DAILY MANNA 2026 DEVOTIONAL DATE: SUN, AUG 02, 2026 TOPIC: NOTHING WITHOUT HIM KEY VERSE: "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing." - (John 15:5). READ: John 15:1-5 (KJV) MESSAGE: Humanity has witnessed incredible feats over the centuries, especially in the fields of science and technology. While these developments have improved the standard of living across the world, it has equally fuelled or, at the most, reinforced atheistic and contemptuous dispositions of despisers of God. Some folks, indeed, think that God should completely stay away from the affairs of earthlings. They can boast of transgender surgery that changes sex identity at birth to something that God did not intend, all in an attempt to part ways with Him. Unknown to such warped minds, they are only trying to deform or alter what God has created. The effective way of parting ways with God would have been to create their own man or woman before meddling with their features, but not from the dust of the soil which He created. This is simply impossible! Our Lord Jesus Christ was unequivocal about man's grave inability to exist or function without Him. Just as man and his habitat could not have come into existence without Him, so we would always lean on Him, not only for sustenance, but also for survival. We live at the pleasure of God. Our breath comes from Him. Nature, through its atmosphere, land, vegetation, oceans, and rivers, from which we draw what we consume in food, manufacturing, and industry, belongs to Him. The feeble man is humiliatingly overwhelmed by his Creator. Thus helplessly exposed, man must not be arrogant or presumptuous because of any inventions, whose feats and contraptions are toys as they stand in contrast to the great galactic formations overlooking our planet. We must revere the One Who brought them forth. It's contemptuous to contemn Him by telling Him we have had enough of Him, and that we can take care of ourselves. Everyone needs God and His unfailing love and laws more than ever before to deliver them from the trap and deadly consequences of sin. We need more of Christ's presence to dominate our souls, government structures, homes, schools, public places, and worship centres. We need His peace in a troubled world on the brink of collapse. We need Him also to usher us into the hereafter of eternal joy. THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Our attachment to Christ makes life become more meaningful and fulfilling THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: John 4-5 Install the Daily Manna devotional app on play store. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=virosoft.dclm.dm

Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY SUNDAY AUGUST 2, 2O26. "TAKE THE PLUNGE (2)" ‘…Underneath are the everlasting arms...’ Deuteronomy 33:27 NKJV PICTURE THIS: A father and his two small children are playing. He’s in the swimming pool, and he invites them to run and jump into his arms. One does, the other doesn’t. The one who doesn’t, watches gleefully, applauds, and jumps up and down. But when her dad invites her to do the same she shakes her head and backs away. Is that you? Living on the edge of the pool, never taking the plunge, happy to experience life vicariously through others? Preferring to take no risk, rather than any risk? For fear of the worst, you never enjoy the best. You say, ‘But I’m not sure what I’m jumping into!’ Read this: ‘Underneath are the everlasting arms.’ Foolishness is closing your eyes and jumping before you know there’s even water in the pool, or that your father has said, ‘Come, I’ll catch you.’ Faith is knowing that the only way to conquer your fear of the water is to take the leap, because the One who is calling you has been there for you from the moment you became His child. Nothing is more important to Him than your safety, the development of your faith, and your total success in life. God told Joshua, ‘…arise, go over this Jordan…to the land which I am giving [you] …Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go’ (Joshua 1:2, 7 NKJV). Note the words, ‘Arise, go, be strong.’ In other words: take the plunge! Bible In A Year: Deut 28-29, Matt 13:47-58, Ps 119:1-8, Pro 17:3. 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. [01/08, 8:46 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SUNDAY 2ND AUGUST, 2026``` *NOTHING WITHOUT HIM* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🩸🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:JOHN 15:1-5```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing" (JOHN 15:5).*_ *Humanity has witnessed incredible feats over the centuries, especially in the fields of science and technology. While these developments have improved the standard of living across the world, it has equally fuelled or, at most, reinforced atheistic and contemptuous dispositions of despisers of God. Some folks, indeed, think that God should completely stay away from the affairs of earthlings. They can boast of transgender surgery that changes sex identity at birth to something that God did not intend, all in an attempt to part ways with Him. Unknown to such warped minds, they are only trying to deform or alter what God has created. The effective way of parting ways with God would have been to create their own man or woman before meddling with their features, but not from the dust of the soil which He created. This is simply impossible!* *Our Lord Jesus Christ was unequivocal about man's grave inability to exist or function without Him. Just as man and his habitat could not have come into existence without Him, so we should always lean on Him, not only for sustenance, but also for survival. We live at the pleasure of God. Our breath comes from Him. Nature, through its atmosphere, land, vegetation, oceans, and rivers, from which we draw what we consume in food, manufacturing, and industry, belongs to Him. The feeble man is humiliatingly overwhelmed by his Creator.* *Thus helplessly exposed, man must not be arrogant or presumptuous because of any inventions, whose feats and contraptions are toys as they stand in contrast to the great galactic formations overlooking our planet. We must revere the One Who brought them forth. It's contemptuous to contemn Him by telling Him we have had enough of Him, and that we can take care of ourselves.* *Everyone needs God and His unfailing love and laws more than ever before to deliver them from the trap and deadly consequences of sin. We need more of Christ's presence to dominate our souls, government structures, homes, schools, public places, and worship centres. We need His peace in a troubled world on the brink of collapse. We need Him also to usher us into the hereafter of eternal joy.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*Our attachment to Christ makes life become more meaningful and fulfilling.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *JOHN 4-5*📜📜 Nothing Without Him https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 23: NO OTHER PLEA; AND GHS 244: ALL THINGS IN JESUS* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna2ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [01/08, 8:46 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```SUNDAY 2ND AUGUST, 2026``` *BURNING BUSH* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🌳🔥🗣️📢📣🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:EXODUS 3:1-10```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt. And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I" (EXODUS 3:3-4).*_ *The burning bush symbolises the condition of the children of Israel in Egypt. God appeared to Moses miraculously to draw his attention to the suffering of His people in the hands of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt.* *Moses turned aside to see the burning bush, and God spoke to him about the affliction of His people and sent him to deliver them from Egypt. Sinning youths are expected to turn to God for their salvation without delay.* *Believers are expected to respond to the call of God to reach out to sinners around them. Jesus has commanded all believers to go into all parts of the world to preach the gospel to every creature. The big question is: Are there youths who are ready to turn aside like Moses did to hear the call of God?* *Our society is burning with young boys and girls who have lost the true meaning of life. God is calling on Christian youths to use the gospel to deliver sinners from eternal damnation in hell. Give your life to your Creator, and answer His call to save your generation.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Answer His call.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Answer God's call to preach the Gospel.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, give me the grace to preach the gospel to others.*_ Burning Bush https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday2ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [01/08, 8:46 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```SUNDAY 2ND AUGUST, 2026``` *CHILDREN UNLIKE THEIR FATHER* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```JOHN 8:39-44```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham" (John 8:39).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 Has someone ever told you that you resemble one of your parents? That can only happen if that person has known your parents before. However, that remark may only be true about your physical appearance, but not in your conduct. There are some children, of course, whose physical appearance and conduct are entirely different from those of their parents. That means, good and godly parents can produce bad and wicked children, like the case of Eli and his sons. Jesus knows who Abraham was (John 8:58). The Lord said He could not see any part of the character of the children of Israel that resembled that of Abraham they claimed to be their father. How could they claim to be children of Abraham who feared, obeyed and loved God, and yet go against the way and the will of God? Jesus concluded that they were children of the devil and not of Abraham (John 8:44). One's behaviour betrays him or her. No one can hate Christ, disobey His word, reject Him as Saviour and even want to kill Him, and claim to be a child of God. There are many people who use religion as a cover-up to hate and reject Christ. That is because they do not know the true God at all. *Are you one of those children who say they are children of God, friends of Jesus, but their behaviours are sinful and ungodly? It is only through your Christ-like and righteous life that others can know whether you are a true friend of Jesus or not.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, in all my desires and lifestyle, help me to be like You.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Titus 1:14-16* Children Unlike Their Father https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk2ndAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [01/08, 8:46 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* SUNDAY, 2ND AUGUST, 2026 *ABIDING IN CHRIST: THE SECRET OF A FRUITFUL LIFE* *TEXT:* JOHN 15:1–5 1. I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 2. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. 3. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. 4. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. *TimelessTruth:* _Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord._ (1 Corinthians 15:58). *INTRODUCTION* George Washington Carver (1864–1943), the renowned agricultural scientist and devoted Christian, transformed farming in the southern United States by encouraging crop rotation and better soil management. He often spent time in prayer before beginning his research, believing that wisdom came from God. Carver once remarked, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour." One of the lessons farmers understand is that a branch separated from the vine cannot bear fruit, regardless of how healthy it once appeared. Its life depends entirely upon its connection to the vine. The branch does not struggle to produce fruit; it simply remains connected, and the life of the vine flows through it. Jesus used this familiar agricultural picture in John 15 to teach one of the greatest truths of the Christian life: fruitfulness is the result of abiding in Him. *"Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.* ( Jeremiah 17:7–8) Our effectiveness in Christian living does not depend upon our talents, education or strength, but upon our continual fellowship with Christ. His followers, are not merely to admire the Vine, but to abide in it. The Christian life is not sustained by occasional moments of devotion, but by a continual relationship with Christ. The branch has no independent life. Its strength, nourishment and fruitfulness all come from the vine. Likewise, believers flourish only as they remain connected to Jesus through faith, obedience, prayer and His Word. This passage challenges us to examine our lives: Are we merely attached to Christ outwardly or are we truly abiding in Him? Are we busy with religious activity while neglecting personal fellowship with the Saviour? Is the fruit of the Spirit becoming increasingly evident in our character and conduct? God is more concerned with fruitfulness than mere busyness. A fruitful life glorifies Him, blesses others and bears lasting eternal value. When difficulties come, remember that the Father's pruning is not punishment, but preparation. He lovingly removes what hinders growth so that we may bear more fruit. May we daily abide in Christ, depend upon His strength and allow His life to be seen through ours. *1. The Source of Fruitfulness* a. Jesus identifies Himself as the True Vine and His Father as the Vinedresser. Jesus alone is the true source of spiritual life and lasting fruit. The Father lovingly removes unfruitful branches and prunes fruitful ones to increase their productivity. b. God's purpose is not merely that believers exist, but that they bear much fruit for His glory. God desires every believer to grow spiritually. His discipline and pruning are expressions of His love, preparing us for greater usefulness. *Questions* Am I allowing God to remove attitudes, habits or priorities that hinder my spiritual growth? Is my life producing spiritual fruit that brings glory to God? *2. The Secret of Fellowship* a. Jesus calls His disciples to remain in Him continually. The disciples had been made clean through Christ's teaching. Abiding is a daily, deliberate choice to remain in close fellowship with Christ. *Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving* (Colossians 4:2). b. Spiritual life flourishes through constant dependence upon Jesus. A fruitful Christian life is maintained by regular prayer, Bible study, worship and obedience. *Questions* What practical habits help me remain closely connected with Christ each day. Am I spending time with Christ consistently or only when difficulties arise?* *3. The Strength of Dependence* a.Jesus declares that apart from Him, believers can do nothing of eternal value. Every ability for effective Christian living comes from Christ. Apostle Paul declared: *“I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13)* Fruitfulness begins when believers surrender completely to Christ's leadership. b. Those who abide in Christ bear much fruit because His life flows through them. Lasting spiritual success is not achieved through self-effort, but through continual dependence upon Christ. *Questions* Am I relying on my own strength or on Christ's power in my daily life and ministry? Can others see evidence of Christ's life and character in me? *Prayer Points* 1. Lord Jesus, help me to abide in You daily through prayer, obedience and Your Word.🙏 2. Father, produce in my life the fruit of the Holy Spirit that glorifies Your name.🙏 3. Lord, give me grace to accept Your loving discipline so that I may become more useful in Your service.🙏 4. Heavenly Father, keep me from relying on my own strength and teach me to depend entirely upon Christ.🙏 *Hymn:* I am Thine Oh Lord. *THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* JOHN 4-5. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer This [is] the day [which] the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. ⏤ Psalm 118:24 The soul needs Sabbath to rest and recharge. ⏤ Wesley L. Duewel O God, we thank You for this holy Sunday. It is Your day, honored and made sacred by You from the beginning. It was made even more holy by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is full of holy hopes as it reminds us of the eternal rest in Heaven. We thank You for all that this day means to us in our personal lives and for the blessings it has brought to our home. We thank You for its quiet rest, that we can cease from our weekday toil and spend the day with You. May You make this a day of real blessing to us. May Heaven’s windows be opened, and may holy blessings be poured upon us. Bless our home life today. May we grow closer together as a family. May our affection be sweetened. Fill our hearts with Your love—then we will love each other as we should. Bless our home conversation. May it be beneficial to us, ministering grace to our hearts, and may it be worthy of the day. Help us to shut out of our lives anything that is worldly or unworthy of You. May Your Spirit fill our home, bringing gentle, enriching influences. Bless our worship in Your house. Go with us and help us to honor You in the public services. Open our eyes to see wonderful things in Your word. Sanctify the worship and instruction we receive in the sanctuary. May we be so blessed in our hearts by waiting on You that we will be ready for good service all week. Help us also to be a blessing to others today. Fill us with Your Spirit so that every life that touches ours will receive a blessing from us. We ask all these Sunday blessings from Your hand, humbly, faithfully, and joyfully, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/28/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

THE SUNDAY BLOG June 21, 2026/ Father’s Day _________________________________ Providing truths from God’s Word to help us become more like Jesus… Proverbs 4:1-2: "Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching." WHAT DOES GOD THINK ABOUT FATHERS? A couple of weeks back on Mother’s Day I asked the same question about mothers. Today it’s the dads turn… When we think about God, the Bible doesn’t just describe Him as a distant creator or a powerful force. Instead, Jesus consistently used one specific word to help us understand who God is: Father. Because God chooses to identify Himself as a parent, the role of an earthly father holds immense weight and purpose in His eyes. So, what does God actually think about fathers? God views fatherhood as a living, breathing picture of His own character. He created fathers to be a child's very first glimpse of what a loving protector looks like. When a father provides for, protects, and stays present with his children, he is mirroring God’s heart. King David beautifully captured this when he wrote, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him" (Psalm 103:13). To God, a father is not just an extra set of hands in a household; he is a crucial vessel designed to show children what divine love and mercy look like in action. God places an incredible amount of value on a father's influence. He views fathers as spiritual leaders who have the unique privilege of shaping the next generation. In the Old Testament, God urged fathers to weave faith into the fabric of everyday life—talking about His truths while sitting at home, walking along the road, and going to bed (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). God thinks so highly of a father's voice that He trusts them to pass down wisdom and integrity. When a man lives righteously, God promises that the ripple effect will bless his kids for years to come: "The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them" (Proverbs 20:7). Because the job is so important, God is very specific about how a father should lead. He doesn't want fathers to rule with an iron fist or rely on harsh intimidation. God values a father's tenderness just as much as his strength. The New Testament makes this incredibly clear: "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Another verse warns fathers not to embitter their kids, so they won't lose heart (Colossians 3:21). God knows that a child's heart is fragile. He expects fathers to discipline with patience and to teach with kindness, ensuring their home is a place of encouragement, not discouragement. The Ultimate Comfort: God knows that earthly fathers are human and will make mistakes. For those who didn't have a good father, or are grieving the loss of one, God promises to step into that gap Himself as a "father to the fatherless" (Psalm 68:5). Ultimately, God sees fatherhood as a high calling, a heavy responsibility, and a beautiful gift. He values fathers so much that He stands ready to give them the wisdom, patience, and strength they need every single day. No father has to walk this road alone. When the pressure feels overwhelming, God invites men to lean on His perfect example, promising to supply infinite grace for every mistake and guidance for every difficult decision. By trusting in Him, earthly fathers can leave a lasting, faithful legacy that echoes into eternity. This daily reliance transforms ordinary parenting into a powerful ministry. Long after toys are forgotten and sports seasons end, it is a father's steady, Christ-like character that will firmly anchor his children's hearts in truth for a lifetime. Amen! TO ALL DADS: Happy Father’s Day! Closing prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the high calling of being a father. I confess that I cannot do this in my own strength, and I need Your wisdom and patience every single day. Forgive me for the moments I lose my temper or fail to reflect Your love. Help me to lead my family with a gentle spirit, never exasperating my children, but anchoring their hearts in Your truth. Let my daily life be a clear picture of Your grace. Guide my steps, Lord, so that I may leave a faithful, lasting legacy that points them straight to You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. Share this with other dads!!! THE BIBLE: God’s Compass For Our Daily Living READ IT! STUDY IT! BELIEVE IT! LIVE IT! —------------------------------------------------

A prison inmate on death row was asked his last wish before he would be electrocuted in the chair,he asked for a pen and paper, then wrote ; Dear mom, if the the law was fair today you would be here seated next to me waiting to be electrocuted in the electric chair, but since the law is blind, I have been convicted for the crimes we committed together. Mom remember how it started, do you remember when I was 3 years old when I stole my brothers sweets? You didn’t correct me, remember very well when I was five the day I stole my neighbors toys and hid it at home, you said nothing, mum remember when I was 12 when I hid my cousins ball in the garage, when he had come to play with us at home and you said you didn’t see it, yet you did. Do you remember the day I was expelled from school at 15 years? Dad wanted to punish me but you refused and that very day you had a bitter argument with dad because you were defending me. You said I was still young, you said the teachers where wrong to say that I was not attending class. You defended me, you said I was right yet you knew I was wrong. Mum remember very well, you saw me steal our neighbors bicycle when I was 17, but you didn’t report I sold it, but, you were silent mum? You loved me so much, yes, you loved me but you didn’t correct me, instead you spoiled me. That is how it started and it graduated slowly until today when I will be executed for bank robbery and murder. I was very young, I just needed your guidance mom. By the time you will be reading this I will be gone. Yours truly, your loving son. To all parents out there the Bible says, Proverbs 13:24 Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children.Those who love their children care enough to discipline them... love your children don’t forget to discipline them..

A prison inmate on death row was asked his last wish before he would be electrocuted in the chair,he asked for a pen and paper, then wrote ; Dear mom, if the the law was fair today you would be here seated next to me waiting to be electrocuted in the electric chair, but since the law is blind, I have been convicted for the crimes we committed together. Mom remember how it started, do you remember when I was 3 years old when I stole my brothers sweets? You didn’t correct me, remember very well when I was five the day I stole my neighbors toys and hid it at home, you said nothing, mum remember when I was 12 when I hid my cousins ball in the garage, when he had come to play with us at home and you said you didn’t see it, yet you did. Do you remember the day I was expelled from school at 15 years? Dad wanted to punish me but you refused and that very day you had a bitter argument with dad because you were defending me. You said I was still young, you said the teachers where wrong to say that I was not attending class. You defended me, you said I was right yet you knew I was wrong. Mum remember very well, you saw me steal our neighbors bicycle when I was 17, but you didn’t report I sold it, but, you were silent mum? You loved me so much, yes, you loved me but you didn’t correct me, instead you spoiled me. That is how it started and it graduated slowly until today when I will be executed for bank robbery and murder. I was very young, I just needed your guidance mom. By the time you will be reading this I will be gone. Yours truly, your loving son. To all parents out there the Bible says, Proverbs 13:24 Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them... love your children don’t forget to discipline them.

GOD SPEAKS TO US OUT OF OUR OWN MOUTHS Proverbs 16:1 says, “The plans of the mind and orderly thinking belong to man, but from the Lord comes the [wise] answer of the tongue.” Many times God speaks to me out of my own mouth. I learned this when I was in a situation where I didn’t know what to do. My own thoughts left me confused. God gave us rationalization to sort things out, but we can get weary from meditating on something if we’re not on track with His wisdom. I wasn’t getting anywhere with my circumstance until I took a walk with a friend. I was facing a major decision that needed a godly answer, but I couldn’t seem to find God’s leading. My friend and I discussed a certain issue for about an hour as we walked together, enjoying the fresh air and each other’s company. That’s when I learned that sometimes wisdom comes out of our own mouth as we begin to talk to someone about a situation. We talked about the situation and discussed several different possible solutions and their potential outcome. We talked about how good it might be if we handled the situation one way and how bad it might be if we handled it another way. Suddenly one particular answer settled in my heart. What I decided I needed to do wasn’t something I naturally wanted to do. A stubborn mindset is a great enemy of peace. Some of my struggle was because I wanted to convince God my situation should be dealt with differently from the way He was leading me. His voice was difficult to discern because my mind was already set against His plan. We have to be willing to lay aside our own desires or we may miss a clear word from God. Our natural inclination is to manipulate things to work the way we want them to work. Some of our best childhood toys taught us that square pegs won’t fit into round holes, and we must remember our plans don’t always fit God’s ways—no matter how violent we may become trying to make the two work together. While my friend and I reasoned together, a wise answer came out of my mouth that I knew was from the Lord. It didn’t come from my mind, but it rose from my inner being. God promises that if we seek Him, He will fill our mouth (see Psalm 81:10). Jesus promises to give us words and wisdom that none of our adversaries will be able to resist or contradict (see Luke 21:15). I have learned not to discount anything, because God can and does speak through a variety of ways—and not all of them are something we would consider to be particularly spiritual. I have heard God speak to me through children and adults who had no idea that what they were saying was a direct word from the Lord for me. We have to be willing to lay aside our own desires.

Today is National Raggedy Ann and Andy Day? What a delightful celebration! As we’ve journeyed through 163 days so far this year, let’s take a pause to honor these beloved rag dolls that have captured hearts for generations. Raggedy Ann and Andy are not just toys; they embody friendship, loyalty, and adventure! Why not dive into their whimsical world through a nostalgic tale today? Share those magical stories with loved ones or create new ones with your own Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls! 📚❤️ It's amazing how a simple rag doll can spark so much joy! The beloved tales penned by Johnny Gruelle remind us of the beauty and wonder that can be found in the simplest things. Just look at how inspiration can come from his daughter’s childhood discovery—a faceless doll transformed into a beloved character! Those cherished memories can be like our faith—precious, personal, and passed down through generations! So let’s celebrate not just the joys of the day but also the simple moments that can bring us closer to one another and to God. Just like Raggedy Ann and Andy, may we carry kindness and joy into our daily lives while nurturing the young hearts around us!

🌞 Good morning, dear friends! Happy Friday, June 12th! ☀️ As we welcome another beautiful day, let’s take a moment to marvel at God’s handiwork—the sun has once again graciously kissed the sky awake right around 5:46 AM, lighting our way with a promise of hope and renewal. As we spin around the sun, we can expect partly cloudy skies, warming us up to highs in the low 80s and lows gracefully resting in the mid-60s. And when the clock strikes 8:29 PM, just as day fades into night, we’ll be treated to a cascade of twinkling stars and a glowing moon, reminding us that even darkness holds its own beauty. 🌌 Isn’t it a miracle if only we take a moment to notice? In this spirit of reflection, I invite you to ponder this: Today is a good day to say to yourself: “I embrace the questions in my heart that no one hears but God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, and welcome the answers in their own time.” 🙏✨ There may be uncertainties circling our minds, but remember, His timing is perfect, and He listens ever so patiently! Now, did you know today also marks National Raggedy Ann and Andy Day? What a delightful celebration! As we’ve journeyed through 163 days so far this year, let’s take a pause to honor these beloved rag dolls that have captured hearts for generations. Raggedy Ann and Andy are not just toys; they embody friendship, loyalty, and adventure! Why not dive into their whimsical world through a nostalgic tale today? Share those magical stories with loved ones or create new ones with your own Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls! 📚❤️ It's amazing how a simple rag doll can spark so much joy! The beloved tales penned by Johnny Gruelle remind us of the beauty and wonder that can be found in the simplest things. Just look at how inspiration can come from his daughter’s childhood discovery—a faceless doll transformed into a beloved character! Those cherished memories can be like our faith—precious, personal, and passed down through generations! So let’s celebrate not just the joys of the day but also the simple moments that can bring us closer to one another and to God. Just like Raggedy Ann and Andy, may we carry kindness and joy into our daily lives while nurturing the young hearts around us! This message is brought to you with love and encouragement, sponsored by Funky & Near New Treasures and Show Me the Way Ministries. 🌺✨ Now, let’s spread that joy! What’s your favorite Raggedy Ann and Andy memory? Share below! 🥰👇

Daily devotion for June 7th The Peril Of Victory But Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have raised my hand to the LORD, God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth, and have taken an oath that I will accept nothing belonging to you, not even a thread of the thong of a sandal so that you will never be able to say, I have made Abram rich... Genesis 14:22-23 On the surface, the king of Sodom's offer seems a perfect justifiable reward. Abram had fought his great battle not, of course, on behalf of the king of Sodom but for the sake of Lot and his family. Nevertheless, the effect of his victory was of great benefit to the whole wicked city. For this reason, the king was there to meet him. A special welcoming committee had been appointed, headed by the king himself, to confer upon Abram the usual reward for a conquering hero. The wealth of Sodom was all to be Abram's! Notice the subtlety of this temptation. It appeared to be so right and proper! Abram could well have said, This is certainly only what I deserve, and, after all, it is the custom to do this. Who of us, standing in Abram's shoes, would not have thought like this? But it was exactly in the apparent freedom of the gift that the peril lay. It is impossible to accept this kind of a gift without feeling an obligation to the giver. If he had been required to sign some kind of contract, he would have found it easy to say no, but to accept this gift without strings would be to make it exceedingly difficult to say no to anything later on. From that day on, the king of Sodom could say, Abram is indebted to me. If I ever need any military help, I know where I can get it. My man is up there on the hillside. The gift was an insidious threat to the independence of the man who took orders from no one but God. How is it Abram saw through this subtle thing so clearly and so stoutly resisted the almost overpowering pressures to which he was exposed? Before the king of Sodom met Abram with his wily offer, Abram had already met with another king, the mysterious Melchizedek. He steps suddenly out of the shadows, ministers to Abram, and just as suddenly disappears from the pages of Scripture, and we never hear another word about him until we come to Psalm 110, where David declares that the Messiah to come is made a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. Who was Melchizedek? This man is a type of the eternal priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ who has no beginning nor ending of days but who forever lives to make intercession for us. Abram would never have passed by this subtle trap unscathed had Melchizedek not met him, and, in the intimacy of that fellowship, he saw what he would not otherwise have seen—that the values on which the world sets great store are but baubles compared to the glory of fellowship with a living God, maker of heaven and earth. When the king of Sodom came, Abram could say, Take your little toys and run back to Sodom. I want none of it. I want no man to say that he has made Abram rich. If anyone makes Abram rich, it will be God. What a victory! Father, how gracious You are to send me that heavenly Melchizedek to strengthen me in times of peril. How dare I face the complexities of this world apart from daily fellowship in the King's valley with Him.

The Bibles Sabbath # 4 Please, share these lessons with your family, friends, and Facebook groups. To enhance the Kingdom of GOD. How Celebrating the Sabbath Can Strengthen Your Family Relationships What Day do You Go to Church? The Hope Channel Helped This Couple Find the Right Day Did you know that keeping the Sabbath can help make your family stronger? After all, it’s a time set aside by God to enjoy all that He created—from the air we breathe to the people we come in contact with each day. By stepping away from work, school, and all the other obligations and stressors of the week, we can enter into rest and communion with God. This allows us to better connect with those around us as well. Let’s look at exactly how Sabbath can provide the focused, quality time to build up your relationships with those you love. Review: Why was the Sabbath created? How is the Sabbath beneficial to families? What did families in the Bible do to grow spiritually? Ideas for celebrating the Sabbath with our families (and friends) First, let’s look back at why the Sabbath was created and how it’s perfect for uniting families as they focus on God. WHY WAS THE SABBATH CREATED? The Sabbath was created as a gift on the seventh day of Creation (Genesis 2:1-3). God had our well-being in mind during the first creation week. He knew how much we’d need time set apart to refresh our weary hearts and remember how much He loves us. He also knew the importance of taking a moment to revel in the goodness of His creation. And in the beautiful relationships that are part of it. The word “Sabbath” comes from the Hebrew word shabbat, which means to stop or pause for the purpose of rest. At the first shabbat, right after creating the world, God stopped His work and rested on the seventh day, enjoying what He just made, as an example to us. After a long day’s work, we’re worn out. We need physical rest from our labor. The blessing of the Sabbath restores us physically, spiritually, and emotionally: We are able to physically rest on the Sabbath We are able to reconnect with God by reading His word and being in His presence Through these things, we are able to strengthen our family relationships and help fulfill one another’s emotional needs. So let’s look more closely at exactly how the Sabbath helps us enrich our relationships, especially with our families. HOW IS THE SABBATH BENEFICIAL TO FAMILIES? True rest is more beneficial than we might realize. Taking time to hit pause allows us time to focus on what is truly important in life. During the week, we tend to forget to prioritize our relationships as we get caught up in deadlines, work projects, home projects, etc. The Sabbath helps us realign our priorities. God knew that prearranged, set-aside time is highly beneficial for keeping relational bonds strong. Relationships need nurture. Or they can wither over time. So it’s no surprise that families who spend more time together are stronger and happier. In fact, time and proximity alone can be enough to spark new friendships. Consistently being in the presence of someone helps us bond in ways we aren’t even aware of, or can’t always put into words. And each Sabbath, this can happen regularly between us and God, and between us and our loved ones. To help us understand what this looks like, let’s see what we can find in Scripture. WHAT DID FAMILIES IN THE BIBLE DO TO GROW SPIRITUALLY? It’s God’s design for families to worship and pray together. We see in the book of Deuteronomy that prayer, worship, and knowledge in the Lord were encouraged to be part of an everyday regimen: And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (ESV) For God’s people, faith is a part of their everyday lives. Parents are to teach their children the Scriptures and the commandments of God, including the Sabbath. Writing to Timothy, Paul says: I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. 2 Timothy 1:5 (ESV) But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14, 15 (ESV) Timothy’s mother and grandmother taught him to be a faithful follower of Christ. What a wonderful legacy to pass down to future generations. We can learn so much from the faithful people in the Bible. We can also use the example of Jesus to learn ways to keep the Sabbath as a family. In the Bible, Jesus: Rested by communing with God and others (Matthew 27:58-60) Healed the sick (Mark 3:1; John 5:2; John 9; Luke 13) Taught people about the love of God (Matthew 12:19; Mark 1:21; Mark 6:2) Spent quality time with/shared meals with loved ones (Matthew 12; Luke 14:1) We can use these activities as starting points for other ideas. Participating in things that align with Jesus’ actions on the Sabbath can restore our family relationships and bring us closer to our Heavenly Father. IDEAS TO CELEBRATE SABBATH WITH YOUR FAMILY Keeping the Sabbath is really about spending your time focusing on those things in life that really matter. Try planning activities on the Sabbath that can bring you closer to God and your family. Creating family traditions for the Sabbath can help make the day something to enjoy and look forward to. It can also create stronger bonds between us and God. Some of these traditions can revolve around: Preparing for the Sabbath Beginning the Sabbath Enjoying Sabbath meals Spending quality time with God, each other, and fellow believers Let’s explore each of these in detail to help us find ways to strengthen our families. #1 Preparing for the Sabbath Sabbath preparation will help you: Anticipate the Sabbath and feel more rested Bond through working together on shared tasks First of all, observing the Sabbath is so much easier when you don’t have to worry about things like: What you will all eat If the house is clean If you have the things on hand you’ll need for the weekend Preparing your home for the Sabbath is the first step in making sure you’re able to truly rest. It’s easy to still feel stressed if your environment is still messy or full of half-done projects. Secondly, participating in preparation activities is a great way to spend quality time together. Doing cooperative tasks ensures that everyone plays a part in making Sabbath special. Here are some ways you can work together to prepare before Sabbath day so that it can be as restful as possible: Cleaning the house Filling the gas tanks in your vehicles Grocery shopping Planning your Sabbath menu Preparing food ahead of time Choosing what you’ll wear to church Shopping for items you need for the weekend Switch things up each week, too, if you feel like that might help. For example, one week, the children of the household can plan the menu and help with grocery shopping, and on another week they can help with preparing the house. Or, each week your family can decide on a certain part of the house to add some Sabbath decoration to, like Sabbath candles, a framed Bible verse, a special table setting, or a reminder of God’s creation, like a bouquet of wildflowers that you picked together. These are just some examples of how Sabbath preparation can involve all members of the family. When we work together, we nourish our relationships and look forward to the restfulness of the end result: the Sabbath. When it comes to your family, you know each other best. You might come up with all kinds of things you’ll look forward to doing (or not doing!) each week as you prepare for Sabbath. #2 Beginning the Sabbath Each member can play a part in greeting the Sabbath each Friday evening and making it special. For some ideas on how to do that, a few Jewish traditions for Sabbath observance can give us a fun starting point with a biblical basis. Since the Sabbath begins at sundown, some people light “Sabbath candles,” and a member of the family chooses a passage to read from the Bible. You can make this specific to your family by letting each member share their favorite Bible verse or singing a praise song together. Also, instead of greeting people with a “hello” like every other day of the week, try greeting each other with “Happy Sabbath!” #3 Enjoying Sabbath Meals One of the best ways to bond with people is over food, right? So it would only make sense to make Sabbath meals a special time to enjoy together. A special meal on Friday night and Saturday afternoon is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy your favorite things while you celebrate the Sabbath. To make it even more special, you can make your own food traditions to become part of your Sabbath celebration. Maybe Friday night you always serve soup with Jewish Challah bread. Or perhaps you make your favorite homemade pizza. Or make fresh lemonade. Of course, you don’t have to have the same kind of food each week for Sabbath. It’s really all about making the day meaningful for your family and spending time together. Match your traditions to what your family enjoys. (But a word of caution: Be careful not to let the traditions become more important than the fellowship—or your health! If, over time, some things become stressful or tiresome to maintain, or if they just lose some of their original excitement, remember that the priority is restful, bonding, God-focused time. No need to put too much pressure on yourself or your family.) #4 SPECIAL SABBATH ACTIVITIES Setting aside special activities to reserve for Sabbath can help you spend time with God, serve others, and spend meaningful time with your family. To start, ask your family what activities they think would be fun to do on Sabbath. (These could possibly become the Sabbath traditions or rituals you grow to enjoy and remember.) Even brainstorming these traditions together can be an activity in and of itself! For instance: Perhaps your family would like to wake up early on Sabbath morning for breakfast together or for a nature walk. Or, maybe you pre-make a delicious breakfast together the day before, so you can all sleep in! Or maybe you decide to volunteer somewhere together, like a soup kitchen, a nursing home, a children’s home, a community service center, etc. Get creative and work together to plan for making Sabbath special each week. But always remember that Sabbath’s real blessing is about enjoying God’s creation and spending time with those He gave us in our families. Sabbath does not have to become all about how creative of an activity can you come up with, or how many things you can do that are uniquely for the Sabbath, etc. This special day is also made to restore our souls. Some weeks, you may not feel like doing anything! And that might be just what you and your family need. Some Sabbaths can be celebrated by embracing shabbat, by stopping everything else and just relaxing together, enjoying one another’s company, thanking God for this opportunity. 92 SABBATH ACTIVITY IDEAS FAMILIES CAN DO TOGETHER Enjoy Friday night worship with family and friends Ask for prayer requests and pray together Take a hike or spend time in nature Play a Bible Trivia game Visit a neighbor or church member. Study the Bible together Draw or illustrate Bible stories Do crafts to illustrate Bible characters or stories Play musical instruments together Read a Sabbath book out loud Listen to a Sabbath podcast Listen to Your Story Hour stories on CD or online Visit online sites to answer spiritual questions people have Invite a less fortunate family over to visit Learn new praise songs Write a song Use Bible-based conversation starters to connect with one another Draw discussion topics from a hat and talk about them Brings treats to your neighbor and fellowship together Take food to a homeless shelter or volunteer to help Visit a nursing home Invite friends to the park for a campfire and songs Hold a Bible story time in the park Give a Bible study to a new believer Write and share your personal testimony Share Bible tracts with people in town Visit widows or shut-ins who belong to your church Create a Bible scene with felts Play Bible charades Look through old family photo albums Color in a pretty nature-themed coloring book Create “Top Ten” lists: Bible stories, sea animals, pets, etc. Go on a nature scavenger hunt Visit with relatives Go on a walk Dress in costume and do a Bible skit Video chat with friends or family who live far away Write letters to missionaries and pray for them Go camping with your family or church group Put a nature puzzle together Do a topical Bible study Study trees and learn how to identify them Offer to babysit children for a single parent Read the words to a hymn and discuss the meaning Sing songs around the piano Listen to Christian music Have a special Sabbath box of toys and activities for the children Do Bible crossword puzzles Play a Bible board game Pray outside together Read miracle stories Pray for the family you plan to visit next week Quietly watch the sun as it sets on Saturday evening Call someone who wasn’t at church and let them know they were missed Share one thing you love about each other Visit prison inmates or start a prison ministry Visit an orphanage Talk about what heaven might be like together Study the Sabbath school lesson Think of questions you’d like to ask Jesus Take a cd copy of the sermon to someone who missed church Have family worship outside Write a letter to Jesus or color a picture for Jesus Learn a memory verse Invite someone to your home who can’t return the favor Make a gratitude list Pick someone up for church who doesn’t have a ride Take church magazines or literature to a neighbor or friend who would appreciate them Write down your prayer requests and answers to prayers Take your dog for a long walk or to the park Take a meal to a shut-in or a family with a new baby Turn off the lights on Friday night and use candles instead Memorize Scripture songs Visit a national forest Invite someone to attend church with your family Interview the oldest member of your church Make handmade cards to send to someone who is sick Make a shoebox diorama of your favorite Bible story Spread a blanket in the grass and find pictures in the clouds Have an “object lesson:” Each person picks an object and shares a lesson from the Bible using that object Talk about how to honor and respect God’s house Write a parable in your own words Write a letter to a Bible character Discuss the highlights of the pastor’s sermon over supper Take a bike ride together Plan a random act of kindness Find gospel quotes to share on social media Write in a family journal Pick flowers and take them to a friend or neighbor Talk about family values and what they mean to you Write a thank you note to someone who was kind to you this week Attend your local church When you put in effort toward celebrating the Sabbath as a family, you can find yourselves blessed in countless ways. The Bible even tells us that God wants us to find the Sabbath “a delight” (Isaiah 58:13).