Stop trying to prove your worth to people who don't hold the pen to your story. Let’s be honest: we are obsessed with building our own resumes. We spend half our lives carefully curating our wins, updating our bios, and quietly making sure everyone in the room knows exactly what we bring to the table. But chasing human applause is a rigged game. It’s an exhausting treadmill where the finish line keeps moving. The moment you finally get the validation you were hustling for, the anxiety kicks in: What if I lose it? What if they stop clapping? When you are the one commending yourself, you have to work 24/7 to maintain the illusion. There is a better way to live, and Paul nailed it in 2 Corinthians 10:17-18: "For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends." You don't achieve true freedom when everyone in the room finally claps for you. Freedom is walking into the room and no longer needing the applause—because you already have the only approval that actually matters. Drop the PR campaign. Stop the self-promotion. Let your only boast be in what He has already done for you. Save this post for the next time you feel the pressure to prove yourself. Share this to the story of someone who needs to be freed from the approval trap today.

Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* SUNDAY 16TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD'S GRACE *TOPIC:* DILIGENCE: PATHWAY TO GREATNESS. *TEXTS:* PROVERBS 12:24; 22:29. *12:24.* 24. Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labour. *22:29.* 29. Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank. *TOPIC:* DILIGENCE: PATHWAY TO GREATNESS. *THE MESSAGE:* Diligence means consistent, earnest, and skilful effort that leads to excellence and advancement. According to Proverbs, those who work hard and refine their skills will stand out, serving before influential people and rising to postions of honour, whether in secular or gospel ministry. True promotion is a reward for diligent effort, not the result of ambition or manipulation. Christian youths must eschew laziness and embrace hard work as a core value. Diligence glorifies God. Wasting time on entertainment and social media without developing one's potential is contrary to godly wisdom. How diligent are you in your studies, skills, career, house chores, community, and church work? Do not be nonchalant. Discover and maximise your potential diligently. *REFLECTION:* Diligence breeds excellence. *PRAYER:* Lord, deliver me from laziness, in Jesus' name. Amen. *MEMORY VERSE FOR THE MONTH:* 2 TIMOTHY 2:21. "If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be instruments for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work." *TODAY'S BIBLE READING PLAN:* EZEKIEL 1-3. ED.ii. TWO TYPES OF PEOPLE "All who have this hope in Him purify themselves, just as He is pure." - 1 John 3:3 The Bible always speaks about two types of people, ways or choices: sheep and goats, corn and chaff, wise and foolish virgins, a wide and a narrow path, a man walking in the light or a man walking in the darkness, a sinner or a righteous person. The Bible says that God wants to bring people from darkness into His wonderful light. Each time you see these two categories of people. The Bible speaks of people who are damned and people who are saved; lost and redeemed people; people who have strayed from the straight road and who belong to the flock; carnal and spiritual people. The contrast that the Bible indicates between one group and the other is quite large. You stand either on one side or on the other. You choose heaven or hell. You choose death or life. You cannot be saved a little or go to heaven a little. You cannot be pregnant for just a little bit either. Either you are pregnant, or you are not. You are a Christian or you are not. You walk in the light or in the darkness. You are far from God because of sin or your sins are forgiven, and you have entered the presence of God. It is either the one or the other! Born again is essential A person has to experience a change within. Rebirth is to take place. The Bible calls it 'being born again'; to go from the old to the new creation. If you are not born again you cannot see the Kingdom of God, let alone enter it. This is essential for all believers. Jesus says that if we give our heart to Him and allow Him, He will come to us. In 2 Corinthians 5:17 we read: 'Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!' https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer. EP.i. Evening Prayer Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. ⏤ James 1:17 Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies. ⏤ John Milton Lord, we humbly come before You, asking that You hear our prayers, our confession, our requests, and our praise, which we offer to You through Jesus Christ our Lord. We have gone astray and wandered from Your ways, like lost sheep. We have followed too much the desires of our own hearts. We have broken Your holy laws. We have left undone the things we should have done and have done things we should not have done. There is nothing good in us. But You, O Lord, have mercy on us as miserable offenders, and for Jesus' sake, give us the grace to turn away from every evil path and to live in a way that brings glory to Your holy name. What can we give You, O Giver of all good things, for Your kindness to us as a family? We thank You for the comforts of our home, for the opportunities we have for learning, for our health and happiness, for prosperity, and for all the blessings of Your providence, including the love that unites us as a family. Help us, O Father, to live in a way that is worthy of all Your favors and gracious kindness. May our hearts be filled with love and gratitude. May our lips speak Your praise. May our lives truly reflect the gratitude we feel. Sanctify all the blessings of this day. Bless the preaching of Your Word and all the services in which we participated. May Your blessing follow all the work of Your people today in every church and Sunday school. Now grant us restful and refreshing sleep, and may the blessings of this Sunday carry us through the new week. We ask this in Jesus Christ. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/42/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

When Leadership Is Driven by Ambition Scripture Judges 9:23 (NKJV) Then God sent a spirit of ill will between Abimelech and the men of Shechem and the men of Shechem dealt treacherously with Abimelech God Does Not Bless Ungodly Authority Judges chapter 9 tells a tragic story of ambition power and betrayal. Abimelech seeks leadership not through God’s calling but through manipulation violence and self promotion. He kills his brothers secures power through fear and rules without regard for God or people. Verse 23 reveals a sobering truth. God allows division and conflict to expose unrighteous leadership. Abimelech’s rule was built on bloodshed and deceit and it could not stand. The same treachery he used to gain power eventually turned against him. This chapter shows that leadership without God leads to destruction. Authority gained without righteousness cannot produce peace or stability. God is not silent when injustice rules. In time He allows the consequences of sin to surface and brings judgment on prideful ambition. For believers today Judges 9 is a warning against seeking position influence or control apart from God. God values humility obedience and servant leadership. When ambition replaces submission to God chaos follows. True authority comes from God and is sustained only by faithfulness to Him. Reflection Questions 1. Do I seek influence through humility or through self promotion 2. Am I willing to wait for God’s timing rather than forcing outcomes 3. How do I respond when God exposes wrong motives or attitudes Prayer Lord God guard my heart from pride ambition and selfish desire. Teach me to seek Your will rather than my own advancement. Help me to walk humbly before You and trust that true authority and influence come from You alone. In Jesus name Amen.

✝️ DAILY HOMILY - AUGUST 15TH SAT | WEEK 2: DIVINE DIRECTION AND OPEN DOORS CHRIST CRUCIFIED OUTREACH INTERNATIONAL TEXT: COLOSSIANS 4:3 - "A DOOR FOR THE WORD" VERSE: "At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison." – Colossians 4:3 MESSAGE: Not every open door is about money, promotion, or opportunity. Some of the most important doors God opens are doors for the Word. Paul was in prison, yet his prayer wasn’t just “get me out.” He said, “Pray that God may open to us a door for the word.” He wanted access to speak Christ. To share truth. To bring light. Divine Direction And Open Doors this week includes doors to: 1. Influence – A conversation where you can speak life 2. Impact – A platform to share what God has done 3. Purpose – A place where your testimony meets someone’s need God opens doors so the Word can run free. Your job, your business, your family, your social media — they can all be a “door for the Word.” Ask God today: “Lord, open a door for Your Word through me.” Because when the Word goes through, lives change. KEY LINE: The greatest open door is the one that lets Jesus in. PRAYER: Father, Open doors for Your Word through my life this week. Give me boldness to declare the mystery of Christ. Use my mouth, my work, and my story. Let every door You open become a place where people encounter You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Prophet Israel Aviedo Founder & General Overseer CCOI.

The Wisdom of God Beyond King Ahasuerus' Kingship Esther chapter 10 closes with what seems like an ordinary political report, yet it quietly reveals the wisdom and providence of God after the great deliverance of His people. King Ahasuerus was not consumed by the chaos that had unfolded throughout his kingdom. He did not allow the presence of death, political tension, or even the victory of Queen Esther's people to keep him from fulfilling his responsibility as king. Instead, Scripture records that he continued ordering the affairs of his kingdom. He laid a tribute upon the land and the islands of the sea (Esther 10:1). While many lives had been lost during the conflict, the kingdom still needed stability. Taxes supported the administration, defense, and welfare of the empire so that the nation would not collapse into disorder. Wise leadership does not ignore tragedy but restores order after it. God also positioned Mordecai in a place of authority. His promotion was not merely a reward for faithfulness but a provision for the people. Mordecai was described as great among the Jews, accepted by his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his descendants (Esther 10:3). He possessed a heart that cared for people, attentive ears that understood what was happening around him, and wisdom to act on matters that truly affected his community. Interestingly, Queen Esther quietly fades into the background in this final chapter. Her silence does not diminish her importance. Rather, it suggests that she had fulfilled the specific assignment God had entrusted to her. After risking her life, revealing her identity, and interceding for her people, she now enjoys the peace that follows faithful obedience. God often calls His servants to step forward for a season and then quietly step back once His purpose has been accomplished. This points us to the Lord Jesus Christ. Unlike earthly rulers who merely restore temporary order, Christ establishes an everlasting Kingdom. He not only rescued His people from death but secured eternal salvation through His cross and resurrection. Today, He reigns at the Father's right hand, continually interceding for His people until He returns. His Kingdom is marked by righteousness, peace, and justice that will never end. As believers awaiting Christ's return: - Remain faithful in the responsibilities God has given you, even after seasons of difficulty. - Seek the welfare of others rather than personal recognition, following Mordecai's example. - Accept that some assignments are seasonal. Like Esther, be willing to step forward when God calls and step back when your task is complete. - Trust that God continues ordering history even when His work appears quiet. His providence never stops. "For the kingdom is the LORD'S: and he is the governor among the nations." (Psalm 22:28) May we faithfully serve our King until the day the Lord Jesus Christ returns to establish His perfect and eternal Kingdom.

"THE DOOR CLOSED" *Lagos, 2024* Adaora was 27. Smart, diligent, and the top performer on her team at _BrightWave Tech_. For 3 years she showed up early, stayed late, and covered for people. Everyone said she was "next in line for manager." Then one Friday, HR called her in. "We’re downsizing. Today is your last day." No warning. No performance issues. Just a box, an email deactivation, and 24 other people walking out with her. The reason they gave? "Budget cuts." The real reason her colleagues whispered? The new COO wanted "his own people." Adaora went home and broke. Rent was due in 2 weeks. Her younger brother’s school fees were unpaid. She had sent 87 applications in 6 months before this job. *Weeks 1-4: The silence* She applied everywhere. Interviews ghosted her. One recruiter said, "We love you but you’re 'overqualified'." She prayed. Fasted. Her pastor laid hands on her and said _“God is not done.”_ She believed it… until month 3 hit. *Week 12: All doors closed* She got a final email from BrightWave’s HR: "Appeal denied. Position filled." Her landlord gave her a 7-day notice. Her phone was about to be cut off. That night she sat on her mat in her small apartment in Yaba, Bible open to _Isaiah 43:19_ — _“Behold, I am doing a new thing. Now it springs forth.”_ She whispered, "God, if You’re doing a new thing, I can’t see it." That same week, she saw on LinkedIn that her old role was reposted. Same title. Same salary. But the requirement now said "3-5 years experience + must have worked at BrightWave." It felt cruel. Like God was teasing her. She closed the app and cried, "It’s over." Sunday morning. Her pastor called her out during service. "Someone here lost a job unfairly. God says: ‘I saw what was done in secret, and I will answer in public.’" Adaora didn’t know what to think. Monday 9:03am. Unknown number. "Hello, is this Adaora? This is the CEO of BrightWave. We just finished an audit. We found out the downsizing was targeted and illegal. The COO has been let go. We’d like to offer you your job back. With 4 months back pay. And a promotion to Team Lead. Can you resume Wednesday?" She dropped her phone. Later she found out: One of the board members had watched her mentor interns for free on YouTube during her unemployment. He told the CEO, "That’s the kind of person we need leading." *6 months later* Adaora now runs the department. The first thing she did was rehire 2 people who were let go with her. She keeps a sticky note on her desk: _“Man said no. God said watch.”_ *The truth she tells young people now:* "There was a moment I thought God forgot me. But He was working behind closed boardroom doors I couldn’t access. When man shuts the last door, God builds a new hallway." _“With God all things are possible.” — Matthew 19:26_ _“No weapon formed against

Brenda Walsh Ministries Fear of Failure. There’s an old African proverb that says, “He who wants to cross a river must not be afraid of getting wet.” Too many times people don’t accomplish their dreams and goals because of fear of failure or fear of what they’ll encounter. That kind of fear keeps you from going on a diet to lose weight, changing jobs, exploring a relationship, or even accepting a promotion. But being locked in a prison of fear will destroy you. Author Paulo Coelho once said, “There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure.” Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start being positive about what could go right. Not once does the Bible say to worry about it, stress over it, or figure it out. But over and over again, it clearly says, “Fear not.” Plain and simple, God doesn’t want His children to live in fear! He wants you to trust Him and go forward with faith that He knows what He is doing and will lead and guide you every step. Fear paralyzes your dreams, steals your happiness, and limits your relationship with God. When you start thinking, “I can’t do this. I’m just an idiot - everyone is going to laugh at me. Look at how many times I’ve failed. Everyone else can do it - I’m clearly the problem,” don’t listen to any of that nonsense and push those negative thoughts from your mind. That’s just the kind of weapon the devil loves to use against you, but don’t let fear keep you from going where God wants to take you. Claim God’s promise in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Text: Psalm 56:3, Isaiah 41:13, Psalm 118:6, 2 Timothy 1:7

📌 Today's Readings are from the Book of 2 Kings 7–8 | 2 Corinthians 12📌 👇 Overviews Are Below (PLEASE READ YOUR BIBLE: Overviews Do Not Replace Daily Reading) 👇 2 Kings 5 Grace for the Humble 2 Kings 5 tells the remarkable account of Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army. Though he is a respected military leader with great influence, he suffers from leprosy, a disease that no amount of power, wealth, or prestige can cure. The chapter immediately reminds us that earthly success cannot solve humanity's deepest problems. Every person, regardless of status, stands in need of God's grace. The story begins with an unexpected witness—a young Israelite servant girl who had been taken captive. Despite her difficult circumstances, she points Naaman toward the prophet Elisha. God chooses to work through someone the world would consider insignificant, reminding us that faithful testimony can have eternal impact regardless of our position. Naaman arrives expecting an impressive display of power. Instead, Elisha simply instructs him to wash in the Jordan River. Naaman initially becomes angry because God's method seems too simple and too humbling. His pride nearly prevents his healing. Only when he humbles himself and obeys God's instruction does he experience complete restoration. Naaman's healing reveals that God's grace cannot be purchased, earned, or manipulated. It is received through humble faith and obedient trust. The God of Israel demonstrates His authority not only over disease but over every nation, revealing that His salvation extends beyond Israel alone. The chapter then turns to Gehazi, Elisha's servant. Unlike Naaman, who learns humility, Gehazi allows greed to control his heart. Secretly pursuing financial gain from God's miracle, he misrepresents both Elisha and the Lord. As a result, the blessing Naaman received becomes the judgment Gehazi bears. The contrast between the two men is striking. One is healed through humble obedience, while the other falls through selfish ambition. Theologically, 2 Kings 5 reveals that God's grace is available to all who come in humble faith. It also warns that pride and greed corrupt the heart and distort God's work. Salvation and blessing are gifts of grace, never commodities to be exploited for personal gain. This chapter points beautifully to Christ. Like Naaman, every person is spiritually unclean and unable to save themselves. Jesus alone provides cleansing from the disease of sin. His invitation is simple, requiring humble faith rather than impressive accomplishments. Those who come to Him are made completely clean by His grace. For believers today, 2 Kings 5 reminds us that God honors humility and opposes pride. We must never assume that status, knowledge, or achievements give us standing before God. In Christ, we receive cleansing purely by grace, and we are called to extend that same grace to others while guarding our hearts against pride, greed, and selfish ambition. 2 Kings 6 Seeing with Eyes of Faith 2 Kings 6 continues revealing God's power through Elisha while emphasizing His continual care for His people. The chapter opens with a seemingly small concern as the sons of the prophets lose a borrowed axe head in the Jordan River. Though insignificant compared to national crises, the Lord demonstrates His concern even for everyday needs by miraculously causing the iron to float. This simple miracle reminds us that nothing is too small to bring before God. The narrative then shifts to the growing conflict between Israel and Syria. Time after time, God reveals the enemy's plans to Elisha, protecting Israel from surprise attacks. The king of Syria mistakenly believes there is a traitor in his army, only to discover that the Lord is revealing his plans through His prophet. God's knowledge extends beyond human limitations. Nothing is hidden from Him. The Syrian army surrounds the city where Elisha is staying, creating what appears to be an impossible situation. Elisha's servant is overwhelmed by fear as he sees the enemy forces surrounding them. Yet Elisha remains calm because he sees a greater reality. He prays that the Lord will open his servant's eyes, and suddenly the young man sees the mountain filled with horses and chariots of fire—the heavenly army protecting God's servant. This moment becomes the central lesson of the chapter. Faith sees beyond visible circumstances to the unseen reality of God's presence and power. The Lord is always accomplishing more than human eyes can perceive. Rather than destroying the Syrian soldiers after God temporarily blinds them, Elisha demonstrates remarkable mercy. He leads them safely into Samaria, where their sight is restored, and instead of executing them, the king of Israel prepares a great feast and sends them home. Mercy accomplishes what violence alone could not, bringing a period of peace between the nations. The chapter concludes with a new Syrian siege against Samaria, setting the stage for the events that follow. Yet the overriding message remains unchanged: God is sovereign, present, and fully able to protect and provide for His people regardless of the circumstances they face. Theologically, 2 Kings 6 reveals God's constant presence and sovereign protection. It teaches that faith depends upon spiritual vision rather than merely physical sight. The chapter also highlights God's compassion, demonstrating that His purposes often include mercy alongside justice. This chapter points directly to Christ. Jesus continually revealed the unseen reality of God's kingdom and invited His followers to live by faith rather than by sight. He also demonstrated perfect mercy toward His enemies, calling His disciples to overcome evil with love. Through Christ, believers receive spiritual eyes to see God's kingdom and confidence that heaven's resources are greater than earth's opposition. For believers today, 2 Kings 6 reminds us that our greatest battles are often won by trusting what God has promised rather than what circumstances appear to say. We may not always see how God is working, but He is always present, protecting, guiding, and accomplishing His purposes. In Christ, we are never alone. The God who surrounds His people with His presence calls us to live with confidence, compassion, and unwavering faith, knowing that those who are with us are greater than those who stand against us. 2 Corinthians 11 — Faithful Devotion to the Christ 2 Corinthians chapter 11 reveals Paul's deep concern that believers remain completely devoted to the Christ, the Son of God. As false teachers had begun influencing the church, Paul lovingly warns them against accepting a distorted gospel or following leaders who draw attention to themselves instead of to Jesus. The chapter demonstrates that the redemptive plan is centered entirely upon the Christ, and any teaching that diminishes His person or work must be rejected. Christian living requires both love for the truth and discernment to recognize error. The chapter begins with Paul's desire that the believers maintain pure and wholehearted devotion to the Christ. He compares the church to a bride who has been prepared for her bridegroom. This beautiful picture reminds believers that their relationship with the Son of God is one of covenant love and faithfulness. The redemptive plan does not merely rescue people from sin; it brings them into an intimate relationship with the Christ. Anything that competes for their affection threatens that relationship. Paul warns that deception often appears attractive. Just as humanity was deceived from the beginning, believers must remain alert against teachings that subtly shift their focus away from the Christ. False teaching rarely begins by openly rejecting Jesus. Instead, it slowly introduces distorted ideas that replace simple devotion to Him with human philosophies, pride, or religious performance. Christian living requires believers to continually measure every teaching against the truth revealed in the Son of God. Throughout the chapter, Paul distinguishes between true servants of the Christ and those who seek personal recognition. False teachers often impress people through outward appearance, persuasive speech, or claims of superior spirituality. Yet genuine ministry is measured by faithfulness to the Christ rather than by popularity or public admiration. The redemptive plan advances through humble servants who proclaim Jesus rather than themselves. Paul then reluctantly speaks about his own experiences, not to boast, but to expose the emptiness of worldly standards. Rather than listing personal accomplishments or influence, he points to the hardships he has endured while serving the Christ. His life has been marked by persecution, suffering, danger, rejection, and sacrifice. These trials demonstrate that faithful ministry often follows the same path walked by the Son of God. Christian living is not measured by comfort but by perseverance in obedience. A recurring theme throughout the chapter is weakness. Instead of hiding weakness, Paul embraces it because it becomes the stage upon which the power of the Christ is displayed. The redemptive plan consistently overturns human expectations. The world celebrates strength and self-promotion, but the Son of God demonstrates His glory through humility, faithfulness, and sacrificial love. His servants are called to follow the same pattern. Paul also reveals the daily burden he carries for the churches. Beyond physical suffering, his heart is deeply concerned for the spiritual health of God's people. This reflects the compassionate heart of the Christ, who continually cares for His flock. Christian leadership is not about gaining influence but about loving God's people enough to protect them from error and encourage them toward spiritual maturity. The chapter concludes with an account that highlights God's protection during one of Paul's earliest experiences of persecution. Rather than ending with a dramatic victory according to worldly standards, the account illustrates humble dependence upon God. The Son of God faithfully preserved His servant, demonstrating once again that His power is made perfect in weakness. Throughout this chapter, the Christ remains the central focus. He is the faithful Bridegroom, the true message of the gospel, the model of humble service, and the source of strength for every believer. The redemptive plan continually calls God's people away from self-confidence and back to wholehearted devotion to the Son of God. For believers today, this chapter calls us to guard our hearts against anything that competes with our devotion to the Christ. Christian living requires discernment, humility, and unwavering commitment to the truth of God's Word. We are reminded that faithful ministry is often accompanied by sacrifice and that true spiritual strength comes through dependence upon the Son of God rather than ourselves. As we remain devoted to the Christ, reject false teaching, and persevere through every trial, our lives become living testimonies to the faithfulness of His eternal redemptive plan. #DailyBibleReading #OpenYourBible #StudyTheWord #ScriptureForToday #FaithJourney #GodsWord #BibleTime #WalkWithGod

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS THE SECRET OF JOY. Discovering the Joy That Circumstances Cannot Steal. Key Text: Philippians 4:4 > “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” There is a difference between happiness and joy. Happiness depends on what happens around you. Joy depends on Who lives within you. You can have money and still have no peace. You can have people around you and still feel lonely. You can face difficulties and still have a song in your heart. The world says, “I will rejoice when everything becomes better.” But the believer says, “I will rejoice because God is still good, even when everything is not good.” Paul wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord always” while experiencing hardship. He was not writing from a palace; he knew suffering, rejection, imprisonment, and uncertainty. So what was his secret? His joy was not connected to his circumstances. His joy was connected to Christ. 1. JOY BEGINS WITH A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD Psalm 16:11 > “In thy presence is fulness of joy.” The deepest source of joy is not possessions, success, marriage, promotion, or recognition. The deepest source of joy is God's presence. When you know that God is with you, you can face situations that would otherwise break you. David said: Psalm 23:4 > “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.” Notice that David did not say, “I will fear no evil because there is no valley.” He said, “Though I walk through the valley…” The valley may exist, but God's presence is greater than the valley. Spiritual Insight You lose joy when you make temporary things the foundation of your happiness. If your joy depends on money, money can take it. If it depends on people, people can disappoint you. If it depends on circumstances, circumstances can change. But when your joy is rooted in Christ, you can bend without breaking. 2. JOY COMES FROM KNOWING THAT GOD IS IN CONTROL Romans 8:28 > “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God…” This does not mean everything that happens is good. Some things are painful. Some things are unfair. Some things are disappointing. But God is powerful enough to take broken pieces and create something meaningful from them. Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned. Yet eventually he stood in a position of authority. His testimony was: Genesis 50:20 > “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good.” Joseph discovered a powerful secret: What people meant for evil, God could turn around for good. Therefore, don't allow today's chapter to make you reject the Author of your story. 3. JOY GROWS WHEN YOU LEARN CONTENTMENT Philippians 4:11–12 Paul said he had learned how to live with abundance and how to live with little. That word “learned” is important. Contentment is a spiritual discipline. You don't automatically become content because you are a Christian. You learn to trust God in every season. Paul could say: Philippians 4:13 > “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” The context is not merely about achieving everything you want. Paul was saying: “Through Christ, I can remain faithful whether I have much or little.” Practical Lesson Stop postponing joy. Some people say: “When I get married, I will be happy.” “When I get money, I will rejoice.” “When I build my house, I will have peace.” “When my ministry grows, I will be satisfied.” But if you cannot rejoice while climbing the mountain, you may not rejoice when you reach the top. Learn to thank God for today's bread while trusting Him for tomorrow's provision. 4. JOY IS PROTECTED BY GRATITUDE AND PRAISE 1 Thessalonians 5:18 > “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Gratitude changes your perspective. Complaining says: “Look at what I don't have.” Thanksgiving says: “Look at what God has already done.” When you begin to count your blessings, you may discover that you have been surrounded by God's goodness while focusing on one problem. Biblical Example: Paul and Silas Acts 16:25 Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned. Their backs were wounded. Their feet were fastened. Their future looked uncertain. But at midnight: > “Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God.” They did not wait for the prison door to open before they praised God. They praised God while the doors were still closed. And then something supernatural happened. Acts 16:26 > “And suddenly there was a great earthquake…” Their praise did not merely change their emotions. God used their worship in the middle of their crisis. 5. JOY IS A SPIRITUAL WEAPON Nehemiah 8:10 > “The joy of the LORD is your strength.” Joy is not weakness. There are moments when the enemy wants to make you spiritually exhausted through fear, disappointment, discouragement, and hopelessness. But when you maintain your joy in God, you are declaring: “My circumstances have not become my God.” The enemy wants you to stop praying. Stop worshipping. Stop believing. Stop expecting. But the child of God says: “I may be crying, but I will still trust Him. I may be waiting, but I will still praise Him. I may not understand, but I will not abandon my faith.” That is spiritual strength. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: HABAKKUK'S JOY One of the most powerful examples of supernatural joy is found in Habakkuk 3:17–18. Habakkuk describes a situation where: The fig tree may not blossom. There may be no fruit. The fields may produce nothing. The flock may disappear. The cattle stalls may be empty. Everything appears to be going wrong. Yet Habakkuk declares: > “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” Notice the word: YET. That little word represents tremendous faith. The situation says “No.” Faith says “Yet.” The economy says “No.” Faith says “Yet.” The diagnosis says “No.” Faith says “Yet.” The disappointment says “No.” Faith says “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord.” His joy was not based on what was in the field. His joy was based on who was on the throne. PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. Start every day with thanksgiving Before checking your phone, remember God's goodness. 2. Reduce unnecessary comparison Comparison is a thief of joy. Stop measuring your life against somebody else's chapter. 3. Spend time in God's presence Pray. Worship. Read Scripture. Meditate on God's promises. 4. Learn contentment Appreciate what God has given you while trusting Him for what you are still believing for. 5. Watch what you speak Constant negative speech can strengthen discouragement. Speak faith. 6. Help someone else Sometimes your joy returns when you become a blessing to someone who needs encouragement. 7. Choose praise during difficult seasons Don't wait until everything is perfect before you worship God. DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS Joy is not the absence of problems; it is the presence of confidence in God. Joy is not pretending that pain does not exist; it is knowing that pain does not have the final word. Joy does not mean you never cry. It means your tears do not cancel your trust in God. Joy is not produced by possessions. It is produced by relationship with Christ. And remember this: You can lose things without losing your joy. Job lost possessions, children, and his position. Yet he said: Job 19:25 > “For I know that my redeemer liveth…” Job's circumstances changed, but his confidence in God remained. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. What has been controlling my joy recently? 2. Is my joy dependent on circumstances or rooted in Christ? 3. Have I allowed disappointment to become greater than my faith? 4. What blessings have I stopped noticing because of one problem? 5. Am I practicing thanksgiving daily? 6. Can I worship God even while waiting for my breakthrough? 7. What would change if I truly believed that God is still in control? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer for restored joy Father, restore every joy that has been stolen from my heart. Let the joy of Your salvation fill me again, in Jesus' name. 2. Prayer against discouragement Every spirit of discouragement, hopelessness, and heaviness, lose your hold over my life, in Jesus' name. 3. Prayer for contentment Lord, teach me to appreciate what You have given me while trusting You for what is ahead. 4. Prayer for strength Father, let the joy of the Lord become my strength in every difficult season. 5. Prayer for supernatural confidence Even when I cannot see the way forward, help me to trust You completely. 6. Prayer of declaration I declare that my joy will not be controlled by circumstances. My joy is rooted in Christ. I will rejoice in the Lord, I will trust His Word, and I will remain faithful until my testimony comes, in Jesus' name. Amen. CALL TO ACTION Beloved, don't give your joy to circumstances. People can change. Money can disappear. Doors can close. Plans can fail. Friends can disappoint you. But Jesus remains faithful. So rejoice! Not because everything is perfect. Rejoice because God is still God. Rejoice because Christ is still Lord. Rejoice because His promises are still true. Rejoice because your story is not finished. And when the enemy asks, “Why are you still joyful?” Tell him: “Because my joy is not in what I have. My joy is in WHO I HAVE.” THE SECRET OF JOY IS JESUS. “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” — Philippians 4:4 If you have not given your life to Jesus kindly do so by joining a Bible believing Church. 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://www.facebook.com/Umoh64?mibextid=ZbWKwL #UMOHEDEM

Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* WEDNESDAY 12TH AUGUST, 2026 *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD'S GRACE. *TOPIC:* YIELDING TO GOD'S MOULDING PROCESS. *TEXT:* JEREMIAH 18:1-6 [1] The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: [2] “Arise, and go down to the potter’s house, and there I will let you hear My words.” [3] So I went down to the potter’s house, and there he was working at his wheel. [4] And the vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter’s hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to do. [5] Then the word of the Lord came to me: [6] “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter has done? declares the Lord. Behold, like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel. *TOPIC:* YIELDING TO GOD'S MOULDING PROCESS. *THE MESSAGE:* In a world that encourages unchecked freedom and haste, it is challenging to submit to God's purpose patiently. Jeremiah uses the image of a potter and clay to illustrate God's sovereign authority to shape our lives as He wills. Though the moulding process may be uncomfortable and impact our character, desires, and attitudes, it is ultimately for our good. Yielding to this divine process transforms us into vessels of honor, shaped by grace. The key question is whether we are resisting or willingly submitting to God's refining work in our lives. Some delays in life, such as marriage, admission, employment, travel or even promotion, may be a moulding process orchestrated by God for our later glory. Do not allow these moulding processes to discourage you. Depend on God's plans for your life. *REFLECTION:* Yield to God's moulding process. *PRAYER:* Lord, here am I; mould me. Amen. *MEMORY VERSE FOR THE MONTH:* 2 TIMOTHY 2:21. "If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be instruments for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work. *TODAY'S BIBLE READING PLAN:* JEREMIAH 40-45. ED.ii. TERRIFIED "And being in anguish, He prayed more earnestly, and His sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground." - Luke 22:44 After the meal, Jesus took three of His disciples to the garden of Gethsemane. It was in this garden where He became terrified. Jesus, a man of sorrows, was confronted here with a pain He never experienced before in His life as the Son of man. Jesus was always joyful and at rest, but in this garden, everything became different. His peace was gone, His rest turned into a deadly fear. He even prayed: 'Abba, Father, everything is possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.' (Mark 14:36). Jesus' battle Jesus was waging a heavy battle. His sweat even became like drops of blood. He walked to His disciples and wanted to share His terrible fear with them. But they had fallen asleep. I always thought that Jesus was terrified because He was fighting the evil one in this garden. But then I realized that this is impossible, because Jesus already won that battle during the temptation in the desert. I understood that Jesus is talking about a cup here and He is asking His Father to take that cup away from Him if possible. This cup did not come from the Pharisees, nor from the evil one, nor from His sleeping disciples, nor from His traitor or other people, but from His own Father. That cup was filled with our sins, diseases and guilt. All the evil was in that cup. And now He had to drink that cup. That terrified Him, because with this cup God, His Father, would burden Him with all our sins! He was without fault, He was clean and holy. He could not sin. By drinking that cup, He stood in the place of sinners. The curse and the punishment had to come on Him. He was abandoned by God because of that guilt. Today we are able to come into God's presence 24 hours daily because Jesus drank that cup for us. Happy are those who believe this. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer for today. WP.i. Evening Prayer I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety. ⏤ Psalm 4:8 A quiet heart is content with what God gives. ⏤ Elisabeth Elliot Our waiting eyes are on You, O Lord, this evening. The close of each day adds to our debt of gratitude for Your mercies and favors. We are not worthy of even the least of all Your goodness and loving-kindness, for we have sinned against You. Yet we hope in Your mercy and cast ourselves on Your grace. We thank You for the protection You have given us this day. We have gone out and come in, and You have kept us safe. You have blessed our home life, keeping us from harm, providing for our needs, and giving us strength for duty. You have blessed us in our work, giving us some measure of success and enabling us to continue in our place and do our tasks. We thank You for the grace You have given us to resist temptation, to bear our daily crosses, and to witness for You among others. Great Shepherd of all Your redeemed people, we ask You to take each member of our family into Your special care tonight. We cannot protect ourselves from the dangers of the darkness, so we entrust our lives to Your gracious keeping. May Your holy angels watch over our home. You who never slumber, keep watch over us. We pray for all our friends and neighbors. They have different needs, and we cannot know what each one requires, but You know. Grant each one what will be the truest blessing. Lead them in right paths. Let none of them be eternally lost. Remember Your church and give it spiritual enrichment. And to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be glory forever. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/38/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.