• Look Up

    It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses.

    But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up:

    “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.”
    ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

    As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider:

    - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King.

    - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed.

    - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever.

    - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan.

    So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
    Look Up It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses. But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up: “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider: - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King. - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed. - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever. - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan. So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
    Love
    1
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  • Look Up

    It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses.

    But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up:

    “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.”
    ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

    As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider:

    - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King.

    - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed.

    - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever.

    - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan.

    So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
    Look Up It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses. But in his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up: “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ As you think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider: - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King. - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed. - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever. - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign plan. So when you’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at yourself, look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.
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  • Seek God First (Matthew 6:33)

    What are you chasing?

    Success?

    Money?

    A better job?

    A relationship?

    Recognition?

    A bigger house?

    More followers?

    A better future?

    There is nothing wrong with having goals and dreams.

    God has given us abilities, opportunities, and responsibilities that we should use wisely.

    But there is a danger when the things we want become more important than the God who gave us the ability to pursue them.

    Jesus said:

    “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

    Notice the order:

    Seek God first.

    Not after your career.

    Not after your relationships.

    Not after you've achieved your goals.

    Not only when you are in trouble.

    First.

    The world tells us:

    “Build your career first.”

    “Make money first.”

    “Become successful first.”

    “Get everything you want first.”

    Then we can easily begin treating God as something we fit into the remaining space in our lives.

    But God doesn't want to be an afterthought.

    He wants to be at the centre.

    Think about your daily schedule.

    What receives your best attention?

    What occupies your thoughts?

    What determines your decisions?

    What do you spend most of your time pursuing?

    Your priorities reveal what matters most to you.

    You can say that God is first, but your life will eventually show whether that is true.

    Seeking God first means making Him central to your decisions.

    Before accepting an opportunity, ask:

    “Does this honour God?”

    Before entering a relationship, ask:

    “Will this relationship help me grow closer to Christ?”

    Before making a major financial decision, ask:

    “Am I handling what God has given me responsibly?”

    Before choosing how to use your time, ask:

    “What does God want me to do with this day?”

    Seeking God first doesn't mean abandoning your ambitions.

    It means surrendering your ambitions to Him.

    You can pursue a career and still honour God.

    You can build a business and still honour God.

    You can become successful and still remain humble.

    You can have financial goals and still put God first.

    The question isn't whether you have goals.

    The question is:

    Who is at the centre of those goals?

    Are you pursuing success so people will admire you?

    Or are you pursuing excellence so you can use your gifts to serve God and others?

    Are you chasing money because you believe it will finally make you happy?

    Or are you learning to manage resources faithfully and generously?

    Are you seeking recognition?

    Or are you content knowing that God sees your work even when people don't?

    Jesus also warned us about constantly worrying about material things.

    We worry about food.

    Clothing.

    Money.

    Tomorrow.

    Our future.

    And sometimes our pursuit of these things becomes so intense that we forget the God who sustains us.

    You don't have to ignore your responsibilities.

    Work hard.

    Plan wisely.

    Save.

    Learn.

    Build.

    Prepare.

    But don't let anxiety become your master.

    Trust God while you do your part.

    There will always be something else to chase.

    Another achievement.

    Another purchase.

    Another milestone.

    Another level.

    If your heart is always saying, “I'll be happy when I get that next thing,” you may spend your entire life waiting for happiness.

    But contentment begins when you recognize that God is enough.

    Paul learned this kind of contentment.

    He experienced abundance and hardship, yet his confidence wasn't ultimately based on his circumstances.

    His strength was found in Christ.

    And that's the kind of foundation we need.

    Because everything we own can disappear.

    Positions can change.

    Money can come and go.

    People can leave.

    Opportunities can close.

    But God remains.

    And if you have Jesus, you possess something far more valuable than anything this world can offer.

    Salvation.

    Forgiveness.

    Grace.

    A relationship with God.

    A hope that extends beyond this temporary life.

    So today, examine your priorities.

    Maybe you've been so busy building your future that you've neglected your relationship with God.

    Maybe your career has become your identity.

    Maybe money has become your security.

    Maybe your relationship has become your source of happiness.

    Maybe social media has become your source of validation.

    It's time to put things back in their proper place.

    Seek God first.

    Pray first.

    Read His Word.

    Listen to His voice.

    Obey Him.

    Serve Him.

    Love people.

    Work faithfully.

    And trust Him with the results.

    Don't build a successful life and discover later that you left God out of it.

    Build your life with God at the centre.

    When God is first, everything else can find its proper place.

    Today, ask yourself:

    “What has been competing with God for first place in my heart?”

    Then surrender it to Him.

    Not tomorrow.

    Today.

    #SeekGodFirst #Matthew633 #GodFirst #FaithOverMaterialism #TrustGod #ChristianLiving #KingdomOfGod #ChristianYouth #JesusSaves #ShareJesus #DailyFaith #Lordsbook #JMSM #KNKA
    Seek God First (Matthew 6:33) What are you chasing? Success? Money? A better job? A relationship? Recognition? A bigger house? More followers? A better future? There is nothing wrong with having goals and dreams. God has given us abilities, opportunities, and responsibilities that we should use wisely. But there is a danger when the things we want become more important than the God who gave us the ability to pursue them. Jesus said: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Notice the order: Seek God first. Not after your career. Not after your relationships. Not after you've achieved your goals. Not only when you are in trouble. First. The world tells us: “Build your career first.” “Make money first.” “Become successful first.” “Get everything you want first.” Then we can easily begin treating God as something we fit into the remaining space in our lives. But God doesn't want to be an afterthought. He wants to be at the centre. Think about your daily schedule. What receives your best attention? What occupies your thoughts? What determines your decisions? What do you spend most of your time pursuing? Your priorities reveal what matters most to you. You can say that God is first, but your life will eventually show whether that is true. Seeking God first means making Him central to your decisions. Before accepting an opportunity, ask: “Does this honour God?” Before entering a relationship, ask: “Will this relationship help me grow closer to Christ?” Before making a major financial decision, ask: “Am I handling what God has given me responsibly?” Before choosing how to use your time, ask: “What does God want me to do with this day?” Seeking God first doesn't mean abandoning your ambitions. It means surrendering your ambitions to Him. You can pursue a career and still honour God. You can build a business and still honour God. You can become successful and still remain humble. You can have financial goals and still put God first. The question isn't whether you have goals. The question is: Who is at the centre of those goals? Are you pursuing success so people will admire you? Or are you pursuing excellence so you can use your gifts to serve God and others? Are you chasing money because you believe it will finally make you happy? Or are you learning to manage resources faithfully and generously? Are you seeking recognition? Or are you content knowing that God sees your work even when people don't? Jesus also warned us about constantly worrying about material things. We worry about food. Clothing. Money. Tomorrow. Our future. And sometimes our pursuit of these things becomes so intense that we forget the God who sustains us. You don't have to ignore your responsibilities. Work hard. Plan wisely. Save. Learn. Build. Prepare. But don't let anxiety become your master. Trust God while you do your part. There will always be something else to chase. Another achievement. Another purchase. Another milestone. Another level. If your heart is always saying, “I'll be happy when I get that next thing,” you may spend your entire life waiting for happiness. But contentment begins when you recognize that God is enough. Paul learned this kind of contentment. He experienced abundance and hardship, yet his confidence wasn't ultimately based on his circumstances. His strength was found in Christ. And that's the kind of foundation we need. Because everything we own can disappear. Positions can change. Money can come and go. People can leave. Opportunities can close. But God remains. And if you have Jesus, you possess something far more valuable than anything this world can offer. Salvation. Forgiveness. Grace. A relationship with God. A hope that extends beyond this temporary life. So today, examine your priorities. Maybe you've been so busy building your future that you've neglected your relationship with God. Maybe your career has become your identity. Maybe money has become your security. Maybe your relationship has become your source of happiness. Maybe social media has become your source of validation. It's time to put things back in their proper place. Seek God first. Pray first. Read His Word. Listen to His voice. Obey Him. Serve Him. Love people. Work faithfully. And trust Him with the results. Don't build a successful life and discover later that you left God out of it. Build your life with God at the centre. When God is first, everything else can find its proper place. Today, ask yourself: “What has been competing with God for first place in my heart?” Then surrender it to Him. Not tomorrow. Today. #SeekGodFirst #Matthew633 #GodFirst #FaithOverMaterialism #TrustGod #ChristianLiving #KingdomOfGod #ChristianYouth #JesusSaves #ShareJesus #DailyFaith #Lordsbook #JMSM #KNKA
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  • God is directing your steps, even when you can't see His plan.

    Share this with someone who needs encouragement to trust God's plan.

    #Ruth23 #DivineAppointment #GodsTiming #TrustGodsPlan #GodDirectsSteps #FaithInChrist #ChristianLiving #WalkByFaith #GodsProvision #Lordsbook
    🌾 God is directing your steps, even when you can't see His plan. 📲 Share this with someone who needs encouragement to trust God's plan. #Ruth23 #DivineAppointment #GodsTiming #TrustGodsPlan #GodDirectsSteps #FaithInChrist #ChristianLiving #WalkByFaith #GodsProvision #Lordsbook
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  • TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

    SERMON TOPIC:

    THE REAL REASON BARABBAS WAS SET FREE AND NOT JESUS.

    Main Text:

    Matthew 27:15–26; Mark 15:6–15; Luke 23:13–25; John 18:38–40


    There are moments in Scripture that make us stop and ask, “How could this happen?”
    Jesus was innocent.
    Barabbas was guilty.
    Jesus healed the sick.
    Barabbas was a criminal.
    Jesus preached love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God.
    Barabbas was associated with rebellion and violence.
    Yet the crowd shouted:
    “Release Barabbas!”
    And concerning Jesus:
    “Crucify Him!”
    It looks like injustice won.
    But here is the deeper truth:
    Barabbas was not simply released because Jesus lost the argument. Barabbas was released because Jesus was going to take his place.
    The story of Barabbas is actually a picture of the Gospel.
    Barabbas represents the guilty sinner.
    Jesus represents the innocent Savior.
    Barabbas walked away free because Jesus walked toward the cross.

    And that is the mystery of grace:
    The guilty goes free because the innocent One takes his place.
    1. BARABBAS WAS GUILTY, BUT JESUS WAS INNOCENT
    Pilate examined Jesus and repeatedly found no sufficient reason to condemn Him.
    Luke 23:22 says:
    «“I have found no reason for death in Him.”»
    Jesus was innocent.
    But Barabbas had committed serious crimes.
    Mark 15:7 tells us that Barabbas had been involved in rebellion and murder.
    So, humanly speaking, the choice should have been obvious.
    But the crowd chose Barabbas.
    Why?
    Because the cross was not an accident.
    Jesus had already declared that He came to give His life for others.
    Mark 10:45 says:
    «“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”»
    Jesus knew why He came.
    He came to become the substitute.

    Spiritual Insight

    Sometimes we ask, “Why did Jesus have to die?”
    The answer is partly found in Barabbas.
    Someone had to bear the consequence of sin.
    And Jesus willingly took that place.
    2. BARABBAS RECEIVED WHAT JESUS DESERVED
    This is the shocking part of the story.
    Barabbas deserved punishment.
    Jesus deserved no punishment.
    Yet Barabbas walked out of prison.
    Jesus walked toward Golgotha.
    Barabbas went free.
    Jesus was condemned.
    Barabbas was released.
    Jesus was crucified.
    This is substitution.
    The guilty person goes free because the innocent person takes his place.
    Isaiah 53:5 declares:
    «“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.”»

    Notice the language:
    Our transgressions.
    Our iniquities.
    Our punishment.
    The cross was personal.
    Jesus was not dying because He had sinned.
    He was dying because we had sinned.

    Think About This

    Barabbas probably did not understand everything that was happening.
    He may have walked out of that prison wondering how he escaped death.
    But we know something he may not have understood:
    Another Man died in his place.
    And spiritually, that is our story.
    We were guilty.
    Christ took our place.
    3. THE RELEASE OF BARABBAS REVEALS THE DEPTH OF GOD'S GRACE
    Grace is not God pretending that sin does not matter.
    Grace is God dealing with sin through the sacrifice of Christ.
    Romans 5:8 says:
    «“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”»
    That means Jesus did not wait for us to become perfect before He loved us.
    He loved us while we were still sinners.
    Barabbas did not earn his freedom.
    He did not negotiate his release.
    He did not pay the governor.
    He simply received an unexpected release.
    That is grace.
    Grace is receiving what you could never earn because someone else paid the price.
    You cannot boast about salvation.
    You cannot say, “I saved myself.”
    No.
    Jesus saved you.
    4. THE CROWD CHOSE BARABBAS, BUT GOD WAS WORKING THROUGH THE CROSS
    The crowd thought they were making the final decision.
    But heaven had already established a redemptive purpose.
    Acts 2:23 says that Jesus was delivered according to the “determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.”
    This does not mean the people were innocent.
    Their choices were still sinful.
    But God was able to accomplish His redemptive plan through what sinful people intended for evil.
    This is one of the mysteries of God's sovereignty.
    People thought:
    “We are getting rid of Jesus.”
    God was accomplishing:
    “I am providing salvation for humanity.”

    The cross looked like defeat.
    But it became victory.
    The grave looked like the end.
    But resurrection was coming.
    Never Judge God's Work Too Early
    There may be seasons in your life when everything looks like it is going in the wrong direction.
    But remember Calvary.
    Friday looked like defeat. Sunday revealed the victory.
    Do not conclude the story while God is still writing it.
    5. BARABBAS IS A PICTURE OF EVERY SINNER WHO RECEIVES SALVATION
    We often read the story and say:
    “Why did they release Barabbas?”
    But there is another question:
    “What if I were Barabbas?”
    What if you were the one sitting in that prison?
    What if you knew punishment was coming?
    What if you knew you were guilty?
    Then suddenly, the story becomes personal.
    Barabbas walked out because Jesus took his place.
    And every person who comes to Christ in genuine faith can say:
    “I deserved judgment, but Christ took my place.”
    2 Corinthians 5:21 says:
    «“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”»
    That is the Gospel.
    Jesus took our place so that we could receive His righteousness.

    BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

    THE CROSS

    Look at the sequence.
    Barabbas: Guilty.
    Jesus: Innocent.
    Barabbas: Imprisoned.
    Jesus: Free.
    Barabbas: Released.
    Jesus: Condemned.
    Barabbas: Walked away.
    Jesus: Walked toward the cross.
    Barabbas: Lived because another died.
    Believers: Receive eternal life because Christ died and rose again.
    The cross is therefore more than a religious symbol.
    It is the place where justice and mercy met.
    Justice says sin must be dealt with.
    Mercy says sinners can be saved.
    At the cross, Jesus bore the judgment so that mercy could reach us.

    PRACTICAL LESSONS FOR CHRISTIANS.

    1. Never take salvation for granted.
    You were not saved because you were better than someone else.
    You were saved by grace.
    Therefore, remain humble.
    2. Stop trying to earn God's love
    You cannot work your way into salvation.
    Serve God because you love Him, not because you are trying to purchase His acceptance.
    3. Forgive others
    If Christ has forgiven you, you must learn to extend forgiveness to others.
    4. Live like someone who has been set free
    Barabbas walked out of prison.
    The believer has also been delivered from the dominion of sin.
    Do not keep living like a prisoner when Christ has made you free.
    5. Tell someone about Jesus
    Your testimony may be simple:
    “I was guilty, but Jesus took my place.”
    That is powerful enough.

    QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

    1. Have I truly understood what Jesus accomplished for me on the cross?
    2. Am I trying to earn God's acceptance instead of receiving His grace?
    3. Do I live like someone who has been set free?
    4. Have I truly repented of my sins?
    5. Who can I tell about the saving grace of Jesus Christ?
    6. Do I extend to others the same mercy I have received from Christ?

    POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

    1. Prayer of Thanksgiving
    Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to take my place. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. I will never take my salvation for granted. In Jesus' name, Amen.
    2. Prayer of Repentance
    Lord Jesus, forgive me for every sin, disobedience, pride, and rebellion in my life. Cleanse me and help me walk faithfully with You. Amen.
    3. Prayer for Freedom
    Every chain of sin, addiction, fear, and spiritual bondage in my life, break in the name of Jesus. I declare that whom the Son sets free is free indeed. Amen.
    4. Prayer for Grace
    Father, help me to understand the depth of Your grace and to live every day with gratitude for what Christ has done for me. Amen.
    5. Prayer for Others
    Lord, use my life to bring other Barabbases to Jesus—people who feel condemned, rejected, broken, and far from You. Let my testimony point them to the cross. Amen.

    DEEP SPIRITUAL TRUTH

    Here is the heart of the message:
    Barabbas was released, not because he was innocent, but because another took his place.
    And that is the Gospel.
    We are not saved because we are perfect.
    We are saved because Jesus is perfect.
    We are not accepted because we deserve it.
    We are accepted because Christ paid the price.
    We are not standing before God because of our righteousness.
    We stand because of His righteousness.
    The cross says:
    “Your sin is serious, but God's grace is greater.”

    CALL TO ACTION

    Today, do not simply admire the story of Barabbas.
    See yourself in it.
    You were guilty.
    Christ took your place.
    You were condemned.
    Christ bore the condemnation.
    You were far from God.
    Christ opened the way back to the Father.
    The question is not merely:
    “Why was Barabbas released?”
    The deeper question is:
    “What will I do with the Jesus who took my place?”
    Will you continue living for yourself?
    Or will you surrender your life completely to Him?
    Will you keep returning to the prison of sin?
    Or will you walk in the freedom Christ purchased for you?
    Jesus took your place.
    Now give Him your life.
    «“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36»
    You are not free because you were innocent.
    You are free because Jesus became your substitute.
    THE CROSS WAS HIS PLACE.
    THE FREEDOM WAS YOURS.
    THE SACRIFICE WAS HIS.
    THE GRACE IS YOURS.
    Come to Jesus. Remain in Jesus. Live for Jesus. And tell the world about Jesus.
    Amen.

    Give your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you.
    You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below

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    TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: THE REAL REASON BARABBAS WAS SET FREE AND NOT JESUS. Main Text: Matthew 27:15–26; Mark 15:6–15; Luke 23:13–25; John 18:38–40 There are moments in Scripture that make us stop and ask, “How could this happen?” Jesus was innocent. Barabbas was guilty. Jesus healed the sick. Barabbas was a criminal. Jesus preached love, forgiveness, and the Kingdom of God. Barabbas was associated with rebellion and violence. Yet the crowd shouted: “Release Barabbas!” And concerning Jesus: “Crucify Him!” It looks like injustice won. But here is the deeper truth: Barabbas was not simply released because Jesus lost the argument. Barabbas was released because Jesus was going to take his place. The story of Barabbas is actually a picture of the Gospel. Barabbas represents the guilty sinner. Jesus represents the innocent Savior. Barabbas walked away free because Jesus walked toward the cross. And that is the mystery of grace: The guilty goes free because the innocent One takes his place. 1. BARABBAS WAS GUILTY, BUT JESUS WAS INNOCENT Pilate examined Jesus and repeatedly found no sufficient reason to condemn Him. Luke 23:22 says: «“I have found no reason for death in Him.”» Jesus was innocent. But Barabbas had committed serious crimes. Mark 15:7 tells us that Barabbas had been involved in rebellion and murder. So, humanly speaking, the choice should have been obvious. But the crowd chose Barabbas. Why? Because the cross was not an accident. Jesus had already declared that He came to give His life for others. Mark 10:45 says: «“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”» Jesus knew why He came. He came to become the substitute. Spiritual Insight Sometimes we ask, “Why did Jesus have to die?” The answer is partly found in Barabbas. Someone had to bear the consequence of sin. And Jesus willingly took that place. 2. BARABBAS RECEIVED WHAT JESUS DESERVED This is the shocking part of the story. Barabbas deserved punishment. Jesus deserved no punishment. Yet Barabbas walked out of prison. Jesus walked toward Golgotha. Barabbas went free. Jesus was condemned. Barabbas was released. Jesus was crucified. This is substitution. The guilty person goes free because the innocent person takes his place. Isaiah 53:5 declares: «“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.”» Notice the language: Our transgressions. Our iniquities. Our punishment. The cross was personal. Jesus was not dying because He had sinned. He was dying because we had sinned. Think About This Barabbas probably did not understand everything that was happening. He may have walked out of that prison wondering how he escaped death. But we know something he may not have understood: Another Man died in his place. And spiritually, that is our story. We were guilty. Christ took our place. 3. THE RELEASE OF BARABBAS REVEALS THE DEPTH OF GOD'S GRACE Grace is not God pretending that sin does not matter. Grace is God dealing with sin through the sacrifice of Christ. Romans 5:8 says: «“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”» That means Jesus did not wait for us to become perfect before He loved us. He loved us while we were still sinners. Barabbas did not earn his freedom. He did not negotiate his release. He did not pay the governor. He simply received an unexpected release. That is grace. Grace is receiving what you could never earn because someone else paid the price. You cannot boast about salvation. You cannot say, “I saved myself.” No. Jesus saved you. 4. THE CROWD CHOSE BARABBAS, BUT GOD WAS WORKING THROUGH THE CROSS The crowd thought they were making the final decision. But heaven had already established a redemptive purpose. Acts 2:23 says that Jesus was delivered according to the “determined purpose and foreknowledge of God.” This does not mean the people were innocent. Their choices were still sinful. But God was able to accomplish His redemptive plan through what sinful people intended for evil. This is one of the mysteries of God's sovereignty. People thought: “We are getting rid of Jesus.” God was accomplishing: “I am providing salvation for humanity.” The cross looked like defeat. But it became victory. The grave looked like the end. But resurrection was coming. Never Judge God's Work Too Early There may be seasons in your life when everything looks like it is going in the wrong direction. But remember Calvary. Friday looked like defeat. Sunday revealed the victory. Do not conclude the story while God is still writing it. 5. BARABBAS IS A PICTURE OF EVERY SINNER WHO RECEIVES SALVATION We often read the story and say: “Why did they release Barabbas?” But there is another question: “What if I were Barabbas?” What if you were the one sitting in that prison? What if you knew punishment was coming? What if you knew you were guilty? Then suddenly, the story becomes personal. Barabbas walked out because Jesus took his place. And every person who comes to Christ in genuine faith can say: “I deserved judgment, but Christ took my place.” 2 Corinthians 5:21 says: «“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”» That is the Gospel. Jesus took our place so that we could receive His righteousness. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: THE CROSS Look at the sequence. Barabbas: Guilty. Jesus: Innocent. Barabbas: Imprisoned. Jesus: Free. Barabbas: Released. Jesus: Condemned. Barabbas: Walked away. Jesus: Walked toward the cross. Barabbas: Lived because another died. Believers: Receive eternal life because Christ died and rose again. The cross is therefore more than a religious symbol. It is the place where justice and mercy met. Justice says sin must be dealt with. Mercy says sinners can be saved. At the cross, Jesus bore the judgment so that mercy could reach us. PRACTICAL LESSONS FOR CHRISTIANS. 1. Never take salvation for granted. You were not saved because you were better than someone else. You were saved by grace. Therefore, remain humble. 2. Stop trying to earn God's love You cannot work your way into salvation. Serve God because you love Him, not because you are trying to purchase His acceptance. 3. Forgive others If Christ has forgiven you, you must learn to extend forgiveness to others. 4. Live like someone who has been set free Barabbas walked out of prison. The believer has also been delivered from the dominion of sin. Do not keep living like a prisoner when Christ has made you free. 5. Tell someone about Jesus Your testimony may be simple: “I was guilty, but Jesus took my place.” That is powerful enough. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. Have I truly understood what Jesus accomplished for me on the cross? 2. Am I trying to earn God's acceptance instead of receiving His grace? 3. Do I live like someone who has been set free? 4. Have I truly repented of my sins? 5. Who can I tell about the saving grace of Jesus Christ? 6. Do I extend to others the same mercy I have received from Christ? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer of Thanksgiving Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to take my place. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. I will never take my salvation for granted. In Jesus' name, Amen. 2. Prayer of Repentance Lord Jesus, forgive me for every sin, disobedience, pride, and rebellion in my life. Cleanse me and help me walk faithfully with You. Amen. 3. Prayer for Freedom Every chain of sin, addiction, fear, and spiritual bondage in my life, break in the name of Jesus. I declare that whom the Son sets free is free indeed. Amen. 4. Prayer for Grace Father, help me to understand the depth of Your grace and to live every day with gratitude for what Christ has done for me. Amen. 5. Prayer for Others Lord, use my life to bring other Barabbases to Jesus—people who feel condemned, rejected, broken, and far from You. Let my testimony point them to the cross. Amen. DEEP SPIRITUAL TRUTH Here is the heart of the message: Barabbas was released, not because he was innocent, but because another took his place. And that is the Gospel. We are not saved because we are perfect. We are saved because Jesus is perfect. We are not accepted because we deserve it. We are accepted because Christ paid the price. We are not standing before God because of our righteousness. We stand because of His righteousness. The cross says: “Your sin is serious, but God's grace is greater.” CALL TO ACTION Today, do not simply admire the story of Barabbas. See yourself in it. You were guilty. Christ took your place. You were condemned. Christ bore the condemnation. You were far from God. Christ opened the way back to the Father. The question is not merely: “Why was Barabbas released?” The deeper question is: “What will I do with the Jesus who took my place?” Will you continue living for yourself? Or will you surrender your life completely to Him? Will you keep returning to the prison of sin? Or will you walk in the freedom Christ purchased for you? Jesus took your place. Now give Him your life. «“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36» You are not free because you were innocent. You are free because Jesus became your substitute. THE CROSS WAS HIS PLACE. THE FREEDOM WAS YOURS. THE SACRIFICE WAS HIS. THE GRACE IS YOURS. Come to Jesus. Remain in Jesus. Live for Jesus. And tell the world about Jesus. Amen. Give your life to Jesus by joining a Bible believing Church near you. You can get inspirational ebooks from my selar/amazon shops below https:/selar.com/m/umoh-edem1 https://selar.com/m/umoedem https://www.amazon.com/author/umohedembooks CONTACT - WhatsApp +2349024173027, +2349055447540 Email pastor.umoedem@gmail.com https://afrikdp.com/author/umohedem-9128 https://www.facebook.com/share/14futvERWUD/
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  • *Looking Up*

    It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses.

    But in his letter to the *Colossians* , Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up:
    *“Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬*
    As we think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider:

    - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King.

    - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed.

    - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever.

    - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His Throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s Sovereign plan.

    So when we’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at ourselves, let's look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all.

    *A Prayer of Thanks for Eternal Life*
    Father God, we realize that eternal life began the moment we accepted Your free gifts of Grace and Salvation. As we follow You, help us to always remember to look up—to have an eternal mindset. Give us the wisdom to be mindful of heaven as we are living here on earth. In Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.
    *Looking Up* It’s normal, as well as understandable, to spend our time, energy, and attention focusing on the here and now. We’re busy, after all. Sometimes we're preoccupied. And when we stop to really think about it, it’s difficult to perceive something beyond our five senses. But in his letter to the *Colossians* , Paul encourages his fellow believers to look up: *“Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬* As we think about Paul’s words and the realities of heaven, here are four things to consider: - First, heaven isn’t some vague, dream-like state. It’s a real place, with real people, where God is the true King. - Second, there will come a day when we will all meet God face to face. We will no longer need faith or hope, because that which we’ve hoped for will finally be revealed. - Third, our troubles and our heartbreaks (and even death itself) are temporary! Scripture tells us that, eventually, God will do away with pain and death and sickness and suffering—forever. - Lastly (and most importantly), God is still on His Throne, with Jesus beside Him in the place of honor. No matter how crazy, senseless, or heartbreaking the world can seem, we can have confidence knowing that nothing is outside of God’s Sovereign plan. So when we’re tempted to look around at others or look inward at ourselves, let's look up instead. Heaven is wherever God is, and that’s the truest reality of all. *A Prayer of Thanks for Eternal Life* Father God, we realize that eternal life began the moment we accepted Your free gifts of Grace and Salvation. As we follow You, help us to always remember to look up—to have an eternal mindset. Give us the wisdom to be mindful of heaven as we are living here on earth. In Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.
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  • Hello, I would like to share with you the message from 27 August 2026 from “The Good Seed” daily calendar.


    Behold now, I am old. I do not know the day of my death. (Genesis 27:2)

    No one knows when he will die
    For over 30 years I went to the same dentist. But he grew older and began to plan his retirement. A successor started working in the practice, and for two years they planned to share the workload. I had another appointment with the older dentist for the annual check-up. Then suddenly, the practice assistant called me and informed me that the dentist had unexpectedly died of a heart failure two weeks before.
     This news troubled me and once again reminded me that no one can know the day of his death. Therefore, it isn’t enough just to plan for retirement. We should also be prepared for death.
     The most important thing is not to die unreconciled with God. Therefore, reconcile yourself with Him now! He knows everything we have done in our lives – the good and the bad deeds. When you confess your sins to God, they are covered by the blood of the Lord Jesus. As a result, you will die with the certainty that your future is with Christ in heaven!
     It is also important to settle personal matters before death comes. Many things are easier for those who survive you if you leave everything in good order. Abraham did this, as we can read in Genesis 25:5-10.
     “There is but a step between me and death.” (1 Samuel 20:3)

    Today’s reading: Judges 1:1-15 – 2 Corinthians 1:1-7
    Hello, I would like to share with you the message from 27 August 2026 from “The Good Seed” daily calendar. Behold now, I am old. I do not know the day of my death. (Genesis 27:2) No one knows when he will die For over 30 years I went to the same dentist. But he grew older and began to plan his retirement. A successor started working in the practice, and for two years they planned to share the workload. I had another appointment with the older dentist for the annual check-up. Then suddenly, the practice assistant called me and informed me that the dentist had unexpectedly died of a heart failure two weeks before.  This news troubled me and once again reminded me that no one can know the day of his death. Therefore, it isn’t enough just to plan for retirement. We should also be prepared for death.  The most important thing is not to die unreconciled with God. Therefore, reconcile yourself with Him now! He knows everything we have done in our lives – the good and the bad deeds. When you confess your sins to God, they are covered by the blood of the Lord Jesus. As a result, you will die with the certainty that your future is with Christ in heaven!  It is also important to settle personal matters before death comes. Many things are easier for those who survive you if you leave everything in good order. Abraham did this, as we can read in Genesis 25:5-10.  “There is but a step between me and death.” (1 Samuel 20:3) Today’s reading: Judges 1:1-15 – 2 Corinthians 1:1-7
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  • LEP'S FAITH QUOTES: God Has a Greater Plan 8/27 Thursday Thoughts
    God will do great things for us if we are prepared to receive them from Him. We are dull of comprehension because we let the cares of this world blind our eyes, but if we keep open to God, He has a greater plan for us in the future than we have seen or ever have dreamed about in the past.
    -- Smith Wigglesworth
    LEP'S FAITH QUOTES: God Has a Greater Plan 8/27 Thursday Thoughts God will do great things for us if we are prepared to receive them from Him. We are dull of comprehension because we let the cares of this world blind our eyes, but if we keep open to God, He has a greater plan for us in the future than we have seen or ever have dreamed about in the past. -- Smith Wigglesworth
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  • Good evening, brethren.
    1. Evening devotion for today.

    ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST*
    (COCIN DEVOTIONAL)

    *DATE:*
    WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026.

    *SUB-THEME:*
    YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD’S GRACE.

    *TOPIC:*
    PRIORITISE MISSION.

    *TEXTS:*
    MATTHEW 24:14; MARK 13:10.
    *MATTHEW 24:14.*
    14. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
    *MARK 13:10.*
    10. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations.

    *TOPIC:*
    PRIORITISE MISSION.

    *THE MESSAGE:*
    Jesus made it clear that the gospel of the kingdom must be proclaimed to all nations before His return. The ultimate goal of missions is to establish the Lordship of Christ across the earth, not through force, but through the willing submission of hearts to His saving grace. Only through faith in Christ and His redemptive work can humanity be delivered from the bondage of sin, self, and Satan to serve God truly. As recipients of God's mercy and grace, we cannot remain silent about it. The good news is too powerful to be kept to ourselves. Like the young Karl Kumm of blessed memory, mission must be our priority. Be actively engaged through proclamation, prayers, and giving. Take the gospel to the dark corners of your world - home, neighbourhood, school, and workplace.

    *REFLECTION:*
    This gospel of the kingdom must be preached.

    *PRAYER:*
    Lord, revive my passion for lost souls. 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 37-39.

    ED.ii. DAVID AND MEPHIBOSHETH

    "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Messiah." - Revelation 11:15

    When Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, was told to come to king David's palace, he must have trembled all over his body. He must have thought David wanted revenge on him for what his grandfather Saul had done to him. When Mephibosheth entered the palace, he fell before king David's feet and exclaimed: 'What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?'

    We will also have a heavenly palace where the living God is. There are many people, including Christians, who tremble in fear of the King, the living God, they fear to stand before His throne. They are afraid of what God will do to them. Will He be angry because of the sins they have committed? This is how they think, because they believe that God is an angry and stern God.

    Do not be afraid for God

    Today I want to tell you that God is a God of love and grace. He does not want anyone to perish. He gave His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

    You do not have to be afraid if you know that you are a child of God. When the time comes and the Lord calls you to come to His palace, do not be afraid to let go of the earth and courageously enter your King's palace. When you enter as Mephibosheth did, Jesus Christ will be standing there. Throw yourself at His feet, this is all you have to do and He will do the rest! He is a good God.


    https://www.theblessingdevotional.com

    2. Evening Prayer for today.

    EP.i. Evening Prayer

    Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. ⏤ Philippians 4:11

    Prayer is not so much an act as it is an attitude—an attitude of dependency, dependency upon God. ⏤ Arthur Pink

    Almighty God, who has ordered our lives and appointed the place where we live—grant us the grace to accept cheerfully and to occupy contentedly the station in life that You, in Your providence, have assigned to us. Help us to see its sacredness because it is Your fatherly choice for us and Your gift to us.

    Surely, the place You have prepared for us, and where You have set us, must be the best place for us—the place where we can best grow as Christians, where the atmosphere is most healthy for us, and where the experiences are best suited to develop our character. It must also be the place where we can do the best service for You. Help us to accept it with confidence and to live in it without discontent.

    Sometimes we are tempted to complain. We think others are more favored, have easier lives, less care and toil, and more ease and comfort. We imagine that if we could trade places with others, we could live more sweetly and make more of our lives.

    Forgive us for this sin of discontentment with our place in life. You know what is best for us. You know where we can be of the most use to You and others, where the work is that You have for us to do.

    So, we earnestly pray, our Father, for the spirit of cheerful acceptance of Your plan and Your way for us. Help us to accept Your guidance and to do the things that come to us day by day from Your hand. Then, at the end, we can rejoice in the blessing of those who have done Your will and served our generation. We ask all this through Jesus Christ. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/52/evening

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD’S GRACE. *TOPIC:* PRIORITISE MISSION. *TEXTS:* MATTHEW 24:14; MARK 13:10. *MATTHEW 24:14.* 14. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. *MARK 13:10.* 10. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. *TOPIC:* PRIORITISE MISSION. *THE MESSAGE:* Jesus made it clear that the gospel of the kingdom must be proclaimed to all nations before His return. The ultimate goal of missions is to establish the Lordship of Christ across the earth, not through force, but through the willing submission of hearts to His saving grace. Only through faith in Christ and His redemptive work can humanity be delivered from the bondage of sin, self, and Satan to serve God truly. As recipients of God's mercy and grace, we cannot remain silent about it. The good news is too powerful to be kept to ourselves. Like the young Karl Kumm of blessed memory, mission must be our priority. Be actively engaged through proclamation, prayers, and giving. Take the gospel to the dark corners of your world - home, neighbourhood, school, and workplace. *REFLECTION:* This gospel of the kingdom must be preached. *PRAYER:* Lord, revive my passion for lost souls. 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 37-39. ED.ii. DAVID AND MEPHIBOSHETH "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Messiah." - Revelation 11:15 When Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, was told to come to king David's palace, he must have trembled all over his body. He must have thought David wanted revenge on him for what his grandfather Saul had done to him. When Mephibosheth entered the palace, he fell before king David's feet and exclaimed: 'What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?' We will also have a heavenly palace where the living God is. There are many people, including Christians, who tremble in fear of the King, the living God, they fear to stand before His throne. They are afraid of what God will do to them. Will He be angry because of the sins they have committed? This is how they think, because they believe that God is an angry and stern God. Do not be afraid for God Today I want to tell you that God is a God of love and grace. He does not want anyone to perish. He gave His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. You do not have to be afraid if you know that you are a child of God. When the time comes and the Lord calls you to come to His palace, do not be afraid to let go of the earth and courageously enter your King's palace. When you enter as Mephibosheth did, Jesus Christ will be standing there. Throw yourself at His feet, this is all you have to do and He will do the rest! He is a good God. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer for today. EP.i. Evening Prayer Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. ⏤ Philippians 4:11 Prayer is not so much an act as it is an attitude—an attitude of dependency, dependency upon God. ⏤ Arthur Pink Almighty God, who has ordered our lives and appointed the place where we live—grant us the grace to accept cheerfully and to occupy contentedly the station in life that You, in Your providence, have assigned to us. Help us to see its sacredness because it is Your fatherly choice for us and Your gift to us. Surely, the place You have prepared for us, and where You have set us, must be the best place for us—the place where we can best grow as Christians, where the atmosphere is most healthy for us, and where the experiences are best suited to develop our character. It must also be the place where we can do the best service for You. Help us to accept it with confidence and to live in it without discontent. Sometimes we are tempted to complain. We think others are more favored, have easier lives, less care and toil, and more ease and comfort. We imagine that if we could trade places with others, we could live more sweetly and make more of our lives. Forgive us for this sin of discontentment with our place in life. You know what is best for us. You know where we can be of the most use to You and others, where the work is that You have for us to do. So, we earnestly pray, our Father, for the spirit of cheerful acceptance of Your plan and Your way for us. Help us to accept Your guidance and to do the things that come to us day by day from Your hand. Then, at the end, we can rejoice in the blessing of those who have done Your will and served our generation. We ask all this through Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/52/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • Good evening, brethren.
    1. Evening devotion for today.

    ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST*
    (COCIN DEVOTIONAL)

    *DATE:*
    WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026.

    *SUB-THEME:*
    YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD’S GRACE.

    *TOPIC:*
    PRIORITISE MISSION.

    *TEXTS:*
    MATTHEW 24:14; MARK 13:10.
    *MATTHEW 24:14.*
    14. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
    *MARK 13:10.*
    10. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations.

    *TOPIC:*
    PRIORITISE MISSION.

    *THE MESSAGE:*
    Jesus made it clear that the gospel of the kingdom must be proclaimed to all nations before His return. The ultimate goal of missions is to establish the Lordship of Christ across the earth, not through force, but through the willing submission of hearts to His saving grace. Only through faith in Christ and His redemptive work can humanity be delivered from the bondage of sin, self, and Satan to serve God truly. As recipients of God's mercy and grace, we cannot remain silent about it. The good news is too powerful to be kept to ourselves. Like the young Karl Kumm of blessed memory, mission must be our priority. Be actively engaged through proclamation, prayers, and giving. Take the gospel to the dark corners of your world - home, neighbourhood, school, and workplace.

    *REFLECTION:*
    This gospel of the kingdom must be preached.

    *PRAYER:*
    Lord, revive my passion for lost souls. 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 37-39.

    ED.ii. DAVID AND MEPHIBOSHETH

    "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Messiah." - Revelation 11:15

    When Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, was told to come to king David's palace, he must have trembled all over his body. He must have thought David wanted revenge on him for what his grandfather Saul had done to him. When Mephibosheth entered the palace, he fell before king David's feet and exclaimed: 'What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?'

    We will also have a heavenly palace where the living God is. There are many people, including Christians, who tremble in fear of the King, the living God, they fear to stand before His throne. They are afraid of what God will do to them. Will He be angry because of the sins they have committed? This is how they think, because they believe that God is an angry and stern God.

    Do not be afraid for God

    Today I want to tell you that God is a God of love and grace. He does not want anyone to perish. He gave His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

    You do not have to be afraid if you know that you are a child of God. When the time comes and the Lord calls you to come to His palace, do not be afraid to let go of the earth and courageously enter your King's palace. When you enter as Mephibosheth did, Jesus Christ will be standing there. Throw yourself at His feet, this is all you have to do and He will do the rest! He is a good God.


    https://www.theblessingdevotional.com

    2. Evening Prayer for today.

    EP.i. Evening Prayer

    Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. ⏤ Philippians 4:11

    Prayer is not so much an act as it is an attitude—an attitude of dependency, dependency upon God. ⏤ Arthur Pink

    Almighty God, who has ordered our lives and appointed the place where we live—grant us the grace to accept cheerfully and to occupy contentedly the station in life that You, in Your providence, have assigned to us. Help us to see its sacredness because it is Your fatherly choice for us and Your gift to us.

    Surely, the place You have prepared for us, and where You have set us, must be the best place for us—the place where we can best grow as Christians, where the atmosphere is most healthy for us, and where the experiences are best suited to develop our character. It must also be the place where we can do the best service for You. Help us to accept it with confidence and to live in it without discontent.

    Sometimes we are tempted to complain. We think others are more favored, have easier lives, less care and toil, and more ease and comfort. We imagine that if we could trade places with others, we could live more sweetly and make more of our lives.

    Forgive us for this sin of discontentment with our place in life. You know what is best for us. You know where we can be of the most use to You and others, where the work is that You have for us to do.

    So, we earnestly pray, our Father, for the spirit of cheerful acceptance of Your plan and Your way for us. Help us to accept Your guidance and to do the things that come to us day by day from Your hand. Then, at the end, we can rejoice in the blessing of those who have done Your will and served our generation. We ask all this through Jesus Christ. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/52/evening

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    Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* WEDNESDAY 26TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD’S GRACE. *TOPIC:* PRIORITISE MISSION. *TEXTS:* MATTHEW 24:14; MARK 13:10. *MATTHEW 24:14.* 14. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. *MARK 13:10.* 10. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. *TOPIC:* PRIORITISE MISSION. *THE MESSAGE:* Jesus made it clear that the gospel of the kingdom must be proclaimed to all nations before His return. The ultimate goal of missions is to establish the Lordship of Christ across the earth, not through force, but through the willing submission of hearts to His saving grace. Only through faith in Christ and His redemptive work can humanity be delivered from the bondage of sin, self, and Satan to serve God truly. As recipients of God's mercy and grace, we cannot remain silent about it. The good news is too powerful to be kept to ourselves. Like the young Karl Kumm of blessed memory, mission must be our priority. Be actively engaged through proclamation, prayers, and giving. Take the gospel to the dark corners of your world - home, neighbourhood, school, and workplace. *REFLECTION:* This gospel of the kingdom must be preached. *PRAYER:* Lord, revive my passion for lost souls. 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 37-39. ED.ii. DAVID AND MEPHIBOSHETH "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Messiah." - Revelation 11:15 When Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan and grandson of Saul, was told to come to king David's palace, he must have trembled all over his body. He must have thought David wanted revenge on him for what his grandfather Saul had done to him. When Mephibosheth entered the palace, he fell before king David's feet and exclaimed: 'What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?' We will also have a heavenly palace where the living God is. There are many people, including Christians, who tremble in fear of the King, the living God, they fear to stand before His throne. They are afraid of what God will do to them. Will He be angry because of the sins they have committed? This is how they think, because they believe that God is an angry and stern God. Do not be afraid for God Today I want to tell you that God is a God of love and grace. He does not want anyone to perish. He gave His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. You do not have to be afraid if you know that you are a child of God. When the time comes and the Lord calls you to come to His palace, do not be afraid to let go of the earth and courageously enter your King's palace. When you enter as Mephibosheth did, Jesus Christ will be standing there. Throw yourself at His feet, this is all you have to do and He will do the rest! He is a good God. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer for today. EP.i. Evening Prayer Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. ⏤ Philippians 4:11 Prayer is not so much an act as it is an attitude—an attitude of dependency, dependency upon God. ⏤ Arthur Pink Almighty God, who has ordered our lives and appointed the place where we live—grant us the grace to accept cheerfully and to occupy contentedly the station in life that You, in Your providence, have assigned to us. Help us to see its sacredness because it is Your fatherly choice for us and Your gift to us. Surely, the place You have prepared for us, and where You have set us, must be the best place for us—the place where we can best grow as Christians, where the atmosphere is most healthy for us, and where the experiences are best suited to develop our character. It must also be the place where we can do the best service for You. Help us to accept it with confidence and to live in it without discontent. Sometimes we are tempted to complain. We think others are more favored, have easier lives, less care and toil, and more ease and comfort. We imagine that if we could trade places with others, we could live more sweetly and make more of our lives. Forgive us for this sin of discontentment with our place in life. You know what is best for us. You know where we can be of the most use to You and others, where the work is that You have for us to do. So, we earnestly pray, our Father, for the spirit of cheerful acceptance of Your plan and Your way for us. Help us to accept Your guidance and to do the things that come to us day by day from Your hand. Then, at the end, we can rejoice in the blessing of those who have done Your will and served our generation. We ask all this through Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/52/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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