THE FURNACE OF PRAISE Praise Tests Your Character ANCHOR SCRIPTURE Proverbs 27:21 (KJV) “As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.” 1. PRAISE TESTS YOU Just as fire tests gold, praise tests your heart. Success and recognition reveal who you really are. Trouble tests your strength; praise tests your character. 2. STAY HUMBLE When people celebrate you, don't become proud. Proverbs 16:18 (KJV) “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Receive praise, but don't become a prisoner of applause. 3. GIVE GOD THE GLORY 1 Corinthians 4:7 (KJV) “...what hast thou that thou didst not receive?” Whatever you have achieved, remember that God gave you the ability and opportunity. 4. DON'T LIVE FOR APPLAUSE People may praise you today and criticize you tomorrow. Don't let people's opinions control your identity. Live for purpose, not applause. 5. LET YOUR WORK SPEAK Proverbs 27:2 (KJV) “Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth...” Keep working. Keep learning. Keep serving. KEY LESSON 1. Praise tests character. 2. Stay humble. 3. Give God the glory. 4. Don't depend on approval. 5. Let your work speak. FINAL CHARGE When people praise you, don't let the applause change you. Be humble when celebrated. Be faithful when unnoticed. Give God the glory. SHORT PRAYER Father, give me a humble heart when I am praised. Keep me from pride and human approval. Help me to use every success to glorify You and serve others faithfully. In Jesus' name, Amen. Prepared by Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo +233544295158

Simple Warnings To Always Remember. They Are Very Important. 1. Beware of ungodly people secretly entering the church — Jude 1:4 People can come among believers while secretly distorting God's grace and denying Jesus Christ. 2. Do not turn God's grace into a license for sin — Jude 1:4 Grace is not permission to live in immorality or rebellion. 3. Remember that God judges unbelief — Jude 1:5 Israel was delivered from Egypt, yet those who later refused to believe were destroyed. 4. Do not rebel against God's authority — Jude 1:6 Jude points to angels who abandoned their proper position and were kept for judgment. 5. Do not practice sexual immorality — Jude 1:7 Sodom and Gomorrah are presented as examples of people receiving judgment for sexual sin. 6. Do not despise spiritual authority — Jude 1:8. Jude warns against people who reject authority and speak abusively about spiritual realities. Do not speak arrogantly about things you do not understand — Jude 1:10 Ignorance combined with arrogance can lead to destruction. 7. Do not follow the way of Cain — Jude 1:11 This warns against hatred, unrighteousness, and rebellion against God's way. 8. Do not pursue Balaam's error — Jude 1:11 This represents corruption through greed and using spiritual things for personal gain. 9. Do not follow Korah's rebellion — Jude 1:11 Jude warns against rebelling against God-appointed authority. 10. Beware of corrupt people within Christian fellowship — Jude 1:12 Jude describes them as dangerous influences who participate in fellowship while living contrary to God. 11. Beware of people who live only for themselves — Jude 1:12 They are compared to shepherds who feed themselves rather than caring for God's people. 12. Beware of spiritually empty people — Jude 1:12–13 Jude compares them to waterless clouds, fruitless trees, wild waves, and wandering stars. 13. Remember that ungodliness will face judgment — Jude 1:14–15 Jude points toward the coming judgment of the Lord against ungodly actions and words 14. Beware of grumbling and complaining — Jude 1:16 Jude identifies persistent complainers and people driven by their own desires. 15. Beware of boasting and flattering others for personal advantage — Jude 1:16 Their words can be used to manipulate people. 16. Expect mockers in the last days — Jude 1:17–18 Jude warns that people will mock the faith and follow ungodly desires. 17. Beware of people who cause division — Jude 1:19 They create divisions and are described as worldly rather than Spirit-led. #Amen

The Story Behind the Hymns. THE STORY BEHIND "O THOU WHO CAMEST FROM ABOVE" “O Thou Who Camest From Above” is a deeply devotional Christian hymn written by Charles Wesley in 1762. The hymn expresses a heartfelt prayer for the Holy Spirit to descend upon the believer, purify the heart, and set the soul ablaze with divine love. Charles Wesley, one of the founders of the Methodist movement alongside his brother John Wesley, wrote thousands of hymns that helped communicate Christian faith through memorable poetry and song. In this hymn, Wesley draws on the imagery of heavenly fire, asking God to kindle that sacred flame within the human heart. The opening words, “O Thou who camest from above,” refer to Christ and the divine presence coming from heaven. The hymn then develops the theme of spiritual transformation: the believer longs to be cleansed, strengthened and completely devoted to God. One of its best-known lines is: “Jesus, confirm my heart’s desire To work, and speak, and think for Thee.” This captures the central prayer of the hymn that every thought, word and action should be directed toward Christ. The hymn is particularly associated with the Methodist tradition and has remained popular across Christian denominations. Its message continues to resonate because it is not simply a song of praise; it is a personal prayer for holiness, spiritual renewal and a life completely surrendered to God. “O Thou Who Camest From Above” reminds believers that Christian service begins with an inward transformation, asking God to light the flame of faith within the heart and keep it burning.

Daily Bible Lesson. WE ASK GOD FOR MORE LIGHT—THEN MAKE EXCUSES WHEN HIS LIGHT REQUIRES CHANGE “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” — 1 Samuel 15:22 We pray: “Lord, show me Your will.” Then His light touches something we love— our time, appetite, appearance, character, location, or tongue— and suddenly: “My situation is different.” “Everyone does it.” “I'm not convicted.” Perhaps our greatest problem is not always lack of light. IT IS THE HUMAN HEART'S AMAZING ABILITY TO EXPLAIN AWAY THE LIGHT IT DOES NOT WANT TO OBEY. Jesus asks: “Why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” — Luke 6:46 So here is the question beneath every reform: ARE WE SEEKING GOD'S WILL—OR ASKING GOD TO APPROVE OURS? --- ① SABBATH REFORM—WHO OWNS YOUR TIME? THE EXCUSES: “I have to work.” “Most Christians worship Sunday.” “God knows my heart.” Yes—God knows the heart. And Jesus says: “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” — John 14:15 God's command still reads: “The seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God.” — Exodus 20:10 Obedience may cost convenience, approval, opportunity—even income. But faith asks something deeper: WHAT IS JESUS WORTH? “We ought to obey God rather than men.” — Acts 5:29 Do not merely argue for the Sabbath. KNOW THE LORD OF THE SABBATH—and ask Him for faith to walk in His footsteps. --- ② HEALTH REFORM—HAS APPETITE RENAMED ITSELF “NECESSITY”? THE EXCUSES: “My body needs it.” “I've always eaten this way.” “We're all going to die anyway.” But this body is not ours to abuse. “Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20 “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink… do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31 Health reform is not salvation by menu. It is stewardship of a body purchased by Christ. Inspiration warns of those who “frame excuses and make necessities which have no existence” while resisting health light. — Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 399 What a warning: APPETITE IS A TERRIBLE COUNSELOR WHEN ASKED TO JUDGE ITS OWN HABITS. Stop asking only: “Do I enjoy it?” Ask: “WILL THIS KEEP MY BODY AND MIND FIT FOR CHRIST'S SERVICE?” --- ③ DRESS REFORM—WHO ARE WE TRYING TO PLEASE? THE EXCUSES: “It's only fashion.” “God only looks at the heart.” “I don't want to look different.” Yes: “The LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7 And Scripture also calls for: “Modest apparel.” — 1 Timothy 2:9 The issue is not ugliness. Not neglect. Not a religious uniform. The question is: WHO IS SHAPING MY APPEARANCE—CHRIST OR THE WORLD? Christian dress should reflect modesty, simplicity, health, dignity, and good taste without making self the attraction. CLOTHING CANNOT SAVE THE HEART—BUT THE MASTER OF THE HEART WILL INFLUENCE THE CLOTHING. Let your appearance quietly testify: “I BELONG TO CHRIST.” --- ④ CHARACTER REFORM—“THAT'S JUST HOW I AM.” Perhaps no excuse protects cherished defects more effectively. Anger becomes “my personality.” Pride becomes “confidence.” Bitterness becomes “what they deserve.” Then comes the universal shield: “Nobody is perfect.” True. But Jesus never made imperfection an excuse for refusing transformation. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 2:5 Christ does not merely forgive us in the old life. HE BEGINS MAKING US NEW. “When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 69 Stop defending your defect with: “THAT'S WHO I AM.” Bring it to Jesus: “LORD, MAKE ME LIKE YOU.” --- ⑤ LOCATION REFORM—WHY DID INSPIRATION CRY, “OUT OF THE CITIES”? Here excuses become painfully practical: “My job is here.” “My children's opportunities are here.” “I'll move when everything becomes convenient.” Yet Inspiration repeatedly urged: “Out of the cities, out of the cities! This is the message the Lord has been giving me.” — Country Living, p. 29 Why? Not because soil saves souls. But country surroundings can favor health, simplicity, useful labor, children learning from nature, greater separation from corrupting influences, and preparation for difficult times. God's first home for humanity was not a congested metropolis. “The LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden.” — Genesis 2:8 Abraham lived as a pilgrim. Lot “pitched his tent toward Sodom.” — Genesis 13:12 Their stories remind us: LOCATION CANNOT CONVERT THE HEART—BUT ENVIRONMENT CAN POWERFULLY INFLUENCE IT. Yet Inspiration also counseled: “Out of the cities; but not a moment before God would have us go.” — Country Living, p. 26 So the message is not: PANIC AND RUN. It is: PRAY. PREPARE. SIMPLIFY. LEARN. WATCH PROVIDENCE. AND WHEN GOD OPENS THE WAY—OBEY. And remember: YOU CAN LEAVE BABYLON GEOGRAPHICALLY WHILE BABYLON STILL LIVES IN YOUR HEART. Christ's first relocation project is: SELF OFF THE THRONE—CHRIST ON IT. --- ⑥ SPEECH REFORM—CAN A CONVERTED HEART KEEP AN UNCONVERTED TONGUE? Here the excuses sound innocent: “I'm only joking.” “But it's true!” “I just needed to release my feelings.” Scripture answers: “Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting… but rather giving of thanks.” — Ephesians 5:4 “Speak evil of no man.” — Titus 3:2 And instead: “That which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” — Ephesians 4:29 Imagine that standard: WORDS THAT MINISTER GRACE. No gossip. No slander. No degrading jesting. No cutting sarcasm. No dishonest flattery. No spreading bitterness from heart to heart. “Bless, and curse not.” — Romans 12:14 This does not mean hiding wrongdoing. Jesus rebuked sin. Nathan confronted David. Paul corrected churches. Truth sometimes must hurt before it heals. But Scripture says: “Speaking the truth in love.” — Ephesians 4:15 Before speaking, ask: IS IT TRUE? IS IT NECESSARY? IS IT LOVING? WILL IT BUILD RATHER THAN POISON? WOULD I SAY IT THIS WAY IN THE VISIBLE PRESENCE OF JESUS? “Let the law of kindness be upon your lips and the oil of grace in your heart.” — Christ's Object Lessons, p. 337 What a standard: **TRUTH ON THE LIPS. GRACE IN THE HEART.** --- ⑦ PERHAPS THE MOST DANGEROUS EXCUSE—“I'M NOT CONVICTED.” Sometimes that is sincere. Conscience must never be forced. But sometimes: “I'M NOT CONVICTED” really means: “I DON'T WANT TO INVESTIGATE THIS DEEPLY ENOUGH TO BECOME CONVICTED.” Jesus reveals a searching principle: “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” — John 7:17 Notice the order: WILLINGNESS → UNDERSTANDING → OBEDIENCE. Before asking, “Is this really required?” ask: “LORD, IF YOUR WORD SHOWS ME THAT I AM WRONG—AM I WILLING TO CHANGE?” That question exposes whether we want truth— or merely reassurance. --- ⑧ BUT HERE IS THE DANGER ON THE OTHER SIDE—REFORM WITHOUT CHRIST Inspiration defines genuine reformation: “Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices.” — Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 128 Truth must reach: the calendar, the kitchen, the wardrobe, the temper, the address, the tongue, and the choices nobody sees. “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” — James 1:22 But never miss this: REFORMATION WITHOUT CHRIST CAN PRODUCE A PHARISEE. You can keep Sabbath— and hate your brother. Eat perfectly— and feed on pride. Dress modestly— and advertise self-righteousness. Move to the country— and take worldliness with you. Guard your tongue publicly— while bitterness rules privately. Jesus did not come merely to rearrange our habits. HE CAME TO RECREATE OUR HEARTS. “Without Me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:5 --- THE QUESTION BENEATH EVERY REFORM When Christ touches your— TIME—will He be Lord? APPETITE—will He be Lord? APPEARANCE—will He be Lord? CHARACTER—will He be Lord? LOCATION—will He be Lord? TONGUE—will He be Lord? There it is. DOES JESUS HAVE PERMISSION TO CHANGE EVERYTHING? “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23 Perhaps we do not need another argument. Perhaps we need another surrender. Instead of continually praying: “LORD, GIVE ME MORE LIGHT,” perhaps we need to pray: “LORD, FORGIVE ME FOR RESISTING THE LIGHT I ALREADY HAVE.” Take my appetite. Take my pride. Take my temper. Take my tongue. Take my plans. Take my home. TAKE MY WHOLE HEART. “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?” — Acts 9:6 NO MORE EXCUSES. NO MORE BARGAINING WITH LIGHT. NO MORE TRYING TO OUTREASON GOD. CHRIST BEFORE CONVENIENCE. FAITH BEFORE FEAR. TRUTH BEFORE TRADITION. SURRENDER BEFORE SELF. Because when Jesus truly becomes Lord— REFORMATION IS NO LONGER SOMETHING GOD MUST FORCE FROM US. IT BECOMES SOMETHING LOVE IS WILLING TO SURRENDER TO HIM.

DAILY LEADERSHIP BOOST (DLB) SATURDAY, 22 AUGUST 2026 THE HERESY PREACHERS OF THE LAST DAYS _“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”_ Matthew 24:24 KJV Beloved, the last days will not only be marked by scoffers. They will also be marked by deceivers. Few weeks ago a dear leader was invited to a Facebook “bible study” about the second coming. At first it sounded good. But when he asked honest questions about their claim that _“Jesus has already come secretly”_ and that _“they alone have the sealed book of Revelation”_, he was removed. That is how heresy works. It invites you in with sweet words, but it silences you the moment you bring the light of Scripture. This is not new. Paul warned Timothy, _“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.”_ 2 Timothy 4:3. In the last days, heresy preachers will rise. They will speak with confidence. They will quote verses out of context. They will claim special revelation. They will say, _“Lo, here is Christ, or lo, he is there.”_ But Jesus already warned us: _“Believe it not.”_ Matthew 24:23-26. What are the marks of these heresy preachers? They deny or distort the public coming of Christ. The Bible says _“every eye shall see him.”_ Revelation 1:7. _“For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”_ Matthew 24:27. Any teaching of a “secret coming” that bypasses the trumpet, the resurrection, and the clouds is false. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. They claim exclusive knowledge. _“We have the sealed book. We have the new revelation no one else has.”_ But John already closed the canon with a warning. Revelation 22:18-19. The Holy Spirit does not contradict the Word He inspired. If anyone tells you to follow them because they have secret truth, run. They cannot endure questions. Truth welcomes testing. Acts 17:11 _“These were more noble... in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.”_ Heresy blocks, bans, and bullies. That is because light exposes it. John 3:20. Leaders, our job in this hour is to guard the flock. Acts 20:28-30. We must teach people how to test every spirit. 1 John 4:1. We must root our people in the Word so deeply that when error comes, they will say, _“That does not line up.”_ Do not be afraid to ask questions. Do not be intimidated out of groups. Jesus said, _“Take heed that no man deceive you.”_ Matthew 24:4. Stay in the Word. Stay in community that honors Scripture. And stay under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, not under men who claim to be the only voice of God. The real Jesus is coming. Publicly. Gloriously. With power. And He needs leaders who will not be moved by every new doctrine. Ephesians 4:14. https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafVatb11ulKTDXcjL3X Prayer For Today Father, in the name of Jesus, I pray for discernment. Deliver Your people from deception. Expose every false teacher and every lying spirit. Give us a hunger for Your Word and a heart that tests all things. Keep me and the people You have given me from being tossed to and fro. Anchor us in truth. Make us bold to question, bold to obey, and bold to defend the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Today's Declaration I will not be deceived. I test every spirit by the Word. Jesus is coming publicly, and I am ready. I am rooted in truth, led by the Spirit, and I will guard the flock God has given me. Bible Reading Plan Matthew 24:4-28, 2 Peter 2:1-3, 1 John 4:1-6, 2 Timothy 3:1-9, Acts 20:27-31, Jude 1:3-4 Today’s Action Leaders, do three things this week: 1. Teach your people the difference between truth and error using Scripture. Take 10 minutes in your next meeting to go through Matthew 24:23-27. 2. Model openness to questions. Create a safe place where people can ask, “Is this biblical?” without fear of being removed. 3. If you encounter false teaching online or offline, don’t argue endlessly. Mark it, avoid it, and warn others lovingly. Romans 16:17. Remember: The devil’s goal in the last days is not just to make you sin. It is to make you believe a lie. Stay in the Word, and the Word will keep you. Prayer Of Salvation _Have you given your life to Jesus today? If not, pray this prayer with me now:_ _Lord Jesus Christ, I know I am a sinner. I repent of my sins and I turn to You. Forgive me and wash me with Your blood. Today I accept You as my Lord and personal Savior. Please write my name in the Book of Life and take it out of the book of death. Give me Your Spirit and the power to live for You and to sin no more. Thank You, Jesus, for saving me. From today, I declare that I am a child of God. Amen._ https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafVatb11ulKTDXcjL3X t.me/dailyleadershipboost

DAILY BREAD FELLOWSHIP DBF-001-029 Today’s Scripture John 2:8 (ESV) “And he said to them, ‘Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.’ So they took it.” Opening the Scriptures The servants had obeyed Jesus and filled the six stone jars with water up to the brim. Then Jesus gave another command. “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.” Notice what John tells us next: “So they took it.” There is no recorded argument. There is no demand for an explanation. There is simply obedience. The servants had put water into those jars. They knew what had been placed there. Yet Jesus now told them to draw from the jars and take it to the man responsible for the wedding feast. They still did not know what Jesus was doing. But they obeyed what He said. Living God’s Word Today There are times when obeying Christ requires us to move forward without knowing what the result will be. We often want certainty before obedience. We want God to show us exactly how everything will work before we act. But Scripture does not teach us to trust our ability to understand every circumstance. It teaches us to trust God. This does not mean Christians should act carelessly or treat every personal feeling as though it were a command from God. That would be dangerous. Our obedience must be governed by what God has actually revealed in His Word. When Scripture speaks clearly, however, we should not delay obedience simply because we cannot see what God will accomplish through it. We forgive because Christ commands us to forgive. We speak truth because God commands truthfulness. We love because Christ commands us to love. We share the Gospel because Christ has commanded His people to make disciples. We serve faithfully because we belong to Him. The servants at Cana could not change water into wine. Their responsibility was much simpler. Jesus commanded. They obeyed. What happened next depended entirely upon the power of Christ. This protects us from two serious mistakes. We must not become passive and refuse to do what God commands. But neither should we imagine that the results depend entirely upon us. Obedience belongs to us. The power and the results belong to God. Whatever responsibility Christ has placed before you today, carry it out faithfully according to His Word. Then trust Him with what follows. Question for Today Are you willing to obey Christ even when you cannot yet see what He will do? Respond: “Lord Jesus, I will trust You and obey Your Word.”

speak to your Day

THEME: GETHSEMANE HOUR / ALONE WITH GOD TOPIC: O GOD, ARISE AND BREAK THE POWER OF ANCESTRAL ALTARS Bible Reading: Galatians 3:13-14, Colossians 2:14-15, Isaiah 49:24-26, Psalm 35:1-10 Recommended Time of Prayer: Between 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Between 12:00 midnight to 3:00 am. Pray twice daily. 1. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries be delivered from every ancestral pattern, evil foundation, and spiritual opposition hindering the progress of this commission, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:13) 2. O Lord, arise and preserve every member of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries from every inherited pattern of stagnation, limitation, failure, and backwardness, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 121:7-8) 3. Altars of my father's house and mother's house sponsoring backwardness in my life, scatter by fire in the name of Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:13) 4. Every ancestral covenant empowering stagnation and limitation in my life, be broken by the blood of Jesus Christ, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Colossians 2:14) 5. Every evil foundation speaking against my advancement, lose your power over my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 11:3) 6. Every inherited pattern of repeated disappointment, failure, poverty, rejection, and delay, be broken from my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:17) 7. Every altar demanding that I remain at the level of my ancestors, catch fire and lose your influence over my destiny, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:13) 8. O Lord, arise and separate me completely from every ungodly inheritance fighting against Your purpose for my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 6:17) 9. Every ancestral voice calling my destiny backward, be silenced by the authority of Jesus Christ, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 54:17) 10. Every evil dedication, covenant, or pronouncement from my family history working against my progress, be cancelled by the blood of Jesus Christ, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 12:11) 11. Father, let every power enforcing family limitations against my life be defeated. Let me advance beyond every negative pattern inherited from previous generations, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 43:18-19) 12. Every satanic connection between my destiny and ancestral altars, be broken completely by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Colossians 1:13) 13. O Lord, arise and overturn every evil expectation that I must repeat the failures and afflictions of previous generations, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 118:17) 14. Every power using my family history as a legal ground to hinder my progress, let the finished work of Christ speak against it, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Colossians 2:14-15) 15. Father, let every good thing that was delayed because of inherited limitations be released into manifestation, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Joel 2:25) 16. Every ancestral pattern attacking my finances, marriage, health, career, business, ministry, and destiny, lose your hold over me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Isaiah 10:27) 17. I declare that I belong to Christ. Every curse and every evil inheritance contrary to God's purpose for my life is broken, and I walk in the liberty Christ has purchased for me, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:13; John 8:36) 18. O Lord, establish a new and righteous pattern in my life. Let my generation experience greater peace, progress, fruitfulness, and divine purpose, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 112:1-2) 19. O Lord, preserve and prosper every current supporter and partner of Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries. Let every negative ancestral pattern affecting their businesses, careers, families, and finances be broken, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 20:1-4) 20. Father, let Dragnet Gospel Int'l Ministries never lack the resources needed to preach the gospel, win souls, and advance Your kingdom. Let every spiritual opposition against the provision for this work be defeated, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 4:19) 21. Father, arise and completely break every ancestral altar, covenant, pronouncement, and negative family pattern sponsoring backwardness in my life. Let every power enforcing stagnation lose its authority over me. I reject backwardness, I embrace divine advancement, and I shall fulfil Your purpose for my life, in the name of Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:13-14; Isaiah 43:19) TAKE NOTE OF YOUR DREAMS AND HIDE YOUR FEEDBACK For more information/counselling: Email: dragnetgospel[gmail].com WhatsApp: +2348062343560 SHALOM ✋

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS: SERMON TOPIC: DOES READING THE BIBLE ON YOUR PHONE A SIN? A Powerful Sermon for Young and Mature Christians. The Phone Is Not the Problem. Imagine this: You wake up in the morning. Before your feet touch the floor, your hand reaches for your phone. You check WhatsApp. You scroll through Facebook. You watch a few videos. You check notifications. You laugh at a few posts. Then someone asks you: “Did you read your Bible today?” You say, “Yes, I read it on my phone.” But another person says, “Reading the Bible on your phone is not spiritual. You need a physical Bible!” So, who is right? Is reading the Bible on your phone a sin? The answer is NO. The Bible does not teach that reading God's Word from a phone is sinful. The issue is not whether the Bible is printed on paper or displayed on a screen. The greater issue is whether God's Word is entering your heart and transforming your life. Your phone can be a tool for temptation—or a tool for transformation. The same device that can carry pornography can carry Scripture. The same phone that can waste three hours can also help you spend thirty minutes with God. The question is not simply: “What device are you using?” The deeper question is: “What are you using the device for, and what is God's Word producing in your life?” 1. GOD'S WORD IS WHAT MATTERS, NOT THE MATERIAL IT IS PRINTED ON Key Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16–17 «“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”» Paul does not say God's Word becomes powerful only when printed on paper. The authority of Scripture comes from God, not from the material on which the words appear. Whether you read: - a physical Bible, - a Bible app, - an ebook, - a Bible website, - or listen to an audio Bible, the important question is whether you are receiving and obeying the truth of God's Word. Consider this: If you read Psalm 23 on paper, God can speak to you. If you read Psalm 23 on your phone, God can speak to you. The paper does not make the Word powerful. God makes His Word powerful. The Bible says: «“The word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword.” — Hebrews 4:12» The power is in the Word, not in the paper. 2. JESUS TAUGHT US TO CARRY GOD'S WORD IN OUR HEARTS Key Scripture: Psalm 119:11 «“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”» Notice what the psalmist says: “I have hidden Your Word in my heart.” He doesn't say, “I have hidden Your Word in my leather Bible.” The ultimate goal of Bible reading is not merely to own a Bible. It is to allow the Bible to own your heart. You can carry a beautiful Bible everywhere and never obey it. You can have 20 Bible apps installed and never open one. You can underline hundreds of verses and still refuse to forgive somebody. You can listen to sermons every day and remain unchanged. Therefore, Bible possession is not the same as Bible transformation. Jesus said: «“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” — John 14:15» The real evidence that we are receiving God's Word is not merely that we read it. It is that we obey it. 3. YOUR PHONE CAN BECOME A TEMPLE OF DISTRACTION OR A TOOL OF DISCIPLESHIP This is where we need wisdom. Reading the Bible on your phone is not a sin. But allowing your phone to constantly distract you from God's Word is a spiritual problem. You open your Bible app to read Matthew 5. A notification appears. You check WhatsApp. Someone has posted something interesting. You open Facebook. Then you see a video. Then another video. Twenty minutes later, you have forgotten why you opened the phone. The problem was not the phone. The problem was lack of spiritual discipline. Jesus said: «“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.” — Matthew 26:41» We must learn to control our devices rather than allowing our devices to control us. Your phone can help you: - read Scripture every morning; - memorize Bible verses; - listen to Scripture while travelling; - study different Bible translations; - search for related passages; - take spiritual notes; - listen to Christian teaching; - share Scripture with others; - follow a Bible reading plan. But it can also become a major source of distraction. The same phone can take you closer to God or farther from Him. The difference is how you use it. 4. DON'T CONFUSE A PHYSICAL BIBLE WITH SPIRITUALITY There is nothing wrong with loving a physical Bible. In fact, many Christians find it easier to concentrate, underline passages, make notes, and remember where verses are located when using a printed Bible. That's wonderful. But we must be careful not to create spiritual rules that God did not create. If someone says: “You are sinning because you read the Bible on your phone,” ask respectfully: “Where does Scripture teach that?” We must distinguish between: Biblical commands Things God actually commands. Personal preferences Things that may help us spiritually but are not universal commands. A physical Bible can be an excellent spiritual tool. But it is not a requirement for salvation. It is not the paper that makes someone spiritual. It is their relationship with Christ and their submission to God's Word. 5. THE GOAL OF BIBLE READING IS TRANSFORMATION Key Scripture: James 1:22 «“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”» This is one of the most important truths in this entire message. You can read the Bible on your phone and become spiritually mature. You can read the Bible from a physical Bible and remain spiritually immature. Why? Because reading is the beginning—not the destination. The Word should change: - how you speak; - how you think; - how you treat people; - how you handle money; - how you respond to temptation; - how you conduct relationships; - how you forgive; - how you work; - how you raise your children; - how you use technology. If your Bible reading does not affect your life, something is missing. The purpose of Scripture is not simply to fill your head with information but to transform your heart and direct your life. BIBLICAL CASE STUDY: JESUS IN THE WILDERNESS Consider Jesus' temptation in Matthew 4. When Satan came to tempt Him, Jesus responded repeatedly: “It is written…” Jesus knew the Word. He remembered the Word. He trusted the Word. He used the Word. And He obeyed the Word. The lesson is powerful: The Bible is not merely something we read during peaceful moments. It is truth we carry into spiritual battles. When temptation says: “You cannot overcome this.” The Word says: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man…” — 1 Corinthians 10:13 When fear says: “You are alone.” The Word says: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” — Hebrews 13:5 When anxiety says: “Everything is going to collapse.” The Word says: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication…” — Philippians 4:6 When condemnation says: “You are finished.” The Word reminds you: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” — Romans 8:1 That is why we must not merely read the Word. We must know the Word. DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHT Your phone is neither holy nor sinful by itself. It is a tool. A knife can prepare food or cause harm. Money can support ministry or become an idol. A car can take you to church or take you somewhere sinful. A phone can spread the Gospel or spread ungodliness. The issue is the heart of the user. Jesus taught: «“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” — Matthew 6:21» Therefore, examine your heart. If you use your phone to read Scripture, praise God. If your phone constantly distracts you from Scripture, establish boundaries. If a particular app repeatedly pulls you into sin, have the courage to remove it. Don't protect an app at the expense of your spiritual life. PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS 1. Choose a Bible-reading time Don't wait until you “feel spiritual.” Set a time and keep it. 2. Turn off notifications When studying Scripture, silence unnecessary notifications. Give God your attention. 3. Use your phone intentionally Before opening your phone, know why you are opening it. If you are reading Scripture, read Scripture. 4. Keep a physical Bible if it helps you There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a printed Bible. Use whatever helps you engage deeply with God's Word. 5. Don't only read—meditate Ask: What is God saying? What does this reveal about Him? What must I change? What must I obey? 6. Memorize Scripture A phone can disappear. A battery can die. A network can fail. But God's Word hidden in your heart remains with you. 7. Put Scripture into practice Forgive. Love. Serve. Give. Pray. Speak truth. Resist temptation. Live holy. That is when Scripture becomes visible in your life. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION 1. Am I reading the Bible to know God or simply to complete a reading plan? 2. Does my phone help my spiritual life more than it harms it? 3. What usually distracts me when I try to read Scripture? 4. Do I obey the Bible or merely quote it? 5. Is there an app or online activity that is consistently pulling me away from God? 6. What Scripture am I currently hiding in my heart? 7. If someone observed my phone activity for one week, would they see evidence of Christ? POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS 1. Prayer for Hunger Father, give me a deep hunger and thirst for Your Word. Let me desire Scripture more than entertainment, in Jesus' name. 2. Prayer for Understanding Lord, open my spiritual understanding. Help me not only to read Your Word but to understand what You are saying to me. 3. Prayer Against Distraction Father, deliver me from every distraction that steals my attention from You. Give me discipline and spiritual focus. 4. Prayer for Obedience Lord, give me grace to practice what I read. Let Your Word transform my thoughts, character, decisions, and relationships. 5. Prayer for Technology Father, teach me to use technology wisely. Let my phone become a tool for Your glory and not an instrument of spiritual destruction. 6. Prayer for Young People Lord, raise a generation of young people who love Your Word, understand Your truth, resist temptation, and boldly represent Christ in this digital age. 7. Prayer for Spiritual Growth Holy Spirit, make me spiritually mature. Let Scripture become deeply rooted in my heart and visible in my daily life. STRONG CLOSING: WHAT IS YOUR PHONE DOING TO YOUR SPIRIT? Let me leave you with this question: When you pick up your phone, what usually gets the first part of your attention? Social media? Entertainment? Messages? News? Or God? Your phone is not your master. Your notifications are not your master. Social media is not your master. Jesus Christ is Lord. So, if reading the Bible on your phone helps you encounter God, read it. If listening to an audio Bible helps you stay in God's Word, listen. If a physical Bible helps you concentrate, use it. The goal is not to worship the format. The goal is to know the Author. Don't become a Christian who owns a Bible but doesn't know the God of the Bible. Don't become someone who can quote Scripture but refuses to obey it. Don't allow a smartphone to become smarter than your spiritual life. Use technology—but don't let technology use you. Read the Word. Study the Word. Meditate on the Word. Memorize the Word. Obey the Word. Live the Word. And most importantly: Live for Jesus. Final Declaration My phone will not control me. My distractions will not control me. God's Word will guide me. The Holy Spirit will lead me. Jesus Christ will remain my Lord. And everything I use—including my technology—will be used for the glory of God. Amen! 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

22-08-2026 The Power of Your Words Proverbs 18:21 (AMP): “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words.” Our words carry more power than we often realize. A single sentence can encourage someone who feels broken, or it can wound a heart that was already hurting. Our words can speak life into a situation—or they can speak fear, defeat, and negativity. God reminds us that what comes out of our mouths produces fruit. This means we should not speak carelessly. When we constantly say, “I can’t,” “Nothing will ever change,” or “I’m not good enough,” we can begin to live according to those declarations. But when we choose words that agree with God’s truth, our perspective begins to change. This doesn't mean pretending that everything is perfect. It means that even in difficult circumstances, we choose to say, “God is with me. He is faithful. He will guide me. I may be facing a storm, but the storm does not have the final word.” Before you speak today, ask yourself: “What kind of fruit will these words produce?” Let your words be instruments of healing, encouragement, faith, and love. Speak life over your family. Speak life over your future. Speak God's promises over your circumstances. And when you make a mistake, remember that you can always choose your next words differently. 🙏 Prayer Father, help me to understand the power You have placed in my words. Teach me to speak with wisdom, grace, love, and faith. Guard my tongue when I am angry, hurt, or frustrated. Help me not to speak words of fear or defeat, but to declare Your truth over my life and the lives of those around me. May the words of my mouth bring encouragement, healing, and life. In Jesus' name, Amen. Today’s declaration: “My words will speak life. I will choose faith over fear, encouragement over criticism, and God's truth over negative thoughts. My tongue will be used to glorify God and bring life to others.” ❤️