapter also contains a quiet warning. Although Joash begins well, the high places remain, indicating that complete spiritual reform has not yet taken place. The closing verses reveal political pressures that eventually lead Joash to compromise by using temple treasures to appease an enemy rather than trusting fully in the Lord. His reign ends tragically, reminding us that beginning well does not guarantee finishing well. Theologically, 2 Kings 12 teaches that worship must remain central to the life of God's people. It also demonstrates the importance of faithful stewardship, integrity, and perseverance. Spiritual renewal involves more than repairing outward structures—it requires continual devotion to the Lord. This chapter points to Christ, who is greater than the temple itself. Jesus came not merely to restore a building but to establish God's dwelling among His people through His own body. Through His death and resurrection, believers become the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live lives that honor God completely. For believers today, 2 Kings 12 reminds us to invest in what has eternal value. Just as the temple required faithful restoration, our hearts continually need renewal through God's Word and Spirit. In Christ, we are called to steward faithfully what God has entrusted to us, serve with integrity, and remain devoted to Him throughout our lives. The goal is not simply to begin our walk with enthusiasm but to finish it with unwavering faithfulness to our Lord and King. Galatians — The Gospel of Grace and Freedom in the Christ The book of Galatians is a passionate defense of the true gospel and a powerful declaration that salvation is found through the Christ, the Son of God, by grace alone through faith alone. Paul writes to churches that had begun to drift from the simplicity of the gospel by adding human works and religious requirements to the finished work of the Christ. Throughout the letter, he calls believers back to the freedom that God has provided through His redemptive plan. The central theme of Galatians is that no one is justified before God by keeping the Law or by human effort. The Law revealed humanity's need for a Savior, but only the Christ could fulfill its righteous requirements. Through His death and resurrection, the Son of God accomplished what no one else could, making salvation available to all who trust in Him. The book repeatedly contrasts life under the Law with life in the Spirit. The Christian life does not begin by grace and continue through human effort. From beginning to end, believers depend upon the grace of the Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. The redemptive plan transforms people from the inside out, producing obedience that flows from love rather than obligation. Another major emphasis is Christian freedom. This freedom is not permission to live selfishly or sinfully but the freedom to love, serve, and obey God without the burden of trying to earn His acceptance. The Son of God has set His people free so they may walk in joyful obedience through the Spirit. The letter also highlights the believer's new identity. Those who belong to the Christ are sons and daughters of God, heirs of His promises, and members of His family. Their standing before God rests entirely upon the finished work of the Son of God. For believers today, Galatians reminds us to guard the purity of the gospel. Christian living is rooted in grace, empowered by the Spirit, and centered on the Christ. We are called to reject every form of legalism, trust completely in the finished work of the Son of God, and walk daily in the freedom He has purchased through His redemptive plan. Galatians 1 — Holding Fast to the True Gospel of the Christ Galatians chapter 1 immediately establishes the urgency of preserving the true gospel. Paul writes with deep concern because the believers were being influenced by teachers who had distorted the message of salvation. Rather than adding to the gospel, these teachings were actually replacing it. From the very beginning, the chapter points believers back to the Christ, the Son of God, as the only source of salvation and the foundation of God's redemptive plan. The chapter opens by emphasizing that Paul's calling and authority did not originate from human appointment but from the Christ Himself. This establishes that the message he proclaimed came directly from God rather than from human tradition. Christian living must always be built upon God's revealed truth rather than popular opinion or religious custom. The Son of God remains the ultimate authority over His Church. Paul quickly expresses astonishment that the Galatian believers were turning away from the grace of the Christ so soon after receiving the gospel. They were not rejecting Christianity altogether but allowing another message to replace the true one. This demonstrates how subtle spiritual deception can be. The redemptive plan is centered entirely on the finished work of the Christ, and anything that adds human merit to salvation undermines the gospel itself. The chapter makes it unmistakably clear that there is only one true gospel. Salvation is found through the Christ alone. No human effort, religious ceremony, or personal achievement can improve upon what the Son of God has already accomplished. Christian living begins with this unchanging truth and continues by resting completely in His grace. Paul also addresses the danger of seeking human approval. Faithful servants of the Christ cannot shape their message to satisfy people. Their calling is to remain faithful to God's truth regardless of opposition. The redemptive plan is too precious to be altered for the sake of acceptance or popularity. The Son of God calls His followers to proclaim the truth with humility and courage. The chapter then recounts Paul's own testimony. Before encountering the Christ, he was devoted to religious tradition and actively opposed the gospel. Yet God intervened by His grace, revealing His Son and transforming Paul's life completely. This testimony demonstrates that salvation is always initiated by God. The redemptive plan is founded upon divine grace, not human seeking. The Christ changes hearts, redirects lives, and calls people into His service. Paul emphasizes that after his conversion, his understanding of the gospel did not come through human instruction but through God's revelation. This highlights the divine origin of the message. Christian living must always remain rooted in the truth revealed through the Son of God rather than shifting with changing cultural ideas. The chapter concludes by showing how Paul's transformed life became a testimony to others. Those who had once feared him because of his persecution of the Church were now glorifying God because of the work of the Christ in his life. This is one of the great evidences of the redemptive plan. The Son of God does not merely forgive sinners—He transforms them into faithful servants whose lives point others to His glory. Throughout Galatians chapter 1, the focus remains fixed upon the grace of the Christ and the unchanging truth of the gospel. The Son of God alone provides salvation, and His finished work is fully sufficient. Every attempt to add to His work ultimately diminishes the glory that belongs to Him alone. For believers today, this chapter calls us to guard the purity of the gospel with humility and conviction. Christian living begins and continues through the grace of the Christ, never through human effort. We are reminded to evaluate every teaching by God's Word, to remain faithful to the truth regardless of cultural pressure, and to trust completely in the finished work of the Son of God. As we hold firmly to the true gospel, our lives become testimonies of His transforming grace and faithful witnesses to His eternal redemptive plan. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

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

Dear God, thank You for bringing me through another day. As I get ready to rest tonight, I’m being honest with You about something I’ve realized. I’ve spent so much time asking You to fix my finances, my relationships, and my health, but I haven’t always hungered for You just because You’re You. Your word in 1 Peter 2:9 says, “You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people.” God, tonight I just want Your presence, not Your fixing, not Your provision, just You. Help me build a relentless hunger to know You more, not because of what You can do for me, but because of who You are. I give this night completely to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. -Psalm 27:4

GLORIOUS SUNDAY SERMON OF 16TH AUGUST 2026 Beloved of God, welcome to this amazing gathering of God's children. As we are about to hear from the throne of mercy, I declared that you will not come in vain, and you will not go empty handed. But before we share the word of God, let us pray 🙏 ENJOY THE FULL VIDEO HERE 👇👇👇 https://youtu.be/IHnZa2BylFo?si=rBUkpriqf33nSXLM PLEASE WATCH, LIKE, COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE TO HELP MY CHANNEL GROW. THANKS 🙏 LESSON: Matthew 7:16-20 As a matter of fact, today's message is a self reflection, that's why it's topic is: TOPIC: WHAT KIND OF CHRISTIAN AM I? TEXT: You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Matthew 7:16–20 (NKJV) INTRODUCTION: It is easy to ask, “What kind of church do I attend?” or “What kind of Christians are around me?” But today, God is asking a more personal question: What kind of Christian am I? Christianity is more than attending church, carrying a Bible, singing worship songs, or being known as a believer. Jesus wants our faith to be visible in the way we live, speak, love, forgive, serve and represent Him. The real test of Christianity is not simply what we profess with our lips, but what our lives produce. Be immensely blessed by the word in Jesus name. EXPOSITION: With a sincere mind, let's examine and consider these 3 basic important points. 1. WHAT KIND OF FRUIT IS MY LIFE PRODUCING? Matthew 7:16–20; Galatians 5:22–23; John 15:4–5 Jesus said, “You will know them by their fruits.” Notice that Jesus did not say people would be known merely by their appearance, religious vocabulary, church position or spiritual title. He said they would be known by their fruit. Fruit is evidence of what is happening inside a tree. In the same way, our daily conduct reveals what is happening in our hearts. A Christian may speak about love, but how do I treat people who offend me? I may talk about forgiveness, but can I forgive those who hurt me? I may preach holiness, but what happens when nobody is watching? I may say that I trust God, but what happens when I face disappointment? These are the moments when our fruit becomes visible. Galatians 5:22–23 describes the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. This gives us something practical to examine. Is there love in me? Is there patience in me? Is there self-control in me? Can people see Christ in the way I respond under pressure? Because sometimes, the greatest testimony we preach is not from the pulpit. It is through our behaviour when life does not go according to our expectations. Jesus also said in John 15:5, “He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit.” Fruitfulness is therefore connected to our relationship with Christ. We cannot consistently produce Christlike character while living far from Christ. The question is not whether we once produced good fruit. The question is: What is my life producing now? EXPOSITION: 2. AM I A LIGHT THAT LEADS PEOPLE TO CHRIST OR A STUMBLING BLOCK? Matthew 5:14–16; Romans 14:13; 1 Peter 2:12 Jesus said, “You are the light of the world.” That means our Christianity is not supposed to remain inside the church building. People are watching us. Our neighbours are watching. Our colleagues are watching. Our family members are watching. Young people are watching. Even people who disagree with Christianity are watching. Sometimes, before they read the Bible, they read our lives. This is why we must ask ourselves a difficult question: Does my lifestyle make people desire to know Jesus, or does it give them another reason to reject Him? A Christian can become a stumbling block through bitterness, dishonesty, hypocrisy, arrogance, unforgiveness, gossip, immoral behaviour or an abusive attitude. Imagine telling someone that Jesus changes lives, while that person consistently sees anger, hatred and dishonesty in our own life. What message are we communicating? Romans 14:13 tells believers not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in another believer’s way. This does not mean that we live our lives based on people's opinions. It means we recognize that Christian freedom carries Christian responsibility. Our lives should make the Gospel attractive, not contradictory. Jesus said in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” The purpose of our light is not to make people admire us. It is to make them glorify God. So, when people encounter me, what do they encounter? Christ or character problems? Grace or hostility? Truth or hypocrisy? Love or bitterness? We cannot preach the Gospel effectively with our mouths while preaching a different gospel with our lifestyle. EXPOSITION: 3. AM I OBEYING CHRIST OR AM I ONLY PRACTISING RELIGION? John 14:15; James 1:22–25; Matthew 28:19–20 Jesus said plainly: “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” That means genuine Christianity must eventually produce obedience. It is possible to become very familiar with church activities while becoming unfamiliar with obedience to Christ. We can attend services, participate in programmes, sing loudly, pray publicly and even hold positions in church, yet still ignore the simple commands of Jesus. Jesus commanded us to love one another. He commanded us to forgive. He commanded us to serve. He commanded us to make disciples. He commanded us to preach the Gospel. He commanded us to live as lights in a dark world. The question therefore becomes: Am I doing what Jesus asked me to do? James 1:22 warns us not to be merely hearers of the Word, but doers. Hearing God's Word without obeying it can create the illusion of spiritual maturity. Knowledge is not the same as obedience. Knowing that we should forgive is not forgiveness. Knowing that we should evangelize is not evangelism. Knowing that we should love is not love. Knowing that we should live holy is not holiness. At some point, the Word we hear must become the life we live. And this includes the Great Commission. Jesus said in Matthew 28:19–20, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations.” Every Christian may not stand behind a pulpit, but every Christian has a responsibility to represent Christ. There is somebody around us who needs encouragement. Somebody needs to hear the Gospel. Somebody needs to see forgiveness. Somebody needs to see genuine Christian love. Somebody may be watching our life and wondering whether Jesus is truly real. So the question is not merely: “Am I a Christian?” The deeper question is: “What kind of Christian am I?” Am I a Christian by name, or by transformation? Am I only a church member, or am I a disciple of Jesus? Am I carrying the name of Christ while refusing to carry His character? This brings us to the conclusion of the message. CONCLUSION: Today, the mirror is before us. Not before our neighbour. Not before another church member. Not before society. Before me. What kind of Christian am I? May our Christianity be more than words, titles and religious activities. May our lives produce good fruit, shine as lights, and demonstrate obedience to Christ. Let people encounter us and see something that points them back to Jesus. CLOSING PRAYER: Let us pray! Lord Jesus, make us genuine representatives of Your kingdom. Let our lives produce good fruit, let our character reflect You, and let our actions never become a stumbling block to others. Help us to love, forgive, serve and obey You faithfully. May our lives point people to Christ. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen. GOODWILL MESSAGE: This is my goodwill message for you this week: May your life become a living testimony of the transforming power of Jesus Christ. May your words carry grace, your character reveal Christ, and your actions draw others closer to God. May your faith remain fruitful, your light continue to shine, and your life bring glory to your Father in heaven. Amen. HAPPY WONDERFUL SUNDAY, HAVE AN AMAZING WEEK. LIKE IT OR NOT! JESUS IS COMING BACK AGAIN SOON!! REPENT AND BE READY FOR HIM!!! 🙋This wonderful message is brought to you With Love from Pastor M O Glorious, CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH , Palace of Mercy, Royal District, Restoration Zone. Damolapa, Laketu, Lucky Fibre, Ikorodu Lagos Nigeria. For prayer or counseling, pls contact us@ 08055646358: 09018952081 or peganmire[gmail].com #WhatKindOfChristianAmI #ChristianCharacter #ChristLikeLiving #FruitOfTheSpirit #BeTheLight #ChristianFaith #WalkWithChrist #ObeyChrist #LiveForJesus l#LetYourLightShine #KingdomLiving #JesusChrist

🔥 YOU ARE A PRIEST! There is something profoundly powerful about discovering who God has called you to be. You were not redeemed merely to attend services, sing songs and listen to sermons. You were called to stand before God, serve His purposes, intercede for humanity and represent His Kingdom on earth. 🔥 The Bible calls believers a “royal priesthood.” But what does that actually mean? What does priesthood demand from us? What responsibilities come with this calling? And how should a believer live when they understand that they have been set apart for God's purposes? 🎥 THE PRIESTHOOD: Understanding Your Calling as a Believer Watch the full message on YouTube [GSIM] TV: 🔗 🖇️📎https://youtu.be/XHjOXKW1mXs?si=qXk-MtINFwzWIoOt 🙏 Don't just watch it. Examine your life. Discover your calling. Respond to God. 💬 After watching, share the one truth that challenged you most. 📲 And send this message to someone who needs to rediscover their identity and calling in Christ. 📖 “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood…” — 1 Peter 2:9 🔥 Gospel Spirit International Missions [GSIM], Reconciling Divinity with Humanity. #ThePriesthood #PriesthoodOfBelievers #ChristianSermon #BibleTeaching #ChristianFaith #GSIMTV

🔥 YOU ARE A PRIEST! There is something profoundly powerful about discovering who God has called you to be. You were not redeemed merely to attend services, sing songs and listen to sermons. You were called to stand before God, serve His purposes, intercede for humanity and represent His Kingdom on earth. 🔥 The Bible calls believers a “royal priesthood.” But what does that actually mean? What does priesthood demand from us? What responsibilities come with this calling? And how should a believer live when they understand that they have been set apart for God's purposes? 🎥 THE PRIESTHOOD: Understanding Your Calling as a Believer Watch the full message on YouTube [GSIM] TV: 🔗 🖇️📎https://youtu.be/XHjOXKW1mXs?si=qXk-MtINFwzWIoOt 🙏 Don't just watch it. Examine your life. Discover your calling. Respond to God. 💬 After watching, share the one truth that challenged you most. 📲 And send this message to someone who needs to rediscover their identity and calling in Christ. 📖 “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood…” — 1 Peter 2:9 🔥 Gospel Spirit International Missions [GSIM], Reconciling Divinity with Humanity. #ThePriesthood #PriesthoodOfBelievers #ChristianSermon #BibleTeaching #ChristianFaith #GSIMTV