PROVERB OF THE DAY ( Proverbs 24) 1. Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them; 2. For their heart devises violence, And their lips talk of troublemaking. 3. Through wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established; 4. By knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. 5. A wise man is strong, Yes, a man of knowledge increases strength; 6. For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety. 7. Wisdom is too lofty for a fool; He does not open his mouth in the gate. 8. He who plots to do evil Will be called a schemer. 9. The devising of foolishness is sin, And the scoffer is an abomination to men. 10. If you faint in the day of adversity, Your strength is small. 11. Deliver those who are drawn toward death, And hold back those stumbling to the slaughter. 12. If you say, “Surely we did not know this,” Does not He who weighs the hearts consider it? He who keeps your soul, does He not know it? And will He not render to each man according to his deeds? 13. My son, eat honey because it is good, And the honeycomb which is sweet to your taste; 14. So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul;If you have found it, there is a prospect, And your hope will not be cut off. 15. Do not lie in wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; Do not plunder his resting place; 16. For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again, But the wicked shall fall by calamity. 17. Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, And do not Let your heart be glad when he stumbles; 18. Lest the LORD see it, and it displease Him, And He turn away His wrath from him. 19. Do not fret because of evildoers, Nor be envious of the wicked; 20. For there will be no prospect for the evil man; The lamp of the wicked will be put out. 21. My son, fear the LORD and the king; Do not associate with those given to change; 22. For their calamity will rise suddenly, And who knows the ruin those two can bring? 23.These things also belong to the wise: It is not good to show partiality in judgment. 24. He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous,” Him the people will curse; Nations will abhor him. 25. But those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, And a good blessing will come upon them. 26. He who gives a right answer kisses the lips. 27. Prepare your outside work, Make it fit for yourself in the field; And afterward build your house. 28. Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, For would you deceive with your lips? 29. Do not say, “I will do to him just as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.” 30. I went by the field of the lazy man, And by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; 31. And there it was, all overgrown with thorns; Its surface was covered with nettles; Its stone wall was broken down. 32. When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: 33. A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest; 34. So shall your poverty come like a prowler, And your need like an armed man.

SUNDAY EVENING DEVOTION & PRAYER 📖 Bible Reading — Psalm 4:8 «“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”» REST IN GOD’S CARE As this Sunday comes to an end, let us pause and thank God for carrying us through another day. Whatever burdens, disappointments, unanswered prayers, or worries we may have, tonight we can place them in God’s hands. We do not need to enter the new week with fear. The same God who has been with us today will go before us tomorrow. Let us trust Him with our families, work, businesses, plans, finances, and future. Tonight, choose peace over worry, faith over fear, and thanksgiving over anxiety. SUNDAY EVENING PRAYER Heavenly Father, Thank You for this Sunday and for bringing us safely to the end of another day. Thank You for Your protection, mercy, provision, and unfailing love. As night falls, we surrender every burden into Your hands. Forgive us where we have fallen short and give us strength to walk faithfully with You. Give us peaceful hearts and restful sleep. Protect our families and loved ones throughout this night. Go before us into the new week. Guide our decisions, bless the work of our hands, and help us to trust You even when we cannot see what lies ahead. May Your presence remain with us, and may Your peace fill our homes. We surrender this night and the coming week into Your hands. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen. GOOD NIGHT & GOD BLESS YOU May the peace of Christ guard your heart, your home, and your family throughout this night. Have a blessed Sunday evening and a peaceful week ahead.

Good evening, brethren. 1. Evening devotion for today. ED.i. *DAILY WALK WITH CHRIST* (COCIN DEVOTIONAL) *DATE:* SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST, 2026. *SUB-THEME:* YOUTHS: VESSELS OF GOD’S GRACE. *TOPIC:* PURSUIT OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH. *TEXT:* EPHESIANS 4:13-14. 13. until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. 14. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. *TOPIC:* PURSUIT OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH. *THE MESSAGE:* The Holy Spirit bestows special gifts on believers to equip and edify them for spiritual maturity. The goal is for believers to attain the "unity of the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God", growing into the fullness of Christ (v. 13). Paul contrasts this maturity with spiritual immaturity (v. 14). Warning against being misled by false teachings and deceptive doctrines. Instead, believers are to speak the truth in love, growing up in every way into Christ, who is the Head of the body. Many, especially the young, are misled by human philosophies. For example, relativism - which teaches that there is no absolute truth, what is true for you may not be true for me. Are you growing in the faith? Maintain a consistent life of Prayer, Bible Study, and Christian Fellowship to grow in maturity. *REFLECTION:* Desire spiritual nourishment. *PRAYER:* Lord, help me to crave spiritual growth. 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 29-30. ED.ii. WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT? "Be filled with the Spirit." - Ephesians 5:18 According to the Bible, the Holy Spirit is a Person. Let this message penetrate your mind. When Jesus speaks about the Holy Spirit, Jesus always refers to 'He'. HE is not a thing but a person. We see in the Bible that the Holy Spirit has a mind, emotions and a will. The Holy Spirit speaks. Revelation 2:7 says: 'Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.' The Holy Spirit intercedes. Romans 8:26 says: 'The Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.' The Holy Spirit testifies. John 15:26 says: 'The Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father — He will testify about Me.' The Holy Spirit shows the way. John 16:13 says: 'But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.' The Holy Spirit leads. Romans 8:14 says: 'For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.' The Holy Spirit gives instructions. Acts 16:6 says: '…having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.' The Holy Spirit appoints. Acts 20:28 says: 'Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.' The Holy Spirit is also a Person to whom you can lie. Read the history of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11. You can insult (see Hebrews 10:29), blaspheme (see Matthew 12:31) and grieve the Spirit (see Ephesians 4:30). The Holy Spirit is a Divine Person and is everywhere. Today God still wants to fill His children with His Holy Spirit! https://www.theblessingdevotional.com Evening Prayer for today. EP.i. Evening Prayer A Psalm of David. The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. ⏤ Psalm 23:1-3 God loves importunate prayer so much that He will not give us much blessing without it. ⏤ Adoniram Judson O Lord, You are our Shepherd; we will lack nothing. You make us lie down in green pastures and lead us beside still waters. You have been our Shepherd today. We have been in Your pastures as we have read Your word and worshiped with Your people. We bow at Your throne with grateful hearts at the close of this day. We gather up the precious fragments of this day to carry with us, to feed upon in the days ahead. You have kept our feet from stumbling, our eyes from tears, and our souls from death. We have walked with Jesus, and our hearts have burned within us as He talked with us along the way. We ask You to fix deep in our hearts all the good impressions, lessons learned, and influences that have touched our lives today. Too often, we make sincere resolves and promises while our hearts are warmed with love, only to forget them tomorrow. Fix this Sunday's teachings so deeply in our minds that we never lose them. May we be stronger in faith, more earnest in purpose, and more holy in thought and feeling because of our communion with You this day. Ever-living God, who neither slumbers nor sleeps—take charge of our bodies and souls during the dark hours of the night. Give us refreshing rest and sleep. Let tomorrow be sweet and holy, made so by the blessings of Sunday flowing into it. May we carry the fragrance of this day into the world’s life. And to Him who is able to keep us from falling and to present us faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God, our Savior, be glory forever and ever. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/49/evening #taptapstudio #youdevotion.

August 23 🌿 “WHO GOD IS TO ME” MY KEEPER 📖 Psalm 121:5 (LLV) — “The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade at your right hand.” There is comfort in knowing someone is watching over us. Not watching to find fault. Not watching from a distance. Watching because we matter to them. The psalmist says, “The LORD is your keeper.” He guards. He watches. He preserves. He cares. Earlier in this psalm, the writer looks toward the hills and asks, “Where does my help come from?” His answer is immediate. “My help comes from the LORD.” Then he tells us something remarkable about this Keeper. “He who keeps you will not slumber.” We grow tired. God does not. We become distracted. God does not. We sometimes fail to see the danger ahead. God does not. There is never a moment when God's attention wanders from His children. But then the psalmist makes the picture even more intimate. “The LORD is your shade at your right hand.” In the fierce heat of the ancient world, shade was not merely comfortable. It could mean survival. And shade cannot protect you from far away. It must be near. Very near. The psalmist could have said that God watches us from heaven. That would have been true. Instead, he describes God as shade beside us. Close enough to shelter. Close enough to protect. Close enough to remain at our side. We may not recognize every danger from which God has protected us. We may never know how many paths were quietly redirected, how many doors remained closed, or how many circumstances God used to keep us from something we could not see. But our confidence does not depend upon knowing everything God is doing. It rests in knowing who He is. My Keeper. The One who watches when I sleep. The One who sees what I cannot. The One who remains beside me through every step of the journey. A new beginning rests beneath this promise: I do not know everything that lies ahead, but my Keeper does—and He never stops watching over me. Reflection: Can I trust God's watchful care even when I cannot see what He may be protecting me from or how He is guiding my path? Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being my Keeper. Thank You for watching over me when I am awake and when I sleep, when I understand the road ahead and when I do not. Help me trust Your protection even when I cannot see what You are doing. Remind me that You are not distant, but near—my shade at my right hand. Let me walk through today resting in Your faithful care. In Jesus' name, Amen.

SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026 IGNITE YOUTH DEVOTIONAL Topic: When You Feel Like Giving Up Bible Reference “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Galatians 6:9 (NKJV) A Short Story Prince had completed his university education, but life after graduation did not look anything like he had imagined. He had expected that his certificate would open doors, but months passed without a meaningful opportunity. His phone rarely rang, and whenever it did, the call was often from someone asking for something he could not provide. His graduation certificate remained in his drawer, looking more like a reminder of disappointment than a symbol of achievement. One evening, Prince stood by his window and watched people moving through the street. Everything outside seemed normal. Children were playing, traders were going about their business, and vehicles moved along the road, but inside him was a deep sense of emptiness. He wondered whether his life would ever become what he had hoped it would be. He was tired of waiting. He was tired of unanswered prayers. He was tired of feeling as though everyone else was moving forward while he remained in the same place. In that moment, giving up seemed easier than continuing to hope. But instead of allowing his disappointment to consume him, Prince entered his room, took his Bible, and decided to seek God. He did not have a perfect prayer. He did not even know exactly what to say. He simply knew that he needed Jesus. Even then, distractions came. His former girlfriend suddenly appeared at his door. His landlord called about his overdue rent. Messages began arriving on his phone. Everything seemed to compete for his attention at the exact moment he had decided to seek God. Prince could have abandoned the moment and returned to his worries, but he chose to continue. He turned off his phone, returned to prayer, and remained in the presence of God despite the distractions and the heaviness in his heart. Eventually, the noise within him began to settle. He experienced a deep sense of peace, and in that quiet moment, he sensed a simple instruction in his spirit: Continue. * This story is adapted from Twelve Hours: A Christian Novel on Encounters by Anthony Ijere. Today's Message There are moments when giving up feels easier than continuing. You may have prayed for something for a long time and still see no answer. You may have worked hard without seeing the results you expected. You may be serving God while secretly wondering whether your efforts are making any difference. The danger is that prolonged disappointment can make you interpret a temporary season as a permanent condition. You may begin to believe that because things have not changed yet, they will never change. But Galatians 6:9 tells us not to become weary in doing good because there is a harvest connected to perseverance. The verse does not deny that weariness will come. It simply warns us not to allow weariness to make us abandon what God has called us to do. Sometimes, the instruction from God is not complicated. It is simply, Continue. Continue praying when you have not seen the answer. Continue studying when your results have not yet improved. Continue building when the business is still small. Continue serving when nobody seems to notice. Continue walking in purity when temptation keeps returning. Continue trusting God when your circumstances are telling you to quit. You may not see the harvest today, but that does not mean your labour is wasted. God may be working on your character while you are waiting for Him to change your circumstances. Do not make a permanent decision because of a temporary season. You may be closer to your breakthrough, growth, answer, or encounter than you realize. What To Do Today 1. Identify the area of your life where you have been most tempted to give up. 2. Bring your disappointment honestly before God instead of hiding it. 3. Remove one distraction that has been weakening your focus and consistency. 4. Take one more step toward what God has placed in your heart, even if the step seems small. Prayer Lord, strengthen me when I become weary. When disappointment makes me want to give up, remind me that my season is not my entire story. Give me grace to continue praying, continue believing, continue working, and continue following You until Your purpose for my life is fulfilled. In Jesus' name, Amen. Daily Challenge Think about one good thing you have almost given up on. Take one practical step toward it today. Before you sleep, spend at least ten quiet minutes with God and tell Him honestly how you feel. ©️ Anthony Ijere Christian Author and Revivalist Telegram Channel https://t.me/anthonyijere Whatsapp Group https://chat.whatsapp.com/BDs9qaNMQumKTicv7uU7SJ?s=cl&p=a&mlu=0&ilr=0

OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN MEMORIZE: "As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth." Psalm 127:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 1 KINGS 1:15-31 15 And Bathsheba went in unto the king into the chamber: and the king was very old; and Abishag the Shunammite ministered unto the king. 16 And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? 17 And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the Lord thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. 18 And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not: 19 And he hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the sons of the king, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the captain of the host: but Solomon thy servant hath he not called. 20 And thou, my lord, O king, the eyes of all Israel are upon thee, that thou shouldest tell them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21 Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders. 22 And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in. 23 And they told the king, saying, Behold Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the king, he bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground. 24 And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? 25 For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king's sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah. 26 But me, even me thy servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and thy servant Solomon, hath he not called. 27 Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed it unto thy servant, who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him? 28 Then king David answered and said, Call me Bathsheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29 And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30 Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31 Then Bathsheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, and said, Let my lord king David live for ever. MESSAGE: In (1 Kings 1:1-49), one of King David's sons decided to crown himself king by staging a coup to overthrow his father. Solomon's mother was informed of the development, so she went to David and reminded him that he had promised that her son would succeed him as king. That same day, Solomon was crowned king meaning that Israel had three kings on that fateful day: David, Solomon, and the son who decided to make himself king. Solomon might not even have been aware of the events that led to his coronation; however, because his mother rose and entreated the king on his behalf, he was crowned king. There are certain things that children might miss if their parents don't rise to pray for them. A child may not know his or her left from right and may not even be qualified for an exalted position; however, his or her parents' prayers can elevate that child into that position. The authority that parents have over their children, both naturally and spiritually, is great, and they must learn to use it effectively. Any parent who does not pray for his or her child is like a mother hen who watches as a hawk carries her chick away, leaving the chick to fight for itself. The chick lacks sufficient strength to fight a hawk; however, if its mother joins in the fight, it would have a better chance of being saved. If you are a parent, do not keep quiet over your children's destiny so that the devil will not tamper with it. Cry out to God to show your children mercy early in their lives. In Psalm 90:14, Moses prayed that God should satisfy him and the children of Israel early with His mercy so that they would rejoice and be glad all the days of their lives. He knew that the secret to lasting joy and gladness was to start enjoying God's mercy early in life. Beloved, if you are a parent, do not neglect your spiritual responsibility over your children. Like Moses, ask God to show your children His mercy early in their lives. Let your prayers position them for opportunities early in life. Your children will begin to enjoy supernatural favour that some people only get to experience as adults if you pray for them now. I pray that God will shower His mercies over you and your household, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Parents should not neglect their spiritual responsibility over their children. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 3 - 5 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 28 - GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH 1. Guide me, 0 Thou Great Jehovah Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven! Feed me now and evermore (2ce). 2. Open Thou the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Song deliverer! Song deliverer! Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce). 3. If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan's side: Songs of praises! Songs of praises! I will ever give to Thee (2ce). 4. Saviour, come! We long to see thee, long to dwell with thee above and to know in full communion, all the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus! Take thy waiting people home (2ce). [22/08, 10:03 pm] +234 806 008 5461: ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SUNDAY, 23RD AUGUST, 2026 *PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the gift of children. Thank You for Your promise to bless us and make us fruitful, to multiply and to replenish the earth. 2.Father, thank You for Your promise in Your word that none of Your children will be barren. Thank You because You will visit every awaiting couple with children according to Your will. 3.Father, as arrows are in the hands of a mighty man, please empower all Your children to fulfill Your purpose for their lives, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please help all Your children never to go out of Your plan and purpose for their lives. Help them to patiently wait on Your guidance and commands, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help each parent never to fail in their role to pray for their children at all times, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please help me as a father/mother to command the children You have given me after You, so they won't miss Your purpose in life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, please help me as a child to my parents not to fail in my role in walking in the godly counsel of my parents, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please show me and all the children You have given me, Your mercy and favour. Satisfy us early so we can rejoice and be glad all the days of our lives, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, please strengthen all parents to arise in their spiritual responsibility over the children You have given them, and let all their children begin to enjoy supernatural favour, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please let all the children You have given me bring me joy and shower them and every member of my household with Your mercies, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Help him to enjoy the fruits of his labour over his children, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.[22/08, 7:06 pm] +234 806 008 5461: OPEN HEAVENS DAILY DEVOTIONAL DATE: SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026 TOPIC: PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN MEMORIZE: "As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth." Psalm 127:4 (KJV) BIBLE READING: 1 KINGS 1:15-31 15 And Bathsheba went in unto the king into the chamber: and the king was very old; and Abishag the Shunammite ministered unto the king. 16 And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? 17 And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the Lord thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. 18 And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not: 19 And he hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the sons of the king, and Abiathar the priest, and Joab the captain of the host: but Solomon thy servant hath he not called. 20 And thou, my lord, O king, the eyes of all Israel are upon thee, that thou shouldest tell them who shall sit on the throne of my lord the king after him. 21 Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders. 22 And, lo, while she yet talked with the king, Nathan the prophet also came in. 23 And they told the king, saying, Behold Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the king, he bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground. 24 And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? 25 For he is gone down this day, and hath slain oxen and fat cattle and sheep in abundance, and hath called all the king's sons, and the captains of the host, and Abiathar the priest; and, behold, they eat and drink before him, and say, God save king Adonijah. 26 But me, even me thy servant, and Zadok the priest, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and thy servant Solomon, hath he not called. 27 Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed it unto thy servant, who should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him? 28 Then king David answered and said, Call me Bathsheba. And she came into the king's presence, and stood before the king. 29 And the king sware, and said, As the Lord liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, 30 Even as I sware unto thee by the Lord God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day. 31 Then Bathsheba bowed with her face to the earth, and did reverence to the king, and said, Let my lord king David live for ever. MESSAGE: In (1 Kings 1:1-49), one of King David's sons decided to crown himself king by staging a coup to overthrow his father. Solomon's mother was informed of the development, so she went to David and reminded him that he had promised that her son would succeed him as king. That same day, Solomon was crowned king meaning that Israel had three kings on that fateful day: David, Solomon, and the son who decided to make himself king. Solomon might not even have been aware of the events that led to his coronation; however, because his mother rose and entreated the king on his behalf, he was crowned king. There are certain things that children might miss if their parents don't rise to pray for them. A child may not know his or her left from right and may not even be qualified for an exalted position; however, his or her parents' prayers can elevate that child into that position. The authority that parents have over their children, both naturally and spiritually, is great, and they must learn to use it effectively. Any parent who does not pray for his or her child is like a mother hen who watches as a hawk carries her chick away, leaving the chick to fight for itself. The chick lacks sufficient strength to fight a hawk; however, if its mother joins in the fight, it would have a better chance of being saved. If you are a parent, do not keep quiet over your children's destiny so that the devil will not tamper with it. Cry out to God to show your children mercy early in their lives. In Psalm 90:14, Moses prayed that God should satisfy him and the children of Israel early with His mercy so that they would rejoice and be glad all the days of their lives. He knew that the secret to lasting joy and gladness was to start enjoying God's mercy early in life. Beloved, if you are a parent, do not neglect your spiritual responsibility over your children. Like Moses, ask God to show your children His mercy early in their lives. Let your prayers position them for opportunities early in life. Your children will begin to enjoy supernatural favour that some people only get to experience as adults if you pray for them now. I pray that God will shower His mercies over you and your household, in Jesus' name. KEY POINT: Parents should not neglect their spiritual responsibility over their children. BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LAMENTATIONS 3 - 5 AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE HYMNAL 28 - GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH 1. Guide me, 0 Thou Great Jehovah Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but Thou art mighty, Hold me with Thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven! Feed me now and evermore (2ce). 2. Open Thou the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Song deliverer! Song deliverer! Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce). 3. If I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside: Bear me through the swelling torrent, Land me safe on Canaan's side: Songs of praises! Songs of praises! I will ever give to Thee (2ce). 4. Saviour, come! We long to see thee, long to dwell with thee above and to know in full communion, all the sweetness of Thy love. Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus! Take thy waiting people home (2ce). ‎PRAYER POINTS ON TODAY'S OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL SUNDAY, 23RD AUGUST, 2026 *PRAY FOR YOUR CHILDREN* ‎ 1.Father, thank You for the gift of children. Thank You for Your promise to bless us and make us fruitful, to multiply and to replenish the earth. 2.Father, thank You for Your promise in Your word that none of Your children will be barren. Thank You because You will visit every awaiting couple with children according to Your will. 3.Father, as arrows are in the hands of a mighty man, please empower all Your children to fulfill Your purpose for their lives, in Jesus' name. 4.Father, please help all Your children never to go out of Your plan and purpose for their lives. Help them to patiently wait on Your guidance and commands, in Jesus' name. 5.Father, please help each parent never to fail in their role to pray for their children at all times, in Jesus' name. 6.Father, please help me as a father/mother to command the children You have given me after You, so they won't miss Your purpose in life, in Jesus' name. 7.Father, please help me as a child to my parents not to fail in my role in walking in the godly counsel of my parents, in Jesus' name. 8.Father, please show me and all the children You have given me, Your mercy and favour. Satisfy us early so we can rejoice and be glad all the days of our lives, in Jesus' name. 9.Father, please strengthen all parents to arise in their spiritual responsibility over the children You have given them, and let all their children begin to enjoy supernatural favour, in Jesus' name. 10.Father, please let all the children You have given me bring me joy and shower them and every member of my household with Your mercies, in Jesus' name. 11.Father, thank You for the life of Your son, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye. ‎ Help him to enjoy the fruits of his labour over his children, in Jesus' name. Bless his children (biological and spiritual). Help him to continue to produce sons and daughters to Your glory, in Jesus name ‎ ‎12.Father, please bless Your son that You have been using to prepare these prayer points, with wisdom and favour. Answer all his prayers beyond measure, and all those who have been broadcasting them, in Jesus' name. ‎ ‎13.Father, please let every challenge and temptations, hindrance and obstacles of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus name. ‎ ‎14.Your personal petitions. ‎(Philippians 4:6) ‎ ‎15.In Jesus name I pray. ‎(John 14:13-14; 15:16) ‎ #GodBlessOurNation *These prayers have no expiry date! Please join us in prayer, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

A Woman. There is also a woman in Genesis 1. But she is hidden. She doesn’t make her appearance until Genesis 2. Where is the woman hidden? She is hidden inside the man. In Genesis 2, God puts Adam into a deep sleep and takes a woman out of him.

🪸 FAITH REELS —AUGUST 22🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳 ⚠️ Spiritual sleep can cost you your purpose #LordsbookDailys #FaithReels #BibleTruth #AUGUST22

DAY 22 - Morning Theme: LOVE THAT CHOOSES: Making Daily Decisions That Strengthens The Marriage 🌅 Reflection Make Your Home a Safe Place Good Morning! Home should be more than the place where we sleep. It should be a place where the heart can rest. A husband should be able to come home without wondering whether every mistake will become a source of criticism. A wife should be able to express herself without fearing ridicule. Children should know that disagreement does not mean the family has stopped loving them. A safe home doesn't mean there are no disagreements. It means people can disagree without destroying one another. In a Christ-centred marriage, love should create an atmosphere where both husband and wife can say: "I am safe to be honest here." 📖 God's Word "Let your gentleness be evident to all." — Philippians 4:5 ❤️ Today's Love Action Ask your spouse: "What can I do to make our home feel even safer and more peaceful for you?" Listen without becoming defensive. 💬 Let's Talk What makes a home emotionally safe? 🙏 Prayer Lord, make our home a place of peace, honesty, respect and grace. Help us never use each other's weaknesses as weapons. Amen. 🌿 From The Counselor's Chair A healthy marriage is not one where nobody gets hurt. It is one where hurt can be discussed without fear and repaired with grace. 💎 Marriage Nugget "A peaceful home is built when love becomes stronger than fear." Remember In marriage, it is not about winning the argument; it is about winning each other's hearts.

JOY IN THE MORNING By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah. This story will bless your life. Ensure you read till the end. Daniel was the kind of young man people admired from a distance but rarely helped when he needed them most. He was intelligent, hardworking, and full of ideas. At school, he had always been among the best. His teachers spoke highly of him and often said, "Daniel will go far in life." Daniel believed them. But after graduation, life began to tell him a different story. He wrote applications. He attended interviews. He shared business ideas with people who had influence and resources. Again and again, he heard the same words: "We'll get back to you." They never did. Some people praised his intelligence but refused to support him. Others took his ideas, promised partnership, and disappeared. Even friends who once came to him for advice suddenly became too busy when Daniel was the one asking for help. Months became years. One evening, Daniel sat alone in his small room, staring at his laptop. The battery was almost dead. His rent was overdue. His phone had stopped ringing. He felt abandoned. "What is the use of being intelligent," he whispered, "if nobody is willing to give me a chance?" For the first time in his life, Daniel began to doubt himself. That night, he lay awake with tears in his eyes. He was tired—not because he lacked dreams, but because he was exhausted from carrying them alone. Before dawn, unable to sleep, Daniel stepped outside. The night was still dark. The streets were quiet. He sat on a wooden bench and watched the sky. For a long time, nothing happened. Then, slowly, the darkness began to change. A faint light appeared at the edge of the sky. Daniel watched as morning pushed back the night—not with noise, not with force, but gradually and faithfully. And something stirred inside him. He realized that the darkness had not lasted forever. The morning had been on its way even when he could not see it. Daniel returned to his room with a different decision. If nobody would help him open a door, he would begin with whatever was in his hands. He used his intelligence to solve small problems for people around him. He started offering services online. He read more, learned new skills, and refused to let rejection become his identity. It was not easy. Some days, he earned nothing. Some days, he wanted to give up again. But he remembered that morning. One opportunity led to another. A small client introduced him to someone else. The skills he had developed during his lonely years became the foundation of a growing career. Years later, Daniel stood before a group of young people and told them something he had learned the hard way: "Sometimes, the people you expect to help you will not come. Sometimes, doors will remain closed longer than you hoped. But never conclude that your story has ended because you are in a dark season. Keep moving. Keep learning. Keep believing. There is always another way, another door, another opportunity, and another morning." Daniel smiled as he looked at the rising sun through the window. He finally understood. The night had not destroyed him. It had prepared him to recognize the morning. Reflection No matter what you are going through today, do not surrender to the darkness. Your present situation is not the final chapter of your life. You may feel alone, rejected, forgotten, or unsupported, but there is always a way forward. Sometimes the help you are waiting for will come. Sometimes you will discover strength you never knew you had. But one thing is certain: the darkest night cannot stop the morning from coming. Keep going. Joy may not be visible tonight, but joy is still possible in the morning. #highlights #beinspired #dontgiveup