• Wigglesworth’s Birth and Boyhood:
    The Salvation Army
    When I was sixteen years of age the Salvation Army opened up a work in Bradford. I delighted to be with these earnest Salvation Army people. It was laid very deeply upon me to fast and pray for the salvation of souls in those days, and every week we saw scores of sinners yielding their hearts to Christ.
    In the mill where I worked there was a godly man belonging to the Plymouth Brethren. He was a steam-fitter. I was given to him as a helper and he taught me how to do plumbing work. He talked to me about water baptism and its meaning. I can remember that he said to me: “If you will obey the Lord in this, you do not know what He may have for you.” I gladly obeyed the Word of the Lord to be buried with Him in baptism unto death and come forth from that symbolic watery grave to a newness of life in God. I was about seventeen at that time.
    It was this good man who taught me about the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus. Again and again when I had a sense that I had failed God, I would be troubled with the thought that the Lord would come and I would not be ready to meet Him. From time to time it was a relief to me to go to work and find this godly man there. Then I knew the Lord had not come in the night and left me behind.
    I continued with the Salvation Army because it seemed to me they had more power in their ministry than anybody else at that time. We used to have all nights of prayer. Many would be laid out under the power of the Spirit, sometimes for as long as twenty-four hours at a time. We called that the Baptism in the Spirit in those days. Those early Salvationists had great power and it was manifested in their testimony and in their lives. We would join together and claim in faith fifty or a hundred souls every week and know that we would get them. Alas, today many are not laying themselves out for soul-winning but for fleshly manifestations.
    I looked to the Lord, and He surely helped me in everything. When I was eighteen years of age, I went to a plumber to ask for employment. I cleaned up my shoes with an extra shine, put on a clean collar, and applied at the home of this man. He said, “No, I don’t need anyone.” I said, “Thank you, Sir. I am sorry.” The man let me walk down to his gate and then called me back, saying:
    “There’s something about you that is different. I just can’t let you go.” He sent me to do a job fitting a row of homes with water piping, which I finished in a week. The master was so amazed that he said, “It cannot possibly be done!” but he went and found the work perfect. He said he could not keep me employed at that speed.
    When I was twenty years of age, I moved to Liverpool, and the power of God was mightily upon me. I had a great desire to help the young people. Every week I used to gather around me scores of boys and girls, barefooted, ragged, and hungry. I earned good money, but I spent all of it on food for those children. They would congregate in the sheds in the docks, and what meetings we had!
    Hundreds of them were saved. A friend of mine and I devoted ourselves to visiting the hospitals and also the ships. God gave me a great heart for the poor. I used to work hard and spend all I had on the poor and have nothing for myself. I fasted all day every Sunday and prayed, and I never remember seeing less than fifty souls saved by the power of God in the meetings with the children, in the hospitals, on the ships, and in the Salvation Army. These were the days of great soul awakening.
    At the Salvation Army meetings the officer in charge would constantly ask me to speak. I cannot tell why he should ask me, for my speech was always broken, weeping before the people. I could not hold back the tears. I would have given a world to be able to speak in a more eloquent way; but like Jeremiah I was a man with a fountain of tears. But as I wept before the people, this often would lead to an altar call. I thank God for those days because the Lord kept me in a broken, contrite spirit. The memory of those Liverpool days is very precious to me.
    When I was about twenty-three years of age, I was led to go back to Bradford, and I was strongly led to open up a business for myself as a plumber and give my spare time to helping the Salvation Army. It was there I met the best girl in the world!
    Wigglesworth’s Birth and Boyhood: The Salvation Army When I was sixteen years of age the Salvation Army opened up a work in Bradford. I delighted to be with these earnest Salvation Army people. It was laid very deeply upon me to fast and pray for the salvation of souls in those days, and every week we saw scores of sinners yielding their hearts to Christ. In the mill where I worked there was a godly man belonging to the Plymouth Brethren. He was a steam-fitter. I was given to him as a helper and he taught me how to do plumbing work. He talked to me about water baptism and its meaning. I can remember that he said to me: “If you will obey the Lord in this, you do not know what He may have for you.” I gladly obeyed the Word of the Lord to be buried with Him in baptism unto death and come forth from that symbolic watery grave to a newness of life in God. I was about seventeen at that time. It was this good man who taught me about the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus. Again and again when I had a sense that I had failed God, I would be troubled with the thought that the Lord would come and I would not be ready to meet Him. From time to time it was a relief to me to go to work and find this godly man there. Then I knew the Lord had not come in the night and left me behind. I continued with the Salvation Army because it seemed to me they had more power in their ministry than anybody else at that time. We used to have all nights of prayer. Many would be laid out under the power of the Spirit, sometimes for as long as twenty-four hours at a time. We called that the Baptism in the Spirit in those days. Those early Salvationists had great power and it was manifested in their testimony and in their lives. We would join together and claim in faith fifty or a hundred souls every week and know that we would get them. Alas, today many are not laying themselves out for soul-winning but for fleshly manifestations. I looked to the Lord, and He surely helped me in everything. When I was eighteen years of age, I went to a plumber to ask for employment. I cleaned up my shoes with an extra shine, put on a clean collar, and applied at the home of this man. He said, “No, I don’t need anyone.” I said, “Thank you, Sir. I am sorry.” The man let me walk down to his gate and then called me back, saying: “There’s something about you that is different. I just can’t let you go.” He sent me to do a job fitting a row of homes with water piping, which I finished in a week. The master was so amazed that he said, “It cannot possibly be done!” but he went and found the work perfect. He said he could not keep me employed at that speed. When I was twenty years of age, I moved to Liverpool, and the power of God was mightily upon me. I had a great desire to help the young people. Every week I used to gather around me scores of boys and girls, barefooted, ragged, and hungry. I earned good money, but I spent all of it on food for those children. They would congregate in the sheds in the docks, and what meetings we had! Hundreds of them were saved. A friend of mine and I devoted ourselves to visiting the hospitals and also the ships. God gave me a great heart for the poor. I used to work hard and spend all I had on the poor and have nothing for myself. I fasted all day every Sunday and prayed, and I never remember seeing less than fifty souls saved by the power of God in the meetings with the children, in the hospitals, on the ships, and in the Salvation Army. These were the days of great soul awakening. At the Salvation Army meetings the officer in charge would constantly ask me to speak. I cannot tell why he should ask me, for my speech was always broken, weeping before the people. I could not hold back the tears. I would have given a world to be able to speak in a more eloquent way; but like Jeremiah I was a man with a fountain of tears. But as I wept before the people, this often would lead to an altar call. I thank God for those days because the Lord kept me in a broken, contrite spirit. The memory of those Liverpool days is very precious to me. When I was about twenty-three years of age, I was led to go back to Bradford, and I was strongly led to open up a business for myself as a plumber and give my spare time to helping the Salvation Army. It was there I met the best girl in the world!
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  • God’s Character — the 10 commandments are a reflection of God’s character?

    That’s a lie from hell. It isn’t biblical at all. His character cannot be limited to 10 commandments. Anyway… God isn’t all about the thou shalts and the shalt nots. There Is so much more!

    What about grace? Mercy? Forgiveness? What about the fruit of the Spirit? Is he not the loving father? Doesn’t God have compassion? He is patient. God is perfect in every way. God is all powerful. God is all knowing. God is everywhere at all times. God wants us to have peace that passes our understanding. God is a fire from the loins up to his loins down, the Bible tells us.  With his mouth he spoke creation into existence. He breathes out stars. He has prepared a place for us where he is.

    There is much, much more about God and his character than the law. The law was given because of the Israeli people’s evil, but it was given to only last until Jesus came to complete his earthly ministry.

    Galatians 3:19 NASB
    Why the Law then? It was added on account of the violations, having been ordered through angels at the hand of a mediator, until the Seed would come to whom the promise had been made.

    Why would anyone teach that the law which magnifies mankind’s sin is a reflection of God’s character? 

    The law is the power of sin.
    Look

    1 Corinthians 15:56 NASB
    The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the Law;

    If the law is a reflection of God’s character, then God is the power of sin. May that never be said.

    The law Is holy, just and good, but it can’t clean us. It only shows us that we are dirty. God, our father in heaven, cleans us by his grace because of our faith in his son, Jesus, who was sacrficed for us because of God’s love.

    John 17:26 AMPC
    “I have made Your Name known to them and revealed Your character and Your very Self, and I will continue to make Eunice Gankpe known, that the love which You have bestowed upon Me may be in them [felt in their hearts] and that I [Myself] may be in them.”

    I’m talking about grace and law. To say that the character of God is essentially one of law and justice is to limit the divine to one’s own understanding of what those terms entail. It is an intellectual attempt to encapsulate human reasoning and inject our minuscule logic into the aspects of God’s nature. It is a futile venture of pride and an arrogant overconfidence in mans’ ability to actually obey God.
    God’s Character — the 10 commandments are a reflection of God’s character? That’s a lie from hell. It isn’t biblical at all. His character cannot be limited to 10 commandments. Anyway… God isn’t all about the thou shalts and the shalt nots. There Is so much more! What about grace? Mercy? Forgiveness? What about the fruit of the Spirit? Is he not the loving father? Doesn’t God have compassion? He is patient. God is perfect in every way. God is all powerful. God is all knowing. God is everywhere at all times. God wants us to have peace that passes our understanding. God is a fire from the loins up to his loins down, the Bible tells us.  With his mouth he spoke creation into existence. He breathes out stars. He has prepared a place for us where he is. There is much, much more about God and his character than the law. The law was given because of the Israeli people’s evil, but it was given to only last until Jesus came to complete his earthly ministry. 👇👇👇 Galatians 3:19 NASB Why the Law then? It was added on account of the violations, having been ordered through angels at the hand of a mediator, until the Seed would come to whom the promise had been made. Why would anyone teach that the law which magnifies mankind’s sin is a reflection of God’s character?  The law is the power of sin. Look 👀 👇👇👇 1 Corinthians 15:56 NASB The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the Law; If the law is a reflection of God’s character, then God is the power of sin. May that never be said. The law Is holy, just and good, but it can’t clean us. It only shows us that we are dirty. God, our father in heaven, cleans us by his grace because of our faith in his son, Jesus, who was sacrficed for us because of God’s love. John 17:26 AMPC “I have made Your Name known to them and revealed Your character and Your very Self, and I will continue to make [You] known, that the love which You have bestowed upon Me may be in them [felt in their hearts] and that I [Myself] may be in them.” I’m talking about grace and law. To say that the character of God is essentially one of law and justice is to limit the divine to one’s own understanding of what those terms entail. It is an intellectual attempt to encapsulate human reasoning and inject our minuscule logic into the aspects of God’s nature. It is a futile venture of pride and an arrogant overconfidence in mans’ ability to actually obey God.
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  • WHY DO THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER? Part 2 of 2.
    Continued. So suddenly, out of the whirlwind, you'll notice that God speaks and His speeches seemed designed for the sole purpose, not of answering Job's problems, his questions, his perplexities, but of reducing Job to a state of godly humility and of humbling his pride. In the two addresses of the Lord, first we see that in chapters 38 through chapter 40, a series of questions each of which admits to but a single humiliating reply. God causes to pass before Job a panorama of his creation exemplifying all the wonders of his creation to such an extent that Job is overwhelmed by it and he says," I put my hand over my mouth I'll not say another thing before the Lord". Then in God's second address, it is designed to convince him of his error and charging God with injustice in His sovereign rule of the world and especially in his treatment of Job. Job had questioned the principles of God's rule so he has been ironically invited to assume the divine attributes and rule the world for himself and as the test of his capabilities. Then formidable creatures which God has created are paraded before Job and he's asked to subdue one of them to prove that he's able and capable to rule the world. You should read chapters 38 through 42 and you will see this. Job's ignorance of God's providence in the natural order God says disqualifies him from passing judgment upon His rule in the moral order.

    Job is challenged to show his knowledge concerning the creation of the world, God's control of the sea, the command of the light, the formation and direction of many things such as light and darkness, snow and hail, rain and floods, lightning and thunder, dew and frost. He's challenged to show his knowledge concerning the government of the celestial world, the creation, endowment with instincts and direction of the animal world. Job at the conclusion of that address and that panorama of creation just says, "I put my hand over my mouth. I've uttered things too hastily". Then in the second discourse Job is invited to assume the divine attributes and rule the world if he can, but first let Job as a test of his capabilities, subdue one or two of God's formidable creations the rhinoceros and the crocodile. Job repents as God's challenges were too overwhelming for him. He was awed into silence and driven to his knees whereupon he cried out behold what shall I answer! I lay my hand upon my mouth. Chapter 40 verse 4 he humbly repents, in 42 verses 5 to 6 he says I've heard of you by the hearing of the ear but now my eye sees You. I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes.

    So, trials are the remedy for man's pride. God allows them sometimes to humble our pride. God's children are permitted the experience of trials and of suffering that then they might come to see themselves as God sees them and see God as he really is. Such a revelation will humble the true child of God and can only come many times through the humbling experiences of suffering when man comes to realize that he's but flesh and that God's ways are often beyond his finite wisdom and comprehension. The psalmist had insight into this virtue of maintaining the proper attitude toward God with respect to humility and God's purposes, for he cried, "Lord make me to know mine end and the measure of my days what it is and let me know how frail I am" Psalm 39:4. So, we see sometimes trials and sufferings are for the purpose of humbling our pride. God is not always going to give us a reason or an answer for why we're going through that particular trial or tribulation. You see, we're just going to have to trust Him as His righteousness and wisdom are perfect. You will notice God did not give Job any reasons for going through those trials, He just paraded His wisdom before Job and Job was expected to trust him.

    Part 5.) Another purpose in our suffering trials is for the purpose of developing patience and endurance and godly contentment. Afflictions and sufferings often beset the righteous and they experience many kinds of trials. For example, their plans and purposes sometimes are upset or postponed, their intentions are interrupted, their well-laid projects and plans are obstructed and sometimes interfered, all for the purpose of developing in the children of God a patient endurance and submission to the will and purpose of God. Such trials and delays and interruptions will often teach the one who experiences it the virtue of submitting humbly to God and waiting upon Him. We read in James chapter 5 verses 7-11, Be patient therefore brethren unto the coming of the Lord, behold the husbandman, the farmer, waits for the precious fruit of the earth being patient over it until he receives the early and latter rain, be you also patient establish your hearts for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Take brethren, for an example of suffering and his patient endurance, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Behold we call them blessed that endure. You have heard of the endurance of Job, he endured and have seen the end of the Lord that the Lord is full of pity and mercy. So trials often offer the purpose of developing in the child of God patient endurance and godly contentment.

    You see, patient endurance will produce contentment in the midst of trials and tests and delays. Paul in writing to the Philippians in chapter 4 says not that I speak in respect of want for I've learned whatever state I am in therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased and I know how to abound everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Paul informs us he's learned contentment in the midst of whatever he experiences. Have you learned such contentment? Your trials are often designed to produce in you godly contentment and patient endurance. Now we should point out that some people try to justify their own lack of faith by quoting this passage. They try to justify why they never have anything or why they're always in need and why they always want this or that and are not satisfied.

    That is missing the meaning of Paul's purpose in writing these things plus it misses the context. In verse 19 we read, my God will supply all of your needs according to his riches and glory. We have all the promises, such as Matthew 6:33, if you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness God will supply all of your material needs. So we can't use this passage out of its context to try to justify why we don't have faith or we do not have anything. Paul wasn't always hungry simply because he said he knew how to be full or hungry. He was not starving to death but saying that when he suffered needs at times in his ministry that he learned to be content. There are many times that we have to wait to see the answer to our prayers. You don't always get the answer seen immediately and that's to teach you godly contentment as you wait for God to bring to pass whatever you've prayed about.

    Hebrews 10:23, let us hold fast to our confession of faith without doubting for God is faithful who made the promise. We are to submit to that trial and learn patient endurance which will result in godly contentment. Keep in mind God is not going to contradict Himself for he says, my God will supply all of your needs according to his riches and glory. David said I've never seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 6:33, seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and I'll supply all of your material needs. These promises do not mean on the other hand that we will not suffer sometimes temporary lacks and needs but we are to be content in those times. We can believe the promises of God but the answers are not always seen immediately. We are to learn godly contentment and patient endurance as we wait upon God to supply that need and overcome that problem and deliver us eventually out of that trial. God will do it if you will hold fast to your confession of faith.

    Part 6.) Suffering and trials are for the purpose of teaching us obedience. We read of Christ in Hebrews 5:8 that though he were the Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which he suffered. Now this does not mean that He did not know already how to obey or that he did not know what obedience meant. This passage does not mean that he was not willing to obey the Father without trials but it means that in his humanity he learned from practical experience what obedience was. He proved Himself through the experiences of trials and sufferings that he was obedient. He became personally acquainted with the experience of obedience to God in the midst of trial and testing. It is not something you can learn out of a book or from a teacher. You can only learn these things through experience and you can only learn obedience through the experience of having your obedience or allegiance to God tested.

    Now this is one of the objects of our trials and sufferings so that we may be like Jesus. He learned what it means to obey under the pressure of trials. Without trials and tests you would be tempted many times to become self-confident and careless and through trials God teaches us how to become submissive and obedient. It's like training a dog. Trials are God's method of obedience training. Hebrews 5:8 is an important principle concerning the meaning of our trials. It means that trials are one of the best ways to get us to translate words into deeds. How many people do you know who have failed to make their deeds match their words in time of testing? They say one thing but in time of testing they do something else.

    While Jesus already covered this situation in the parable of the sower when He said the one that received the seed into stony places is the same as he that heareth the word and anon with joy receives it yet he has no root in himself and he endures for a while. Then when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word he falls away. So trials, testings, and tribulation are for the purpose of teaching us obedience. There are just some things that cannot be learned any other way except through trials, testing and the tribulation.

    Part 7.) Next we see sufferings for the purpose of the development of godly character. We read in James 1:2-4, Count it all joy my brethren when you fall into manifold trials knowing that the proving of your faith works steadfastness and let steadfastness have its perfect work that you may be perfect and entire lacking in nothing. Now the perfection referred to here is that of spiritual maturity which is attained through the patient endurance of trials and afflictions for righteousness sake. The endurance of testing and trial forms the habit of perseverance of steadfastness. Testing properly endured develops the moral character and strengthens the spiritual life. So the crosses Christ sends you as His child are for the purpose of maturing you, perfecting you. Your spiritual life is strengthened through the sanctifying power of suffering.

    Peter tells us in 1st Peter 5:10 and the God of all Grace who called you unto his eternal glory in Christ after that you've suffered a little while will Himself perfect, establish, and strengthen you. That is the purpose of your trials- to perfect you and your character. The person who has never been tested may be innocent but not necessarily trustworthy. We see this in the case of Adam. It's only through trials, affliction, and testing that a holy, godly, and trustworthy Christian character can be developed. The trials and testings develop godly character James informs us in Chapter 1- to count it all joy when we fall into divers trials because this is perfecting us and bringing us into godly perfection.

    Also, suffering trial and tribulation for the Gospels sake is often the doorway to inner spiritual strength. The meaning of suffering and affliction is often misunderstood by many Christians. We must see that the immediate removal of your trials and afflictions would be against your best spiritual interest. Many times, the sufficiency of the grace of God in the power of Christ cannot always be demonstrated, except through the experience of suffering trials and tribulation. When you must rely completely on God's grace to endure the affliction and triumph over your trials, divine strength becomes perfected in the sufferer as he learns it is sufficient.

    That is, God's grace is sufficient without the added favor of the immediate removal of the trial. There are times, as the Apostle shows, when glorying in one's weaknesses and trials, is far more profitable than the constant praying for their immediate removal. Paul said when I'm weak then I'm strong. The trials and severe testing at times reduce us to a place where we trust and rest in God's grace alone. There are higher purposes in our trials and afflictions than just the immediate removal of them. It's glorious when you come to the place that you can say, God's grace is all I need. God's grace is sufficient for me in this time of testing and trial. Praise God for His grace, He is all I need and His grace is sufficient. Have you been through a trial that brought you to the place where you could say "I know the sufficiency of God's grace in my severe weakness?"

    Part 8.) Another purpose in our suffering trial and tribulation for righteousness sake is suffering for the purpose of sharing in the afflictions of Christ.
    First Peter 4:13; but rejoice inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ's sufferings when His glory is revealed you may be glad with exceeding joy! Few understand the significance that we are called to partake of Christ's own sufferings and we are to rejoice in them. In all their afflictions, Christians are viewed as having fellowship with Christ and His sufferings. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that he was glad to count all things lost for Christ so that he might know Him and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings. The significance of sharing in Christ's sufferings is that they are endured in the same cause in which His sufferings were endured. God's glorious purposes in our sufferings, whether they be mental, physical, or spiritual are inflicted upon the disciples of Jesus because they're like Him. They now stand in His place so that His reproaches might now fall upon them and His sufferings might be continued and fulfilled in his disciples. It's really Christ's sufferings which fall upon the Christian declared by the Apostle Paul when he said "now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake because I fill up on my part that which is lacking of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh" Colossians 1:24.

    If His disciples are close enough to Christ to share in His life he is saying they will be close enough to share in His sufferings. For all that would live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution 2nd Timothy 3:12. This is a promise for you as a disciple and all that would live godly in Christ Jesus, that they shall suffer persecution. 1 Peter 2:21 says for unto this were you called, because Christ also suffered for you leaving you an example that you should follow in His steps. Thus the Christian partakes of the sufferings of Christ, not in a way of supplementing Jesus' suffering, but by becoming sharers in those sufferings in the communion of affliction with Jesus Christ. This is our calling, to have a fellowship of suffering with Jesus Christ in our trials and persecution. Hebrews 13;12,13 We are told "wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people through his own blood, suffered without the gate. Let us therefore go forth unto him without the camp bearing his reproach". See also Philippians 1:29.

    As a Christian it has been granted in behalf of Christ not only to believe on Him but also to suffer on His behalf. We are called to suffer and be partakers of Christ's sufferings. We fill up in our lives that which is lacking in the sufferings of Christ. What Paul means is that if Christ were still here He would still suffer persecution, rejection, and even crucifixion. Since He is not here in the world, they cannot touch Him. False religion cannot reproach and revile Him since they see Him no more. But all of this hate and reviling, reproach and persecution by the world and organized religion will come upon the true disciples of Jesus Christ since they see Jesus in you! This is a promise, that if you follow in His steps, you will suffer persecution. So suffering trial and tribulation, affliction and persecution is for the glorious purpose of sharing in Christ's sufferings and afflictions. Nothing brings spiritual maturity and favor with God faster than enduring these persecutions which are given to those faithful disciples strong enough to receive them.

    Part 9.) Now another purpose in suffering is to prepare the Christian for his citizenship in the kingdom of God. Paul addresses the Thessalonians saying we ourselves glory in you and the churches of God for your patience and faith in your persecutions and your afflictions which you endure. He says this is to prepare you and to make you counted worthy of the kingdom of God for which you suffer. 2nd Thessalonians 1:4 and 5. Through their subjection to suffering, God thus prepares His people for future glory in His kingdom. They prove by their consistency and endurance their right to their inheritance. Thus the glories of the heavenly kingdom are held up as a reward for faithful endurance from the obedient Christian. So Christ, we are told, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross despising the shame and sat down on the right hand of God. In 2nd Timothy 2:12 we are told if we endure, we shall also reign with Him. Matthew 24:13 we find “he that endureth to the end the same shall be saved.”

    The close relationship between the endurance of suffering and entrance into the kingdom is set forth in Acts 14:22. We must by much tribulation enter the kingdom of God. The patient endurance of tribulation and suffering is the only assurance you have that you are an heir to the kingdom of God. So one's endurance becomes a token of his divine citizenship. The parable of the sower taught by Christ shows this truth. Some do not endure during the tribulation and persecution because of the word and they fall away. Christ said blessed are they that are persecuted for righteousness sake for theirs is the kingdom of God. Suffering is to make us ready to enter the kingdom of God.

    Part 10.) Now we have another purpose in our trials. We see the Bible shows suffering strengthens and purifies the church of the Lord Jesus Christ. The church benefits spiritually in times of persecution. Persecution purges the Church of its chaff and unites the true disciples in an inseparable bond of love and faith. Their witness becomes bold and effective and the Lord is glorified in a way that can never be realized in those periods of material prosperity and peaceful harmony with the world. It was only after the terrible persecution the Church of Jerusalem suffered at the hands of Saul before his conversion that the gospel was effectively spread throughout the world. We read this in Acts chapter 8 and it was during the early period of threats, beatings, and reproaches by the religious leaders that the church received divine power to proclaim its message. We read they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and they spoke the Word of God with boldness and with great power gave the Apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. See Acts chapter 4.

    It is an acknowledged fact, that only in those areas of the world in those periods of history when the church has been suffering persecution and affliction, that Christianity was really alive and vigorous and spiritually effective. This is still true today. It was to the persecuted Church of Smyrna that Christ said "I know your tribulation and your poverty but you are rich" Revelation 2:9.
    Many Christians who do not understand the purpose of God in suffering and the scriptural exhortation for the Christian to rejoice in time of trial and suffering, this is somewhat of a mystery. James declared, count it all joy my brethren when you fall into manifold trials James 1:2. Christ said to his disciples that in times of tribulation and persecution they should rejoice and be exceedingly glad. Matthew 5:12. Instead, many Christians complain and say in time of trial and testing, oh why does this have to happen to me? How long is this going to last? I don't understand why this is happening. I try to live right and do what is right. To rejoice in trials and afflictions is the opposite to the ways and thinking of the world.

    The Apostle Peter confirms and encourages the persecuted Christians by saying if he be reproached for the name of Christ blessed are you because the Spirit of glory and the Spirit of God rests on you! First Peter 4:14. The reason the Christian should rejoice in the time of suffering is because of their blessedness in God's sight. Jesus had this in mind when He said blessed are they that have been persecuted for righteousness sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10. Such affliction is viewed not only as a special privilege granted to the believer, but it's an unmistakable token of God's acceptance of this individual, a token that he is to share in Christ's exaltation and glory at the second coming. The Scriptures tell us that if we suffer with Him we will reign with Him. We read in Romans 8:16 and 17 that the Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God and if children then heirs, heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ if so be that we suffer with him that we may also be glorified with Him.

    We are not to despise suffering and tribulation and avoid trials at all costs. No man shall enter the kingdom of God who has not suffered with Christ or who has not suffered for righteousness sake. We might as well face it, the New Testament promises persecution to the righteous. Jesus said in John 15 if they persecuted me they will persecute you. He that lives godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. It is evidence that you're on the right road, for we must by much tribulation enter the kingdom of God. May God richly bless this word to your heart and give grace to overcome in all things to the glory of God and advancement of His kingdom on earth. Amen. Edited. Shared.

    God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.
    ❤️WHY DO THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER? Part 2 of 2. Continued. So suddenly, out of the whirlwind, you'll notice that God speaks and His speeches seemed designed for the sole purpose, not of answering Job's problems, his questions, his perplexities, but of reducing Job to a state of godly humility and of humbling his pride. In the two addresses of the Lord, first we see that in chapters 38 through chapter 40, a series of questions each of which admits to but a single humiliating reply. God causes to pass before Job a panorama of his creation exemplifying all the wonders of his creation to such an extent that Job is overwhelmed by it and he says," I put my hand over my mouth I'll not say another thing before the Lord". Then in God's second address, it is designed to convince him of his error and charging God with injustice in His sovereign rule of the world and especially in his treatment of Job. Job had questioned the principles of God's rule so he has been ironically invited to assume the divine attributes and rule the world for himself and as the test of his capabilities. Then formidable creatures which God has created are paraded before Job and he's asked to subdue one of them to prove that he's able and capable to rule the world. You should read chapters 38 through 42 and you will see this. Job's ignorance of God's providence in the natural order God says disqualifies him from passing judgment upon His rule in the moral order. Job is challenged to show his knowledge concerning the creation of the world, God's control of the sea, the command of the light, the formation and direction of many things such as light and darkness, snow and hail, rain and floods, lightning and thunder, dew and frost. He's challenged to show his knowledge concerning the government of the celestial world, the creation, endowment with instincts and direction of the animal world. Job at the conclusion of that address and that panorama of creation just says, "I put my hand over my mouth. I've uttered things too hastily". Then in the second discourse Job is invited to assume the divine attributes and rule the world if he can, but first let Job as a test of his capabilities, subdue one or two of God's formidable creations the rhinoceros and the crocodile. Job repents as God's challenges were too overwhelming for him. He was awed into silence and driven to his knees whereupon he cried out behold what shall I answer! I lay my hand upon my mouth. Chapter 40 verse 4 he humbly repents, in 42 verses 5 to 6 he says I've heard of you by the hearing of the ear but now my eye sees You. I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes. So, trials are the remedy for man's pride. God allows them sometimes to humble our pride. God's children are permitted the experience of trials and of suffering that then they might come to see themselves as God sees them and see God as he really is. Such a revelation will humble the true child of God and can only come many times through the humbling experiences of suffering when man comes to realize that he's but flesh and that God's ways are often beyond his finite wisdom and comprehension. The psalmist had insight into this virtue of maintaining the proper attitude toward God with respect to humility and God's purposes, for he cried, "Lord make me to know mine end and the measure of my days what it is and let me know how frail I am" Psalm 39:4. So, we see sometimes trials and sufferings are for the purpose of humbling our pride. God is not always going to give us a reason or an answer for why we're going through that particular trial or tribulation. You see, we're just going to have to trust Him as His righteousness and wisdom are perfect. You will notice God did not give Job any reasons for going through those trials, He just paraded His wisdom before Job and Job was expected to trust him. Part 5.) Another purpose in our suffering trials is for the purpose of developing patience and endurance and godly contentment. Afflictions and sufferings often beset the righteous and they experience many kinds of trials. For example, their plans and purposes sometimes are upset or postponed, their intentions are interrupted, their well-laid projects and plans are obstructed and sometimes interfered, all for the purpose of developing in the children of God a patient endurance and submission to the will and purpose of God. Such trials and delays and interruptions will often teach the one who experiences it the virtue of submitting humbly to God and waiting upon Him. We read in James chapter 5 verses 7-11, Be patient therefore brethren unto the coming of the Lord, behold the husbandman, the farmer, waits for the precious fruit of the earth being patient over it until he receives the early and latter rain, be you also patient establish your hearts for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Take brethren, for an example of suffering and his patient endurance, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Behold we call them blessed that endure. You have heard of the endurance of Job, he endured and have seen the end of the Lord that the Lord is full of pity and mercy. So trials often offer the purpose of developing in the child of God patient endurance and godly contentment. You see, patient endurance will produce contentment in the midst of trials and tests and delays. Paul in writing to the Philippians in chapter 4 says not that I speak in respect of want for I've learned whatever state I am in therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased and I know how to abound everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Paul informs us he's learned contentment in the midst of whatever he experiences. Have you learned such contentment? Your trials are often designed to produce in you godly contentment and patient endurance. Now we should point out that some people try to justify their own lack of faith by quoting this passage. They try to justify why they never have anything or why they're always in need and why they always want this or that and are not satisfied. That is missing the meaning of Paul's purpose in writing these things plus it misses the context. In verse 19 we read, my God will supply all of your needs according to his riches and glory. We have all the promises, such as Matthew 6:33, if you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness God will supply all of your material needs. So we can't use this passage out of its context to try to justify why we don't have faith or we do not have anything. Paul wasn't always hungry simply because he said he knew how to be full or hungry. He was not starving to death but saying that when he suffered needs at times in his ministry that he learned to be content. There are many times that we have to wait to see the answer to our prayers. You don't always get the answer seen immediately and that's to teach you godly contentment as you wait for God to bring to pass whatever you've prayed about. Hebrews 10:23, let us hold fast to our confession of faith without doubting for God is faithful who made the promise. We are to submit to that trial and learn patient endurance which will result in godly contentment. Keep in mind God is not going to contradict Himself for he says, my God will supply all of your needs according to his riches and glory. David said I've never seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 6:33, seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and I'll supply all of your material needs. These promises do not mean on the other hand that we will not suffer sometimes temporary lacks and needs but we are to be content in those times. We can believe the promises of God but the answers are not always seen immediately. We are to learn godly contentment and patient endurance as we wait upon God to supply that need and overcome that problem and deliver us eventually out of that trial. God will do it if you will hold fast to your confession of faith. Part 6.) Suffering and trials are for the purpose of teaching us obedience. We read of Christ in Hebrews 5:8 that though he were the Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which he suffered. Now this does not mean that He did not know already how to obey or that he did not know what obedience meant. This passage does not mean that he was not willing to obey the Father without trials but it means that in his humanity he learned from practical experience what obedience was. He proved Himself through the experiences of trials and sufferings that he was obedient. He became personally acquainted with the experience of obedience to God in the midst of trial and testing. It is not something you can learn out of a book or from a teacher. You can only learn these things through experience and you can only learn obedience through the experience of having your obedience or allegiance to God tested. Now this is one of the objects of our trials and sufferings so that we may be like Jesus. He learned what it means to obey under the pressure of trials. Without trials and tests you would be tempted many times to become self-confident and careless and through trials God teaches us how to become submissive and obedient. It's like training a dog. Trials are God's method of obedience training. Hebrews 5:8 is an important principle concerning the meaning of our trials. It means that trials are one of the best ways to get us to translate words into deeds. How many people do you know who have failed to make their deeds match their words in time of testing? They say one thing but in time of testing they do something else. While Jesus already covered this situation in the parable of the sower when He said the one that received the seed into stony places is the same as he that heareth the word and anon with joy receives it yet he has no root in himself and he endures for a while. Then when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word he falls away. So trials, testings, and tribulation are for the purpose of teaching us obedience. There are just some things that cannot be learned any other way except through trials, testing and the tribulation. Part 7.) Next we see sufferings for the purpose of the development of godly character. We read in James 1:2-4, Count it all joy my brethren when you fall into manifold trials knowing that the proving of your faith works steadfastness and let steadfastness have its perfect work that you may be perfect and entire lacking in nothing. Now the perfection referred to here is that of spiritual maturity which is attained through the patient endurance of trials and afflictions for righteousness sake. The endurance of testing and trial forms the habit of perseverance of steadfastness. Testing properly endured develops the moral character and strengthens the spiritual life. So the crosses Christ sends you as His child are for the purpose of maturing you, perfecting you. Your spiritual life is strengthened through the sanctifying power of suffering. Peter tells us in 1st Peter 5:10 and the God of all Grace who called you unto his eternal glory in Christ after that you've suffered a little while will Himself perfect, establish, and strengthen you. That is the purpose of your trials- to perfect you and your character. The person who has never been tested may be innocent but not necessarily trustworthy. We see this in the case of Adam. It's only through trials, affliction, and testing that a holy, godly, and trustworthy Christian character can be developed. The trials and testings develop godly character James informs us in Chapter 1- to count it all joy when we fall into divers trials because this is perfecting us and bringing us into godly perfection. Also, suffering trial and tribulation for the Gospels sake is often the doorway to inner spiritual strength. The meaning of suffering and affliction is often misunderstood by many Christians. We must see that the immediate removal of your trials and afflictions would be against your best spiritual interest. Many times, the sufficiency of the grace of God in the power of Christ cannot always be demonstrated, except through the experience of suffering trials and tribulation. When you must rely completely on God's grace to endure the affliction and triumph over your trials, divine strength becomes perfected in the sufferer as he learns it is sufficient. That is, God's grace is sufficient without the added favor of the immediate removal of the trial. There are times, as the Apostle shows, when glorying in one's weaknesses and trials, is far more profitable than the constant praying for their immediate removal. Paul said when I'm weak then I'm strong. The trials and severe testing at times reduce us to a place where we trust and rest in God's grace alone. There are higher purposes in our trials and afflictions than just the immediate removal of them. It's glorious when you come to the place that you can say, God's grace is all I need. God's grace is sufficient for me in this time of testing and trial. Praise God for His grace, He is all I need and His grace is sufficient. Have you been through a trial that brought you to the place where you could say "I know the sufficiency of God's grace in my severe weakness?" Part 8.) Another purpose in our suffering trial and tribulation for righteousness sake is suffering for the purpose of sharing in the afflictions of Christ. First Peter 4:13; but rejoice inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ's sufferings when His glory is revealed you may be glad with exceeding joy! Few understand the significance that we are called to partake of Christ's own sufferings and we are to rejoice in them. In all their afflictions, Christians are viewed as having fellowship with Christ and His sufferings. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that he was glad to count all things lost for Christ so that he might know Him and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings. The significance of sharing in Christ's sufferings is that they are endured in the same cause in which His sufferings were endured. God's glorious purposes in our sufferings, whether they be mental, physical, or spiritual are inflicted upon the disciples of Jesus because they're like Him. They now stand in His place so that His reproaches might now fall upon them and His sufferings might be continued and fulfilled in his disciples. It's really Christ's sufferings which fall upon the Christian declared by the Apostle Paul when he said "now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake because I fill up on my part that which is lacking of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh" Colossians 1:24. If His disciples are close enough to Christ to share in His life he is saying they will be close enough to share in His sufferings. For all that would live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution 2nd Timothy 3:12. This is a promise for you as a disciple and all that would live godly in Christ Jesus, that they shall suffer persecution. 1 Peter 2:21 says for unto this were you called, because Christ also suffered for you leaving you an example that you should follow in His steps. Thus the Christian partakes of the sufferings of Christ, not in a way of supplementing Jesus' suffering, but by becoming sharers in those sufferings in the communion of affliction with Jesus Christ. This is our calling, to have a fellowship of suffering with Jesus Christ in our trials and persecution. Hebrews 13;12,13 We are told "wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people through his own blood, suffered without the gate. Let us therefore go forth unto him without the camp bearing his reproach". See also Philippians 1:29. As a Christian it has been granted in behalf of Christ not only to believe on Him but also to suffer on His behalf. We are called to suffer and be partakers of Christ's sufferings. We fill up in our lives that which is lacking in the sufferings of Christ. What Paul means is that if Christ were still here He would still suffer persecution, rejection, and even crucifixion. Since He is not here in the world, they cannot touch Him. False religion cannot reproach and revile Him since they see Him no more. But all of this hate and reviling, reproach and persecution by the world and organized religion will come upon the true disciples of Jesus Christ since they see Jesus in you! This is a promise, that if you follow in His steps, you will suffer persecution. So suffering trial and tribulation, affliction and persecution is for the glorious purpose of sharing in Christ's sufferings and afflictions. Nothing brings spiritual maturity and favor with God faster than enduring these persecutions which are given to those faithful disciples strong enough to receive them. Part 9.) Now another purpose in suffering is to prepare the Christian for his citizenship in the kingdom of God. Paul addresses the Thessalonians saying we ourselves glory in you and the churches of God for your patience and faith in your persecutions and your afflictions which you endure. He says this is to prepare you and to make you counted worthy of the kingdom of God for which you suffer. 2nd Thessalonians 1:4 and 5. Through their subjection to suffering, God thus prepares His people for future glory in His kingdom. They prove by their consistency and endurance their right to their inheritance. Thus the glories of the heavenly kingdom are held up as a reward for faithful endurance from the obedient Christian. So Christ, we are told, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross despising the shame and sat down on the right hand of God. In 2nd Timothy 2:12 we are told if we endure, we shall also reign with Him. Matthew 24:13 we find “he that endureth to the end the same shall be saved.” The close relationship between the endurance of suffering and entrance into the kingdom is set forth in Acts 14:22. We must by much tribulation enter the kingdom of God. The patient endurance of tribulation and suffering is the only assurance you have that you are an heir to the kingdom of God. So one's endurance becomes a token of his divine citizenship. The parable of the sower taught by Christ shows this truth. Some do not endure during the tribulation and persecution because of the word and they fall away. Christ said blessed are they that are persecuted for righteousness sake for theirs is the kingdom of God. Suffering is to make us ready to enter the kingdom of God. Part 10.) Now we have another purpose in our trials. We see the Bible shows suffering strengthens and purifies the church of the Lord Jesus Christ. The church benefits spiritually in times of persecution. Persecution purges the Church of its chaff and unites the true disciples in an inseparable bond of love and faith. Their witness becomes bold and effective and the Lord is glorified in a way that can never be realized in those periods of material prosperity and peaceful harmony with the world. It was only after the terrible persecution the Church of Jerusalem suffered at the hands of Saul before his conversion that the gospel was effectively spread throughout the world. We read this in Acts chapter 8 and it was during the early period of threats, beatings, and reproaches by the religious leaders that the church received divine power to proclaim its message. We read they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and they spoke the Word of God with boldness and with great power gave the Apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. See Acts chapter 4. It is an acknowledged fact, that only in those areas of the world in those periods of history when the church has been suffering persecution and affliction, that Christianity was really alive and vigorous and spiritually effective. This is still true today. It was to the persecuted Church of Smyrna that Christ said "I know your tribulation and your poverty but you are rich" Revelation 2:9. Many Christians who do not understand the purpose of God in suffering and the scriptural exhortation for the Christian to rejoice in time of trial and suffering, this is somewhat of a mystery. James declared, count it all joy my brethren when you fall into manifold trials James 1:2. Christ said to his disciples that in times of tribulation and persecution they should rejoice and be exceedingly glad. Matthew 5:12. Instead, many Christians complain and say in time of trial and testing, oh why does this have to happen to me? How long is this going to last? I don't understand why this is happening. I try to live right and do what is right. To rejoice in trials and afflictions is the opposite to the ways and thinking of the world. The Apostle Peter confirms and encourages the persecuted Christians by saying if he be reproached for the name of Christ blessed are you because the Spirit of glory and the Spirit of God rests on you! First Peter 4:14. The reason the Christian should rejoice in the time of suffering is because of their blessedness in God's sight. Jesus had this in mind when He said blessed are they that have been persecuted for righteousness sake for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10. Such affliction is viewed not only as a special privilege granted to the believer, but it's an unmistakable token of God's acceptance of this individual, a token that he is to share in Christ's exaltation and glory at the second coming. The Scriptures tell us that if we suffer with Him we will reign with Him. We read in Romans 8:16 and 17 that the Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God and if children then heirs, heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ if so be that we suffer with him that we may also be glorified with Him. We are not to despise suffering and tribulation and avoid trials at all costs. No man shall enter the kingdom of God who has not suffered with Christ or who has not suffered for righteousness sake. We might as well face it, the New Testament promises persecution to the righteous. Jesus said in John 15 if they persecuted me they will persecute you. He that lives godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. It is evidence that you're on the right road, for we must by much tribulation enter the kingdom of God. May God richly bless this word to your heart and give grace to overcome in all things to the glory of God and advancement of His kingdom on earth. Amen. Edited. Shared. ❤️ God willing, more will be posted soon. All glory to Jesus alone.
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  • Daily Devotion — August 27 | Acts 21:33 (NKJV)

    God Is in Control Even in Trials

    Acts 21 records Paul's arrest in Jerusalem after an angry crowd falsely accused him. Before the situation became even more violent, the Roman commander intervened and had Paul bound with two chains. Although Paul appeared to be a prisoner, God was still carrying out His perfect plan. This arrest became the beginning of Paul's testimony before rulers, governors, and kings, just as the Lord had promised.

    From a human perspective, Paul's circumstances seemed discouraging. Yet God was using this difficult moment to open doors for the gospel that would not have existed otherwise. What looked like defeat was actually part of God's greater purpose.

    For believers today, this passage reminds us that God remains in control even when our lives take unexpected turns. Trials do not mean God has abandoned us. Often, He is preparing opportunities for His glory that we cannot yet see. We can trust Him because His plans are always good and His purposes never fail.

    Reflection Questions

    1. Do I trust God when life does not go as I expected?

    2. How has God used difficult circumstances for good in my life?

    3. How can I remain faithful during seasons of uncertainty?

    Prayer

    Lord God, thank You that You are always in control, even when my circumstances seem confusing. Help me to trust Your plan and remain faithful during every trial. Give me peace, knowing that You are working all things together for Your glory and my good. In Jesus name Amen.

    Practical Application

    ● Trust God's purpose even during difficult circumstances.

    ● Pray for faith instead of giving in to fear.

    ● Look for opportunities to honor Christ in every situation.

    Takeaway Thought

    God is always working behind the scenes, even when we cannot see His plan

    #LordsbookDailys #DailyDevotion #August27 #Acts2133 #FaithUnderTrial #StandFirmInFaith #GodIsInControl #BibleInspiration #GrowInFaith
    📘 Daily Devotion — August 27 | Acts 21:33 (NKJV) 💯 God Is in Control Even in Trials Acts 21 records Paul's arrest in Jerusalem after an angry crowd falsely accused him. Before the situation became even more violent, the Roman commander intervened and had Paul bound with two chains. Although Paul appeared to be a prisoner, God was still carrying out His perfect plan. This arrest became the beginning of Paul's testimony before rulers, governors, and kings, just as the Lord had promised. From a human perspective, Paul's circumstances seemed discouraging. Yet God was using this difficult moment to open doors for the gospel that would not have existed otherwise. What looked like defeat was actually part of God's greater purpose. For believers today, this passage reminds us that God remains in control even when our lives take unexpected turns. Trials do not mean God has abandoned us. Often, He is preparing opportunities for His glory that we cannot yet see. We can trust Him because His plans are always good and His purposes never fail. Reflection Questions 1. Do I trust God when life does not go as I expected? 2. How has God used difficult circumstances for good in my life? 3. How can I remain faithful during seasons of uncertainty? Prayer Lord God, thank You that You are always in control, even when my circumstances seem confusing. Help me to trust Your plan and remain faithful during every trial. Give me peace, knowing that You are working all things together for Your glory and my good. In Jesus name Amen. Practical Application ● Trust God's purpose even during difficult circumstances. ● Pray for faith instead of giving in to fear. ● Look for opportunities to honor Christ in every situation. Takeaway Thought God is always working behind the scenes, even when we cannot see His plan #LordsbookDailys #DailyDevotion #August27 #Acts2133 #FaithUnderTrial #StandFirmInFaith #GodIsInControl #BibleInspiration #GrowInFaith
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    Lordsbook Daily's
    Strengthening faith daily through the Word of God (Verse of the Day, Daily Devotional, Reel, Short Bible Study, and Memes)
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  • Bible Verse of the Day.
    Isaiah 26:3

    You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.

    NKJV.
    Bible Verse of the Day. Isaiah 26:3 You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. NKJV.
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  • Daily Devotional
    Be eyes to the blind; Feet to the lame.

    I was eyes to the blind, and feet was I to the lame. Job 29:15

    Watch carefully, prayerfully, conscientiously, lest the mind become so engrossed with many important business transactions that true godliness is overlooked and love is quenched from the soul, notwithstanding the great and pitiful need of your being God’s helping hand to the blind and to all others who are unfortunate. The most friendless demand the most attention. Use your time and strength in learning to be “fervent in spirit,” to deal justly, and to love mercy, “serving the Lord.” Remember that Christ says, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.”

    God requires His people to be far more pitiful and considerate of the unfortunate than they are.... God requires that the same consideration which should be given to the widow and fatherless be given to the blind and to those suffering under the affliction of other physical infirmities. Disinterested benevolence is very rare in this age of the world.... It is strange that professed Christian men should disregard the plain, positive teachings of the Word of God and feel no compunction of conscience. God places upon them the responsibility of caring for the unfortunate, the blind, the lame, the widow, and the fatherless; but many make no effort to regard it.

    There is a great work to be done in our world, and as we approach the close of earth’s history, it does not lessen in the least degree; but when the perfect love of God is in the heart, wonderful things will be done. [244]
    Daily Devotional Be eyes to the blind; Feet to the lame. I was eyes to the blind, and feet was I to the lame. Job 29:15 Watch carefully, prayerfully, conscientiously, lest the mind become so engrossed with many important business transactions that true godliness is overlooked and love is quenched from the soul, notwithstanding the great and pitiful need of your being God’s helping hand to the blind and to all others who are unfortunate. The most friendless demand the most attention. Use your time and strength in learning to be “fervent in spirit,” to deal justly, and to love mercy, “serving the Lord.” Remember that Christ says, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.” God requires His people to be far more pitiful and considerate of the unfortunate than they are.... God requires that the same consideration which should be given to the widow and fatherless be given to the blind and to those suffering under the affliction of other physical infirmities. Disinterested benevolence is very rare in this age of the world.... It is strange that professed Christian men should disregard the plain, positive teachings of the Word of God and feel no compunction of conscience. God places upon them the responsibility of caring for the unfortunate, the blind, the lame, the widow, and the fatherless; but many make no effort to regard it. There is a great work to be done in our world, and as we approach the close of earth’s history, it does not lessen in the least degree; but when the perfect love of God is in the heart, wonderful things will be done. [244]
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  • Don't grow weary, your harvest is coming in God's perfect time.

    Share this with someone who needs encouragement to keep doing good.

    #Galatians69 #DoNotGrowWeary #DueSeason #KeepDoingGood #Faithfulness #TrustGodsTiming #WalkByFaith #FaithInChrist #ChristianLiving #Lordsbook
    🌱 Don't grow weary, your harvest is coming in God's perfect time. 📲 Share this with someone who needs encouragement to keep doing good. #Galatians69 #DoNotGrowWeary #DueSeason #KeepDoingGood #Faithfulness #TrustGodsTiming #WalkByFaith #FaithInChrist #ChristianLiving #Lordsbook
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  • DAY 27 - Morning
    Theme: BUILDING A SAFE HOME: Creating a Marriage Where Love, Respect and Peace Can Grow.

    Reflection
    Protect Your Marriage from Comparison

    Good morning,
    Social media can make another person's marriage look perfect.
    You see the anniversary photograph.
    The beautiful dinner.
    The holiday.
    The new car.
    The romantic message.
    But you don't see the conversation that happened after the camera was switched off.
    Comparison can make you despise the blessings already sitting in your own home.
    Your marriage has its own story.
    Don't measure your chapter against someone else's highlight reel.

    God's Word
    "Let us not become conceited or provoke one another, envying each other." — Galatians 5:26

    Today's Love Action
    Tell your spouse one thing about your marriage that you are grateful for.

    Let's Talk
    How can comparison quietly damage a marriage?

    Prayer
    Lord, teach us contentment. Help us celebrate our own journey without envying another couple's journey. Amen.

    From The Counselor's Chair
    Comparison often makes us blind to blessings because we are too busy measuring what we have against what someone else appears to have.

    Marriage Nugget
    "Don't compare your real marriage with someone else's edited picture."

    Remember
    In marriage, it is not about winning the argument; it is about winning each other's hearts.
    DAY 27 - Morning Theme: BUILDING A SAFE HOME: Creating a Marriage Where Love, Respect and Peace Can Grow. 🌅 Reflection Protect Your Marriage from Comparison Good morning, Social media can make another person's marriage look perfect. You see the anniversary photograph. The beautiful dinner. The holiday. The new car. The romantic message. But you don't see the conversation that happened after the camera was switched off. Comparison can make you despise the blessings already sitting in your own home. Your marriage has its own story. Don't measure your chapter against someone else's highlight reel. 📖 God's Word "Let us not become conceited or provoke one another, envying each other." — Galatians 5:26 ❤️ Today's Love Action Tell your spouse one thing about your marriage that you are grateful for. 💬 Let's Talk How can comparison quietly damage a marriage? 🙏 Prayer Lord, teach us contentment. Help us celebrate our own journey without envying another couple's journey. Amen. 🌿 From The Counselor's Chair Comparison often makes us blind to blessings because we are too busy measuring what we have against what someone else appears to have. 💎 Marriage Nugget "Don't compare your real marriage with someone else's edited picture." Remember In marriage, it is not about winning the argument; it is about winning each other's hearts.
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  • THEME: GETHSEMANE HOUR / ALONE WITH GOD

    TOPIC: O GOD, ARISE BY YOUR MERCY AND RESTORE ME TO THE RIGHT PATH

    Bible Reading: Psalm 23:1-6, Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 30:21, Psalm 138:7-8

    Recommended Time of Prayer: Between 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Between 12:00 midnight to 3:00 am. Pray twice daily.

    1. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries remain firmly aligned with Your purpose and assignment. Let every distraction and opposition against this commission be removed, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 16:18)


    2. O Lord, by Your mercy, guide every member of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries into the right paths for their lives. Let no confusion or wrong direction hinder their divine purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 23:3)


    3. O God, arise by Your mercy and bring me back to the right direction for my destiny fulfilment. Let every wrong turn be corrected and every lost opportunity that is according to Your will be restored, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 3:5-6)


    4. Father, order my steps and keep me from decisions, relationships, and opportunities that would take me away from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 37:23)


    5. Every influence drawing me away from God's will for my life, lose your hold over me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 30:21)


    6. O Lord, give me spiritual discernment to recognize the path You have prepared for me and the wisdom to walk in it faithfully, in the name of Jesus Christ. (James 1:5)


    7. Every confusion concerning my destiny, purpose, career, ministry, relationships, and important decisions, be replaced with divine clarity, in the name of Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 14:33)


    8. Father, restore my focus whenever I become distracted from the assignment You have given me. Let nothing make me abandon Your purpose for my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 12:1-2)


    9. Every voice speaking contrary to God's purpose for my life, be silenced. Let the counsel of the Lord prevail concerning me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 19:21)


    10. O Lord, let every wrong foundation affecting my journey be corrected. Establish my feet upon the path of righteousness and purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 40:2)


    11. Father, expose every relationship, opportunity, or association that appears beneficial but would ultimately derail my destiny. Give me grace to walk away from what You have not ordained, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 4:14-15)


    12. Every power and circumstance attempting to push me outside God's ordained path, be frustrated by the power of God, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 54:17)


    13. O Lord, let Your light shine upon my path. Where I have been uncertain, give me direction; where I have been delayed, give me movement; and where I have been distracted, restore my focus, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 119:105)


    14. Every person who hates the good purpose of God for my life, let their evil counsel fail and their opposition come to nothing, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 2:1-4)


    15. Father, let those who oppose Your righteous purpose for my life be put to shame. Let every evil expectation concerning my destiny be disappointed, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 35:4)


    16. O Lord, arise and fight every battle that is beyond my strength. Let Your mercy preserve me from enemies who seek to divert me from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (2 Chronicles 20:12)


    17. I declare that I will not miss God's purpose for my life. My steps shall be ordered by the Lord, and I shall fulfil the assignment He has committed into my hands, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 37:23)


    18. Father, let Your mercy recover everything I have lost through wrong decisions, confusion, ignorance, or misplaced priorities, wherever recovery is according to Your perfect will, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Joel 2:25)


    19. O Lord, preserve and prosper every current supporter and partner of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries. Guide them into Your perfect will, establish their steps, and let them fulfil their God-given purposes, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 20:1-4)


    20. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries continually receive the wisdom, favour, and resources required to fulfil its kingdom assignment. Let nothing divert this commission from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 4:19)


    21. O God, arise by Your mercy and bring me completely back to the right direction for my destiny fulfilment. Correct every wrong step, expose every deceptive path, restore my focus, and establish my feet in Your perfect will. Let everyone who hates Your righteous purpose for my life be disgraced in their evil counsel, while Your purpose concerning me stands firm. I shall fulfil my destiny and finish my course by Your grace, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 138:7-8; 2 Timothy 4:7)



    TAKE NOTE OF YOUR DREAMS AND HIDE YOUR FEEDBACK

    For more information/counselling: Email: dragnetgospelAnderson Mwila.com WhatsApp: +2348062343560

    SHALOM
    THEME: GETHSEMANE HOUR / ALONE WITH GOD TOPIC: O GOD, ARISE BY YOUR MERCY AND RESTORE ME TO THE RIGHT PATH Bible Reading: Psalm 23:1-6, Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 30:21, Psalm 138:7-8 Recommended Time of Prayer: Between 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Between 12:00 midnight to 3:00 am. Pray twice daily. 1. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries remain firmly aligned with Your purpose and assignment. Let every distraction and opposition against this commission be removed, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 16:18) 2. O Lord, by Your mercy, guide every member of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries into the right paths for their lives. Let no confusion or wrong direction hinder their divine purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 23:3) 3. O God, arise by Your mercy and bring me back to the right direction for my destiny fulfilment. Let every wrong turn be corrected and every lost opportunity that is according to Your will be restored, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 3:5-6) 4. Father, order my steps and keep me from decisions, relationships, and opportunities that would take me away from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 37:23) 5. Every influence drawing me away from God's will for my life, lose your hold over me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 30:21) 6. O Lord, give me spiritual discernment to recognize the path You have prepared for me and the wisdom to walk in it faithfully, in the name of Jesus Christ. (James 1:5) 7. Every confusion concerning my destiny, purpose, career, ministry, relationships, and important decisions, be replaced with divine clarity, in the name of Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 14:33) 8. Father, restore my focus whenever I become distracted from the assignment You have given me. Let nothing make me abandon Your purpose for my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 12:1-2) 9. Every voice speaking contrary to God's purpose for my life, be silenced. Let the counsel of the Lord prevail concerning me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 19:21) 10. O Lord, let every wrong foundation affecting my journey be corrected. Establish my feet upon the path of righteousness and purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 40:2) 11. Father, expose every relationship, opportunity, or association that appears beneficial but would ultimately derail my destiny. Give me grace to walk away from what You have not ordained, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 4:14-15) 12. Every power and circumstance attempting to push me outside God's ordained path, be frustrated by the power of God, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 54:17) 13. O Lord, let Your light shine upon my path. Where I have been uncertain, give me direction; where I have been delayed, give me movement; and where I have been distracted, restore my focus, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 119:105) 14. Every person who hates the good purpose of God for my life, let their evil counsel fail and their opposition come to nothing, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 2:1-4) 15. Father, let those who oppose Your righteous purpose for my life be put to shame. Let every evil expectation concerning my destiny be disappointed, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 35:4) 16. O Lord, arise and fight every battle that is beyond my strength. Let Your mercy preserve me from enemies who seek to divert me from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (2 Chronicles 20:12) 17. I declare that I will not miss God's purpose for my life. My steps shall be ordered by the Lord, and I shall fulfil the assignment He has committed into my hands, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 37:23) 18. Father, let Your mercy recover everything I have lost through wrong decisions, confusion, ignorance, or misplaced priorities, wherever recovery is according to Your perfect will, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Joel 2:25) 19. O Lord, preserve and prosper every current supporter and partner of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries. Guide them into Your perfect will, establish their steps, and let them fulfil their God-given purposes, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 20:1-4) 20. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries continually receive the wisdom, favour, and resources required to fulfil its kingdom assignment. Let nothing divert this commission from Your purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 4:19) 21. O God, arise by Your mercy and bring me completely back to the right direction for my destiny fulfilment. Correct every wrong step, expose every deceptive path, restore my focus, and establish my feet in Your perfect will. Let everyone who hates Your righteous purpose for my life be disgraced in their evil counsel, while Your purpose concerning me stands firm. I shall fulfil my destiny and finish my course by Your grace, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 138:7-8; 2 Timothy 4:7) TAKE NOTE OF YOUR DREAMS AND HIDE YOUR FEEDBACK For more information/counselling: Email: dragnetgospel[gmail].com WhatsApp: +2348062343560 SHALOM ✋
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  • Thursday, 27th August, 2026

    TITLE: "FAITHFUL IN LITTLE, TRUSTED WITH MUCH"

    ANCHOR SCRIPTURE(S)

    Luke 16:10 (KJV) "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much."

    Psalm 75:6–7 (KJV) "For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another."

    QUOTE TO REFLECT ON

    "Faithfulness in small things prepares you for greater things."

    DAY'S REFLECTION

    Many people desire great opportunities, promotion, influence, wealth, and recognition. But God's Word teaches us that greatness is often preceded by faithfulness in small things.

    Jesus says in Luke 16:10, "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much." The word "faithful" means dependable, trustworthy, loyal, and consistent. "That which is least" refers to things that may appear small, ordinary, or insignificant in our eyes.

    God watches how we handle what we have before giving us responsibility for what we desire. A person who is careless with small responsibilities may also become careless when entrusted with greater ones.

    Sometimes people think, "When I get a better job, I will work harder," or "When God gives me more money, I will become generous." But biblical principles teach the opposite: be faithful now with what you already have.

    Be faithful with your time. Be faithful with your work. Be faithful with your relationships. Be faithful with money. Be faithful in serving God. Be faithful even when nobody is watching.

    Psalm 75:6–7 reminds us that promotion ultimately comes from God. The psalmist says that promotion does not come simply from geographical directions or human sources, but "God is the judge." He has the authority to "putteth down" one and "setteth up" another.

    This does not mean that effort, preparation, excellence, or wise relationships are unnecessary. Rather, it reminds us that human connections cannot replace God's sovereignty. We should work diligently while trusting God with the outcome.

    Life experience teaches us that small responsibilities often reveal a person's true character. Someone who cannot be trusted with a small assignment will struggle when given a greater one. Conversely, consistent faithfulness builds a reputation for reliability and prepares a person for greater responsibility.

    Therefore, do not despise your present season because it seems small. Your current assignment may be God's training ground for your future.

    If you are serving in a small capacity, serve faithfully. If your business is still growing, work honestly. If your opportunity seems insignificant, give it your best. If recognition has not yet come, continue doing what is right.

    God sees your faithfulness. Your responsibility is to be faithful; God's responsibility is to determine the time and manner of promotion.

    MEDITATION SCRIPTURE(S)

    Proverbs 22:29 (KJV) "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men."

    Colossians 3:23–24 (KJV) "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."

    LIFE LESSONS (IMPLICATIONS)

    1. Faithfulness in small responsibilities reveals our readiness for greater responsibilities.

    2. God values character more than outward recognition.

    3. Promotion ultimately comes from God.

    4. We should not despise humble beginnings or small opportunities.

    5. Excellence and diligence should accompany prayer and faith.

    6. God sees faithful service even when people do not recognise it.

    EVERYDAY ACTION

    Be faithful in one small responsibility today, doing it wholeheartedly as unto the Lord.

    PRAYER

    Heavenly Father, make me faithful, trustworthy, and diligent in every responsibility You give me. Help me honour You in small things and trust You for promotion in Your perfect time. In Jesus' name, Amen.

    DECLARATION

    I am faithful in little and trustworthy with much. I will not despise small beginnings. I will work diligently, serve faithfully, and trust God, knowing that promotion comes from the Lord. Amen.

    Devotion by

    Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo
    +233 544 295 158

    Follow us on WhatsApp
    https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6EpEqHbFV78wOHgv2P
    Thursday, 27th August, 2026 TITLE: "FAITHFUL IN LITTLE, TRUSTED WITH MUCH" ANCHOR SCRIPTURE(S) Luke 16:10 (KJV) "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much." Psalm 75:6–7 (KJV) "For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another." QUOTE TO REFLECT ON "Faithfulness in small things prepares you for greater things." DAY'S REFLECTION Many people desire great opportunities, promotion, influence, wealth, and recognition. But God's Word teaches us that greatness is often preceded by faithfulness in small things. Jesus says in Luke 16:10, "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much." The word "faithful" means dependable, trustworthy, loyal, and consistent. "That which is least" refers to things that may appear small, ordinary, or insignificant in our eyes. God watches how we handle what we have before giving us responsibility for what we desire. A person who is careless with small responsibilities may also become careless when entrusted with greater ones. Sometimes people think, "When I get a better job, I will work harder," or "When God gives me more money, I will become generous." But biblical principles teach the opposite: be faithful now with what you already have. Be faithful with your time. Be faithful with your work. Be faithful with your relationships. Be faithful with money. Be faithful in serving God. Be faithful even when nobody is watching. Psalm 75:6–7 reminds us that promotion ultimately comes from God. The psalmist says that promotion does not come simply from geographical directions or human sources, but "God is the judge." He has the authority to "putteth down" one and "setteth up" another. This does not mean that effort, preparation, excellence, or wise relationships are unnecessary. Rather, it reminds us that human connections cannot replace God's sovereignty. We should work diligently while trusting God with the outcome. Life experience teaches us that small responsibilities often reveal a person's true character. Someone who cannot be trusted with a small assignment will struggle when given a greater one. Conversely, consistent faithfulness builds a reputation for reliability and prepares a person for greater responsibility. Therefore, do not despise your present season because it seems small. Your current assignment may be God's training ground for your future. If you are serving in a small capacity, serve faithfully. If your business is still growing, work honestly. If your opportunity seems insignificant, give it your best. If recognition has not yet come, continue doing what is right. God sees your faithfulness. Your responsibility is to be faithful; God's responsibility is to determine the time and manner of promotion. MEDITATION SCRIPTURE(S) Proverbs 22:29 (KJV) "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men." Colossians 3:23–24 (KJV) "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ." LIFE LESSONS (IMPLICATIONS) 1. Faithfulness in small responsibilities reveals our readiness for greater responsibilities. 2. God values character more than outward recognition. 3. Promotion ultimately comes from God. 4. We should not despise humble beginnings or small opportunities. 5. Excellence and diligence should accompany prayer and faith. 6. God sees faithful service even when people do not recognise it. EVERYDAY ACTION Be faithful in one small responsibility today, doing it wholeheartedly as unto the Lord. PRAYER Heavenly Father, make me faithful, trustworthy, and diligent in every responsibility You give me. Help me honour You in small things and trust You for promotion in Your perfect time. In Jesus' name, Amen. DECLARATION I am faithful in little and trustworthy with much. I will not despise small beginnings. I will work diligently, serve faithfully, and trust God, knowing that promotion comes from the Lord. Amen. Devotion by Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo 📞 +233 544 295 158 Follow us on WhatsApp 👇👇👇 https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6EpEqHbFV78wOHgv2P
    0 Commentarii 0 Distribuiri 18 Views
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