Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. MD.i. 😀💝🌺🎁🌹🎀 MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY SUNDAY AUGUST 23, 2O26. "THREE LEVELS OF ATTACK (3)" ‘…All these things I will give you...’ Matthew 4:9 NKJV THE ATTACK over the cross. Let’s look at the third temptation Jesus faced: ‘…The devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me’’’ (Matthew 4:8-9 NKJV). Satan’s third attack was over a cross-less life. In essence, he told Jesus, ‘You don’t have to carry the cross. Just bow to me and you can have it all.’ Jesus said, ‘…“Away with you, satan!...”’ (Matthew 4:10 NKJV). ‘Away’ with any teaching that says God is your porter and He has to wait on you! Or that He’s like a vending machine; all you have to do is put in a few coins and whatever you want will come out. Paul writes, ‘I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me’ (Galatians 2:20 NKJV). Has God promised to bless you? Absolutely! But that doesn’t mean you’ll never get hurt, or face lack, or fatigue, or be betrayed and disappointed by others. Jesus said, ‘…unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies [to self], it remains alone; but if it dies [to self], it produces much…’ (John 12:24 NKJV). Have you ever heard the expression, ‘Dead man walking?’ To do God’s will, you have to die to your own will, and do it daily. But if you’re willing to, God will take you to a new level of blessing. Bible In A Year: Amos 5:18 – 9:15, Matt 20:29-34, Ps 119:145-160, Pro 19:1-2. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing 💝🎀 *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*🎀💝🌹🌷. MD.ii. [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY ⓂANNA* SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 2026 *THE REWARD OF SACRIFICIAL DISCIPLESHIP* *Text:* Matthew 19:27–30 27. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28. And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. 30. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. *Timeless Truth:* _For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister"_ (Hebrews 6:10) *INTRODUCTION* During the Second World War, Desmond Doss, an American Army medic and committed Christian, served without carrying a weapon because of his convictions. During the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, he repeatedly entered a dangerous battlefield to rescue wounded soldiers. He is credited with saving approximately 75 men, lowering each wounded soldier to safety while under enemy fire. Doss later received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary courage. His story reminds us that genuine commitment often involves sacrifice. A person who is committed to a worthy cause may surrender comfort, safety and personal advantage because he believes the cause is greater than himself. Peter's question in Matthew 19:27 comes from this same concern. The disciples had left much to follow Jesus, and Peter asked, “What shall we have therefore?” Jesus did not condemn the question. Instead, He taught them that sacrifice for God's kingdom is never wasted.*For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.* (Hebrews 6:10). The passage teaches us that Christ calls His followers to sacrificial discipleship, promises them spiritual reward and warns them against measuring God's kingdom by worldly standards. Perhaps you have sacrificed time to serve God. Perhaps you have endured rejection because of your faith. Perhaps you have given financially when it was difficult. Perhaps you have chosen obedience over personal ambition. Perhaps you have remained faithful in a ministry where nobody seems to notice your work. Jesus' answer in this passage is an encouragement: God sees, God remembers and God rewards. But Christ also corrects our understanding of reward. The Christian life is not primarily about asking, “What can I get from following Jesus?” It is about asking, “How can I faithfully serve the One who gave everything for me?” The disciples left much, but Jesus promised that their sacrifice would not be wasted. There are three great challenges before us: (i) Surrender your life completely to Christ. (ii) Serve faithfully without demanding immediate recognition. *(iii)* Stand firm when sacrifice becomes difficult. The world may celebrate those who appear to be first. God's kingdom operates differently. The person who quietly serves, humbly gives, faithfully prays, patiently suffers and continues obeying Christ may be accomplishing something of far greater eternal value than the person receiving public applause. Therefore, do not give up because your service is unnoticed. Do not stop serving because your sacrifice is costly. Do not measure God's faithfulness by your immediate circumstances. Your labour for Christ is never wasted. *Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.* (1 Corinthians 15:58) One day, the Lord Himself will reveal what truly mattered. And on that day, the faithful servant will discover that nothing surrendered to Christ was ever truly lost. *1. The Surrender of Sacrificial Discipleship* a. Peter reminded Jesus that the disciples had left their possessions and livelihoods to follow Him. Following Christ involves surrender. Christianity is not merely receiving blessings; it is also yielding our lives to the Lord. We must ask whether Christ truly has first place in our lives. Following Him may require us to surrender habits, relationships, ambitions, possessions, or personal preferences that compete with His will. b. The disciples did not merely admire Jesus; they left their former way of life and continued with Him. Christian commitment is not measured by how enthusiastically we begin, but by how faithfully we continue. *Questions* (i) What am I unwilling to surrender to Christ? (ii) Does my daily lifestyle demonstrate that following Jesus is more important to me than personal comfort? *2. The Reward of Kingdom Service* a. Jesus assured His disciples that their sacrifices would not go unnoticed. Jesus spoke of the future when He would sit on His glorious throne and the disciples would share in His kingdom. Our present service must be viewed in light of eternity. What we sacrifice for Christ now has eternal significance. b. Jesus promised that those who had sacrificed houses, family relationships or possessions for His name would receive abundant blessings. This does not mean that discipleship is a scheme for material prosperity. Rather, Jesus assures His followers that nothing surrendered to Him is ultimately lost. Jesus concludes His promise with: *"And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters... for My name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.”* *Questions* (i) Do I serve God for His glory or mainly for recognition and earthly rewards? (ii) When sacrifice becomes difficult, do I remember the eternal reward promised by Christ? *3. The Reversal of Kingdom Standards* a. Jesus concludes with a statement that challenges human ideas about success and reward. Human society often measures greatness through wealth, position, influence, education and recognition. But God's measurement is different. We should not measure our spiritual worth by comparing ourselves with other people. b. God values humble service rather than self-promotion. A disciple should be willing to serve even when nobody applauds, notices or rewards the work. The world's ranking system will not determine the final outcome. God will ultimately reveal the true value of every person's service. *Questions* (i) Do I become discouraged when others receive recognition while my service remains unnoticed? (ii) Am I willing to serve faithfully even when I receive no immediate reward? *Prayer Points* 1. Lord Jesus, help me to surrender every area of my life completely to You and place Your kingdom above my personal interests.🙏 2. Father, give me grace to remain faithful in serving You even when the work is difficult or unnoticed.🙏 3. Lord, deliver me from comparing myself with others and help me to value eternal rewards above temporary recognition.🙏 4. Holy Spirit, remove pride and selfish ambition from my heart and make me a humble servant who seeks God's glory rather than human applause.🙏 *Hymn:* Take My Life and Let It Be *THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 9-10 [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *BEYOND HUMAN MEASURE* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽👑🙌🏽 📜📜```TEXT:MATTHEW 19:27-30```📜📜 🔑📖```KEY VERSE:``` _*"And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first" (MATTHEW 19:29, 30).*_ *Brother Andrew, a humble Dutchman, began smuggling Bibles into communist countries during the _Cold War,_ risking his life to serve believers behind the Iron Curtain. He didn't seek fame; he just obeyed God's quiet call. That small, faithful beginning grew into _Open Doors,_ a global ministry that continues to help persecuted Christians today. Though little known on earth, Andrew is surely honoured in heaven.* *His story perfectly illustrates the timeless principle Jesus lays out in today's passage: that all faithful, sacrificial service done for Him, however hidden or risky, will attract heaven's reward. In the text, Apostle Peter poses a question many believers still echo today: "We have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" It is a question laced with hope but also with the subtle implication of comparison with others and transaction with God. Considering the context, Peter's question implies that if we have given up much for God, in contrast to the rich young ruler who didn't, surely we are due a proportionate reward. In His answer, Jesus affirms that sacrifice in His name is never forgotten. Certainly, we shall receive astounding rewards, yet He closes with a warning wrapped in a paradox: "But many _that are_ first shall be last; and the last _shall be_ first."* *This final line holds the key to understanding divine reward, not as a salary earned but as a gift bestowed in Sovereign wisdom. God's kingdom does not run on human logic or worldly meritocracy. Instead, it operates based on grace, faithfulness, and sincerity of heart. When we serve God with a mere transactional mind-set, doing in order to receive, we risk missing the heartbeat of discipleship. And to correct this misunderstanding, Jesus immediately follows His statement with the parable of the workers in the vineyard. There, those who worked a full day were shocked to receive the same wages as those hired last. Then Jesus concluded with the same warning: "So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen". The point is clear: God's rewards are not based on length of service or human measure, but on His gracious prerogative. Faithfulness, not fame, draws heaven's attention.* *This ought to challenge and comfort us. We are not in competition in God's kingdom. We are simply called to be faithful. Whatever the sacrifice our calling may demand, the measure of our reward is not in the scope of our task but in our fidelity to it. So, as the "prize-giving day" draws near, let us serve with joy, not calculation, remembering that the One who called us is no man's debtor but a just and faithful Rewarder.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*When you serve in silence, heaven echoes your labour with eternal applause.*_ 📜📜```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *DANIEL 9-10*📜📜 Beyond Human Measure https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 54: I AM READY FOR SERVICE; GHS 59: LITTLE IS MUCH WHEN GOD IS IN IT; GHS 62: GO LABOUR ON; AND GHS 89: O JESUS, I HAVE PROMISED* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYD🅰️Y: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ ✍🏽👩🏻‍💼🌻 🍇🙏🏽🛰🚀🔬📚 ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *ATTITUDE TO WORLD AFFAIRS* 🎚️📓📖🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️❤️🌍❌🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🙏🏽 📜📜```TEXT:1 JOHN 2:15-17```📜📜 📖``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 JOHN 2:15).*_ *The hands of the clock has been used to describe three categories of believers. Twelve-o'clock-Christians are so heavenly conscious, but of no earthly use. Half-past-six-o'clock-Christians are buried in the world and have lost the vision of heaven. The six-o'clock-believers are Christians who are of significance on earth and are heavenly minded.* *The significance of salt as flavour is not felt when it is isolated from other ingredients. It is not eaten as food all on its own. The worth of salt is acknowledged when it is used as flavour. So are believers. We are the salt of the earth. While we insulate ourselves from the pollutions of the world and live with the consciousness of heaven, we should equally exact positive influence in the world.* *Christian youths can influence their world in various clubs in school - like the Press Club, Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists, Young Farmers Club, Red Cross Society - to shine the gospel light. Qualified youths should exercise their franchise during elections as responsible citizens. We should not contaminate ourselves with the evils of the society; instead, impact it positively.* 💬 ```QUOTE:``` _*Youths can influence their world.*_ 🏆 ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't isolate but insulate against the world.*_ 🙏🏽🙏🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Father, help me to be a blessing to the world.*_ Attitude To World Affairs https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [22/08, 8:22 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ 🙇🏼🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼🙇‍♀️🙇🏼‍♂️ ```SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026``` *FIRST ON THE LIST* 📓📖🎚️🫵🏽🙋🏽‍♂️🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🧎🏽🧎🏽‍♀️🗣️🖤🩸🤍🙏🏽 📜📜```PSALM 103:1-5```📜📜 🕔📚🖋️🚻😁🎼🏆🍉🪴🌈💻 🔑📖 ```Key Verse:``` _*"Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:3).*_ 📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖 A list always starts with number one (1). In most cases, the first thing is the most important. For example, in an examination result, the first position is given to the child that scores the highest mark. The first always opens the list for other items to follow. As shown in our Bible passage, the first opens the door for all other benefits to come through. The blessings of God seem to be arranged in a divine, logical order in the lives of God's children. We do not have to rush for the second if we have not yet received the first. Sins (iniquities) block our way to receiving God's many benefits or blessings. Sin must first be removed out of our lives if we want to have God's blessings. For, *"if I regard* (allow) *iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me"* - and bless me (Psalm 66:18). In our Bible passage, the first benefit stated there is *"forgiveness of sin"*. It is after you have received this first benefit, by turning away from your bad ways, saying sorry to God, and making Jesus your Saviour and friend, that you are qualified to enjoy the other benefits like healing, deliverance, love and mercy of God, provision and long life. *If you desire God's blessings in your life, do the first thing first: repent and turn away from your sins, and the needed blessings will come into your life.* 🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥🍥 ```🅿️rayer:``` _*Lord, I am sorry for every bad thing I have done. Forgive my sins, be merciful to me and bless me.*_ 🙏🏽 ```📖 Further Reading:``` *Psalm 32:1, 2* First On The List https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk23rdAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. ⏤ Hebrews 10:22 He who kneels the most, stands the best. ⏤ D.L. Moody Most gracious God, in Your good providence You have allowed us to see the light of another Sunday—draw near to us in mercy. May the Sun of righteousness arise upon us with healing in His wings. May our fellowship this day be with You, the Father, and with Your Son, Jesus Christ. May all unworthy thoughts be suppressed, and may our hearts be filled with holy desires. Be a guest in our home today. Abide with us and sanctify our home life. We ask You to bless all the gatherings of Your people who will worship today in any part of the world. May Your Spirit be with all who preach and teach in the name of Jesus, and with all who love You. May Your word have great power. May lost sinners be convicted and led to repentance. May Christians be strengthened and encouraged. May those who are sorrowful be comforted. May children and young people receive holy and heavenly guidance and be blessed. May this be a day of the power of the Most High, and may its influence be deep and lasting. We ask You, O God, to give us a good Sunday in our own home. Help us to remember the day and keep it in a way that pleases You and brings blessings into our lives. May our love for each other grow as we worship together. May Your love be poured out in our hearts more abundantly. May we stay close to Your heart all day. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/49/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

BEFORE SATAN GETS YOU, HE FIRST DESTROYS YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM. The devil has many ways of getting his prey, one of the most effective means he uses is to destroy your support system. His first target is the good people around you. People who can strengthen, encourage, and protect you. When we become isolated from godly friends, family, mentors, and our church community, we become easier targets for discouragement, temptation, fear, and defeat etc. The enemy knows that so he creates misunderstanding between you and those who genuinely care about you. Once he succeeded in doing this, he has already won half the battle. He will tell you lies such as, "No one love or care about you" "No one will ever understands you," "You don't need anyone," "They are against you." Sadly, many people fall victim to these lies and walk away from the very people God placed in their lives for support. The Bible reminds us in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10: "Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." God never intended us to fight life's battles alone. He surrounds us with people who pray for us, encourage us, correct us, and help us remain strong in difficult times. Jesus surrounded Himself with disciples and close friends during His earthly ministry. Even the Son of God valued godly companionship Once you notice yourself becoming isolated, constantly offended, or withdrawing from everyone, pause and ask yourself: Is this truly wisdom, or is the enemy trying to disconnect me from my support system? Protect your relationships, value those who sincerely pray for you. Appreciate those who lovingly correct you. Stay connected to your church and fellowship with other believers. Don't allow pride, offense, or unforgiveness to destroy the people God has placed around you. Remember, when the enemy cannot stop God's purpose for your life, he often tries to separate you from the people who could help you fulfill it. Don't let the devil succeed. Ask God to open your eyes to recognize their value so that you will not fall into the trap of isolation, offense, or pride but to protect your relationships from every attack of the enemy. Finally, guard your support system as carefully as you guard your dreams. The people God has placed in your life are often part of His answer to your prayers. Stay connected, stay humble, and stay prayerful.

Moving Forward After Deception "And your father hath deceived me, and changed my wages ten times; but God suffered him not to hurt me." — Genesis 31:7 Jacob did not minimize what happened. He acknowledged the painful reality of deception. It was not a single misunderstanding or isolated disappointment. His wages were changed ten times—a repeated pattern of broken trust, uncertainty, and injustice. Deception carries weight. It can consume years, alter plans, strain relationships, and leave deep emotional and spiritual wounds. It often raises difficult questions: How did I not see it? Could I have done something differently? Scripture does not pretend these experiences are light or insignificant. Yet Jacob's testimony does not end with "ten times." It ends with "but God." "...but God suffered him not to hurt me." This is the heart of someone who has been previously deceived yet continues to praise the Lord. Such a person does not become defined by the untoward experience, nor remain imprisoned by bitterness or regret. Instead, he recognizes that God's sovereign hand was present even during the season of deception. The scars may remain, and the lessons may be costly, but God's preserving grace proves greater than the deception itself. What others intended for harm did not ultimately prevent God's purpose from being fulfilled. Rather than endlessly reliving the interruption, he moves forward to what the Lord had already prepared before that intermission. The enemy may delay, distract, or deceive, but he cannot overturn God's purposes for those who trust in Him. This does not mean ignoring the lessons of the past. Scripture repeatedly calls believers to test every spirit, examine every teaching, and grow in discernment. But biblical discernment is meant to lead us closer to Christ, not into lifelong suspicion, fear, or despair. A grateful heart says: "I was deceived, but the Lord did not abandon me." A humble heart says: "I have learned to depend more fully on God's Word." A hopeful heart says: "The Lord's purposes for my life are still before me." Our testimony, then, is not merely that deception existed, but that the Lord Jesus Christ remained faithful through it all. He preserves His people, matures them through trials, and leads them onward in His perfect time. Like Jacob, we can honestly acknowledge the pain of being deceived—even ten times—while joyfully declaring: "But God suffered him not to hurt me." The final word belongs not to deception, but to the faithfulness of God.

Brothers and sisters in Christ, Please hear my heart: this is not an attack on anyone, nor am I telling you to leave church. No, no I am still in church, and I am still part of what we call church in this modern day. For a very long time, God has been showing me clearly through His Word that much of what we see today is not His original design. Many have come against me and tried to convince me that these modern setups are from God, but when I open the Scriptures, I see something completely different. I am not telling you what to do with what I share in this group. All I know is that revelation does not mean leave, and revelation does not mean attack. Revelation means: Question and search the Word (Acts 17:11). Test all things (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Read and study the Scriptures (2 Timothy 2:15). Most importantly, PRAY. When the disciples walked with Jesus, received all His wisdom, knowledge, and revelation, they didn't go out to fight the religious leaders or destroy the system the Pharisees had built. Instead, they asked Jesus one specific thing: "Lord, teach us to pray" (Luke 11:1). They knew that prayer is the ultimate source of power, the answer, and the only thing that brings true change from our Heavenly Father. So yes, if you want to do something about what you read here, you have my full support: pray for the Body of Christ and for HIS Church not mine, not yours, but the Church of King Jesus Christ. Amen, brothers and sisters Exposing Religion, Restoring Covenant, and Understanding the True Body of Christ THE ROOT PROBLEM: ADAM'S BLOODLINE VS. THE LAST ADAM To understand what the Church is supposed to be, we must first understand why we needed Jesus in the first place. The Inherited Condition: In Genesis 2:21-23, Eve was taken out of Adam’s side they shared the same life and blood. When Adam sinned, spiritual death and corrupted iniquity entered the human spiritual DNA. The Transmitted Curse: Just like a child born with a condition inherited from their parents through no fault of their own, every human born of human seed inherited Adam’s fallen nature (Psalm 51:5, Romans 5:12). The Pure Virgin Birth: This is why Jesus could not have an earthly human father. The Holy Spirit overshadowed Mary (Luke 1:35). Jesus was born with pure, heavenly, undefiled blood bypassing Adam's fallen seed. "The first man Adam became a living being. The last Adam became a life-giving spirit." 1 Corinthians 15:45 Key Insight: Salvation through Holy Communion and the Blood of Jesus acts like spiritual dialysis filtering out the toxicity of Adam's sin and replacing it with the pure, incorruptible life of King Jesus! GOD’S DESIGN FOR MARRIAGE AND COVENANT Why did God create marriage, forbid sex outside of it, and tell us not to be unequally yoked (2 Corinthians 6:14)? God is Eternal Community: God exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Love requires relationship. When God said, "It is not good that man should be alone" (Genesis 2:18), He wasn't just fixing Adam's loneliness He was creating humanity to reflect His relational, self-sacrificial nature. Godly Offspring: Sex inside marriage creates a covenant shield over the home. Malachi 2:15 asks why God made two into one: "He seeks godly offspring." Born-again parents create a holy atmosphere covered by prayer (1 Corinthians 7:14). Important Note: Born-again parents give their children a spiritual foundation, but every child must still reach an age where they personally accept Jesus as their Savior. God has children, not grandchildren! Marriage as a Prophetic Picture: In Ephesians 5:31-32, Paul reveals that marriage between a husband and wife was created from Genesis to be a prophetic mirror of Christ and the Church. THE TRAP OF MODERN RELIGION, CULTURE, AND TRADITIONS In Matthew 15:6–9, Jesus confronted the religious leaders of His day with a severe warning: "You have nullified the word of God for the sake of your tradition. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules." When the modern Church strays from the Holy Spirit, it falls into three traps: Religion: Replaces raw intimacy with God with mechanical checklists and outward appearances. Culture: Waters down the Gospel to avoid offending people offering a soft "love" without Truth that leaves people bound in sin. Tradition: Protects "how we've always done it," defending empty human routines even when the Holy Spirit wants to move. The Pool of Bethesda Warning (John 5) A paralyzed man lay by the pool for 38 years. He said, "Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up." He was inside a place called the "House of Mercy," yet he was totally isolated by religious crowds pursuing their own blessings. Jesus bypassed the crowd, spoke Kingdom power, and commanded him to rise! The Holy Spirit does not need a human run-sheet; He needs obedient vessels. TRUTH AND LOVE: THE GREAT PHYSICIAN Modern churches often preach Truth without Love (Legalism) or Love without Truth (Compromise). Jesus came full of Grace and Truth (John 1:14). Truth without Love - Brutality: Uses Scripture like a hammer to condemn people without helping them. Love without Truth - Deception: Tells a drowning person they are fine while they perish in their sin. The Doctor Analogy: A good doctor hates the cancer, but loves the patient. To the woman caught in adultery (John 8): Jesus offered unconditional Grace ("Neither do I condemn you") AND uncompromising Truth ("Go and sin no more"). Why Jesus Acted Differently with Different People: To the broken, lost, and hurting sinner: Jesus was gentle, patient, and merciful (Zacchaeus, the woman at the well). To the hypocritical religious leaders: Jesus was sharp, bold, and uncompromising ("Woe to you, hypocrites! White-washed tombs!" - Matthew 23:27). WHAT IS THE TRUE CHURCH (EKKLĒSIA)? If Jesus walked into our towns today, He wouldn't look for a brand name, a denomination, or a big building. The word "Church" in Greek is Ekklēsia, meaning "the called-out ones." The Origin of the Setup: For the first 300 years, the early Church met from house to house as a family (Acts 2:46). When Emperor Constantine legalized Christianity in 313 AD, church life was merged with Roman pagan structures building giant basilicas, introducing altars, and turning active believers into passive spectators watching a priest or pastor perform on stage. What is a "Saint"? In Scripture, every born-again believer is a saint (Ephesians 1:1). The "assembling of the saints" (Hebrews 10:25) was never meant to be watching a weekly 90-minute show. 1 Corinthians 14:26 says: "Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation." Whose Church Does Jesus Visit? Where believers gather in HIS Name (not human brand names - 1 Corinthians 1:12-13). Where people worship in Spirit and in Truth (John 4:24). Where genuine Love is shown to the broken (John 13:35). Where Jesus is not locked outside the door by human programs (Revelation 3:20). REVELATION IS A CALL TO PRAYER, NOT REBELLION Testing what we hear against Scripture is biblical the Bereans were praised because they searched the Scriptures daily to verify what Paul taught (Acts 17:10-11). When God gives you revelation to see the flaws in religious traditions: Do not use it to destroy or attack: Revelation is not a weapon to throw rocks at the Bride of Christ. Use it as an assignment to intercede: In Luke 11:1, the disciples didn't ask Jesus how to preach or do miracles they asked, "Lord, teach us to pray." Follow Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer (John 17): Right before the cross, Jesus prayed for the protection and supernatural unity of His believers ("that they all may be one as We are one"). OUR CALLING AS STEWARDS We do not own the Church; we are only stewards of what Jesus built. It was already perfect in the New Testament. We don't need to reinvent it with human business models or cultural traditions. It is time to be soft and compassionate toward the broken sheep, but bold and uncompromising against the religious spirit that keeps people trapped. Let us return to the original blueprint: living in the pure bloodline of Jesus, worshipping in Spirit and Truth, loving one another, and being His living Body on the earth! Amen!

*Today's Prophetic Declaration - Wednesday, 12th August, 2026.* 🌟*JESUS IS WILLING TO MAKE ME WHOLE*🌟 📖 Scripture: “And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.” — Mark 1:41 (KJV). 🔥*Reflection – The Compassionate Touch of Jesus* In Mark 1:41, a man suffering from leprosy came to Jesus with faith and humility, asking to be cleansed. Jesus was moved with compassion, reached out His hand, touched him, and declared, “I will; be thou clean.” This beautiful encounter reveals the heart of Christ. Jesus is not distant from human suffering. He sees, He cares, and He is able to intervene. The compassionate touch of Jesus brings hope where there has been rejection, restoration where there has been brokenness, and cleansing where there has been defilement. Today, whatever situation you bring before the Lord, approach Him with faith. The One who touched the leper is still the compassionate Savior. He is able to restore, renew, strengthen, and transform according to His perfect will. 🔊*Prophetic Declaration:* Today, I declare that the compassion of Jesus Christ surrounds my life. The Lord sees me, knows my situation, and cares about every detail concerning me. I shall not be forgotten, abandoned, or overlooked, because I am held securely in His loving hands. I declare that every area of my life that needs the touch of Jesus shall receive His gracious intervention. Where there is brokenness, let there be restoration. Where there is weakness, let there be strength. Where there is sorrow, let there be comfort. Where there is confusion, let there be divine direction. Today, I receive the cleansing power of Christ. Every burden of sin, guilt, shame, bitterness, and spiritual contamination is surrendered to Him. By His grace, I receive forgiveness, renewal, and a fresh desire to walk in holiness and obedience. I declare that the compassionate hand of Jesus shall rest upon my family, ministry, work, business, studies, and every area of my life. May He restore what has been damaged, strengthen what is weak, and establish what is according to His perfect purpose. I proclaim that every situation that has made me feel rejected, isolated, or discouraged shall be touched by the love of Christ. The Lord shall restore my dignity, renew my confidence, and surround me with people and opportunities that align with His will. Today, I receive courage to bring my needs honestly before Jesus. I will not allow fear, shame, or disappointment to keep me away from Him. I believe that He is compassionate, faithful, and powerful, and I will continue to trust His wisdom and perfect timing. I declare that the grace of God shall sustain me throughout this day. His mercy shall speak for me, His favor shall surround me, and His peace shall guard my heart. Every good thing He has ordained for me shall come to fulfillment according to His will. I proclaim that my life shall become a testimony of the compassion of Christ. What God has done for me shall encourage others to seek Him, trust Him, and experience His transforming grace. Jesus sees me. Jesus cares for me. Jesus is able to touch my situation. Jesus is my hope, my Savior, and my Healer. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen! 🙏🔥✝️ ✅*Action Steps for today:* 1️⃣ Begin your day by thanking Jesus for His compassion, mercy, and unfailing love. 2️⃣ Read Mark 1:40–45 and meditate on the compassionate response of Jesus to the man who came to Him. 3️⃣ Declare: “Lord Jesus, touch every area of my life that needs Your grace, restoration, and transforming power.” 4️⃣ Bring one specific burden before Jesus in prayer and surrender it completely to Him. 5️⃣ Show compassion to someone today through encouragement, kindness, forgiveness, or practical help. 6️⃣ Avoid allowing shame, fear, or disappointment to keep you from approaching God in prayer. 7️⃣ End the day by thanking Jesus for every evidence of His mercy and compassion. 🔥*Prayer:* Compassionate Lord Jesus, Thank You because You see me, You know me, and You care about everything concerning my life. Like the man who came to You in faith, I bring my needs, weaknesses, burdens, and struggles before You today. Stretch forth Your gracious hand and touch every area of my life that needs Your intervention. Cleanse me from every sin and renew my heart. Heal my brokenness, restore my joy, strengthen my faith, and give me grace to walk faithfully with You. Touch my family, ministry, work, business, studies, relationships, and every area of my life. Where there is difficulty, make a way according to Your will. Where there is weakness, give strength. Where there is sorrow, bring comfort. Where there is delay, give me patience and confidence in Your perfect timing. Help me to reflect Your compassion to others. Make me an instrument of love, encouragement, forgiveness, and hope. Lord Jesus, I trust You because You are compassionate and faithful. Touch me, transform me, restore me, and use me for Your glory. In Your mighty name I pray. Amen. 🙏🕊️✨ 🌿*Blessing for today:* May the compassionate hand of Jesus rest upon you today. May He touch every area of your life that needs His intervention, restore what has been broken, strengthen what is weak, and fill your heart with His peace. May His mercy speak for you, His grace sustain you, and His love surround your household. May your life become a beautiful testimony of the goodness and compassion of Christ. May you experience the transforming touch of Jesus today and throughout this month. 🙏 Jesus sees you. ❤️ Jesus cares for you. 🔥 Jesus is able. ✨ His grace is sufficient. Good morning beloved and do have a blessed, peaceful, and testimony-filled mid-week 🙏🕊️ Shalom! *Remember: Your confession is your possession.* *©️ Postulant C. O. Oyadosu.* _Please share with others, thank you and God bless you 🙏_ For counseling, prayers and partnership or you want to share your testimonies with us; please call or Whatsapp: +2348063128703 Or Email: clementoyadosu[gmail].com

HiTODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS. WHAT ARE FOUL SPIRITS? Understanding Their Nature, Influence, and the Believer’s Victory. Main Text: Mark 1:23–27 Supporting Texts: Matthew 12:43–45; Luke 8:26–39; Ephesians 6:10–18; James 4:7 There are battles that the human eye cannot see. A person can look healthy on the outside and yet be fighting a spiritual battle within. A home can look beautiful while confusion fills it. A person can have education, money, connections, and opportunities, yet experience strange patterns that seem difficult to explain. The Bible teaches us that the spiritual realm is real. But we must be careful: not every problem is caused by a demon, and not every unusual experience should be labeled as spiritual warfare. Christians must combine spiritual discernment with wisdom, prayer, sound doctrine, and appropriate practical help. So, what exactly are foul spirits? A foul spirit is an unclean or evil spirit—a spiritual being opposed to God and associated with evil, deception, bondage, oppression, and defilement. But here is the good news: The believer does not need to live in fear of foul spirits. Jesus Christ has authority over them. 1. WHAT ARE FOUL SPIRITS? The expression “foul spirit” is used in some Bible translations to describe what is also called an “unclean spirit.” Mark 1:23–24 > “And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit…” The spirit recognized Jesus and said, in effect, “I know who You are.” This teaches us something important: A. Foul spirits are spiritual beings They are not human beings, psychological conditions, or imaginary personalities. Scripture presents them as part of the spiritual opposition against God's purposes. B. They are called “unclean” The word speaks of something morally and spiritually polluted. Their purpose is contrary to the holiness of God. C. They oppose God's work Where God brings truth, they promote deception. Where God desires freedom, they seek bondage. Where God desires holiness, they encourage defilement. Where God desires peace, they seek confusion and destruction. But their activity does not mean they possess unlimited power. God remains sovereign. 2. FOUL SPIRITS SEEK TO DECEIVE, OPPRESS AND DESTROY Jesus warned about the activity of evil spirits. John 10:10 > “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” The devil's purpose is destructive. However, notice the second half: > “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” Jesus is greater than the enemy! Foul spirits may seek to influence: Thoughts Attitudes Temptations Destructive behavior Fear Deception Hatred Occult practices Spiritual bondage Opposition to God's truth But we must maintain biblical balance. Temptation is not automatically demonic possession. Mental or emotional distress is not automatically demonic activity. A difficult season is not automatically an attack from an evil spirit. Sometimes a person needs prayer. Sometimes a person needs repentance. Sometimes a person needs wise counsel. And sometimes a person needs medical or mental-health support. Spiritual maturity knows the difference. 3. JESUS CHRIST HAS AUTHORITY OVER FOUL SPIRITS This is where the message becomes powerful. Mark 1:27 > “For with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.” Notice the phrase: “They do obey Him.” Jesus did not negotiate with the spirit. He did not panic. He did not run away. He exercised divine authority. Luke 10:19 Jesus told His disciples: > “Behold, I give unto you power… over all the power of the enemy.” The authority belongs to Christ. Therefore, Christian spiritual warfare is not about shouting the loudest. It is not about dramatic performances. It is not about trying to impress people. It is about standing in Christ, submitting to God, knowing His Word, and resisting the enemy. James 4:7 > “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Notice the order: Submit → Resist → Victory. You cannot successfully resist the devil while deliberately refusing to submit to God. 4. HOW DO WE GUARD OUR LIVES AGAINST SPIRITUAL DARKNESS? Ephesians 6:11 > “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” Paul does not tell Christians to become obsessed with demons. He tells them to put on the armour of God. The armour includes: Truth — Don't build your life on lies. Righteousness — Guard your heart and conduct. The Gospel of peace — Walk in peace with God. Faith — Trust God when circumstances are frightening. Salvation — Remember who you belong to. The Word of God — Know and speak God's truth. Prayer — Maintain communion with God. The answer to spiritual darkness is not fear. The answer is deeper relationship with Christ. 5. DO NOT OPEN DOORS TO DARKNESS The Bible repeatedly warns God's people against involvement with occult practices and spiritual darkness. Deuteronomy 18:10–12 Scripture warns against practices such as divination, sorcery, witchcraft, and consulting spiritual mediums. Why? Because God wants His people to seek Him, not supernatural power from forbidden sources. Some people want spiritual power without spiritual submission. They want protection without holiness. They want miracles without Christ. They want supernatural experiences without discernment. That is dangerous. Ephesians 5:11 > “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” If something belongs to darkness, don't entertain it simply because it appears powerful. Not everything supernatural is from God. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: THE MAN OF GADARA Mark 5:1–20 Jesus encountered a man who was severely oppressed by unclean spirits. His life had become completely broken. He lived among the tombs. He was isolated. He harmed himself. He could not be controlled by ordinary human means. But when Jesus arrived, everything changed. Jesus confronted the spiritual bondage, and the man was eventually found: > “sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind.” Mark 5:15 Look at the transformation: Before Jesus: Broken. After Jesus: Restored. Before Jesus: Isolated. After Jesus: Reconnected. Before Jesus: Tormented. After Jesus: In his right mind. This is the power of Christ. And Jesus gave the man a mission: > “Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee.” Jesus doesn't only deliver people from bondage; He gives them a testimony and a purpose. DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS 1. Don't become more conscious of demons than you are conscious of Jesus. Some Christians can talk about demons for hours but barely talk about Christ. That is unhealthy. Jesus must remain the center. 2. Spiritual warfare begins with spiritual alignment. Before fighting external battles, examine your relationship with God. Is there deliberate disobedience? Unforgiveness? Secret sin? Occult involvement? Compromise? Repentance is not weakness. Repentance closes doors that compromise opens. 3. The devil is real, but he is not equal to God. Christianity does not teach two equal powers fighting for supremacy. God is Creator. Satan is a created being. Therefore, never place Satan on God's level. There is no divine competition. 4. Deliverance should lead to discipleship. A person may experience deliverance and still need spiritual growth. Jesus did not call us merely to be delivered. He called us to follow Him. 5. Freedom must be maintained through Christ-centered living. Matthew 12:43–45 gives a serious warning about an “empty” house. The lesson is powerful: Don't merely remove darkness; fill your life with Christ. Fill your mind with God's Word. Fill your heart with prayer. Fill your life with fellowship. Fill your days with obedience. PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. Give your life completely to Jesus Christ. 2. Renounce occult and spiritually compromising practices. 3. Study Scripture consistently. 4. Develop a strong prayer life. 5. Guard what you watch, listen to, and celebrate. 6. Refuse to live in fear. 7. Seek mature Christian counsel when facing serious spiritual concerns. 8. Don't automatically interpret every physical or psychological problem as demonic. Seek appropriate professional help when necessary while continuing in prayer. 9. Stay connected to a healthy, Bible-believing Christian community. 10. Make Jesus the center of your spiritual life. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. Am I more fascinated by spiritual manifestations than by Jesus Christ? 2. Is there anything in my life that compromises my walk with God? 3. Am I feeding my spirit with God's Word? 4. Do I respond to spiritual challenges with faith or fear? 5. Have I opened myself to practices Scripture forbids? 6. Is my home and personal life centered on Christ? 7. Do I understand my authority in Christ without becoming spiritually arrogant? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Father, in the name of Jesus, deliver me from every influence of darkness and establish me firmly in Your truth. 2. Lord Jesus, let every area of my life that has been under spiritual oppression experience Your freedom and peace. 3. Every influence contrary to the will of God operating against my spiritual growth, be broken in Jesus' name. 4. Father, give me spiritual discernment to distinguish between truth and deception, in Jesus' name. 5. Lord, close every door that I have opened through disobedience, ignorance, compromise, or ungodly practices. 6. I renounce every practice that dishonors Christ, and I surrender myself completely to Jesus. 7. Father, fill my heart with Your Holy Spirit, Your Word, Your peace, and Your righteousness. 8. I refuse to live in fear. I choose faith in Jesus Christ and confidence in the power of God's Word. 9. Lord, protect my family and establish our home in Your presence and truth. 10. Father, make my life a testimony of the victory, freedom, and transforming power of Jesus Christ. CALL TO ACTION Beloved, foul spirits are real, but Jesus is greater. Don't spend your life looking for demons behind every problem. Don't become obsessed with darkness. Don't live in fear. And don't play with spiritual things that God has forbidden. Instead, know Jesus. Know His Word. Walk in holiness. Pray. Exercise discernment. Stand in faith. And when the enemy attacks, remember who you belong to. You belong to Jesus Christ. The darkness may be real, but the Light is greater. The enemy may oppose you, but Christ has overcome. The battle may be intense, but your victory is found in Jesus. > “Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” — 1 John 4:4 So arise in faith. Stand in Christ. Guard your heart. Reject darkness. Walk in holiness. And let your life become a testimony that Jesus Christ still saves, delivers, restores, and sets captives free. JESUS IS LORD! 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/share/19WFeQkFUN/ Please get the full message from my book "RECOGNIZING AND FIGHTING FOUL SPIRITS"

Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* SUNDAY 9TH AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD'S GRACE. *TOPIC:* TREASURE IN EARTHEN VESSEL. *TEXT:* 2 CORINTHIANS 4:1-7. 1. Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 3. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5. For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. 7. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. *TOPIC:* TREASURE IN EARTHEN VESSEL. *THE MESSAGE:* Paul reminds the Church at Corinth that God places His divine presence in fragile human bodies, likened to jars of clay. Though weak and perishable, these bodies are meant to showcase God's power, which overcomes all human fragility and even death. This divine power transforms believers into a new creation. For youths, their bodies may be vulnerable to various challenges; God still desires to use them to display His grace and glory. Regrettably, many young people use their earthen vessel for shameful practices that defile them, such as tattooing, masturbation, rapping, drunkenness, and many others. God does not approve this. You should surrender yourselves to God as worthy instruments to be used for His purposes. *REFLECTION:* God's treasure indwells you. *PRAYER:* Lord, help me to be a worthy container of Your treasure. 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. *TODAY'S BIBLE READING PLAN:* JEREMIAH 30-32. ED.ii. GO BACK "I the Lord do not change." - Malachi 3:6 I want to invite you today to go back to that good, old-time, faithful gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. I could take a sermon from my late father Johan Maasbach and preach the same sermon of 50 years ago, because the Word of God has never changed. God's Spirit has not changed. I want to preach this old-time, faithful gospel which our ancestors believed in. The promises on which they leaned on and the cross of Jesus with the expectation for eternal life; it all remains unchanged. God has not changed God's Word endures forever and will not change. There is nothing new under the sun. People always look for something new and always want to invent something new. And when they think they found it, it is already old. They keep looking for new things. While everything around us is subjected to change, God is and remains the same. The gospel is the same old-time gospel; nothing has changed. God's love is the same, His blood is the same, His Spirit is the same – it all remains the same. Hebrews 13:8 says: 'Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.'Why would you look for all kinds of new things? New ideas, new religions? If you have deviated from the right path, if you have strayed, then come back to the Truth. If you are isolated from the Church, I would like to ask you to come back. I dare to say that you have never really been happy since the day you left. You will never be able to be truly happy in your heart if you do not go back to where God spoke to you. https://www.theblessingdevotional.com 2. Evening Prayer for today. EP.i. Evening Prayer Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. ⏤ John 14:27 Peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God. ⏤ J.C. Ryle O Jesus, our Lord and Master, we come to You in the quiet of this evening. We remember how, after Your resurrection, You appeared in the midst of Your disciples when they were gathered together behind closed doors. You looked upon them with love and said, “Peace be with you.” Then You showed them Your hands with the nail marks and Your side with the wound from the spear. You breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” Again, it is holy evening, O Jesus, and we are here, Your disciples, bowing at Your feet. Our lives are empty, needing a fresh filling of love from Your heart. Come into our midst and speak Your blessing of peace to us. Our minds are distracted by the cares of this world. We are afraid of life’s uncertainties, its disappointments, its burdens, and its losses. We need Your peace. Just as You calmed the winds and the waves, saying, “Peace, be still,” speak to our hearts tonight and bring peace. As You showed Your hands and side to Your disciples, proving to them that You were indeed risen from the dead, show us Your hands and side tonight. As we look at these wounds, may we remember that You died on the cross for our redemption. We also remember that You are risen from the dead and alive to be our Savior and Friend, our Intercessor in Heaven. As You breathed on Your disciples and gave them the Holy Spirit, may You also breathe on us as we bow at Your feet. We ask all this in Your name. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/35/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

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

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

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