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SERMON TO LIVING ONES IN THIS LAST AGE - BIRTH PAINS - AWAKENING - CHRIST IS COMING NEXT

THEME: BIRTH PAINS HAVE STARTED - CORRUPT SYSTEMS ARE THE CONTRACTION - AWAKEN, SANCTIFY, REPENT NOW OR PERISH - GOD'S WRATH NOW OPERATING

TEXT: Matt 24:8 All these are the beginning of sorrows [birth pains] - 2 Tim 3:1-5 In last days perilous times shall come - 1 Thess 4:3 For this is will of God, even your sanctification - Rev 14:9-11 If any man worship beast and receive his mark... same shall drink of wine of wrath - Rev 8-9 Trumpets, Rev 16 Bowls - Joel 2:1 Blow trumpet in Zion - Acts 3:19 Repent... times of refreshing shall come -

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INTRODUCTION - LIVING ONES, HEAR THE CONTRACTION

Matt 24:3-8 Disciples asked Jesus, What shall be sign of thy coming and end of world? Jesus answered: Nation shall rise against nation, kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the BEGINNING OF SORROWS.

Greek: Odín - Birth pains - Like woman in labour.

Birth pain meaning: Pain not to kill, but to deliver - But pain increases - Intervals shorten - Intensity grows - Cannot stop once started - Must deliver -

Jesus said: This will happen but it will be BEGINNING of pain - Matt 24:8 - We are in beginning.

Look current pain from corrupt systems globally inflicting pain on people:

Political corruption - Buying and selling justice Amos 5:12 They turn aside poor in gate - Isa 10:1-2 Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees -
Economic oppression - James 5:1-5 Rich men have heaped treasure, kept back hire - Rev 18:3 Merchants waxed rich - Rev 13:17 No man might buy or sell save he that had mark -
False shepherds exploiting - Jer 23:1-2 Woe be unto pastors that destroy and scatter - Ezek 34:2-4 Woe be to shepherds that feed themselves - 2 Pet 2:1-3 Through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you -
Moral decay - 2 Tim 3:1-5 lovers of selves, lovers of money, lovers of pleasures - Rom 1:26-32 ungodliness order of day -

Question: Is there truth than this of God's Word? You living can't see and understand that these are times?

Answer: You can see - Creation groaning Rom 8:22 Whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now -

This pain is sign of awakening to those who understand God and His Word as Life, Way, Truth - John 14:6 I am way, truth, and life - John 17:17 Thy word is truth - Ps 119:105 Word lamp -

Awakening = Eph 5:14 Awake thou that sleepest - Rom 13:11 Now is high time to awake out of sleep, for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed - Isa 60:1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come -

If you still think wealth, riches, safe business will sustain you minus His will - You are sleeping.

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POINT 1 - BIBLE SAID DIFFICULT TIMES WILL COME - THEY HAVE UNVEILED NOW AMONG NATIONS

2 Tim 3:1-5 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away -

Is there truth than this? Look around:

Lovers of selves, covetous - Political figures stealing billions, pastors selling miracles for 500M betting, business buying souls - 2 Pet 2:14 Covetous practices, cursed children -
Blasphemers, mockers - Matt 27:40 Mocking Christ on cross - Today mocking God, mocking true holiness, betting on healing - 2 Pet 3:3 Scoffers walking after own lusts - Jude 1:18 Mockers in last time -
Without natural affection - Abortion, killing own children, ICU exploitation - Rom 1:31 Without natural affection -
Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God - Gal 5:19-21 flesh desires order of day - 1 John 2:16 Lust of flesh, lust of eyes, pride of life -
Having form of godliness but denying power - False grace preaching - 2 Tim 3:5, Jude 1:4 Turning grace into lasciviousness - Titus 1:16 Profess they know God, but in works deny him -

Matt 24:12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold -

This is not politics - This is prophecy fulfilled - God's Word speaking now - Isa 46:10 Declaring end from beginning - Isa 55:11 My word shall not return void -

If difficult times in Timothy have unveiled now amongst nations and it's God's Word speaking, then next verse after birth pains is Christ coming:

Matt 24:8 Beginning of sorrows - Matt 24:30 Then shall appear sign of Son of man in heaven - Matt 24:33 When ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at doors - Matt 24:44 Therefore be ye also ready -

CHRIST IS COMING IS NEXT - Rev 22:12 Behold, I come quickly - Rev 22:20 Surely I come quickly - 1 Thess 4:16 Lord himself shall descend -

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POINT 2 - GOD'S WILL IS YOUR SANCTIFICATION NOW - OR YOU ARE MARKED AS SATAN'S

Question then comes: Is God's will your sanctification in making now? Or still living in sin? Not born again, and those saved living false grace involving sinning instead of both to repent and sin no more?

1 Thess 4:3-7 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; Not in lust of concupiscence... For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness -

Heb 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see Lord - 1 Pet 1:15-16 As he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy - Lev 11:44 -

Two groups in last age:

A. Not born again - Sinners, unbelievers - John 3:3 Except a man be born again, he cannot see kingdom - John 3:5 Born of water and Spirit - John 8:34 Whosoever committeth sin is servant of sin - 1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of devil -

B. Saved but living false grace - Backslidden church - Tit 2:11-12 Grace teaches us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, godly in this present world - Jude 1:4 Turning grace of God into lasciviousness - Rom 6:1-2 Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid - Rom 6:15 Shall we sin, because we are not under law but under grace? God forbid - 1 John 2:4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and truth is not in him -

True repentance is twofold:

1. Metanoia - Turn away from sin - Acts 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out - Prov 28:13 He that covereth sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh shall have mercy - Isa 55:7 Let wicked forsake his way -

2. Sin no more - John 5:14 Sin no more, lest worse thing come unto thee - John 8:11 Go, and sin no more - 1 John 3:9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God - 1 John 5:18 Whosoever is born of God sinneth not - Rev 14:12 Here is patience of saints: here are they that keep commandments of God, and faith of Jesus - Rev 12:17 Remnant keep commandments and testimony of Jesus -

If you ain't standing right now know Satan is marking you as his. But bearing Satan's mark put to all sinners.

Rev 13:16-17 He causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had mark - Rev 14:9-10 If any man worship beast and receive his mark... same shall drink of wine of wrath of God - Rev 19:20 -

Mark of beast not only future chip - Mark is nature - Ezek 9:4 Mark on foreheads of them that sigh and cry - Rev 14:1 Father's name on foreheads of 144k - 2 Tim 2:19 Seal of God, Let every one that nameth name of Christ depart from iniquity -

Sinners already bearing Satan's mark: John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil, and lusts of father ye will do - 1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of devil - Eph 2:2 Spirit that now worketh in children of disobedience -

Right hand mark = works - stealing, fornication, corruption, buying and selling lies - Gal 5:19-21 works of flesh -
Forehead mark = mind - unbelief, false doctrine, mocking, lovers of pleasures - Rom 8:7 Carnal mind enmity against God - 2 Cor 11:3 Mind corrupted -

If you have Satan's mark, know God's wrath is now going to operate on you til you repent and live pure or fail and perish in sin -

Rom 1:18 For wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold truth in unrighteousness - John 3:36 He that believeth not Son shall not see life; but wrath of God abideth on him - Eph 5:6 For because of these things cometh wrath of God upon children of disobedience - Col 3:6 - Rev 16:1 Pour out vials of wrath -

Wrath now resting: Ps 7:11 God is angry with wicked every day - John 3:36 wrath abideth - Not future only - Now.

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POINT 3 - YOU COMPROMISED FOR PEACE, WEALTH, SAFE BUSINESS - BUT NOT SAFE - JUDGMENT NOW RESTING

I know many have gone to compromise God's truth and choose evil ways simply to have peace, living, wealth, safe business (buying & selling)... but isn't safe for doers as God's judgement/wrath already in making resting on you.

Matt 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain whole world, and lose own soul? - Mark 8:36 - Luke 12:15-21 Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required - 1 Tim 6:10 Love of money root of all evil - James 5:1-5 Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for miseries shall come upon you -

Examples:

Political figure compromising to keep seat - Prov 29:25 Fear of man bringeth snare - Acts 5:29 We ought to obey God rather than men -
Business man bribing for safe business, buying & selling with lie - Rev 13:17 No man might buy or sell save he that had mark - Prov 11:1 False balance abomination - Amos 8:5-7 Falsifying balances -
Pastor compromising truth for members, money, peace with sinners - Jer 23:14-16 They commit adultery, walk in lies, strengthen hands of evildoers, that none doth return from wickedness - Gal 1:10 If I yet pleased men, I should not be servant of Christ - 2 Tim 4:3-4 Time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after own lusts heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears -
Believer compromising to marry, job, keep friends - Matt 10:33 Whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny - Luke 14:26 If any man come to me, and hate not... cannot be my disciple -

You think safe? No safe.

1 Thess 5:3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape - Jer 6:14 They have healed hurt of daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace - Jer 8:11 -

God's judgment already resting: John 3:18 He that believeth not is condemned already - Rom 2:5 After thy hardness treasurest up unto thyself wrath against day of wrath - Rev 14:10 Wine of wrath -

Red7 vision, Skeleton vision, Green7 vision as execution of trumpet judgment, bowl judgment on living ones in this last age:

Explain:

RED7 VISION - BLOOD - FIRST MERCY THEN WRATH - Rev 8:7 First angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood - Rev 16:3-4 Second and third vial poured blood - 1 John 1:7 Blood cleanseth IF you repent - But if reject, blood becomes witness against you Heb 10:29 Trodden under foot Son of God, counted blood unholy - Heb 12:24 Blood of sprinkling speaketh - Blood speaks mercy for repentant, wrath for unrepentant - Joels 2:30-31 Blood and fire before great day -

SKELETON VISION - JUDGMENT - DEATH - TRUMPET 6, BOWL 6 - FLESH CONSUMED - Rev 9:15-19 Third part of men killed - Rev 16:2 Grievous sore upon men which had mark - Ezek 37:1-11 Valley of dry bones - Skeleton is man without Spirit - Jude 1:12 Twice dead - 2 Pet 2:12 Natural brute beasts - Isa 66:24 Carcases abhorred - Matt 24:28 Wheresoever carcase is, there will eagles be gathered - Skeleton vision shows what sinners become under wrath - Body without life - Job 19:20 Skin cleaveth to bones -

GREEN7 VISION - LIFE - RIGHTEOUSNESS - REMNANT PRESERVED THROUGH JUDGMENT - Ps 23:2 Green pastures - Rev 7:14-17 Lamb feed them, lead to living fountains - Rev 14:1-5 144k standing on Zion, without fault, virgin not defiled - Ps 92:12 Righteous shall flourish like palm tree - Isa 26:2 Righteous nation which keepeth truth may enter in - Green7 is seal of life for 144k who kept commandments Rev 14:12, kept self 1 John 5:18, wall of fire Zech 2:5 - While trumpet/bowl executes on sinners, Green7 remnant dwells in Zion Ps 125:1 Cannot be removed - Ps 91:7-8 Thousand fall at thy side, ten thousand at right hand, but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see reward of wicked -

Thus Red7, Skeleton, Green7 are not stories - They are execution of Rev 8-9 trumpet judgment, Rev 16 bowl judgment NOW on living ones:

Rev 8:7 Blood - Red7 - Mercy rejected becomes wrath -
Rev 9:6 Men seek death - Skeleton - Dead though living 1 Tim 5:6 -
Rev 7:3 Seal till - Green7 - Righteous preserved -

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POINT 4 - FINAL CALL - REPENT NOW OR PERISH IN THY SINS

Corrupt political figures, false shepherds, false doctrine, sinners, unbelievers, backslidden church - REPENT NOW AND TIMES OF REFRESHMENT COMES OR GOING TO PERISH IN THY SINS

Acts 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when times of refreshing shall come from presence of Lord - Acts 2:38 Repent, and be baptized every one of you - Luke 13:3 Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish - Luke 13:5 - Ezek 18:30 Repent, and turn from all transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin - Ezek 18:32 Turn yourselves, and live ye - Ezek 33:11 As I live, saith Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in death of wicked; but that wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die - 2 Pet 3:9 Lord not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance -

TO EACH GROUP:

1. CORRUPT POLITICAL FIGURES - Prov 29:2 When righteous are in authority, people rejoice: but when wicked beareth rule, people mourn - Isa 10:1-2 Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees - Dan 4:27 Break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to poor - Repent: Micah 6:8 Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly - Otherwise: Ps 75:10 All horns of wicked also will I cut off - Rom 13:4 He beareth not sword in vain: minister of God, revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil -

2. FALSE SHEPHERDS - Jer 23:1-2 Woe be unto pastors that destroy and scatter - Ezek 34:10 Behold, I am against shepherds; and I will require flock at their hand - Matt 23:13-15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites - James 3:1 Be not many masters, knowing we shall receive greater condemnation - Repent: Jer 3:15 I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge - 1 Pet 5:2-4 Feed flock, not for filthy lucre - Otherwise: Matt 7:21-23 Depart from me - Rev 2:22 I will cast her into bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent -

3. FALSE DOCTRINE - 1 Tim 4:1 In latter times some shall depart from faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils - 2 John 1:9-11 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in doctrine of Christ, hath not God - Gal 1:8-9 Though we, or angel from heaven, preach any other gospel... let him be accursed - Repent: Titus 2:1 Speak thou things which become sound doctrine - 2 Tim 4:2 Preach word - Otherwise: 2 Pet 2:1-3 Damnable heresies, bring upon themselves swift destruction -

4. SINNERS, UNBELIEVERS - John 3:18 He that believeth not is condemned already - John 8:24 If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins - Rom 6:23 Wages of sin is death - Rev 21:8 Fearful, and unbelieving... shall have their part in lake - Repent: John 3:16 Whosoever believeth - Rom 10:9 If thou shalt confess with thy mouth Lord Jesus, and shalt believe... thou shalt be saved - Isa 1:18 Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow -

5. BACKSLIDDEN CHURCH - LIVING FALSE GRACE - Rev 2:4-5 Thou hast left thy first love. Remember... repent, and do first works; or else I will come and remove thy candlestick - Rev 3:16 Lukewarm, I will spue thee - Heb 10:26 If we sin wilfully after received knowledge of truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice - 2 Pet 2:20-22 After they have escaped pollutions... entangled again, latter end worse - Repent: Rev 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent - Hos 14:1-4 Return, O Israel - Joel 2:12-13 Turn ye even to me with all your heart... rend your heart -

PROMISE IF REPENT:

Acts 3:19 Times of refreshing shall come from presence of Lord - Isa 1:18-19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat good of land - 2 Chron 7:14 If my people humble... seek... turn... then will I hear from heaven, forgive sin, heal land - Ps 51:10 Create in me clean heart - Ezek 36:26 New heart, new spirit - Rev 14:12 Keep commandments + faith - Rev 7:4-8 Sealed as 144k - Ps 125:1 Cannot be removed - On Zion Rev 14:1 with Lamb -

WARNING IF NOT REPENT:

Luke 13:3 Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish - John 8:24 Ye shall die in your sins - Heb 2:3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation? - Rev 20:15 Whosoever was not found written in book of life was cast into lake of fire - Rev 21:27 Nothing that defileth shall enter - Matt 25:46 These shall go away into everlasting punishment - Red7 becomes wrath, Skeleton becomes your body, Green7 you will not see -

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ALTAR CALL - LIVING ONES AMONG NATIONS

Living ones, no more thinking of wealth, riches, to sustain me or God knows minus His will - Matt 6:33 Seek ye first kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added - Ps 37:25 I have not seen righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread - Phil 4:19 My God shall supply all your need - 1 Tim 6:6 Godliness with contentment is great gain - Prov 10:22 Blessing of LORD maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow -

Today choose: God's mark Rev 14:1 Father's name or Satan's mark Rev 13:16-17? God's seal Rev 7:3 or wrath Rev 14:10? Zion Ps 125:1 or Babylon Rev 18:2? Refreshing Acts 3:19 or perishing Luke 13:3?

Bow heads - Pray: Lord Jesus, I see birth pains Matt 24:8 - I see perilous times 2 Tim 3:1 - I repent Acts 3:19 - I turn from sin Ezek 18:30 - I forsake false grace Jude 1:4 - I receive blood Red7 1 John 1:7 to cleanse - I put off skeleton old man Eph 4:22 - I put on green pasture new man Eph 4:24 - I keep commandments and faith Rev 14:12 - Seal me Rev 7:3 - Take me to Zion Heb 12:22 - Let me stand with Lamb Rev 14:1 unshakeable Heb 12:28 - In Jesus name - Amiina -

Preacher: Servant 144k Reagan - Isa 40:3 - Prepare ye way - Christ coming next Matt 24:44 - Holiness Heb 12:14 - Without fault Rev 14:5 - Wall of fire Zech 2:5 - Cannot be removed Ps 125:1.

PROVERB OF THE DAY

(Proverbs 14)

1. The wise woman builds her house,
But the foolish pulls it down with her hands.

2. He who walks in his uprightness fears the LORD,
But he who is perverse in his ways despises Him.

3. In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride,
But the lips of the wise will preserve them.

4. Where no oxen are, the trough is clean;
But much increase comes by the strength of an ox.

5. A faithful witness does not lie,
But a false witness will utter lies.

6. A scoffer seeks wisdom and does not find it,
But knowledge is easy to him who understands.

7. Go from the presence of a foolish man,
When you do not perceive in him the lips of knowledge.

8. The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way,
But the folly of fools is deceit.

9. Fools mock at sin,
But among the upright there is favor.

10. The heart knows its own bitterness,
And a stranger does not share its joy.

11. The house of the wicked will be overthrown,
But the tent of the upright will flourish.

12. There is a way that seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death.

13. Even in laughter the heart may sorrow,
And the end of mirth may be grief.

14. The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways,
But a good man will be satisfied from above.

15. The simple believes every word,
But the prudent considers well his steps.

16. A wise man fears and departs from evil,
But a fool rages and is self-confident.

17. A quick-tempered man acts foolishly,
And a man of wicked intentions is hated.

18. The simple inherit folly, But the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19. The evil will bow before the good,
And the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20. The poor man is hated even by his own neighbor, But the rich has many friends.

21. He who despises his neighbor sins;
But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22. Do they not go astray who devise evil?
But mercy and truth belong to those who devise good.

23. In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to poverty.

24. The crown of the wise is their riches,
But the foolishness of fools is folly.

25. A true witness delivers souls,
But a deceitful witness speaks lies.

26. In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence,
And His children will have a place of refuge.

27. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death.

28. In a multitude of people is a king’s honor,
But in the lack of people is the downfall of a prince.

29. He who is slow to wrath has great understanding,
But he who is impulsive exalts folly.

30. A sound heart is life to the body,
But envy is rottenness to the bones.

31. He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker,
But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy.

32. The wicked is banished in his wickedness,
But the righteous has a refuge in his death.

33. Wisdom rests in the heart of him who has understanding,
But what is in the heart of fools is made known.

34. Righteousness exalts a nation,
But sin is a reproach to any people.

35. The king’s favor is toward a wise servant,
But his wrath is against him who causes shame.

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL
WEDNESDAY, 14TH OCTOBER, 2026.
TOPIC: SHIELDED BY HIS BLOOD

AUTHOR: PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE

MEMORISE: Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, Hebrews 10:19

BIBLE READING: EXODUS 12:1-14 (KJV)
1 And the Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt saying,
2 This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you.
3 Speak ye unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb, according to the house of their fathers, a lamb for an house:
4 And if the household be too little for the lamb, let him and his neighbour next unto his house take it according to the number of the souls; every man according to his eating shall make your count for the lamb.
5 Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year: ye shall take it out from the sheep, or from the goats:
6 And ye shall keep it up until the fourteenth day of the same month: and the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening.
7 And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it.
8 And they shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire, and unleavened bread; and with bitter herbs they shall eat it.
9 Eat not of it raw, nor sodden at all with water, but roast with fire; his head with his legs, and with the purtenance thereof.
10 And ye shall let nothing of it remain until the morning; and that which remaineth of it until the morning ye shall burn with fire.
11 And thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the Lord's passover.
12 For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the Lord.
13 And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.
14 And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the Lord throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.

MESSAGE;
The blood of Jesus is one of the many ways God shields His children. In today's Bible reading, God used the blood of lambs, which was a typology of the blood of Jesus, to save the children of Israel from the plague of death. He said to them, "And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you..." Psalm 116:8 tells us that God delivers our souls from death, our eyes from tears, and our feet from falling. If not for the special shielding of God during the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020, many of us would not be here today. Indeed, the blood of Jesus Christ shielded us and delivered our souls from death.

The blood of Jesus Christ also shields us from demonic attacks and grants us victory over the devil and his agents. Revelation 12:11 says, "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." We are also shielded from wrath and are justified by the blood of Jesus (Romans 5:9).

The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sins. (1 John 1:7) says, "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." Ephesians 1:7 also tells us that we have redemption and forgiveness of sins through the blood of Jesus Christ. That blood also grants us access to God and gives us the boldness to enter into the holiest, as we see in today's memory verse.

The blood of Jesus also speaks. Hebrews 12:24 says, "And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel." I pray that in the name above all other names, you will experience and enjoy the better things Jesus' blood has spoken and is still speaking on your behalf, in Jesus' name.

Beloved, the blood of Jesus will not speak for you or shield you if you have yet to accept Him as your Lord and Saviour. In order to be saved and shielded by Jesus' blood, you must confess with your mouth that He is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9).

KEY POINT:
The blood of Jesus shields believers from evil, gives them access to God, and speaks wonderful things on their behalf.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: MARK 4 - 5

HYMN 9 - WHAT CAN WASH AWAY MY STAIN?
1. What can wash away my stain? Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

CHORUS:
Oh! precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow!
No other fount I know, .
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

2. For my cleansing this I see,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
For my pardon this my plea,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

3. Nothing can for sin atone, Nothing but the blood of Jesus: Naught of good that I have done, Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

4. This is all my hope and peace. Nothing but the blood of Jesus: His is all my righteousness nothing but the blood of Jesus.


PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL
WEDNESDAY, 14TH OCTOBER, 2026
*SHIELDED BY HIS BLOOD*
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‎These prayers have no expiry dates! Please, pray them, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus name.

‎1.Thank You Jesus for shedding Your blood on the Cross for the remission of the sins of mankind.
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2.Father, thank You for the power in the blood of Jesus through which I overcome the devil and his agents

‎3.Father, thank You for Your special shield over me and my family during the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020, thank You that I'm still here today.

‎4.Lord Jesus, thank You for Your blood that shields us from demonic attacks and grants us victory over the devil and his agents.
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‎5.Father, thank You for justifying me by the blood of Jesus, and shielding me from wrath.
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‎6.Father, thank You for the redemption of my soul and the forgiveness of my sins through the blood of Jesus Christ.

‎7.Lord Jesus, thank You for granting me access and boldness to enter into the holiest by Your blood.
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‎8.Father, by the power in the name of Jesus, may I begin to experience and enjoy the better things Jesus' blood has spoken and is still speaking on my behalf, in Jesus' name.
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‎9.Father, please set me free any form of sicknesses and sorrow, let the blood of Jesus be a token over my life and every member of my house, in Jesus' name
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‎10.Father, as many that are crying out to you for mercy please, cleanse them from all their sins and grant them access to salvation by the blood of Jesus.

11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye.
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‎May he continue to experience and enjoy better things Jesus' blood is speaking on his behalf, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name
‎
‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with unlimited joy. Turn every hopeless situation around, and in the lives of all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name.
‎
‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name.
‎
‎14.Your personal petitions.
‎(Philippians 4:6)
‎
‎15.In Jesus name I pray.
‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16)
‎
#GodBlessOurNation

AUTHORITY AND POWER TO TAKE OVER AND TAKE CHARGE

Part 2148 Kingdom Era

A TRUE SHEPHERD BUILDS THE FLOCK, NOT FRIGHTENS THE FLOCK

Before concluding that members of your church are difficult, rebellious, uncommitted, disrespectful or spiritually problematic, ask yourself an honest question:

Am I truly shepherding them, or am I continually stressing, frightening, controlling, instructing, warning, rebuking and correcting them without first building a relationship of love and care?

Church members are not machines.

They are human beings.

They have emotions, families, jobs, bills, responsibilities, weaknesses, disappointments, personal battles, wounds, questions and different seasons of life.

They need truth, but they also need love.

They need correction, but they also need understanding.

They need instruction, but they also need encouragement.

They need discipline, but they also need patience and compassion.

Jesus said:

“I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.” — John 10:11

The true shepherd does not merely stand over the flock giving instructions.

He gives himself to the flock.

The purpose of shepherding is not to keep people frightened and dependent upon the shepherd.

The purpose is to help them become mature disciples of Jesus Christ.

Paul says Christ gave ministry gifts:

“For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” — Ephesians 4:12

And the goal is:

“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” — Ephesians 4:13

Notice the emphasis:

Perfecting the saints.

Equipping the saints.

Building the Body.

Bringing believers into maturity.

The goal is not to make the shepherd famous.

The goal is to make Christ fully formed in His people.

THE FLOCK WILL LISTEN TO A SHEPHERD WHO LOVES AND CARES FOR THEM

One of the greatest mistakes a shepherd can make is to think that people will willingly listen simply because he has the position to instruct them.

A position may give you responsibility, but relationship gives your voice credibility.

People are more likely to receive correction from someone they know genuinely loves them.

A shepherd cannot build a healthy relationship with the flock by only instructing, warning, rebuking and correcting them.

Instruction is necessary.

Warning is necessary.

Rebuke is sometimes necessary.

Correction is necessary.

Teaching holiness and godliness is necessary.

But these things must flow from genuine love and concern for the people.

When believers know that their shepherd genuinely cares about them, prays for them, listens to them, understands their struggles, encourages them, helps them and desires to see them grow in Christ, they are much more likely to receive correction.

They know:

“This person is not trying to destroy me. This person wants to see me become what God has called me to become.”

Paul demonstrated this kind of shepherding.

He did not merely teach the Thessalonians and then stand over them with continual correction.

He said:

“But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children.” — 1 Thessalonians 2:7

Then he said:

“So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls.” — 1 Thessalonians 2:8

This is shepherding.

Paul gave them the Gospel, but he also gave them himself.

He taught them, but he also loved them.

He instructed them, but he also cared for them.

He corrected them when necessary, but he did not build his relationship with them around correction.

A SHEPHERD MUST KNOW THE FLOCK HE CLAIMS TO SHEPHERD

Shepherding cannot be reduced to standing behind a pulpit every Sunday and speaking to a crowd.

How can you adequately shepherd people you do not know?

How can you adequately care for people when you do not know where they are staying, what they are passing through, what burdens they are carrying, or what battles they are fighting?

If you cannot regularly visit the flock, know them personally, understand something of their circumstances and carry their burdens with them, what message are you communicating beyond what you say from the pulpit?

A shepherd must come close enough to the sheep to know them.

This does not mean that one pastor must personally visit every member every day.

Nor does it mean that shepherding depends entirely on physical presence.

In a large congregation, mature leaders and members of the Body can participate in caring for the flock.

But there must be a genuine shepherding structure in which people are known, visited, cared for, prayed for, encouraged and supported.

Jesus said:

“I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.” — John 10:14

The language of shepherding involves relationship.

If all you know about your members is what you see when they sit in church, how can you understand their lives?

You may see their Sunday clothes but not their Monday struggles.

You may hear their “Amen” but never hear their cry.

You may see them lifting their hands in worship but never know what burden they carried into the meeting.

You may know their names on a membership list but not know what they are passing through.

You may know whether they attended a service but not know whether they are sick, discouraged, unemployed, grieving, struggling in their marriage, caring for an elderly parent, raising children or going through another difficult season.

Knowing attendance is not the same as knowing the sheep.

A shepherd must be close enough to recognize the condition of the flock.

HOW CAN YOU SHEPHERD PEOPLE YOU DO NOT KNOW WHERE THEY ARE STAYING?

This is a serious question for every shepherd.

How can you shepherd people you do not know where they are staying?

How can you know whether they are safe?

How can you know whether they are suffering?

How can you know whether they need practical assistance?

How can you know whether a family is passing through a crisis?

How can you know when someone has quietly withdrawn because they are wounded?

How can you know when someone is struggling if your only contact with them is from the pulpit?

Shepherding requires presence, relationship and care.

The shepherd should not only know people when they are gathered in the church building.

He should have some knowledge of their lives outside the building.

This is one reason the early Church demonstrated practical fellowship and care for one another. The believers were not merely an audience listening to sermons. They shared life together.

“And all that believed were together, and had all things common.” — Acts 2:44

The early Church was a community of people who knew one another, prayed together, served one another, carried burdens and cared for one another.

KNOWING THEIR BURDENS IS PART OF CARRYING THEM

Paul says:

“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2

You cannot effectively carry a burden you refuse to know.

A shepherd must be willing to come close enough to discover what burdens the sheep are carrying.

Sometimes the greatest ministry is not another sermon.

Sometimes it is a visit.

Sometimes it is sitting beside someone who is grieving.

Sometimes it is praying with a family in crisis.

Sometimes it is encouraging someone who feels forgotten.

Sometimes it is helping a struggling believer find practical support.

Sometimes it is quietly restoring someone who has fallen.

Sometimes it is simply asking:

“How are you really doing?”

And then taking time to listen to the answer.

A shepherd who knows the burdens of the flock will preach differently.

He will pray differently.

He will counsel differently.

He will teach with greater understanding.

He will know when to correct and when to comfort.

He will know when someone needs a warning and when someone needs encouragement.

He will understand that the same outward behavior may have very different causes.

This is why shepherding requires more than a powerful voice.

It requires a caring heart.

DO NOT ASSUME THAT EVERY STRUGGLING PERSON IS REBELLIOUS

When a shepherd does not know the circumstances of his people, he can easily misinterpret their behavior.

Someone may be absent because of sickness.

Someone may be late because of work.

Someone may be quiet because of grief.

Someone may not participate because of financial pressure.

Someone may withdraw because they have been wounded.

Someone may be struggling privately with something they are ashamed to disclose.

Someone may simply need help understanding what they have been taught.

If the shepherd does not know the person, he may quickly label the situation as rebellion.

But shepherding requires discernment.

Before judging, ask.

Before condemning, listen.

Before rebuking, understand.

Before making an accusation, seek the facts.

Not every absence is rebellion.

Not every question is disrespect.

Not every weakness is backsliding.

Not every disagreement is rebellion against God.

Sometimes the sheep do not need another warning.

Sometimes they need someone to find out what is happening.

THE SHEPHERD SHOULD GO AFTER THE SHEEP

Jesus gave the picture of a shepherd who notices when one sheep is missing:

“If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine… and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?” — Matthew 18:12

This is the heart of shepherding.

The shepherd notices.

The shepherd cares.

The shepherd searches.

The shepherd seeks restoration.

The shepherd does not simply say:

“That person has left; let them go.”

Where appropriate, he reaches out.

He calls.

He visits.

He asks questions.

He prays.

He seeks to understand.

He looks for ways to restore.

The shepherd is not merely concerned about the number sitting in the building.

He is concerned about the condition of the people.

The true shepherd does not measure success only by how many people remain under his influence.

He measures it by how many people are becoming like Christ.

He does not rejoice because people are afraid to leave him.

He rejoices because people are becoming strong enough to follow Christ faithfully.

He does not seek to make himself indispensable.

He seeks to equip others.

He does not want people to say,

“We cannot survive without our pastor.”

He wants them to become a mature Body that can function under the Headship of Christ.

For the flock does not belong to the shepherd.

The flock belongs to the Chief Shepherd.

And every servant entrusted with God’s people must one day give an account to Him for how he shepherded what belonged to Him.

Therefore:

Do not frighten the flock.

Feed the flock.

Do not control the flock.

Equip the flock.

Do not dominate the flock.

Serve the flock.

Do not make the flock dependent upon you.

Lead the flock into dependence upon Christ.

Do not use the whip to keep the sheep near you.

Let them experience the love, truth, holiness and life of the Chief Shepherd through your faithful example.

The highest expression of Kingdom authority is not making people afraid of you.

It is becoming trustworthy enough to help them become mature in Christ.

The authority to take over and take charge begins with taking charge of ourselves—our pride, our desire for control, our need for recognition, our anger, our insecurity, our ambition and our desire to be followed.

For the servant who cannot govern his own spirit should be very careful about trying to govern God’s people.

The flock belongs to Jesus.

The Church belongs to Jesus.

The authority belongs to Jesus.

The glory belongs to Jesus.

And the shepherd is only a steward until the Chief Shepherd appears.

TO BE CONTINUED……

TUESDAY MORNING FAMILY PRAYER!

“LORD, COVER OUR FAMILIES, SAVE OUR SOULS, HEAL OUR BODIES, AND BLESS THE WORK OF OUR HANDS!”

Heavenly Father,

On this blessed Tuesday morning, we come before Your throne of grace with thanksgiving, praise, and grateful hearts! Lord, we thank You for waking us up this morning, for Your mercy that is new every day, and for Your faithfulness toward our families. You have kept us through dangers seen and unseen, and for that, we say THANK YOU, JESUS!

Father, we lift up every member of our families before You today!

LORD, WE PRAY FOR SALVATION! Touch the hearts of our loved ones who do not know You as their personal Lord and Savior. Remove spiritual blindness, soften hardened hearts, and draw them into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. Your Word declares in Acts 16:31 (KJV), “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.” Lord, let salvation come to our households!

LORD, WE PRAY FOR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALING! We lift up those battling sickness, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, emotional distress, and mental exhaustion. Father, restore their strength, renew their minds, and give them peace in the middle of their struggles. Your Word declares in Jeremiah 30:17 (KJV), “For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD.” Lord, touch every hurting body, troubled mind, and wounded heart!

LORD, WE PRAY OVER OUR FINANCES! Teach us to be faithful stewards over what You have already entrusted to us. Help us manage the little with wisdom, discipline, and integrity so that when increase comes, we will remain faithful over much. Your Word declares in Luke 16:10 (KJV), “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” Father, remove the spirit of wastefulness, teach us contentment, and give us wisdom to make sound financial decisions.

LORD, WE PRAY FOR EMPLOYMENT AND INCREASE! Open doors of opportunity for family members seeking employment. Bless them with jobs that provide stability, benefits, and the ability to care for their households. For those already employed, we pray for salary increases, promotions, recognition, and new opportunities for advancement. Let their diligence and faithfulness be rewarded according to Your will. Your Word declares in Philippians 4:19 (KJV), “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

Father, remind us that our jobs are resources, but YOU, LORD JESUS, ARE OUR SOURCE! Our confidence is not in a paycheck, an employer, or the economy, but in You, our faithful Provider!

LORD, WE LIFT UP OUR INCARCERATED FAMILY MEMBERS! Father, wherever they are, let Your presence reach them. Protect their minds, bodies, and spirits. Give them hope where there is hopelessness, peace where there is fear, and repentance where there is wrongdoing. Break destructive cycles, restore broken relationships, and help them discover their purpose in You. Your Word declares in John 8:36 (KJV), “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” Lord, even behind prison walls, let them experience the freedom that comes through Jesus Christ!

FATHER, WE PLACE OUR ENTIRE FAMILIES INTO YOUR HANDS! Cover our homes, marriages, children, grandchildren, parents, and loved ones. Strengthen our faith, unite our hearts, and help us trust You in every season.

Lord, we may not know what this Tuesday holds, BUT WE KNOW WHO HOLDS OUR FUTURE!

We surrender our plans, our needs, our burdens, and our desires to You. Not our will, but Your will be done!

WE DECLARE THAT JESUS CHRIST IS OUR SAVIOR, OUR HEALER, OUR PROVIDER, OUR PROTECTOR, AND OUR PEACE!

We give You all the glory, honor, and praise!

IN THE MIGHTY, MATCHLESS, AND POWERFUL NAME OF JESUS CHRIST, WE PRAY!

AMEN AND AMEN! 🏿

“But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:15 (KJV)

*TODAY'S PROPHETIC DECLARATION - TUESDAY, 13TH OCTOBER, 2026.*

_BE RICH TOWARD GOD, NOT JUST IN MATERIAL POSSESSIONS!_

ANCHOR SCRIPTURE:
“But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?”
-LUKE 12:20 (KJV)

*REFLECTION: WHEN EARTHLY WEALTH BECOMES MORE IMPORTANT THAN ETERNITY*

In Luke 12:16–21, Jesus told the story of a rich man whose land produced a plentiful harvest. Instead of considering how to honour God and help others with his abundance, the man focused on accumulating wealth for his personal comfort.

He planned to build bigger barns, store his possessions, and enjoy life for many years. However, he forgot one important truth: we may make plans for tomorrow, but only God holds tomorrow in His hands.

God called him a fool, not because he was wealthy, but because he had prepared for earthly comfort without preparing his soul for eternity.

Beloved, there is nothing wrong with working hard, building a business, saving money, investing wisely, or planning for your family's future. The danger begins when we become so occupied with material possessions that we neglect God, our spiritual lives, and our responsibility to others.

You can have money in the bank but lack peace in your heart. You can own a beautiful house but neglect the spiritual condition of your home. You can become successful in business and still fail to fulfil God's purpose for your life.

True riches are not measured only by what you possess, but also by your relationship with God, the love you demonstrate, and the eternal value of your life.

As we continue our October journey under the theme “My Month of Joy from Divine Helper,” may God grant us wisdom to prosper without losing our souls, enjoy His blessings without becoming selfish, and use our resources to glorify His name.

God does not want you merely to accumulate wealth; He wants you to live a life that is rich in faith, love, generosity, and good works!

THE WARNING OF LUKE 12:20

Jesus' question challenges every generation:

“Then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?”

The rich man believed that his possessions guaranteed his future, but he could not guarantee even the next day of his life.

This teaches us three important lessons:

1. Life is a gift: Never take the opportunity to live, serve God, and bless others for granted.
2. Possessions are temporary: Everything we acquire on earth will eventually be left behind.
3. Eternity matters: We must prepare not only for our earthly future but also for our eternal destiny through a living relationship with God.

Do not allow what you are building on earth to destroy what God wants to build in you!

TODAY'S QUESTION

What are you pursuing so passionately that you may be neglecting your relationship with God?

Is it money?

Business success?

Education?

Career advancement?

Recognition?

Property and material possessions?

Personal comfort?

Or have you become so busy meeting the needs of others that you no longer make time for your own spiritual growth?

Today, examine your priorities before God.

Remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:33:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Let God be the foundation of your plans, the centre of your decisions, and the purpose behind your success.

*PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:*

Today, I declare in faith:

I RECEIVE WISDOM TO LIVE PURPOSEFULLY!

I will not waste my life pursuing things that have no eternal value.

I receive divine wisdom to number my days and fulfil God's purpose for my life.

I will work diligently, plan responsibly, and trust God for my future.

I will not allow material possessions to take the place of God in my heart.

My life shall bring glory to the name of Jesus Christ!

I WILL PROSPER WITHOUT LOSING MY SOUL!

The Lord shall grant me wisdom in my work, business, studies, and financial decisions.

I shall not be controlled by greed, pride, selfishness, or the love of money.

I will pursue legitimate opportunities with diligence and integrity.

I shall manage my resources responsibly and provide for my family according to God's provision.

I will not compromise my faith for financial gain.

MY PROSPERITY SHALL NOT DESTROY MY SPIRITUALITY!

I SHALL BE A CHANNEL OF BLESSING!

I will not live only for myself.

God shall give me a generous heart to support my family, encourage the discouraged, help those in need, and contribute to the advancement of His kingdom.

My gifts, skills, time, knowledge, and resources shall become instruments of blessing.

I shall not close my eyes to the needs of others when God has given me the ability to help.

My life shall reflect the love and compassion of Jesus Christ!

‍‍‍ MY FAMILY SHALL EXPERIENCE GOD'S FAITHFULNESS!

The Lord shall guide my household and grant us wisdom in our decisions.

Our home shall not be controlled by greed, materialism, or the pursuit of worldly recognition.

We shall grow in love, unity, gratitude, faith, and contentment.

The Lord shall grant us strength to face challenges and wisdom to manage the blessings He entrusts to us.

MY FAMILY AND I SHALL SERVE THE LORD FAITHFULLY!

I SHALL REMAIN RICH TOWARD GOD!

My faith shall grow stronger.

My prayer life shall become deeper.

My love for God's Word shall increase.

My service in God's kingdom shall remain fruitful.

My character shall reflect the nature of Christ.

My life shall be a testimony of God's goodness and transforming grace.

I will not allow earthly pursuits to distract me from my heavenly calling.

IN THIS MONTH OF JOY FROM DIVINE HELYP, I SHALL WALK IN WISDOM, LIVE WITH PURPOSE, AND REMAIN FAITHFUL TO GOD, IN JESUS' MIGHTY NAME. AMEN!

*ACTION STEPS FOR TODAY:*

EXAMINE YOUR PRIORITIES: Take time to consider whether God has His rightful place in your daily life.

STUDY GOD'S WORD: Read Luke 12:13–21 and meditate on the parable of the rich fool.

PRACTISE GRATITUDE: Thank God for the life, opportunities, relationships, and resources He has given you.

PLAN RESPONSIBLY: Review one financial, family, business, or personal goal and identify a wise step you can take towards it.

HELP SOMEONE: Offer practical assistance, encouragement, or support to someone in need, according to your ability.

STRENGTHEN YOUR PRAYER LIFE: Make time to speak with God about your plans, desires, challenges, and responsibilities.

REMOVE DISTRACTIONS: Identify one activity or habit that is consuming too much of your time and hindering your spiritual growth.

MANAGE YOUR RESOURCES WISELY: Avoid unnecessary spending, deceptive financial schemes, and decisions driven by greed or pressure.

SERVE GOD FAITHFULLY: Find one practical way to contribute to your church, ministry, or community.

DECLARE:

“I WILL WORK DILIGENTLY, PROSPER RESPONSIBLY, BLESS OTHERS GENEROUSLY, AND REMAIN RICH TOWARD GOD!”

*PRAYER FOR TODAY:*

Heavenly Father,

I thank You for the gift of life, the privilege of seeing another day, and the countless blessings You have graciously given me.

Thank You for being my Creator, Sustainer, Provider, and Helper.

Lord, as I meditate on Luke 12:20, give me the wisdom to understand that life is more than material possessions. Help me to live each day with eternity in view and to use every opportunity You give me to fulfil Your purpose.

Father, forgive me for the times I have become too occupied with earthly pursuits and neglected my spiritual growth.

Forgive me for the moments when I have valued possessions more than Your presence, pursued success without seeking Your direction, or focused on my own comfort while ignoring the needs of others.

LORD, GIVE ME A HEART THAT IS RICH TOWARD YOU!

Teach me to love You wholeheartedly, obey Your Word faithfully, and serve You sincerely.

Let my relationship with You be stronger than my desire for material possessions. May my greatest ambition be to know You more, walk in Your will, and bring glory to Your holy name.

Father, bless the work of my hands. Give me wisdom to pursue legitimate opportunities, discipline to manage my resources, patience to make sound decisions, and discernment to avoid deception.

Open doors of opportunity according to Your will. Deliver me from financial confusion, wastefulness, greed, and dishonest gain.

Grant me the grace to prosper without compromising my faith.

‍‍‍ LORD, REMEMBER MY FAMILY!

Provide for our needs and strengthen the bonds of love among us.

Protect our household from evil and guide us in the decisions we make.

Give us wisdom to raise our children in Your ways and to teach them that true success is found not merely in what we possess but in whom we become through Your grace.

Let our home be filled with peace, gratitude, generosity, and the fear of the Lord.

LORD, STRENGTHEN YOUR CHURCH AND MY MINISTRY!

Help Your ministers and Christian workers to remain faithful to the Gospel.

Deliver us from the temptation to pursue material gain at the expense of spiritual responsibility.

Raise generous believers who will use their resources to support Your kingdom, care for the needy, and spread the good news of Jesus Christ.

Make my life and ministry fruitful. Let my service lead others to Christ and let my character reflect Your transforming grace.

FATHER, BLESS MY WORK AND ENDEAVOURS!

Grant me wisdom in my studies, excellence in my responsibilities, and integrity in my business dealings.

Help me to recognise genuine opportunities and avoid decisions that could bring unnecessary loss.

Teach me to save wisely, invest responsibly, work diligently, and give generously.

May the blessings You place in my hands become instruments of good works and practical help to others.

LORD, PREPARE MY HEART FOR ETERNITY!

Do not allow me to become so consumed by the things of this world that I forget the importance of my soul.

Teach me to use my time wisely, forgive freely, love sincerely, serve faithfully, and walk humbly before You.

May my life be remembered not merely for the things I acquired but for the faith I demonstrated, the people I helped, the souls I encouraged, and the glory I brought to Your name.

LORD, LET MY LIFE COUNT FOR ETERNITY!

In this month of joy from divine helper, guide my steps, strengthen my faith, establish my plans according to Your will, and help me to remain faithful through every season of life.

I place my future, my family, my ministry, my work, and all my aspirations in Your hands.

Let Your will be done in my life.

In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, I pray. AMEN AND AMEN!

*BLESSING FOR TODAY:*

May the Lord grant you wisdom to live purposefully and grace to manage every blessing responsibly.

May He bless the work of your hands, preserve your life, strengthen your family, and direct your decisions.

May you prosper without compromising your faith and enjoy God's blessings without becoming enslaved to material possessions.

May the Lord give you a generous heart, a contented spirit, and a renewed desire to serve Him faithfully.

May your family experience His peace, your ministry reflect His grace, your work produce fruitful results, and your life become a blessing to many.

May God grant you discernment to recognise what truly matters and courage to pursue His purpose above every earthly ambition.

May your heart be rich in faith!

May your life be rich in love!

May your hands be fruitful in good works!

May your soul remain steadfast in Christ!

May God's divine help sustain you today and throughout this month, in Jesus' mighty name. AMEN!

FINAL WORD

Beloved, remember that the greatest tragedy is not failing to accumulate earthly wealth; it is gaining the world while neglecting your relationship with God.

Work hard, plan wisely, pursue excellence, care for your family, and enjoy God's blessings. But above all, remain faithful to the One who gives you life and strength.

Let your success serve a greater purpose. Let your resources become a blessing to others. Let your faith guide your decisions. And let your life be rich toward God.


“LORD, TEACH ME TO LIVE WISELY, PROSPER RESPONSIBLY, BLESS OTHERS GENEROUSLY, AND REMAIN FAITHFUL TO YOU ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE!”

IN JESUS' MIGHTY NAME, AMEN!

Good morning, beloved, and have a blessed Tuesday!

May your day be productive, your decisions be guided by wisdom, and your heart remain steadfast in Christ.

Shalom!

*Remember: Your confession is your possession.*

For counseling, prayers and kingdom partnership or you want to share your testimonies with us; please call or Whatsapp: +2348063128703
Or
Email: clementoyadosuAnderson Mwila.com

_Please share with others, thank you and God bless you _

* Postulant C. O. Oyadosu.*

Good morning, brethren.

1. Morning devotion for today.

MD.i. MORNING TEA
THE WORD FOR TODAY. TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2026.
"FORGIVENESS (2)"

‘…Forgiving each other, just as…God forgave you.’ Ephesians 4:32 NIV

THE BIBLE says, ‘Be kind…forgiving each other…as…God forgave you.’ Kristin Armstrong says: ‘After you forgive…you get to walk out the process…it’s a collaborative effort of God’s power and your hard work. Letting go isn’t always as simple as opening your tightly-clenched fist, although deliverance sometimes is immediate. For example, some people quit smoking cold-turkey, while others chew nicotine gum for years! Old habits die hard, and letting go of resentment means: a) Recommitting to your decision as many times as old thoughts of unforgiveness pop into your head. b) Making peace with the space formerly occupied by bitterness, regret and thoughts of revenge until the Holy Spirit takes up full-time occupancy in the new digs! c) Releasing old, toxic relationships and people whose only purpose is keeping your old wounds fresh. When people change around unchanging people, it makes them aware of their own need for change, and it scares them. d) Just as your salvation was immediate yet you have to walk out your sanctification, the release of your forgiveness is immediate but you have to walk out your healing. e) Living a life free from the burden of resentment and the toxicity of unforgiveness is a choice followed by a series of choices. Each one becomes easier…as we move farther from our old ways and into the light…Paul said, ‘It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…’ (Galatians 5:1 NIV) and every time we let something or someone go free, we receive freedom for ourselves in overflowing proportion. It’s a time-tested, guaranteed spiritual principle backed by the promise of Scripture.’

Bible In A Year: Exo 34:29-35, Mark 9:2-27, 2 Cor 3:7-18. 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. [12/10, 8:52 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA*

TUESDAY, 13TH OCTOBER, 2026.

*REDEMPTION STORY EXPLAINED*

*TEXT:* GALATIANS 3:12-14.

12 And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.
13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

*Timeless Truth:*_"Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree"_ (Galatians 3:13).

*INTRODUCTION*

The Redemption story is the most important, delightful and sweetest story ever known to the man who has the grace to understand and believe it. It is a true story where mercy and judgment met and it produced grace and hope, present and eternal, for mankind which cannot be improved upon by man in this world and in the world to come. It is a story which no finite mind can ever think of conceiving. The effect of it effectively neutralises and destroys all the consequences, known and unknown to man, of the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. For those who accepted and believed, it brought man from the lowest depth of dungeon and hell and brought him to sit at the table of God as children and joint heirs with Christ for eternity. Eternally, happy is he who believes with the faith of a child and better never to be born is anybody who hears to doubt, reject or scorn.

*1. Core Comparison of Righteousness*

a. The fact that righteousness is an indispensable requirement for mankind to be in tune with normal human living and pleasing God is not in question. Without righteousness, man will be reduced to animalistic behaviours that will even make him worse than animals. Many of the vices of modern man are even strange to the animal kingdom. Animals generally, protect, nurture or coexist within their groups by instinct, whereas humans can betray, exploit, abandon or scheme against their own children, partners and kin for greed or ego. Humans possess a conscience and the knowledge of good and evil, yet they frequently choose corruption, deceit and malice despite knowing the harm it causes.
b. The interim arrangement God made to enforce some sort of righteousness was by writing moral laws in the conscience of man, giving Israel his Law through Moses for the moral direction of man. Obeying those laws, both moral and ceremonial, was counted as righteousness. It is a righteousness that is void of grace and additional divine inputs or support. Man must strive by his will power to obey the laws though human nature is accustomed to evil. The man that can discipline himself and deliberately do all his best to live it out will be called the righteous then. That life of obedience to the Law would qualify him to be called righteous. *"The man that doeth them shall live in them"*. However, that righteousness was just for the interim. It could not please God and it was far below the divine standard of righteousness. It falls short of the standard and the glory of God. In order to live that life, God must give divine enablement to the weak and depraved nature through recreation and transformation of the heart. What would move the surgical hand of God to do that? What would be a leveller that would be affordable to all so as to get God's precious righteousness? Faith. Faith in Christ. Period. *"The Law is not of faith"*. The Law looks at human efforts, faith looks at divine help through Christ. Faith is what is affordable by all.

*Question*

Do you put your faith in Jesus so as to get the righteousness of Christ?

*2. Cancellation of Curses for the Redeemed*

a. Curse is all about limitations in life. If a student fails an examination, he is given limitations that he cannot move to a higher class. If an employee cannot pass his promotional interview, he is given a limitation that he cannot move to the next level. This is normal and not necessarily wickedness. There is a divine curse to every disobedience. It is called the "curse of the Law". This curse has no mercy and is not discriminatory. It can come from God directly or through agents of curses. Jesus does not only give His righteousness which makes someone a new creature, but also breaks the power of curses or limitations in the life of that person since it is unrighteousness that attracts the curses. He did this once and for all to all those who will put their faith in Him as their Deliverer and Saviour. It is left for individuals to key into it through repentance from all unrighteousness and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Faith in Christ is all about confidence in the power of Christ to deliver from all sins and curses and make a person totally holy. *"Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree"*.

*Question*

Do you put your faith in Christ to redeem you from all curses and limitations known and unknown to you?

*3. Consequences of Christ's Redemption*

There are two consequences mentioned here. One, *"that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ"*. The blessings of Abraham include earthly blessings and prosperity. It includes security and protection from enemies. It includes family blessings (Genesis 12:2,3). It includes being a great blessing to others. It is left to each believer to key into it by faith. The second blessing has not yet been enjoyed by Israel as they will only enjoy it during the millennial reign of Christ. The Gentiles who believe in Jesus are enjoying it now. *"That we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith"*. The promise of the Spirit includes the spirit of adoption. It includes Holy Ghost power for all God's children. It includes the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In fact, it includes the Holy Spirit coming to reside on the earth in the heart of all believers just like Jesus came to reside on earth before going back to heaven. It is a mighty mother of all blessings which the merely religious or mere having the righteousness of the Law cannot attract.

*Question*

Are you enjoying the blessings of the Holy Spirit yet or are you still clinging to your religion or good works without Christ?

*Prayer Points*

1.Praise God for the Redemption story that brings the greatest blessing to man at no cost because Jesus paid for it .
2.Confess that your faith is only in Jesus and pray that your faith in Him will never fail, but will increase .
3.Ask for revelation and cancellation of any stubborn limitations in your life by the blood of Jesus.
4.Pray for the merely religious in the church that they will repent from self righteousness and submit to the righteousness of Christ by faith alone .

*HYMN:* Wonderful Grace of Jesus Christ.

*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* LUKE 23-24.
[12/10, 9:14 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

TUESDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 2026```


*CURSE AND CURE* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

```TEXT:GALATIANS 3:12-14```

```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree" (GALATIANS 3:13).*_

*Here is how Albert Barnes (1798 - 1870), an American theologian, explains justification: "What is justification? It is the declared purpose of God to regard and treat those sinners who believe in Jesus Christ as if they had not sinned, on the ground of the merits of the Saviour. It is not a mere pardon. Pardon is a free forgiveness of past offenses. It has reference to those sins as forgiven and blotted out. Justification has respect to the law, and to God's future dealings with the sinner. It is an act by which God determines to treat him hereafter as righteous - as if he had not sinned. The basis for this is the merit of the Lord Jesus Christ, a merit that we can plead as if it were our own. He has taken our place and died in our stead; He has met the descending stroke of justice, which would have fallen on our own heads if He had not interposed."*

*This justification was Paul's focus in today's text. The Apostle aimed to convince the Galatian Christians that they are justified by faith, not by the works of the law. Some of these believers had been swayed by false teachings, leading them away from the faith of the gospel. Paul used various arguments to prove that believers are justified by faith, and that despite the threats of the law, they can be freed from its curse by Christ's bearing the curse for them. The law and faith do not mix, as the law is about "doing," while faith is about "done." Neither the Jews nor the Gentiles can meet the law's demand. Those who rely on the law remain under the curse from which Christ came to set us free.*

*Christ paid the price for our sins. He was made "to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." By putting their faith in His finished redemptive work, believers become justified. They depend no longer on the "works of the law" - works done without faith and grace, but through fear of temporal gratification. Believers do "works of faith" - done in the spirit of liberty, borne out of love for God.*

*Being set free from the curse of the law, we must live by faith and shun every tendency to relapse into any form of legalism.*

✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*It is perilous foolishness to shun the finished work of Christ.*_

```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *REVELATION 1-3*


Curse And Cure
https://dailymanna.app//
*RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 17: NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS; GHS 256: REDEEMED; GHS 124: CHRIST RECEIVETH SINFUL MEN; AND GHS 133: OUT OF MY BONDAGE*
*TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
*#DailyManna13thOctober2026*
*#GCK*
*#WorshipNuggets*
*#BibleNuggets*
*#LeadershipNuggets*
*#RevivalNuggets*
*#CrusadeNuggets*
https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
[12/10, 9:14 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

✍🏽🏻‍ 🏽🛰

```TUESDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 2026```

*LET YOUR HANDS BE STRONG - 1* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

```TEXT:ZECHARIAH 8:1-12```

``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built" (ZECHARIAH 8:9).*_

*The gospel outreach to Filey (England) in the early days of the Methodists was difficult because several preachers sent there failed one after another. Being hopeless, the mission council thought of abandoning it. Just then, a burdened young man volunteered to go. He was John Oxtoby, nick-named, 'Praying Johnny' by those who knew his prayer power.*

*As John ascended the hill between Muston and Filey and viewed the community, he knelt under a hedge and prayed for several hours. Assured of breakthrough, he entered with a message, "Turn to the Lord and seek salvation." A dozen of hardened sinners wept and repented. That was the beginning of his exploits.*

*In our text, God revealed the glory He would make of Jerusalem that was then desolate with her people scattered among other nations. God intends to build His people, and this requires commitment from faithful labourers.*

*Like John Oxtoby, Christian youths are to arise with strong hands and boldness to preach the gospel to bring souls in their neighbourhood to repentance. Answer His call today, and He will use you.*

```QUOTE:``` _*Answer His call.*_

```CHALLENGE:``` _*Be passionate to save the penitent.*_

🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, save the sinners in our schools and neighbourhood.*_



Let Your Hands Be Strong - 1
https://dailymanna.app//

*TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
*#HigherEveryday13thOctober2026*
*#GCK*
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*#RevivalNuggets*
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https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
[12/10, 9:14 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

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

🏼🏼‍‍🏼‍🏼‍🏼‍

```TUESDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 2026```

*GOD, OUR SECURITY* 🫵🏽🏽‍🏽‍🏽🏽‍🏽🏽

```PSALM 23:4-6```



```Key Verse:``` _*"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4).*_



An influential woman who worked with the Government of her country had a supernatural encounter with the Lord. She was transformed as she genuinely surrendered her life to Jesus.

Soon after taking this important decision, her family members turned against her. The government and her agencies started persecuting her. All the security personnel attached to her were withdrawn. She was now open to attack from agents of the government and religious leaders.

There were threats to her life. Initially, she thought of having a fence around house, but God assured her of His presence. She believed God and remained in her country, still under threat. Finally, she was able to escape from her country to a safe place. God kept His promise, and no one was able to harm her till she left.

*Children of God have nothing to fear because God is our refuge and strength, a present help in time of trouble. All that is required of you is to remain holy and stay with Jesus. As the hen always cover her chicks with her feathers, so also the Lord will cover us and keep us from all harm.*



```rayer:``` _*I am under your protection Lord, let me never wander away from You.*_ 🏽

``` Further Reading:``` *Psalm 46:1-11*


God, Our Security
https://dailymanna.app//

*TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
*#SincereMilk13thOctober2026*
*#GCK*
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2. Morning Prayer for today.

MP.i. Morning Prayer

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all MEMBE EDRINE NSUBUGA liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. ⏤ James 1:5

Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work. ⏤ Oswald Chambers

Our Father in Heaven, we, Your children, gather at Your feet this morning to start the day with You. We seek Your blessing before we go out. We aren’t strong enough on our own for the tasks ahead today, so we ask for Your strength. We can’t resist the temptations we’ll face without Your help, so we ask for the grace to overcome them. We don’t always know the best choices to make, so we pray for the wisdom to walk in holiness.

Graciously remember us, Your children, O God, and don’t hold our sins against us. Instead, in Your mercy, bless and save us. Teach us to do Your will. Help us to live today in a way that pleases You. Let us not grieve You or hurt Your heart of love through carelessness, unbelief, or disobedience.

We ask You to bless us in our work and all our daily duties. Help us to be faithful in everything we do and skilled in our work. Help us to see our everyday tasks as part of our Father’s business. In this way, may we glorify You through the work of our hands.

We don’t just pray for ourselves and our own home. We pray for our neighbors. May Your blessing rest on their homes. Some of them don’t know You. No prayers rise to You from their homes. Have mercy on them. Bless the children who have no one to pray for them. Let Your peace rest on the homes of those who love You.

Receive us now into Your care as we go out into the unknown experiences of this day. Keep us safe and bring us back together in peace at the end of the day. We ask all this in Jesus’ precious name. Amen.

https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/09/morning

#taptapstudio
#youdevotion.

A Biblical Deep Dive into the Ministry Gifts of the Holy Spirit

(Moving Away from Church Tradition and Returning to the Pure Word of God)
Good day, family in Christ! Amen and bless you all.
Recently, a member in our group asked for a teaching and biblical discussion regarding the ministry gifts of the Holy Spirit specifically asking for biblical facts, not church traditions or what we were taught in religious institutions.
Today, we are going back to the Scriptures to examine the Giver, the gifts, the purpose of spiritual power, and the terrifying line Jesus draws between operating in gifts (Charisma) and bearing spiritual fruit (Karpos).

1. The Giver Before the Gifts (Relationship First)
Before we talk about gifts, power, or manifestations, we must understand the Person who gives the gifts. Having spiritual tools without knowing the Master who made them is useless and dangerous.
In the Gospels, the disciples walked with Jesus, lived with Him, learned from Him, and obeyed Him first. They were not entrusted with the power of the Holy Spirit in Acts 1:8 until after they had truly known and followed Him. Discipleship must always precede power!

2. "I Knew You" vs. "I Never Knew You": The Biblical Difference
People often ask: "How can God know someone before they are born, yet say to religious workers at the judgment, 'I never knew you'?"
The Bible uses two different meanings for the word "know":

Jeremiah 1:5 God's Sovereign Purpose Before Birth (Yada)
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew (yada) you; before you were born I sanctified you..."

In Hebrew, Yada means God's divine awareness, sovereign choice, and assignment. God formed you and assigned gifts and calling to your life before you existed (Psalm 139:13-16).

Matthew 7:23 Relational Intimacy in Christ (Ginōskō)
"And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew (ginōskō) you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!'"

In Greek, Ginōskō means intimate covenant relationship. Jesus is not saying He lacked information about them (God knows all things); He is saying, "We never had a relationship. You did religious things, but you never surrendered your heart to Me."
3. The Exegetical Audit of Matthew 7:21-23 (The False Resume vs. Divine Verdict)
In Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus delivers one of the most sobering court verdicts in all of Scripture. These individuals standing before Him are not atheists or mockers they are active religious leaders presenting a three-part spiritual resume:

Verbal Orthodoxy ("Lord, Lord"): They acknowledged Jesus' title with their mouths, but verbal confession without moral surrender is an empty shell (Matthew 7:21).

Supernatural Performance: They said, "Have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders (dynameis) in Your name?" (v. 22).

Look at what is COMPLETELY MISSING from their defense:

They do not say: "Lord, we repented of our sins."

They do not say: "Lord, we loved You and kept Your commandments."

They do not say: "Lord, we walked in holiness, humility, and daily cross bearing."
Their assurance was anchored entirely in what they did for God, rather than whether they were born of God. Jesus banishes them because they "practice lawlessness" (anomia a continuous, unrepentant lifestyle of self-will hidden under a religious cloak).
4. Why Gifts (Charismata) Are NOT Fruit (Karpos)
The modern church often makes the fatal error of confusing a gift with fruit.
/ SPIRITUAL GIFTS (Charismata 1 Cor 12) / SPIRITUAL FRUIT (Karpos Gal 5:22-23)
/ Sovereignly distributed by God (1 Cor 12:11). / Grown through daily abiding in Christ (John 15:5). /
/ Demonstrates God's Power. / Demonstrates God's Character & Holiness. /
/ Can flow through an unholy vessel. / Is the undeniable proof of true regeneration. /
/ Temporary (will pass away 1 Cor 13:8). / Eternal (reflects the nature of Christ). /

Gifts Can Flow Through Unholy Vessels:

Balaam's donkey spoke prophetically (Numbers 22:28).

Caiaphas, a corrupt high priest who plotted Christ's murder, uttered a divine prophecy (John 11:49-51).

Judas Iscariot was sent out, cast out demons, and healed the sick (Matthew 10:1-8), yet he was a thief and a son of perdition (John 17:12).

Fruit Cannot Be Faked Internally: You can hang plastic fruit on a dead tree, but only a living branch connected to the True Vine can produce real spiritual fruit (John 15:5). Jesus said: "You will know them by their fruits" (Matthew 7:20) not by their gifts!
5. My Personal Testimony: Raw Sensitivity Hijacked vs. Redeemed in Christ
Romans 11:29 says, "For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable."
Before I gave my life to Jesus and was born again, I was operating in spiritual discernment and knowledge without knowing it. I could look at people and just know things about their lives or what they were going through. But because I was living in the flesh, the enemy hijacked that raw gift. I used it for sinful, selfish things for my own advantage, for girls, and for pride. I used to think it was a curse because I didn't understand why I was different from my friends.
The enemy stole what God placed in me before birth (yada) and used it for evil. But praise God, when Jesus saved me, He redeemed that gift to be used strictly for His Kingdom and His glory!

Maturity Means Knowing WHEN to Speak and WHEN to Pray:

A person once came to me sharing terrifying dreams they were having dreams of death, seeing themselves dying, and seeing someone who looked like them. Now, I am not a "dream person," so I simply advised them to ask God to reveal the meaning of the dreams.
However, months before this, God had already shown me in the spirit that this person was going through spiritual death dying in their faith. But God held me back and gave me direction: "Watch and pray."
If this had been the old me in the flesh without a relationship with Jesus, I would have blurted it out immediately in my own timing. That would have ended badly, because spiritual conviction doesn't always feel good especially when it comes from someone people feel isn't "qualified" or has no religious title.
Instead, I stayed quiet and interceded for them in secret (Matthew 6:6). Months later, after speaking with their own pastor, their pastor told them: "It sounds like you are dying in your faith."
When they came back and shared what their pastor said, I could finally tell them: "God showed me that months ago, but I couldn't tell you directly I could only pray for you, so that you would hear it confirmed through your own pastor." From that moment on, we were able to open up, speak truth, and pray together safely.
Insight is an invitation to intercede first! Operating in spiritual gifts without intimacy with Jesus leads to reckless speech and damage. But when you are in a living relationship with Christ, the Spirit gives you wisdom, restraint, and divine timing (1 Corinthians 13:1-2).

6. Biblical Fact vs. Church Tradition
Let's directly answer what was asked in our group contrasting man-made religious traditions with pure Scripture:

Church Tradition: Ministry gifts (Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers) are titles of nobility, ranks of authority, or badges of honor.

Biblical Fact: Ephesians 4:11-12 states these are functions of service to equip the saints for the work of ministry. Jesus declared: "Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant" (Matthew 20:26).

Church Tradition: You need human papers, theological degrees, or institutional titles to be used by God.

Biblical Fact: In Acts 4:13, the religious leaders saw that Peter and John were "uneducated and untrained men," but they recognized that they had been with Jesus! God chooses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27). Stand on the Word of God that is all the backing you need!

Church Tradition: Gifts can be bought, sold, or used to build personal platforms and charge money for "prophetic words."

Biblical Fact: When Simon the Sorcerer tried to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter rebuked him harshly (Acts 8:18-20). Jesus commanded: "Freely you have received, freely give" (Matthew 10:8).

7. As disciples: Inspect Your Own Heart
As believers / disciples called to stand in these last days, we must apply these truths directly to our own lives:

Stop Evaluating Ministers by Their Platform: Never validate a preacher, prophet, or creator because they have a massive following or work miracles. Examine their fruit, their humility, their honesty with money, and whether they preach repentance and obedience (1 John 4:1).

Inspect Your Secret Life: Do not rest your assurance of salvation on teaching, praying for others, or leading groups. Ask yourself: Am I known by Jesus in secret? Am I walking in holiness when no one is watching? Is my self will crucified daily? (2 Corinthians 13:5, Luke 9:23).

Return to the True Gospel: Jesus did not come to give us a platform; He came to give us a new heart (Ezekiel 36:26). True faith repents, turns away from lawlessness, submits to Jesus Christ, and bears fruit that remains!

Let's Pray Together:
Father in Heaven, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Forgive us for times we have valued spiritual gifts over spiritual fruit, or performance over obedience. Wash us clean and give us a pure heart and a clean mouth. We ask that You teach us how to walk in intimacy with You every day. May our lives bear the fruit of the Holy Spirit love, holiness, humility, and truth. Use every gift You have given us solely for Your glory, to build up the Body, and to pull souls into Your Kingdom. We put Jesus Christ back on the throne of our lives. In Jesus' name, Amen!

I love you but, God loves you more, and may God bless you and your families! Have a blessed day in the Lord!