Conflict and Courage Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God. Psalm 68:31. Throughout his ministry Isaiah bore a plain testimony concerning God's purpose for the heathen. Other prophets had made mention of the divine plan, but their language was not always understood. To Isaiah it was given to make very plain to Judah the truth that among the Israel of God were to be numbered many who were not descendants of Abraham after the flesh. This teaching was not in harmony with the theology of his age, yet he fearlessly proclaimed the messages given him of God and brought hope to many a longing heart reaching out after the spiritual blessings promised to the seed of Abraham.... Often the Israelites seemed unable or unwilling to understand God's purpose for the heathen. Yet it was this very purpose that had made them a separate people and had established them as an independent nation among the nations of the earth. Abraham, their father, to whom the covenant promise was first given, had been called to go forth from his kindred, to the regions beyond, that he might be a light bearer to the heathen. Although the promise to him included a posterity as numerous as the sand by the sea, yet it was for no selfish purpose that he was to become the founder of a great nation.... “I will bless thee,” Jehovah declared, “and make thy name great; ... in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.” ... No distinction on account of nationality, race, or caste, is recognized by God.... Christ came to demolish every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment of the temple courts, that every soul may have free access to God. His love is so broad, so deep, so full, that it penetrates everywhere. It lifts out of Satan's influence those who have been deluded by his deceptions, and places them within reach of the throne of God, the throne encircled by the rainbow of promise. In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free.26Ibid., 367-370.

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

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

Mystery of the Living God's Church Preface In every generation, people have wrestled with the same questions: What is the true Church? Where can it be found? Who belongs to it? These questions are not new, yet they remain as urgent today as they were in the days of the apostles. We live in a world filled with countless groups that call themselves “churches.” Each has its own teachings, traditions, and practices. Each claims to represent God. Yet, when we look closely, we see division instead of unity, contradiction instead of harmony. This raises a profound mystery: if there is one God, why are there so many churches? This Chapter, Mystery of the Living God’s Church, is written to guide the reader into the heart of that question. It is not a work of human speculation or denominational defense. Rather, it is an exploration of the Scriptures themselves, where God reveals the truth about His Church. The Gospel ahead will uncover the Church as the Body of Christ, the blessed Bread of life, and ultimately, as Christ Himself. We will see that the true Church is not a building, an institution, or a human organization, but a living reality founded, owned, and sustained by Jesus Christ. Part One: What Is the Church of God? The Question of Many Peoples In every city, town, and village, one cannot help but notice the multitude of groups that call themselves “churches.” Each belongs to a different denomination or religious movement, each with its own teachings, traditions, and ways of worship. Yet, despite their shared claim of serving God, they do not walk together in unity. Every group insists on its own truth. Every group defends its own doctrine. And though nearly all of them speak about God, they do not agree with one another. This reality raises deep and troubling questions in the hearts of many: - How many churches does God truly have? - What exactly is a church? - Which one is the true church? - Who is the owner and builder of the church? - How can we find the true church? These are not small questions. They go to the very heart of faith and salvation. To answer them, we must turn not to human traditions or institutions, but to the Word of the Living God. The Church as the Body of Christ The Scriptures reveal that the Church is not a building, a denomination, or an earthly organization. Instead, it is described as the Body of Christ. - Colossians 1:18 — “And He is the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning, the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything He might have the supremacy.” - Ephesians 4:4–5 — “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” The Church is one body, with Christ as its Head. Believers are united to Him and to one another as members of this living body. This is the first great truth: the Church is not many, but one. --- The Church as Blessed Bread The Scriptures also reveal another mystery: the Church is represented as bread. - Matthew 26:26 — “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’” Here, bread symbolizes the Body of Christ. Since the Body is the Church, the bread also represents the Church. Before giving it to His disciples, Jesus blessed the bread—showing that the Church is blessed food for His followers. Thus, the Church is not only the Body of Christ but also the spiritual nourishment of His disciples. It is food for the soul, blessed and given by Christ Himself. Jesus Christ Is the Church The mystery deepens further: Jesus Himself declares that He is the Bread of Life. - John 6:35 — “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” - John 6:48 — “I am the bread of life.” If the bread is the Body, and the Body is the Church, then the Church is Christ Himself. He is the foundation, the head, the life, and the very substance of the Church. To understand the Church is to understand Christ. To belong to the Church is to belong to Him. The Rock and the Builder Jesus confirmed this truth when He spoke to Peter: - Matthew 16:17–18 — “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Notice: Jesus says “my church”—singular, not plural. He is the builder, the owner, and the foundation. His Church is not a man-made institution but a spiritual building established on the Word of God. And it cannot be destroyed by the powers of hell. Entering Into Christ (the Church) How then does one enter this true Church? 1. The Key Understanding - Jesus Christ is the Church. To enter the Church is to enter the Son of God (1 John 5:20). 2. The Gift of God - John 3:16 — God gave His Son as a gift. A gift is not earned; it is received. Salvation is not by human effort but by grace. 3. The Truths of Salvation - The world did not ask for the Son, yet He came to save. - The world was unbelieving, yet salvation requires faith in Him. 4. Christ the Way - John 14:6 — Jesus is the only way to the Father. - John 5:24 — Hearing His Word and believing brings eternal life. → Hearing the Word → Faith → New Birth → Entry into God’s family. 5. The Family Picture - Just as you did not choose your earthly family, you do not place yourself into God’s family. Christ Himself brings you in (John 10:16). 6. The Blood of Christ - Ephesians 2:13 — We are brought near by His blood. It is His blood that places us into His Church. 7. The Great Truth - Christ is revealed. - The Word is heard. - Faith is born. - By His blood, we are placed in Him. Summary of the Mystery - The Church is the Body of Christ, with Christ as its Head. - The Church is blessed Bread, spiritual food for His disciples. - The Church is Christ Himself, the Bread of Life. - Jesus is the builder and owner of His one true Church. - Entry into the Church is not by human effort but by faith, new birth, and the blood of Christ. Therefore, to belong to the Church is to belong to Christ. To understand the Church is to understand Him. To be born again. THE CHURCH IS A DWELLING, NOT A PLACE YOU GO 📖 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” — John 5:24 • If you read and understand the Gospel, you will see that you do not “go” to church — rather, you dwell in it. • The Church is an eternal dwelling place. • You do not put yourself into this Church; you are placed into it by God. • You are taken out of another church(Kingdom of Darkness-Death), which belongs to Satan, and transferred into the true Church of Christ. (John 5:24) 🔥 This is what Jesus meant when He said you have passed from death into life. ─── 📌 Placed Into Eternal Life • You are placed into this Church through faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16). • This Church is the true life, and it exists forever. • To be in the Church is to be in Christ — a spiritual reality, not a physical location. ─── ⚠️ Do Not Be Mistaken • If you say you “go” to church, you misunderstand. • The true Church is not a building you visit, but a spiritual dwelling where you abide forever. • These are things that happen in the Spirit, not in human structures. ─── 📝 Summary 1. The Church is eternal, not temporal. 2. You are placed into it by faith, not by human effort. 3. The Church is the dwelling of eternal life in Christ. 🌱 Let’s Grow Together in Faith, Wisdom, and the Grace of Jesus Christ Follow our WhatsApp channel for more sermons Click the link below https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaEKxaVG3R3exEJg2b1D

Colossians 2:13-14 NASB "And when you were dead in your wrongdoings and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our wrongdoings, [14] having 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 the 𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲 of debt 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘀 against us, 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘂𝘀; and He has taken it out of the way, having 𝗻𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗱 it to the cross." We believers were spiritually dead in sin and guilty of wrongdoings too, but Jesus washed that all away and made us spiritually alive! That born again spiritual life is "eternal life." We will never be judged again for our sins, because even the "𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲" "𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘀" "𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘂𝘀" has been "𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱" and "𝗻𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗱" to the cross. What is this certificate consisting of decrees that are hostile to us? 👇👇👇 Ephesians 2:15-16 NASB "by abolishing in His flesh the hostility, 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝘄 composed of commandments expressed in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two one new person, in this way establishing peace; [16] and that He might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the hostility." Notice the answer. The thing hostile to us consisting of decrees, 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀, is the law. It is NOT the ordinances themselves. It is the 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀. The Amplified Bible puts it this way. 👇👇👇 Ephesians 2:14-15 AMPC "For He is [Himself] our peace (our bond of unity and harmony). He has made us both [Jew and Gentile] one [body], and has broken down (destroyed, abolished) the hostile dividing wall between us, [15] By abolishing in His [own crucified] flesh the enmity [caused by] 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝘄 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 [which He annulled]; that He from the two might create in Himself one new man [one new quality of humanity out of the two], so making peace." How can the commandments be "𝗵𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗲" to us? Because to be subject to them, to be under them, we are held accountable to our performance at obeying them. If we disobey, if we break them, which we do, which we did, we were guilty of sin, and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). The good news is that we are no longer under the law. We are under grace (Romans 6:14). How's that possible? Because, for the believer, the law has been "𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱," so we are no longer accountable to it. We are dead to it (Romans 7:4). We have been reborn as a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). We are born again, and we have eternal life.

❤️HOW TO KNOW GOD'S WILL FOR IMPORTANT DECISIONS IN YOUR LIFE. Part 5 of 6. How God Makes Known His Will for Specific Decisions and Needs. Continued. God is under no obligation to fulfill the promise in James 1:5 to give us wisdom unless we are willing to meet the conditions for obtaining it. Moreover, God declares that He only answers prayer when the motive is right, and that mere asking is not sufficient (Jam. 4:3). Frequently the Christian prays for guidance, or a revelation of God's will about some matter, but already has his mind made up as to what he wants to do, or how he would like for God to answer. Some people have been known to lie awake all night pleading with God to answer their prayer with no higher motive than the desire to persuade Him to come over to their side and give them their own way. Therefore, it is just as great a fallacy to emphasize the notion which is so popular today that prayer is the solution to all our problems, as it is to neglect prayer, using it only in an emergency. That is to say, we find the unscriptural idea being promoted on every hand that mere prayer is supposed to be the panacea for all our needs. In every time of crisis, when problems or troubles arise, when a difficult or seemingly impossible situation confronts us, the first thing most people advise is prayer. "Have you tried prayer?" they will ask. Or we are told, quite sincerely, "Did you know, prayer changes things?" They do not tell us, of course, just how prayer will change things, nor do they teach us how to pray about the problem confronting us. We are not advised, furthermore, as to whether or not God requires anything from us in the matter. "Just pray" we are told, "for prayer usually helps." However, as we have seen, God clearly states that He does not answer every prayer, in fact, He emphatically declares that He does not even hear our prayers unless they meet the conditions He has set forth in His Word. One of the most important conditions we must meet when asking for divine wisdom and guidance is that we must ask in faith, believing, without any reservations, that God will answer our request. This is clearly stated in James 1:5-7: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraids not; and it shall be given him. But how? Let him ask in faith, nothing doubting; for he that doubts is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord." The prayer of faith is simply a prayer of expectation. What God tells us here in James 1:5-7 is that when we ask for divine wisdom and guidance we should pray expecting Him to grant our desire. Moreover, the prayer of faith is to be offered but once, for Jesus tells us in Mark 11:24, 'What things soever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them." Faith asks but once for God to fulfill a promise. To continue to pray, pleading with God to answer, is our confession that I do not really believe that He has answered when we pray as He tells us to do (Mark 11:24). In view of this fact, if we pray ten times for the same promise, we have prayed nine times in unbelief, for faith knows when to stop praying about the promise and start praising God for the answer. There is a time to stop praying or you will pray yourself out of faith. When is this? You should always stop praying for a promise when you believe you have received the answer. Since Jesus tells us to believe we have received when we pray, quite obviously we should do our believing and receiving when we pray. Then we should cease praying for the answer and begin praising God that the manifestation of the answer is on the way. Jesus does not say in Mark 11:24 that the symptoms will improve immediately when we pray, or that the circumstances will show immediate change, but that we are to believe that He has both heard and granted our petition when we pray and that we shall have it. Faith keeps a distinction between accepting the answer and receiving it to our sight. We are to accept the answer when we pray (believe that God has granted our petition), and we shall have it (manifested to our sight). Merely because we do not see it immediately does not mean that God has not heard our petition and granted the answer, but only that He has not manifested the answer as yet. The question often arises concerning the widow and the judge in Luke 18, as to whether or not Jesus here approves of repetition in prayer for the same thing. This is not, however, an instance of repetition prayer, for Jesus would not contradict Himself elsewhere, but here He is stressing the need of persistence and perseverance in prayer; that is, holding onto a promise by faith, reaffirming daily, by praise and thanksgiving, that we believe that He has heard and granted our petition. In Matthew 6:7-8, Jesus condemns repetition prayer as typical of the prayers of the heathen, saying, "But when you pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking," but "when you pray believe that you receive" (Mk. 11:24). Our first concern, therefore, when guidance from heaven is needed is not merely to resort to the shallow suggestion we so often hear today that one should "try prayer" as it may help, but it should be a time of searching the Word, and then our hearts, to see if we are fulfilling the conditions for God hearing our prayers and granting our petitions. As A. W. Tower once remarked, the popular notion that God always answers prayer (with "yes" or "no") is a device of Satan to deceive the carnal or indifferent Christian whose request was not answered because of his failure to meet God's conditions. To think that God always answers prayer, even if He says "no," is to take God's refusal to answer a disobedient Christian as the answer itself, contending, "Well, after all, God did answer me - He said 'no'." Such a view of prayer is contrary to Scripture, for God clearly states that He does not even hear those prayers which are not in harmony with His will (1 Jn 5:14-15; Ps. 66:18). Moreover, if an individual erroneously believes the popular notion that God always answers any prayer, and that "no" can also be an answer, then this person is never challenged to face the fact that his failure to receive an answer was due to his disobedience, lack of faith, or his failure to meet some other condition. I can personally testify to the fact that when we are careful to meet the scriptural requirements, then God delights in directing our steps, giving divine guidance and wisdom concerning those matters we place before Him. Thank God it is true, if any man lacks wisdom he may ask of God and it shall be given to him. Do you need wisdom or guidance in some important matter? Have you tried asking God, and in faith expecting Him to answer you? You are invited to do so in James 1:5. By Direct Revelation; As stated at the beginning of Chapter 2, there are eight scriptural methods by which God's will is revealed - three are active, in which we take the initiative, and five are passive, whereby we become the recipients of divine revelation concerning God's will for us. Passive revelation always comes to us unsought. Direct revelation may be either by vision, as in the case of Paul's vision in Acts 16 which was revelation of God's will for him to carry the Gospel into Europe; by direct voice, as seen in the case of God's call of Samuel (1 Sam. 3); by angelic visitation, as, for example, in the angel's visit to Mary and his revelation to her of the birth of Christ; or by dream, as we find, for instance in God's revelation to Daniel of the establishment of His Kingdom (Dan. 7). Jesus promised to continue revelation to the Church after His ascension, saying, Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself, but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak; and he will show you things to come (Jn. 16:13). When the Church lost the experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit, she closed the channel and source of revelation. As a consequence, the Church changed her theology to conform with her experience, and there arose the erroneous concept that God purposed that all revelation was to cease with the apostles in the first century. It is interesting that there is not a word in the Scriptures to support this theory, but, on the contrary, God clearly states in 2 Corinthians 12-14 and Ephesians 4:11 that He has set in the church the gifts and ministries of revelation. In Romans 12:3-6 and 1 Corinthians 14 He admonishes us to ask for and use the gift of prophecy. In Joel 2 He clearly promises that in the last days "I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams" (2:17); While He promised in John 16:13, quoted above, to continue revelation to the Church through the Holy Spirit whom He would send. The various methods by which He would give His people direct revelation are stated to be by means of prophecy, vision and dream (Num. 12:6; Acts 2:17-18; 1Cor. 12; 14), by direct voice and vision (Jn. 16:13), "speak"' and "show" and on occasion, by angelic visitation (e.g. Luke 1; Acts 10:12; 27:23-24; cf. Heb. 13:2). It is important that we understand that although God occasionally uses each of the passive methods of revelation to unveil His will to us when He so chooses, we should not seek guidance by these means. Why does God choose the direct means of revelation, as, for example, through visions and dreams as a method of communication of His will and purpose? Why does He not merely illumine our minds as to His will as we pray or read His Word seeking guidance? Among other reasons, occasionally He must speak directly to us because of the urgency of the matter about which we are seeking guidance which must be dealt with immediately, or in a certain way, often contrary to what our wisdom and logic might tell us to do. At other times He speaks directly, imparting instruction or guidance, not concerning some matter about which we are praying, but about some important purpose which He wants to accomplish in or through us, which could only be made known to us by direct revelation. Again He speaks to us in visions for the obvious reason that one picture is worth a thousand words. God sometimes communicates His will to us through dreams, inasmuch as the state of sleep has certain definite advantages. At this time the conscious mind is at rest and is free from distractions. The spirit, of course, remains awake and can accept without analyzing and questioning what God desires to impart to us. Moreover, through the medium of vision and dream God can impress upon us revelation which transcends the sense realm and the ability of the intellect alone to comprehend. In some instances, God speaks directly in an audible voice in order to instruct us or reveal His will in some matter. By Indirect Revelation: God speaks to us occasionally by direct means, but generally He communicates His will to us indirectly. It may in the form of an inward knowing or witness in our spirit, or it may come as an inner witness to our spirit, or it may come as an inner witness from the Holy Spirit. At other times the Holy Spirit may give the guidance we need by the illumination of our minds to understand and interpret some portions of scripture which He will direct us to, or by giving the necessary wisdom and insight we require to make the correct decision concerning some matter about which we have prayed for direction. It is in the realm of indirect revelation that the importance of being completely yielded to the Holy Spirit is so evident, as was pointed out in the first chapter. To the extent one is yielded to the Spirit will he be sensitive to His voice when He speaks, and to the extent one is sensitive to His voice will he be able to respond. Moreover, there are many voices seeking to influence the believer, some of which are from God and some are not. Unless one is fully yielded he may be insensitive to the voice of the Spirit, or be deceived and ensnared by that which is false. A small puppy will respond to anyone who calls or offers it a crust of bread, but a well trained mature dog will not do so. It is sensitive only to the voice of its owner. It did not get this way by spending all its time running and playing with the other dogs, but it is the result of devoting long hours in discipline and training, learning to obey and respond to the voice of its master. We become sensitive to the influence and leading of the Spirit in the same manner. God is preparing His children for spiritual warfare ahead which will consist of men and women who will be so sensitive to the voice of the Spirit they will respond immediately and obey without question. Like a computer, they will be able to filter out that which is false and sense any error immediately. They will not have to call the pastor and ask if this or that doctrine is scriptural, or whether the prophecy which they heard is true or false, or whether or not some task they feel led to undertake is from God, the flesh, or the devil. However, the only way the believer will become sensitive will be through total consecration to Jesus and fully yielding to the Spirit. At present we find Christians so untrained in the Scriptures and so insensitive to the voice of the Spirit that many frequently will reject what God is saying and allow themselves to be deceived by that which is false and unscriptural, just as Jesus predicted would occur in these last days (Matt 24; 2 Tim 4:1-4). Again and again we are hearing of those who are falling victim to various errors, such as ultimate reconciliation where God will save everyone regardless if they repent or not including the devil and his demons, false hyper-grace gospel where a Christian does not need to confess sin after he is saved or does not need repentance to stay in fellowship with God, errors on the Godhead where they deny that the Father, Son, Holy Spirit are co-eternal and co-equal, once saved always saved that it does not matter how a person lives his life after salvation, we are all sinners even after salvation and no need to live a consecrated life, the give to get carnal prosperity gospel where you give me money and 100 fold comes back so you will be rich. Or the heresy taught by some that Jesus had to become a sinner on the cross to redeem us and suffered three days in hell tormented by demons. We find others, in a time where we are witnessing the revival of all forms of the occult, being deluded by believing everything supernatural is from heaven, and everyone who prophesies, has a vision, or predicts the future is from God. We find men and women calling themselves Apostles and Prophets commonly now who were never appointed or anointed from heaven but self-appointed deceiving many. As Jesus said, take heed lest YOU be deceived. (Matt 24:4) DISCERNING THE VOICE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT AND RECOGNIZING THE WITNESS WITHIN; In order to mature in faith and become effective instruments in God's hands so that we will be in the right place at the right time, doing the right thing, it is necessary for us to learn how to recognize the inner witness of the Spirit, as well as discern the voice of the Holy Spirit. These are the two basic ways by which God leads and directs His people, whether in answer to some prayer for guidance, or in order to fulfill His will and purpose in their lives. We find that God frequently endeavors to speak to His people by means of the voice of His Spirit in order to direct guide, teach, or influence them along some line, but since they have not been taught how to discern His voice He often goes unheeded. Jesus said, "My sheep hear my voice and they follow me" Jn. 10:27). How can they follow Him if they do not know how to discern His voice? He certainly did not mean that He intended to shout down out of heaven in order to direct them, but He did promise that He would speak to them by His Spirit which would be within them: "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you in all truth" (John 16:13), and "he shall teach you in all things" (14:26). Some Christians are waiting for God to give them a revelation through a vision or prophecy concerning His will for them, or regarding some important matter about which they are praying, when, if they only realized it, God is already trying to communicate His will to them by His Spirit within them. If they would spend a little more time in His Word and in prayer, and be willing to get still before Him for a while, then they would begin to discern His voice and hear Him speaking inwardly to their spirits. The inner voice of the Holy Spirit is the voice of God speaking directly to your spirit in order to guide, admonish, teach, warn, or influence you concerning some matter (about which you may or may not be praying). God also enables us to know His will regarding some matter about which we are praying, or about some question which concerns us, by means of a witness within. This is an inward knowing in your spirit that a certain contemplated action on your part, or some doctrine, or revelation, for example, is right or wrong. Not only is the Christian the temple of the Holy Spirit, Who abides within to speak the direct revelation of God's will to him (Jn 16:13; 1 Cor. 2:10-13), but he also has, by virtue of the new birth, a new heart to discern spiritual things himself, and know the will of God intuitively by his own spirit (1 Cor. 2:14-16). He has received an anointing which abides in him and teaches him all things (1 Jn. 2:27). Thus, we find that it is also through his own enlightened spirit that the Christian is able by an inward knowing or witness to discern whether or not something is right or wrong. Let us say, for example, that you are praying about some matter about which you must make a decision, such as whether or not to buy a certain piece of property, marry a particular individual, or accept an invitation to speak to some religious group. If after thinking and praying about the question you find that inwardly there is a positive confirmation in your spirit to go ahead in the matter, or, you find that you experience a sense of uncertainty, reluctance, or heaviness of spirit, then this is an inner witness in your spirit informing you of God's will in the matter. In the former instance, your spirit was witnessing to you to go ahead, and in the latter, it was a warning not to take the proposed action. The witness within is an inward knowing intuitively, through the enlightened spirit of a Christian, that a certain contemplated action, a doctrine, some individual, or a ministry, for instance, is right or wrong, whereas the inner voice of the Holy Spirit is God speaking directly by His Spirit within you concerning some matter. It must be stressed, however, that the inward witness and the inner voice of the Spirit are not merely some "feeling" we may have about a matter. They have nothing to do with what one feels either with the physical senses or the emotions. It is either an inward knowing (inner witness) that something is right or wrong, or it is an inner awareness that the Spirit of God is speaking directly to our spirit about some matter (inner voice of the Spirit). Edited. Shared. To be Continued. ❤️ God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.

Strive to live in harmony

A Nugget of Truth. GOD DOES NOT HAVE ONE LAW, AND CHRIST ANOTHER. One of the greatest misunderstandings in Christianity is the idea that the Father gave one law while Christ introduced another. The Bible never teaches this. Jesus did not come to replace His Father's commandments with a different standard. He came to reveal their true meaning, magnify them, and call people back to wholehearted obedience. Jesus declared: «"I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love." (John 15:10)» If Christ Himself kept the Father's commandments, why would He teach His followers to ignore them? He also said: «"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." (Matthew 5:17)» The word fulfil does not mean abolish. Jesus immediately explained His meaning by saying that not even the smallest part of God's law would pass away until heaven and earth pass away (Matthew 5:18). Then He gave a solemn warning: «"Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven..." (Matthew 5:19)» That is not the language of someone abolishing God's commandments. It is the language of someone upholding them. The Bible also reveals that Christ is the divine Lawgiver. Isaiah prophesied: «"The LORD is our judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our king." (Isaiah 33:22)» John declares that Jesus is God (John 1:1, 14), and Jesus Himself said: «"I and my Father are one." (John 10:30)» Christ is not in conflict with the Father. Their will is one. Their character is one. Their law reflects that unchanging character. God Himself declares: «"For I am the LORD, I change not." (Malachi 3:6)» If God's character does not change, the principles that reveal His character do not suddenly become evil or unnecessary. Some point to Paul's writings and conclude that all law has been abolished. But careful study shows that Paul frequently addressed the ceremonial laws—the sacrifices, feast days, and ordinances that pointed forward to Christ's sacrifice (Colossians 2:14–17; Hebrews 10:1). Paul never taught that it is acceptable to murder, steal, commit adultery, worship idols, or dishonor parents. In fact, he wrote: «"Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law." (Romans 3:31)» Faith does not cancel obedience. It establishes it. James agrees: «"Faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone." (James 2:17)» Biblical faith is not merely believing certain facts about Jesus. It is trusting Him so completely that we walk as He walked. The apostle John writes: «"He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2:6)» Jesus' life was one of loving obedience. The Gospels repeatedly show Him worshipping, teaching, loving sinners, keeping His Father's commandments, and living in perfect harmony with God's will. When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus did not abolish the Ten Commandments. He summarized them: «"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart..." "Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." (Matthew 22:37–40)» These two commandments are not replacements for God's law—they are its summary. The first four commandments teach us how to love God. The last six commandments teach us how to love our neighbor. Love is the principle; the commandments show us what love looks like in daily life. Jesus also deepened the commandments instead of weakening them. He taught that hatred is the spirit of murder (Matthew 5:21–22), lust is the spirit of adultery (Matthew 5:27–28), and true obedience begins in the heart. The final generation described in Revelation is identified by two inseparable characteristics: «"Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." (Revelation 14:12)» The Bible never places faith and obedience in opposition. It joins them together. God's grace forgives us. God's Spirit transforms us. Faith trusts Christ. Obedience is the fruit of that faith. The question is not whether we can earn salvation by keeping God's commandments—we cannot. Salvation is by grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8–9). But the faith that saves is never alone; it produces a life of obedience (Ephesians 2:10). Christ did not come to lower God's standard. He came to lift humanity to it through His grace. The God of the Old Testament and the Christ of the New Testament are not divided. The Father and the Son are one in purpose, one in truth, and one in love. Therefore, let us believe all that Christ taught, follow His example, and joyfully keep the commandments of God through the power of His Spirit.

Daily Bible Lesson. IN THE BEGINNING — GOD'S PERFECT DESIGN FOR MAN & WOMAN "In the beginning God created them male and female." God's design was established at Creation and reveals His wisdom, love, and perfect order. THE ORDER OF CREATION From the very beginning, God created everything with purpose and in perfect sequence. The order of Creation: Earth, water, and air Vegetation and light Birds and fish Land animals Man Woman—the crowning act of Creation As the final act of Creation, woman beautifully reflects God's wisdom, creativity, and care. CREATED IN A UNIQUE WAY Genesis 2:21–23 God created the first man and woman differently. Man Formed from the dust of the ground. Woman Created from the man's side. Bone of his bones. Flesh of his flesh. Designed for loving companionship and unity. Adam joyfully declared: "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." GOD ESTABLISHED DISTINCT ROLES Although equal in worth before God, men and women were given different responsibilities. God designed harmony within: The Home The Church Society Genesis 3:16 "...thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee." The word "rule" means to lead, govern, or exercise responsibility. THIS WAS GOD'S WORD This instruction did not originate from: Moses David Peter John Paul It was spoken directly by God Himself. UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE Some claim these teachings merely reflect ancient culture. However, Scripture distinguishes between God's original design and practices He temporarily permitted because of human sinfulness. Jesus explained: "...because of the hardness of your heart..." (Mark 10:5) Practices like slavery and polygamy were tolerated in certain circumstances—but they were never God's original ideal. GOD'S DESIGN EXISTED BEFORE SIN Before sin ever entered the world: Genesis 2:18 God created Eve to be Adam's "help meet"—a suitable companion and partner. 1 Corinthians 11:7–9 also points back to this Creation order. A PARTNERSHIP THAT REFLECTS CHRIST God's design is not about superiority or inferiority. It is about: Love Unity Mutual respect Order Service Faithfulness Husbands are called to: Love sacrificially Lead spiritually Serve faithfully Protect and nurture their families Wives are called to: Support their husbands Build the home l Encourage their families Glorify God through faithful partnership Together they reveal God's beautiful plan for marriage. "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." — Genesis 2:24 CONCLUSION. When men and women embrace God's design with humility, love, and obedience, the home becomes stronger, the church is blessed, and God is glorified.

Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* FRIDAY 7TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD'S GRACE. *TOPIC:* UNEQUALLY YOKED. *TEXT:* 2 CORINTHIANS 6:14-18. 14 Stop becoming unevenly yoked with unbelievers. What partnership can righteousness have with lawlessness? What fellowship can light have with darkness? Deu 7:2 1Sa 5:1-2 1Ki 8:21 1Co 5:9 1Co 10:21 Eph 5:11 15 What harmony exists between the Messiah and Beliar, or what do a believer and an unbeliever have in common? 16 What agreement can a temple of God make with idols? For we are the temple of the living God, just as God said: “I will live and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be My people.” Exo 29:45 Lev 26:11 Eze 37:26 1Co 3:16 1Co 6:19 1Co 10:7 1Co 10:14 Eph 2:21 Heb 3:6 1Pe 2:5 [Zec 2:10] 17 Therefore, “Get away from them and separate yourselves from them,” declares the Lord, “and don’t touch anything unclean. Then I will welcome you. Isa 52:11 Rev 18:4 [Lev 5:2] 18 I will be your Father, and you will be My sons and daughters,” declares the Lord Almighty. Jer 31:1 *TOPIC:* UNEQUALLY YOKED. *THE MESSAGE:* Christians are not of the world, yet the world remains the sphere in which we bear witness. Today's text issues a strong admonition against forming binding partnerships with unbelievers, especially in ways that compromise one's faith and moral integrity. Unequal alliances can hinder spiritual progress and cause destruction. The incompatibility between righteousness and wickedness, light and darkness, Christ and Belial emphasize that intimacy with those who oppose or disregard God leads to spiritual conflict and moral compromise. Sadly, many youths today befriend unbelievers, leading to marriage with the hope of converting them to faith in Christ. Navigating through this route is compromising your identity in Christ. No matter how attractive an unbeliever may be, do not marry him/her. *REFLECTION:* Unequal yoking ruins destiny. *PRAYER:* Father, help me to shun ungodly relationshis, in Jesus' name. Amen. *MEMORY VERSE FOR THE MONTH:* 2 TIMOTHY 2:21. "If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be instruments for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work." *TODAY'S BIBLE READING PLAN:* JEREMIAH 21-25. ED.ii. SAVED THROUGH THE FLAMES "Save others by snatching them from the fire." - Jude 1:23 Imagine you are on a boat, you are sailing and suddenly there is a fire on the boat. The fire gets closer and you run to the back of the boat. You cannot go anywhere, and you feel like the fire is burning all over your hands. Then suddenly there is a lifeboat behind you with only one spot free for you. This is like getting saved through the flames; as firewood being taken from the fire. Be happy when your body is saved through the flames. But what about your soul? Many people are saved through the flames when it concerns their souls. There are people who accept Jesus, live according to God's commandments, faithfully attend church and at the end of their life they peacefully take their last breath. Such person gently slips into heaven. Another person, however, lives carelessly, does all God has forbidden and does not think of God nor His commandment. This person is so far away from God and you cannot believe that he would ever give his life to Christ. But then suddenly you hear that he had accepted Jesus just before he died. This is what being saved through the flames means. Perhaps you are detached from God and isolated from church. Or maybe you still go to church, but not because you are a Christian or want to become one. It may be that you are only going to please someone else. Or you go because you like the music or the preaching or there is a nice girl or boy in church... But still, you hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. When people hear the Word of God, it reaches their heart and when they open their heart, the Lord Jesus says: 'I will come in.' These people will be saved through the flames if at some point in time they open their hearts to Jesus. I am glad that God saves people through the flames. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer for today. EP.i. Evening Prayer Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: ⏤ Psalm 103:2 True prayer is a way of life, not just for use in cases of emergency. ⏤ Billy Graham O Lord, open our lips—and our mouths shall proclaim Your praise. We thank You for all Your abundant goodness. This has been a day of faithfulness and mercy. The heavens above have poured out their gentle influences upon us, filling our lives with the dew of Your grace. The earth beneath our feet has been filled with the fruits of Your love and thoughtfulness. We give You heartfelt thanks—for every good gift and perfect blessing comes from You. We thank You for our home and all it provides in comfort and blessing. We thank You for the friendships that fill our lives with joy. We also thank You for the blessings we don’t always recognize—those that come wrapped in trials. We know that each trial contains a gift of Your divine love. Help us to find the blessing even in the roughest situations. May we never miss any sign of Your love, even when it comes through pain or sorrow. We worship You as our God. Let no part of our soul be silent to You—may every part of our being give thanks to You, our gracious God. We entrust ourselves to Your care for the night. Watch over us and let no harm come to us. Purify our hearts, fill us with Your truth, and let Your Spirit enter us, making us more like You. Consecrate us to Your service. Do not hold our many sins against us—but grant us full forgiveness and cleansing. Give us such a measure of Your grace that we may live from now on to Your honor and glory. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/33/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.