• MEANING OF SACKCLOTH AND ASHES.

    Sackcloth and ashes originates from biblical texts and is used to symbolize:
    MOURNING,(*Deep sorrow and grief)
    REPENTANCE, (*Desire to change)
    AND HUMILITY.(*Humbled to Father in shame)

    Wearing sackcloth, is uncomfortable and course fabric. Usually made from goats hair. Sitting in ashes were traditional practices during times of great spiritual and physical distress or showing their penance for sins.

    In the Bible, figures such as Job and the people of Israel used sackcloth and ashes to express their sorrow and seek forgiveness from Father. This showed a deep sense of remorse and the desire to turn away from their iniquity.

    These biblical stories of mourning, repentance, and humility show someone who is experiencing regret for transgressions by taking responsibility for their actions, and bowing down to the heavenly Father. Demonstrating the act of being nothing but dirty ashes. Burnt up and consumed with the trials and tribulation of this life.

    REPENTANCE OF NINEVEH
    (Jonah 3:5-6)
    When Jonah prophesies the destruction of Nineveh, the king and the people respond by donning sackcloth and sitting in ashes as a sign of repentance.

    THE PEOPLE OF NINEVEH BELIEVE

    Jonah 3:5-10 KJV

    1 SO THE PEOPLE OF NINEVEH
    Believed God,
    And proclaimed a fast,
    And put on SACKCLOTH,
    From the greatest of them
    Even to the least of them.

    6 FOR WORD CAME
    UNTO THE KING OF NINEVEH,
    And he arose from his throne,
    And he laid his robe from him,
    And covered him with SACKCLOTH,
    And sat in ASHES.

    7 AND HE CAUSED IT TO BE PROCLAIMED
    And published through Nineveh
    By the decree of the king and his nobles,
    Saying, Let neither man nor beast,
    Herd nor flock, taste any thing:
    Let them not feed, nor drink water:

    8 BUT LET MAN AND BEAST
    Be covered with SACKCLOTH,
    And cry mightily unto God:
    Yea, let them turn every one
    From his evil way, and from the violence
    That is in their hands.

    9 WHO CAN TELL IF GOD WILL TURN
    AND REPENT,
    And turn away from his fierce anger,
    That we perish not?

    10 AND GOD SAW THEIR WORKS,
    That they turned from their evil way;
    And God repented of the evil,
    That he had said
    That he would Do unto them;
    And he did it not.

    KING DAVID MOURNS
    (2 Samuel 12:16-17)
    After the death of his child, with Besthsheba, David fasts and mourns, emphasizing humility and sorrow. The child was born through adultery and murder. God did not let it live.

    THE DEATH OF DAVID’S SON

    2 Samuel 12:15-23 KJV

    15 AND NATHAN DEPARTED
    Unto his house.
    And the Lord struck the child
    That Uriah's wife bare unto David,
    And it was very sick.

    16 DAVID THEREFORE BESOUGHT GOD
    For the child;
    And David fasted,
    And went in,
    And lay all night upon the earth.

    17 AND THE ELDERS
    OF HIS HOUSE AROSE,
    And went to him,
    To raise him up from the earth:
    But he would not,
    Neither did he eat bread with them.

    18 AND IT CAME TO PASS
    On the seventh day,
    That the child died.
    And the servants of David
    Feared to tell him that the child was dead:
    For they said, Behold,
    While the child was yet alive,
    We spake unto him,
    And he would not hearken unto our voice:
    How will he then vex himself,
    If we tell him that the child is dead?

    19 BUT WHEN DAVID SAW
    That his servants whispered,
    David perceived that the child was dead:
    Therefore David said unto his servants,
    Is the child dead?
    And they said, He is dead.

    20 THEN DAVID AROSE FROM THE EARTH,
    And washed, and anointed himself,
    And changed his apparel,
    And came into the house of the Lord,
    And worshipped:
    Then he came to his own house;
    And when he required,
    They set bread before him,
    And he did eat.

    21 THEN SAID HIS SERVANTS UNTO HIM,
    What thing is this that thou hast done?
    Thou didst fast and weep for the child,
    While it was alive;
    But when the child was dead,
    Thou didst rise and eat bread.

    22 AND HE SAID,
    While the child was yet alive,
    I fasted and wept:
    For I said,
    Who can tell whether God
    Will be gracious to
    me, that the child may live?

    23 BUT NOW HE IS DEAD,
    Wherefore should I fast?
    Can I bring him back again?
    I shall go to him,
    But he shall not return to me.

    QUEEN ESTHER'S PLEA
    (Esther 4)
    Esther asks the Jews to fast and wear sackcloth as they seek deliverance from impending doom.

    ESTHER AGREES TO HELP THE JEWS

    Esther 4 KJV

    1 WHEN MORDECAI PERCEIVED
    All that was done,
    Mordecai rent his clothes,
    And put on sackcloth with ashes,
    And went out into the midst of the city,
    And cried with a loud and a bitter cry;

    2 AND CAME EVEN
    BEFORE THE KING'S GATE:
    For none might enter into the king's gate
    Clothed with sackcloth.

    3 AND IN EVERY PROVINCE,
    Whithersoever the king's commandment
    And his decree came,
    There was great mourning
    Among the Jews,
    And fasting,
    And weeping,
    And wailing;
    And many lay in sackcloth and ashes.

    4 SO ESTHER'S MAIDS
    And her chamberlains
    Came and told it her.
    Then was the queen exceedingly grieved;
    And she sent raiment to clothe Mordecai,
    And to take away his sackcloth from him:
    But he received it not.

    5 THEN CALLED ESTHER FOR HATACH,
    One of the king's chamberlains,
    Whom he had appointed
    To attend upon her,
    And gave him a commandment
    To Mordecai,
    To know what it was,
    And why it was.

    6 SO HATACH WENT FORTH
    TO MORDECAI
    Unto the street of the city,
    Which was before the king's gate.

    7 AND MORDECAI TOLD HIM OF ALL
    That had happened unto him,
    And of the sum of the money
    That Haman had promised
    To pay to the king's treasuries for the Jews,
    To destroy them.

    8 ALSO HE GAVE HIM THE COPY
    Of the writing of the decree
    That was given at Shushan
    To destroy them,
    To shew it unto Esther,
    And to declare it unto her,
    And to charge her that she should go
    In unto the king,
    To make supplication unto him,
    And to make request before him
    For her people.

    9 AND HATACH CAME
    And told Esther the words of Mordecai.

    10 AGAINST ESTHER
    SPAKE UNTO HATACH,
    And gave him commandment
    Unto Mordecai;

    11 ALL THE KING'S SERVANTS,
    And the people of the king's provinces,
    Do know, that whosoever,
    Whether man or women,
    Shall come unto the king
    Into the inner court,
    Who is not called,
    There is one law of his to put him to death,
    Except such to whom the king
    Shall hold out the golden sceptre,
    That he may live:
    But I have not been called to come in
    Unto the king these thirty days.

    12 AND THEY TOLD TO MORDECAI
    Esther's words.

    13 THEN MORDECAI COMMANDED
    To answer Esther,
    Think not with thyself
    That thou shalt escape
    In the king's house,
    More than all the Jews.

    14 FOR IF THOU ALTOGETHER
    Holdest thy peace at this time,
    Then shall there enlargement
    And deliverance
    Arise to the Jews from another place;
    But thou and thy father's house
    Shall be destroyed:
    And who knoweth whether thou art come
    To the kingdom for such a time as this?

    15 THEN ESTHER BADE THEM
    Return Mordecai this answer,

    16 GO, GATHER TOGETHER ALL THE JEWS
    That are present in Shushan,
    And fast ye for me,
    And neither eat nor drink three days,
    Night or day:
    I also and my maidens will fast likewise;
    And so will I go in unto the king,
    Which is not according to the law:
    And if I perish, I perish.

    17 SO MORDECAI WENT HIS WAY,
    And did according to all
    That Esther had commanded him.

    PROPHET JEREMIAH
    (Jeremiah 6:26)
    Jeremiah calls for mourning in Israel, invoking sackcloth as a sign of sorrow for sin.

    IMPENDING DESTRUCTION FROM THE NORTH

    Jeremiah 6:16-30 KJV

    16 THUS SAITH THE LORD,
    Stand ye in the ways, and see,
    And ask for the old paths,
    Where is the good way, and walk therein,
    And ye shall find rest for your souls.
    But they said,
    We will not walk therein.

    17 ALSO I SET WATCHMEN OVER YOU,
    Saying,
    Hearken to the sound of the trumpet.
    But they said,
    We will not hearken.

    18 THEREFORE HEAR,
    Ye nations, and know,
    O congregation,
    What is among them.

    19 HEARKEN, O EARTH:
    BEHOLD,
    I will bring evil upon this people,
    Even the fruit of their thoughts,
    Because they have not hearkened
    Unto my words, nor to my law,
    But rejected it.

    20 TO WHAT PURPOSE COMETH THERE
    To me incense from Sheba,
    And the sweet cane from a far country?
    Your burnt offerings are not acceptable,
    Nor your sacrifices sweet unto me.

    21 THEREFORE THUS SAITH THE LORD,
    BEHOLD,
    I will lay stumblingblocks
    Before this people,
    And the fathers and the sons together
    Shall fall upon them;
    The neighbour and his friend shall perish.

    22 THUS SAITH THE LORD,
    BEHOLD,
    A people cometh from the north country,
    And a great nation shall be raised
    From the sides of the earth.

    23 THEY SHALL LAY HOLD
    ON BOW AND SPEAR;
    They are cruel, and have no mercy;
    Their voice roareth like the sea;
    And they ride upon horses,
    Set in array as men for war against thee,
    O daughter of Zion.

    24 WE HAVE HEARD THE FAME THEREOF:
    Our hands wax feeble:
    Anguish hath taken hold of us, and pain,
    As of a woman in travail.

    25 GO NOT FORTH INTO THE FIELD,
    Nor walk by the way;
    For the sword of the enemy
    And fear is on every side.

    26 O DAUGHTER OF MY PEOPLE,
    Gird thee with sackcloth,
    And wallow thyself in ashes:
    Make thee mourning, as for an only son,
    Most bitter lamentation:
    For the spoiler shall suddenly
    Come upon us.

    27 I HAVE SET THEE FOR A TOWER
    And a fortress among my people,
    That thou mayest know and try their way.

    28 THEY ARE ALL GRIEVOUS REVOLTERS,
    Walking with slanders:
    They are brass and iron;
    They are all corrupters.

    29 THE BELLOWS ARE BURNED,
    The lead is consumed of the fire;
    The founder melteth in vain:
    For the wicked are not plucked away.

    30 REPROBATE SILVER
    Shall men call them,
    Because the Lord hath rejected them.

    THE ISRAELITES
    (Isaiah 15:3, Micah 1:10)
    Throughout the books of the prophets, sackcloth is often mentioned as part of national mourning or individual repentance.

    JUDGMENT ON ISRAEL AND JUDAH

    Micah 1 KJV

    1 THE WORD OF THE LORD
    That came to Micah
    The Morasthite in the days of Jotham,
    Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah,
    Which he saw concerning Samaria
    And Jerusalem.

    2 HEAR, ALL YE PEOPLE;
    Hearken, O earth,
    And all that therein is:
    And let the Lord God
    Be witness against you,
    The Lord from his holy temple.

    3 FOR, BEHOLD
    The Lord cometh forth
    Out of His place,
    And will come down,
    And tread upon
    The high places of the earth.

    4 AND THE MOUNTAINS
    Shall be molten
    Under him,
    And the valleys shall be cleft,
    As wax before the fire,
    And as the waters that are poured down
    A steep place.

    5 FOR THE TRANSGRESSION
    Of Jacob is all this,
    And for the sins of the house of Israel.
    What is the transgression of Jacob?
    Is it not Samaria?
    And what are the high places of Judah?
    Are they not Jerusalem?

    6 THEREFORE I WILL MAKE SAMARIA
    As an heap of the field,
    And as plantings of a vineyard:
    And I will pour down
    The stones thereof into the valley,
    And I will discover the foundations thereof.

    7 AND ALL THE GRAVEN IMAGES
    THEREOF
    Shall be beaten to pieces,
    And all the hires thereof
    Shall be burned with the fire,
    And all the idols thereof will I lay desolate:
    For she gathered it of the hire of an harlot,
    And they shall return to
    THE HIRE OF AN HARLOT.

    8 THEREFORE I WILL WAIL AND HOWL,
    I will go stripped and naked:
    I will make a wailing like the dragons,
    And mourning as the owls.

    9 FOR HER WOUND IS INCURABLE;
    For it is come unto Judah;
    He is come unto the gate of my people,
    Even to Jerusalem.

    10 DECLARE YE IT NOT AT GATH,
    Weep ye not at all:
    In the house of Aphrah
    Roll thyself in the dust.

    11 PASS YE AWAY,
    Thou inhabitant of Saphir,
    Having thy shame naked:
    The inhabitant of Zaanan came not forth
    In the mourning of Bethezel;
    He shall receive of you his standing.

    12 FOR THE INHABITANT OF MAROTH
    Waited carefully for good:
    But evil came down from the Lord
    Unto the gate of Jerusalem.

    13 O THOU INHABITANT OF LACHISH,
    Vind the chariot to the swift beast:
    She is the beginning of the sin
    To the daughter of Zion:
    For the transgressions of Israel
    Were found in thee.

    14 THEREFORE SHALT THOU GIVE
    Presents to Moreshethgath:
    The houses of Achzib
    Shall be a lie to the kings of Israel.

    15 YET WILL I BRING AN HEIR UNTO THEE,
    O inhabitant of Mareshah:
    He shall come unto Adullam
    THE GLORY OF ISRAEL.

    16 MAKE THEE BALD,
    And poll thee for thy delicate children;
    Enlarge thy baldness as the eagle;
    For they are gone into captivity from thee.

    The significance of sackcloth and ashes in the Bible, demonstrates moments of deep emotional strive and the desire to reconcile with The Father.

    The 2 witnesses come teaching
    sackcloth and ashes.They are described as prophetic figures who proclaim God's message during the end times.

    The Two Witnesses (Revelation 11:3-6)
    As having the power to prophesy for 1,260 days while clothed in sackcloth.(*shortened by Christ in Matthew 24:22-24/ Revelation 9 to 150 days. The 7 years given to Satan was deduced to those 5 months/140 days.
    The 2 Witnesses time was given in days and when shortened to days they are given about a week longer to prepare and warn the house of Isreal.)

    THE TWO WITNESSES

    Revelation 11 KJV

    1 AND THERE WAS GIVEN ME A REED
    Like unto a rod: and the angel stood,
    Saying, Rise, and measure
    The temple of God,
    And the altar,
    And them that worship therein.

    2 BUT THE COURT
    Which is without the temple leave out,
    And measure it not;
    For it is given unto the Gentiles:
    And the holy city shall they tread
    Under foot forty and two months.

    (*Shortened by Christ, Matthew24, to 5 months of Revelation 9, for the elections sake, so they could stand.)

    3 AND I WILL GIVE POWER
    Unto my TWO witnesses,
    And they shall prophesy
    A thousand two hundred
    And threescore days,
    Clothed in sackcloth.(*Repentance)

    4 THESE ARE THE TWO OLIVE TREES,
    And the two candlesticks
    Standing before the God of the earth.

    5 AND IF ANY MAN WILL HURT THEM,
    Fire proceedeth out of their mouth,
    And devoureth their enemies:
    And if any man will hurt them,
    He must in this manner be killed.

    6 THESE HAVE POWER TO SHUT HEAVEN,
    That it rain not
    In the days of their prophecy:
    And have power over waters
    To turn them to blood,
    And to smite the earth with all plagues,
    As often as they will.

    THE WITNESSES KILLED

    7 AND WHEN THEY SHALL HAVE FINISHED
    Their testimony,
    The beast that ascendeth out
    Of the bottomless pit(*Abbadon, Appolyon)
    Shall make war against them,
    And shall overcome them,
    And kill them.

    8 AND THEIR DEAD BODIES
    Shall lie in the street of the great city,
    Which spiritually is called
    Sodom and Egypt,
    Where also our Lord was crucified.

    9 AND THEY OF THE PEOPLE
    And kindreds
    And tongues
    And nations shall see their dead bodies
    Three days and an half,
    And shall not suffer their dead bodies
    To be put in graves.

    10 AND THEY THAT DWELL
    UPON THE EARTH
    Shall rejoice over them,
    And make merry,
    And shall send gifts one to another;
    Because these TWO prophets
    Tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

    THE WITNESSES RESURRECTED

    11 AND AFTER THREE DAYS AND AN HALF
    The spirit of life from God
    Entered into them,
    And they stood upon their feet;
    And great fear fell upon them
    Which saw them.

    12 AND THEY HEARD A GREAT VOICE
    From heaven saying unto them,
    Come up hither.
    And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud;
    And their enemies beheld them.

    13 AND THE SAME HOUR WAS THERE
    A great earthquake,
    And the tenth part of the city fell,
    And in the earthquake
    Were slain of men SEVEN THOUSAND:
    And the remnant
    Were affrighted,
    And gave glory to the God of heaven.

    (*The 7000 fallen angels that take over the government's of the world with their new world order will die forever.)

    14 THE SECOND WOE IS PAST;
    And, behold,
    The third woe cometh quickly.

    Sackcloth is a symbol of humility and sorrow, indicating their role as prophets of repentance in a time of great tribulation of the apostasy of God's people. The sackcloth worn by the Two Witnesses provokes their somber mission, calling for the repentance of the nations and pointing out their eminent demise.

    The 2 serve as messengers of God's judgment, calling people to repentance. They are granted the power to perform miraculous signs, such as shutting the sky to prevent rain and turning waters into blood, emphasizing their authority as God's representatives.

    After their testimony, they are killed, signifying the rejection of their message. Like that of Jesus message they will lay in the street 3 days and half. They are later resurrected and taken up to heaven, symbolizing the ultimate vindication of God's
    MEANING OF SACKCLOTH AND ASHES. Sackcloth and ashes originates from biblical texts and is used to symbolize: MOURNING,(*Deep sorrow and grief) REPENTANCE, (*Desire to change) AND HUMILITY.(*Humbled to Father in shame) Wearing sackcloth, is uncomfortable and course fabric. Usually made from goats hair. Sitting in ashes were traditional practices during times of great spiritual and physical distress or showing their penance for sins. In the Bible, figures such as Job and the people of Israel used sackcloth and ashes to express their sorrow and seek forgiveness from Father. This showed a deep sense of remorse and the desire to turn away from their iniquity. These biblical stories of mourning, repentance, and humility show someone who is experiencing regret for transgressions by taking responsibility for their actions, and bowing down to the heavenly Father. Demonstrating the act of being nothing but dirty ashes. Burnt up and consumed with the trials and tribulation of this life. πŸ‘‰REPENTANCE OF NINEVEH (Jonah 3:5-6) When Jonah prophesies the destruction of Nineveh, the king and the people respond by donning sackcloth and sitting in ashes as a sign of repentance. πŸ“–THE PEOPLE OF NINEVEH BELIEVE Jonah 3:5-10 KJV 1 SO THE PEOPLE OF NINEVEH Believed God, And proclaimed a fast, And put on SACKCLOTH, From the greatest of them Even to the least of them. 6 FOR WORD CAME UNTO THE KING OF NINEVEH, And he arose from his throne, And he laid his robe from him, And covered him with SACKCLOTH, And sat in ASHES. 7 AND HE CAUSED IT TO BE PROCLAIMED And published through Nineveh By the decree of the king and his nobles, Saying, Let neither man nor beast, Herd nor flock, taste any thing: Let them not feed, nor drink water: 8 BUT LET MAN AND BEAST Be covered with SACKCLOTH, And cry mightily unto God: Yea, let them turn every one From his evil way, and from the violence That is in their hands. 9 WHO CAN TELL IF GOD WILL TURN AND REPENT, And turn away from his fierce anger, That we perish not? 10 AND GOD SAW THEIR WORKS, That they turned from their evil way; And God repented of the evil, That he had said That he would Do unto them; And he did it not. πŸ‘‰KING DAVID MOURNS (2 Samuel 12:16-17) After the death of his child, with Besthsheba, David fasts and mourns, emphasizing humility and sorrow. The child was born through adultery and murder. God did not let it live. THE DEATH OF DAVID’S SON 2 Samuel 12:15-23 KJV 15 AND NATHAN DEPARTED Unto his house. And the Lord struck the child That Uriah's wife bare unto David, And it was very sick. 16 DAVID THEREFORE BESOUGHT GOD For the child; And David fasted, And went in, And lay all night upon the earth. 17 AND THE ELDERS OF HIS HOUSE AROSE, And went to him, To raise him up from the earth: But he would not, Neither did he eat bread with them. 18 AND IT CAME TO PASS On the seventh day, That the child died. And the servants of David Feared to tell him that the child was dead: For they said, Behold, While the child was yet alive, We spake unto him, And he would not hearken unto our voice: How will he then vex himself, If we tell him that the child is dead? 19 BUT WHEN DAVID SAW That his servants whispered, David perceived that the child was dead: Therefore David said unto his servants, Is the child dead? And they said, He is dead. 20 THEN DAVID AROSE FROM THE EARTH, And washed, and anointed himself, And changed his apparel, And came into the house of the Lord, And worshipped: Then he came to his own house; And when he required, They set bread before him, And he did eat. 21 THEN SAID HIS SERVANTS UNTO HIM, What thing is this that thou hast done? Thou didst fast and weep for the child, While it was alive; But when the child was dead, Thou didst rise and eat bread. 22 AND HE SAID, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: For I said, Who can tell whether God Will be gracious to me, that the child may live? 23 BUT NOW HE IS DEAD, Wherefore should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, But he shall not return to me. πŸ‘‰QUEEN ESTHER'S PLEA (Esther 4) Esther asks the Jews to fast and wear sackcloth as they seek deliverance from impending doom. ESTHER AGREES TO HELP THE JEWS Esther 4 KJV 1 WHEN MORDECAI PERCEIVED All that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, And put on sackcloth with ashes, And went out into the midst of the city, And cried with a loud and a bitter cry; 2 AND CAME EVEN BEFORE THE KING'S GATE: For none might enter into the king's gate Clothed with sackcloth. 3 AND IN EVERY PROVINCE, Whithersoever the king's commandment And his decree came, There was great mourning Among the Jews, And fasting, And weeping, And wailing; And many lay in sackcloth and ashes. 4 SO ESTHER'S MAIDS And her chamberlains Came and told it her. Then was the queen exceedingly grieved; And she sent raiment to clothe Mordecai, And to take away his sackcloth from him: But he received it not. 5 THEN CALLED ESTHER FOR HATACH, One of the king's chamberlains, Whom he had appointed To attend upon her, And gave him a commandment To Mordecai, To know what it was, And why it was. 6 SO HATACH WENT FORTH TO MORDECAI Unto the street of the city, Which was before the king's gate. 7 AND MORDECAI TOLD HIM OF ALL That had happened unto him, And of the sum of the money That Haman had promised To pay to the king's treasuries for the Jews, To destroy them. 8 ALSO HE GAVE HIM THE COPY Of the writing of the decree That was given at Shushan To destroy them, To shew it unto Esther, And to declare it unto her, And to charge her that she should go In unto the king, To make supplication unto him, And to make request before him For her people.πŸ€₯✑️ 9 AND HATACH CAME And told Esther the words of Mordecai. 10 AGAINST ESTHER SPAKE UNTO HATACH, And gave him commandment Unto Mordecai; 11 ALL THE KING'S SERVANTS, And the people of the king's provinces, Do know, that whosoever, Whether man or women, Shall come unto the king Into the inner court, Who is not called, There is one law of his to put him to death, Except such to whom the king Shall hold out the golden sceptre, That he may live: But I have not been called to come in Unto the king these thirty days. 12 AND THEY TOLD TO MORDECAI Esther's words. 13 THEN MORDECAI COMMANDED To answer Esther, Think not with thyself That thou shalt escape In the king's house, More than all the Jews. 14 FOR IF THOU ALTOGETHER Holdest thy peace at this time, Then shall there enlargement And deliverance Arise to the Jews from another place; But thou and thy father's house Shall be destroyed: And who knoweth whether thou art come To the kingdom for such a time as this? 15 THEN ESTHER BADE THEM Return Mordecai this answer, 16 GO, GATHER TOGETHER ALL THE JEWS That are present in Shushan, And fast ye for me, And neither eat nor drink three days, Night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; And so will I go in unto the king, Which is not according to the law: And if I perish, I perish. 17 SO MORDECAI WENT HIS WAY, And did according to all That Esther had commanded him. πŸ‘‰PROPHET JEREMIAH (Jeremiah 6:26) Jeremiah calls for mourning in Israel, invoking sackcloth as a sign of sorrow for sin. IMPENDING DESTRUCTION FROM THE NORTH Jeremiah 6:16-30 KJV 16 THUS SAITH THE LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, And ask for the old paths, Where is the good way, and walk therein, And ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. 17 ALSO I SET WATCHMEN OVER YOU, Saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We will not hearken. 18 THEREFORE HEAR, Ye nations, and know, O congregation, What is among them. 19 HEARKEN, O EARTH: BEHOLD, I will bring evil upon this people, Even the fruit of their thoughts, Because they have not hearkened Unto my words, nor to my law, But rejected it. 20 TO WHAT PURPOSE COMETH THERE To me incense from Sheba, And the sweet cane from a far country? Your burnt offerings are not acceptable, Nor your sacrifices sweet unto me. 21 THEREFORE THUS SAITH THE LORD, BEHOLD, I will lay stumblingblocks Before this people, And the fathers and the sons together Shall fall upon them; The neighbour and his friend shall perish. 22 THUS SAITH THE LORD, BEHOLD, A people cometh from the north country, And a great nation shall be raised From the sides of the earth. 23 THEY SHALL LAY HOLD ON BOW AND SPEAR; They are cruel, and have no mercy; Their voice roareth like the sea; And they ride upon horses, Set in array as men for war against thee, O daughter of Zion. 24 WE HAVE HEARD THE FAME THEREOF: Our hands wax feeble: Anguish hath taken hold of us, and pain, As of a woman in travail. 25 GO NOT FORTH INTO THE FIELD, Nor walk by the way; For the sword of the enemy And fear is on every side. 26 O DAUGHTER OF MY PEOPLE, Gird thee with sackcloth, And wallow thyself in ashes: Make thee mourning, as for an only son, Most bitter lamentation: For the spoiler shall suddenly Come upon us. 27 I HAVE SET THEE FOR A TOWER And a fortress among my people, That thou mayest know and try their way. 28 THEY ARE ALL GRIEVOUS REVOLTERS, Walking with slanders: They are brass and iron; They are all corrupters. 29 THE BELLOWS ARE BURNED, The lead is consumed of the fire; The founder melteth in vain: For the wicked are not plucked away. 30 REPROBATE SILVER Shall men call them, Because the Lord hath rejected them. πŸ‘‰THE ISRAELITES (Isaiah 15:3, Micah 1:10) Throughout the books of the prophets, sackcloth is often mentioned as part of national mourning or individual repentance. JUDGMENT ON ISRAEL AND JUDAH Micah 1 KJV 1 THE WORD OF THE LORD That came to Micah The Morasthite in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, Which he saw concerning Samaria And Jerusalem. 2 HEAR, ALL YE PEOPLE; Hearken, O earth, And all that therein is: And let the Lord God Be witness against you, The Lord from his holy temple. 3 FOR, BEHOLD The Lord cometh forth Out of His place, And will come down, And tread upon The high places of the earth. 4 AND THE MOUNTAINS Shall be molten Under him, And the valleys shall be cleft, As wax before the fire, And as the waters that are poured down A steep place. 5 FOR THE TRANSGRESSION Of Jacob is all this, And for the sins of the house of Israel. What is the transgression of Jacob? Is it not Samaria? And what are the high places of Judah? Are they not Jerusalem? 6 THEREFORE I WILL MAKE SAMARIA As an heap of the field, And as plantings of a vineyard: And I will pour down The stones thereof into the valley, And I will discover the foundations thereof. 7 AND ALL THE GRAVEN IMAGES THEREOF Shall be beaten to pieces, And all the hires thereof Shall be burned with the fire, And all the idols thereof will I lay desolate: For she gathered it of the hire of an harlot, And they shall return to THE HIRE OF AN HARLOT. 8 THEREFORE I WILL WAIL AND HOWL, I will go stripped and naked: I will make a wailing like the dragons, And mourning as the owls. 9 FOR HER WOUND IS INCURABLE; For it is come unto Judah; He is come unto the gate of my people, Even to Jerusalem. 10 DECLARE YE IT NOT AT GATH, Weep ye not at all: In the house of Aphrah Roll thyself in the dust. 11 PASS YE AWAY, Thou inhabitant of Saphir, Having thy shame naked: The inhabitant of Zaanan came not forth In the mourning of Bethezel; He shall receive of you his standing. 12 FOR THE INHABITANT OF MAROTH Waited carefully for good: But evil came down from the Lord Unto the gate of Jerusalem. 13 O THOU INHABITANT OF LACHISH, Vind the chariot to the swift beast: She is the beginning of the sin To the daughter of Zion: For the transgressions of Israel Were found in thee. 14 THEREFORE SHALT THOU GIVE Presents to Moreshethgath: The houses of Achzib Shall be a lie to the kings of Israel. 15 YET WILL I BRING AN HEIR UNTO THEE, O inhabitant of Mareshah: He shall come unto Adullam THE GLORY OF ISRAEL. 16 MAKE THEE BALD, And poll thee for thy delicate children; Enlarge thy baldness as the eagle; For they are gone into captivity from thee. πŸ”₯The significance of sackcloth and ashes in the Bible, demonstrates moments of deep emotional strive and the desire to reconcile with The Father. πŸ‘‰The 2 witnesses come teaching sackcloth and ashes.They are described as prophetic figures who proclaim God's message during the end times. The Two Witnesses (Revelation 11:3-6) As having the power to prophesy for 1,260 days while clothed in sackcloth.(*shortened by Christ in Matthew 24:22-24/ Revelation 9 to 150 days. The 7 years given to Satan was deduced to those 5 months/140 days. The 2 Witnesses time was given in days and when shortened to days they are given about a week longer to prepare and warn the house of Isreal.) THE TWO WITNESSES Revelation 11 KJV 1 AND THERE WAS GIVEN ME A REED Like unto a rod: and the angel stood, Saying, Rise, and measure The temple of God, And the altar, And them that worship therein. 2 BUT THE COURT Which is without the temple leave out, And measure it not; For it is given unto the Gentiles: And the holy city shall they tread Under foot forty and two months. (*Shortened by Christ, Matthew24, to 5 months of Revelation 9, for the elections sake, so they could stand.) 3 AND I WILL GIVE POWER Unto my TWO witnesses, And they shall prophesy A thousand two hundred And threescore days, Clothed in sackcloth.(*Repentance) 4 THESE ARE THE TWO OLIVE TREES, And the two candlesticks Standing before the God of the earth. 5 AND IF ANY MAN WILL HURT THEM, Fire proceedeth out of their mouth, And devoureth their enemies: And if any man will hurt them, He must in this manner be killed. 6 THESE HAVE POWER TO SHUT HEAVEN, That it rain not In the days of their prophecy: And have power over waters To turn them to blood, And to smite the earth with all plagues, As often as they will. THE WITNESSES KILLED 7 AND WHEN THEY SHALL HAVE FINISHED Their testimony, The beast that ascendeth out Of the bottomless pit(*Abbadon, Appolyon) Shall make war against them, And shall overcome them, And kill them. 8 AND THEIR DEAD BODIES Shall lie in the street of the great city, Which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, Where also our Lord was crucified. 9 AND THEY OF THE PEOPLE And kindreds And tongues And nations shall see their dead bodies Three days and an half, And shall not suffer their dead bodies To be put in graves. 10 AND THEY THAT DWELL UPON THE EARTH Shall rejoice over them, And make merry, And shall send gifts one to another; Because these TWO prophets Tormented them that dwelt on the earth. THE WITNESSES RESURRECTED 11 AND AFTER THREE DAYS AND AN HALF The spirit of life from God Entered into them, And they stood upon their feet; And great fear fell upon them Which saw them. 12 AND THEY HEARD A GREAT VOICE From heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; And their enemies beheld them. 13 AND THE SAME HOUR WAS THERE A great earthquake, And the tenth part of the city fell, And in the earthquake Were slain of men SEVEN THOUSAND: And the remnant Were affrighted, And gave glory to the God of heaven. (*The 7000 fallen angels that take over the government's of the world with their new world order will die forever.) 14 THE SECOND WOE IS PAST; And, behold, The third woe cometh quickly. πŸ‘‰Sackcloth is a symbol of humility and sorrow, indicating their role as prophets of repentance in a time of great tribulation of the apostasy of God's people. The sackcloth worn by the Two Witnesses provokes their somber mission, calling for the repentance of the nations and pointing out their eminent demise. The 2 serve as messengers of God's judgment, calling people to repentance. They are granted the power to perform miraculous signs, such as shutting the sky to prevent rain and turning waters into blood, emphasizing their authority as God's representatives. After their testimony, they are killed, signifying the rejection of their message. Like that of Jesus message they will lay in the street 3 days and half. They are later resurrected and taken up to heaven, symbolizing the ultimate vindication of God's
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  • DEMYSTIFYING THE DEMON OF MASTURBATION

    By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah

    Β«β€œFor though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.)” β€” 2 Corinthians 10:3–4Β»

    Introduction

    There are certain battles people fight in silence. They smile in public, worship in church, preach powerful messages, and yet return home to fight a private war that leaves them feeling ashamed, condemned, and spiritually weak. Masturbation is one of those subjects that many people are afraid to discuss openly.

    Unfortunately, silence has sometimes allowed fear, ignorance, condemnation, and misinformation to grow around the issue. Some people believe every case of masturbation means a demon has entered their body. Others dismiss the matter completely and refuse to acknowledge the possibility of sexual bondage, lust, addiction, or spiritual oppression.

    We must approach this subject with both truth and compassion.

    To demystify something means to remove unnecessary mystery, fear, exaggeration, and confusion surrounding it. Therefore, when we speak about what some describe as the demon of masturbation, we must understand that the issue is often more complex than simply saying, β€œThere is a demon inside me.”

    The real question is: What is driving the behaviour?

    Is it lust? Is it pornography? Is it loneliness? Is it a habit developed over many years? Is it emotional pain? Is it an addiction? Is there genuine spiritual oppression involved?

    Until we understand the root, we may continue fighting the wrong battle.
    In this write-up, twelve points on how to demystify the demon of masturbation and stay free from it have been examined carefully.

    God bless you as you read through it, and I pray you get your freedom from reading it in Jesus name amen.

    1. Masturbation Is Not a Person's Identity

    The first thing I want to say to anyone struggling with masturbation is this:

    You are not masturbation. You are not your addiction. You are not your worst moment.

    A person may struggle with a sexual habit without that habit becoming their identity.

    The devil loves to move people from conviction into condemnation.

    Conviction says:

    Β«β€œWhat you are doing is wrong. Come back to God.”»

    Condemnation says:

    Β«β€œYou are dirty. You are hopeless. God does not want you anymore.”»

    But Romans 8:1 declares:

    Β«β€œThere is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus...”»

    The enemy knows that a person drowning in shame will often continue doing the very thing that is destroying them.

    Shame says, β€œHide from God.”

    Grace says, β€œRun to God.”

    When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid themselves. Sin makes people hide. But God came looking for them.

    That is still the heart of God.

    2. The Real Battle Often Begins in the Mind

    Jesus said:

    Β«β€œBut I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” β€” Matthew 5:28Β»

    Sexual sin rarely begins with the physical act. It often begins in the mind.

    A thought is entertained.

    A fantasy is repeated.

    An image is watched.

    A memory is revisited.

    A desire is fed.

    Eventually, what was once a thought becomes a stronghold.

    This is why Proverbs 4:23 says:

    Β«β€œKeep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”»

    The hand may be involved in masturbation, but the battlefield is often much deeper than the hand. The battlefield may be the mind, imagination, appetite, emotions, and habits.

    You cannot consistently feed lust and expect purity to grow.

    You cannot continually consume sexually explicit content and expect your mind to remain unaffected.

    What you repeatedly feed becomes stronger.

    3. Is There Really a β€œDemon of Masturbation”?

    We need balance here.

    The Bible does not specifically name a spirit called the demon of masturbation. Therefore, we must be careful not to give unscriptural names and descriptions where Scripture is silent.

    However, the Bible clearly teaches that human beings can experience temptation, bondage, strongholds, sinful desires, and spiritual oppression.

    Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that:

    Β«β€œWe wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers...”»

    At the same time, James 1:14–15 teaches that people can also be drawn away by their own desires.

    Therefore, not every struggle should automatically be blamed on a demon.

    Sometimes it is:

    - A habit that has been practised repeatedly.
    - An addiction strengthened over time.
    - Exposure to pornography.
    - Sexual fantasies.
    - Loneliness and isolation.
    - Emotional pain.
    - Curiosity that developed into bondage.
    - Lack of discipline.
    - Unresolved wounds.
    - A genuine spiritual attack that exploits an existing weakness.

    The wise believer does not oversimplify the problem.

    Sometimes a demon may exploit a habit, but the habit itself must still be broken.

    You can cast out an evil spirit, but if you return to the same environment, the same pornography, the same fantasies, the same secret lifestyle, and the same triggers without renewing your mind, the cycle may continue.

    Deliverance without discipline can produce temporary relief without lasting transformation.

    4. Lust Is a Fire That Must Not Be Fed

    One of the greatest fuel sources for masturbation is lust.

    Paul instructed Timothy:

    Β«β€œFlee also youthful lusts...” β€” 2 Timothy 2:22Β»

    Notice that Paul did not say, β€œNegotiate with youthful lusts.”

    He said, β€œFlee.”

    There are some battles you overcome by standing and fighting. There are others you overcome by refusing to remain in the environment.

    Joseph did not stay in Potiphar's wife's room to prove his spiritual strength. He ran!

    Sometimes your deliverance begins with leaving the room.

    Turning off the phone.

    Blocking the website.

    Deleting the videos.

    Changing your sleeping pattern.

    Avoiding isolation.

    Refusing to entertain fantasy.

    You cannot pray against a fire while continuously pouring petrol on it.

    5. Pornography Is Often a Major Doorway to Sexual Bondage

    We must be honest: pornography has become one of the greatest enemies of sexual purity in this generation.

    What previous generations struggled to access is now available within seconds on a mobile phone.

    Pornography trains the mind to seek repeated stimulation. It can create unrealistic expectations, intensify fantasies, and strengthen unhealthy patterns of sexual behaviour.

    For many people, masturbation did not become a serious struggle until pornography became a regular companion.

    Therefore, if you sincerely desire freedom, you must address the source.

    Do not merely pray:

    Β«β€œLord, take away this habit.”»

    Also pray:

    Β«β€œLord, give me the courage to remove what is feeding this habit.”»

    Psalm 101:3 says:

    Β«β€œI will set no wicked thing before mine eyes...”»

    Freedom requires honesty.

    What are you watching?

    What are you saving?

    Who are you chatting with?

    What happens when you are alone?

    What time are you most vulnerable?

    Until you identify the trigger, you may keep repeating the cycle.

    6. Repetition Can Become a Stronghold

    A stronghold is something that has gained unusual influence over a person's thinking or behaviour.

    What you repeatedly practise can become easier to repeat.

    This is why some people sincerely hate the habit and still find themselves returning to it.

    The cycle may look like this:

    Trigger β†’ temptation β†’ fantasy β†’ masturbation β†’ temporary relief β†’ guilt β†’ shame β†’ promise to stop β†’ another trigger β†’ relapse.

    The answer is not merely making stronger promises.

    Many people have said:

    Β«β€œThis is the last time.”»

    Then repeated it again.

    Why? Because willpower alone is often not enough to break a deeply established pattern.

    Real freedom requires a combination of:

    - Repentance.
    - Renewing the mind.
    - Spiritual discipline.
    - Removing triggers.
    - Accountability.
    - Healthy habits.
    - Prayer.
    - Filling your life with the Word of God.

    7. Do Not Fight a Spiritual Battle Without Spiritual Weapons

    If there is a spiritual dimension to your struggle, you must engage spiritual weapons.

    Ephesians 6:17 speaks about:

    Β«β€œThe sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”»

    When temptation comes, do not remain mentally passive.

    Speak the Word.

    Pray.

    Worship.

    Change your environment.

    Call someone you trust.

    Go for a walk.

    Read Scripture aloud.

    Refuse to sit in darkness and negotiate with temptation.

    The devil is not afraid of your good intentions. But he recognizes the authority of a believer who stands firmly in the truth of God's Word.

    8. Your Body Must Come Under the Government of the Spirit

    Paul said:

    Β«β€œBut I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...” β€” 1 Corinthians 9:27Β»

    Your body has desires, but your desires must not become your master.

    There is a difference between having an urge and surrendering to every urge.

    Maturity means learning to say no to yourself.

    The Christian life is not simply about casting out devils. It is also about crucifying the flesh.

    Galatians 5:24 says:

    Β«β€œAnd they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”»

    There are things prayer will empower you to overcome, but you must still make a decision to walk away.

    God gives grace, but grace is not permission to remain comfortably in bondage.

    Grace empowers us to live differently.

    9. Stop Fighting Alone

    Secrecy is one of the greatest strengths of addiction.

    The enemy tells you:

    Β«β€œDon't tell anyone. They will judge you.”»

    But James 5:16 says:

    Β«β€œConfess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”»

    This does not mean you should announce your private struggle to everybody.

    Wisdom is necessary.

    Find a mature and trustworthy spiritual leader, counsellor, or accountability partner who can help you without shaming or exploiting you.

    Sometimes freedom begins when you finally say:

    β€œI need help.”

    There is no shame in seeking help.

    The shame is allowing pride to keep you in chains when help is available.

    10. Replace, Don't Just Remove

    Jesus taught important principles about an empty house in Matthew 12:43–45. The lesson is clear: a life must not merely be emptied of destructive influences; it must be filled with what is good and godly.

    Do not simply say:

    Β«β€œI will stop masturbating.”»

    Ask yourself:

    β€œWhat will I replace this habit with?”

    Fill your life with:

    - Prayer.
    - Scripture meditation.
    - Productive work.
    - Exercise.
    - Healthy friendships.
    - Fellowship.
    - Service to God.
    - Purposeful activities.
    - Accountability.

    An idle mind can become a playground for temptation.

    When your life has no structure, temptation can easily find space.

    11. If You Fall, Get Up Again

    Perhaps you are reading this and saying:

    Β«β€œPastor, I have tried many times and failed.”»

    Hear me: Do not surrender to failure.

    Proverbs 24:16 says:

    Β«β€œFor a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again...”»

    The righteous person is not necessarily the person who never faces temptation or never stumbles. The righteous person is the one who refuses to remain on the ground.

    Repent genuinely.

    Receive God's mercy.

    Learn from what happened.

    Identify the trigger.

    Strengthen your boundaries.

    And rise again.

    Micah 7:8 says:

    Β«β€œRejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise...”»

    Your last failure does not have to become your permanent address.

    12. Freedom Is More Than Deliverance

    True freedom is not simply shouting during a deliverance service.

    Freedom is being able to return home and make different choices.

    Freedom is controlling your thoughts.

    Freedom is turning away when nobody is watching.

    Freedom is honouring God with your body.

    Freedom is saying no when temptation says yes.

    Freedom is developing the discipline to live in the light.

    Jesus said:

    Β«β€œIf the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” β€” John 8:36Β»

    Christ can break chains.

    Christ can heal wounds.

    Christ can renew the mind.

    Christ can restore purity.

    Christ can strengthen weak places.

    But you must cooperate with the process of freedom.

    A WORD TO PARENTS, PASTORS AND CHURCH LEADERS

    We must stop addressing sexual struggles only with insults and condemnation.

    Calling everyone possessed without understanding their struggle may create more fear than freedom.

    We need truth, but truth must be spoken with love.

    Some people need deliverance.

    Some need discipleship.

    Some need accountability.

    Some need counselling for deep emotional wounds.

    Some need to break free from pornography.

    Some need all of the above.

    The church must become a place where people can seek help without being publicly humiliated.

    Holiness should be preached, but restoration must also be available.

    Jesus never lowered God's standard, but He also lifted people who had fallen.

    PRACTICAL STEPS TOWARD FREEDOM

    1. Repent sincerely before God. Do not justify what you know is feeding lust and impurity.
    2. Destroy your triggers. Delete pornography and sexually explicit materials.
    3. Control your private environment. Avoid situations and times when you are consistently vulnerable.
    4. Renew your mind daily with God's Word.
    5. Pray before temptation becomes overwhelming.
    6. Fast and develop spiritual discipline where appropriate.
    7. Exercise self-control in other areas of life.
    8. Get a trusted accountability partner.
    9. Avoid isolation when you know you are vulnerable.
    10. If the struggle feels compulsive or severely distressing, seek appropriate professional support alongside spiritual guidance.
    11. Never give up on your journey toward purity.

    PRAYER FOR FREEDOM

    Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I come before You with humility and honesty. I acknowledge every habit, lust, fantasy, addiction, and practice that has tried to bring me into bondage. I ask for Your mercy and forgiveness.

    Lord Jesus, cleanse my heart and renew my mind. Break every ungodly pattern that has gained control over my life. I renounce every connection with pornography, lust, immoral fantasies, and every practice that dishonours You.

    Holy Spirit, strengthen me where I am weak. Give me the grace to discipline my body, control my thoughts, and flee every appearance of sexual immorality. Let the power of the Holy Spirit break every spiritual oppression and every stronghold operating in my life.

    I declare that sin shall not have dominion over me. My body belongs to the Lord. My mind belongs to Christ. My future will not be destroyed by a secret habit. I receive grace to walk in purity, discipline, and freedom.

    I will rise again. I will not be condemned. I will not remain in bondage. Through Jesus Christ, I am empowered to overcome. In Jesus' name, Amen.

    CONCLUSION

    Masturbation should neither be surrounded by unnecessary fear nor treated casually when it has become connected to lust, pornography, guilt, compulsive behaviour, or spiritual bondage.

    Let us demystify the issue.

    Not every struggle is automatically a demon. Not every demon can be blamed for choices we repeatedly make. But neither should we deny that spiritual warfare can exploit human weaknesses.

    The answer is a balanced pursuit of freedom through repentance, truth, spiritual discipline, renewal of the mind, accountability, wise boundaries, and the transforming grace of Jesus Christ.

    You are not beyond redemption.

    You are not too dirty for grace.

    You are not too weak for God's strength.

    And no chain is stronger than the power of Jesus Christ.

    Your struggle may be private, but your freedom can become your testimony.

    By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah
    DEMYSTIFYING THE DEMON OF MASTURBATION By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah Β«β€œFor though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds.)” β€” 2 Corinthians 10:3–4Β» Introduction There are certain battles people fight in silence. They smile in public, worship in church, preach powerful messages, and yet return home to fight a private war that leaves them feeling ashamed, condemned, and spiritually weak. Masturbation is one of those subjects that many people are afraid to discuss openly. Unfortunately, silence has sometimes allowed fear, ignorance, condemnation, and misinformation to grow around the issue. Some people believe every case of masturbation means a demon has entered their body. Others dismiss the matter completely and refuse to acknowledge the possibility of sexual bondage, lust, addiction, or spiritual oppression. We must approach this subject with both truth and compassion. To demystify something means to remove unnecessary mystery, fear, exaggeration, and confusion surrounding it. Therefore, when we speak about what some describe as the demon of masturbation, we must understand that the issue is often more complex than simply saying, β€œThere is a demon inside me.” The real question is: What is driving the behaviour? Is it lust? Is it pornography? Is it loneliness? Is it a habit developed over many years? Is it emotional pain? Is it an addiction? Is there genuine spiritual oppression involved? Until we understand the root, we may continue fighting the wrong battle. In this write-up, twelve points on how to demystify the demon of masturbation and stay free from it have been examined carefully. God bless you as you read through it, and I pray you get your freedom from reading it in Jesus name amen. 1. Masturbation Is Not a Person's Identity The first thing I want to say to anyone struggling with masturbation is this: You are not masturbation. You are not your addiction. You are not your worst moment. A person may struggle with a sexual habit without that habit becoming their identity. The devil loves to move people from conviction into condemnation. Conviction says: Β«β€œWhat you are doing is wrong. Come back to God.”» Condemnation says: Β«β€œYou are dirty. You are hopeless. God does not want you anymore.”» But Romans 8:1 declares: Β«β€œThere is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus...”» The enemy knows that a person drowning in shame will often continue doing the very thing that is destroying them. Shame says, β€œHide from God.” Grace says, β€œRun to God.” When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid themselves. Sin makes people hide. But God came looking for them. That is still the heart of God. 2. The Real Battle Often Begins in the Mind Jesus said: Β«β€œBut I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” β€” Matthew 5:28Β» Sexual sin rarely begins with the physical act. It often begins in the mind. A thought is entertained. A fantasy is repeated. An image is watched. A memory is revisited. A desire is fed. Eventually, what was once a thought becomes a stronghold. This is why Proverbs 4:23 says: Β«β€œKeep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”» The hand may be involved in masturbation, but the battlefield is often much deeper than the hand. The battlefield may be the mind, imagination, appetite, emotions, and habits. You cannot consistently feed lust and expect purity to grow. You cannot continually consume sexually explicit content and expect your mind to remain unaffected. What you repeatedly feed becomes stronger. 3. Is There Really a β€œDemon of Masturbation”? We need balance here. The Bible does not specifically name a spirit called the demon of masturbation. Therefore, we must be careful not to give unscriptural names and descriptions where Scripture is silent. However, the Bible clearly teaches that human beings can experience temptation, bondage, strongholds, sinful desires, and spiritual oppression. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that: Β«β€œWe wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers...”» At the same time, James 1:14–15 teaches that people can also be drawn away by their own desires. Therefore, not every struggle should automatically be blamed on a demon. Sometimes it is: - A habit that has been practised repeatedly. - An addiction strengthened over time. - Exposure to pornography. - Sexual fantasies. - Loneliness and isolation. - Emotional pain. - Curiosity that developed into bondage. - Lack of discipline. - Unresolved wounds. - A genuine spiritual attack that exploits an existing weakness. The wise believer does not oversimplify the problem. Sometimes a demon may exploit a habit, but the habit itself must still be broken. You can cast out an evil spirit, but if you return to the same environment, the same pornography, the same fantasies, the same secret lifestyle, and the same triggers without renewing your mind, the cycle may continue. Deliverance without discipline can produce temporary relief without lasting transformation. 4. Lust Is a Fire That Must Not Be Fed One of the greatest fuel sources for masturbation is lust. Paul instructed Timothy: Β«β€œFlee also youthful lusts...” β€” 2 Timothy 2:22Β» Notice that Paul did not say, β€œNegotiate with youthful lusts.” He said, β€œFlee.” There are some battles you overcome by standing and fighting. There are others you overcome by refusing to remain in the environment. Joseph did not stay in Potiphar's wife's room to prove his spiritual strength. He ran! Sometimes your deliverance begins with leaving the room. Turning off the phone. Blocking the website. Deleting the videos. Changing your sleeping pattern. Avoiding isolation. Refusing to entertain fantasy. You cannot pray against a fire while continuously pouring petrol on it. 5. Pornography Is Often a Major Doorway to Sexual Bondage We must be honest: pornography has become one of the greatest enemies of sexual purity in this generation. What previous generations struggled to access is now available within seconds on a mobile phone. Pornography trains the mind to seek repeated stimulation. It can create unrealistic expectations, intensify fantasies, and strengthen unhealthy patterns of sexual behaviour. For many people, masturbation did not become a serious struggle until pornography became a regular companion. Therefore, if you sincerely desire freedom, you must address the source. Do not merely pray: Β«β€œLord, take away this habit.”» Also pray: Β«β€œLord, give me the courage to remove what is feeding this habit.”» Psalm 101:3 says: Β«β€œI will set no wicked thing before mine eyes...”» Freedom requires honesty. What are you watching? What are you saving? Who are you chatting with? What happens when you are alone? What time are you most vulnerable? Until you identify the trigger, you may keep repeating the cycle. 6. Repetition Can Become a Stronghold A stronghold is something that has gained unusual influence over a person's thinking or behaviour. What you repeatedly practise can become easier to repeat. This is why some people sincerely hate the habit and still find themselves returning to it. The cycle may look like this: Trigger β†’ temptation β†’ fantasy β†’ masturbation β†’ temporary relief β†’ guilt β†’ shame β†’ promise to stop β†’ another trigger β†’ relapse. The answer is not merely making stronger promises. Many people have said: Β«β€œThis is the last time.”» Then repeated it again. Why? Because willpower alone is often not enough to break a deeply established pattern. Real freedom requires a combination of: - Repentance. - Renewing the mind. - Spiritual discipline. - Removing triggers. - Accountability. - Healthy habits. - Prayer. - Filling your life with the Word of God. 7. Do Not Fight a Spiritual Battle Without Spiritual Weapons If there is a spiritual dimension to your struggle, you must engage spiritual weapons. Ephesians 6:17 speaks about: Β«β€œThe sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”» When temptation comes, do not remain mentally passive. Speak the Word. Pray. Worship. Change your environment. Call someone you trust. Go for a walk. Read Scripture aloud. Refuse to sit in darkness and negotiate with temptation. The devil is not afraid of your good intentions. But he recognizes the authority of a believer who stands firmly in the truth of God's Word. 8. Your Body Must Come Under the Government of the Spirit Paul said: Β«β€œBut I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...” β€” 1 Corinthians 9:27Β» Your body has desires, but your desires must not become your master. There is a difference between having an urge and surrendering to every urge. Maturity means learning to say no to yourself. The Christian life is not simply about casting out devils. It is also about crucifying the flesh. Galatians 5:24 says: Β«β€œAnd they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”» There are things prayer will empower you to overcome, but you must still make a decision to walk away. God gives grace, but grace is not permission to remain comfortably in bondage. Grace empowers us to live differently. 9. Stop Fighting Alone Secrecy is one of the greatest strengths of addiction. The enemy tells you: Β«β€œDon't tell anyone. They will judge you.”» But James 5:16 says: Β«β€œConfess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.”» This does not mean you should announce your private struggle to everybody. Wisdom is necessary. Find a mature and trustworthy spiritual leader, counsellor, or accountability partner who can help you without shaming or exploiting you. Sometimes freedom begins when you finally say: β€œI need help.” There is no shame in seeking help. The shame is allowing pride to keep you in chains when help is available. 10. Replace, Don't Just Remove Jesus taught important principles about an empty house in Matthew 12:43–45. The lesson is clear: a life must not merely be emptied of destructive influences; it must be filled with what is good and godly. Do not simply say: Β«β€œI will stop masturbating.”» Ask yourself: β€œWhat will I replace this habit with?” Fill your life with: - Prayer. - Scripture meditation. - Productive work. - Exercise. - Healthy friendships. - Fellowship. - Service to God. - Purposeful activities. - Accountability. An idle mind can become a playground for temptation. When your life has no structure, temptation can easily find space. 11. If You Fall, Get Up Again Perhaps you are reading this and saying: Β«β€œPastor, I have tried many times and failed.”» Hear me: Do not surrender to failure. Proverbs 24:16 says: Β«β€œFor a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again...”» The righteous person is not necessarily the person who never faces temptation or never stumbles. The righteous person is the one who refuses to remain on the ground. Repent genuinely. Receive God's mercy. Learn from what happened. Identify the trigger. Strengthen your boundaries. And rise again. Micah 7:8 says: Β«β€œRejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise...”» Your last failure does not have to become your permanent address. 12. Freedom Is More Than Deliverance True freedom is not simply shouting during a deliverance service. Freedom is being able to return home and make different choices. Freedom is controlling your thoughts. Freedom is turning away when nobody is watching. Freedom is honouring God with your body. Freedom is saying no when temptation says yes. Freedom is developing the discipline to live in the light. Jesus said: Β«β€œIf the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” β€” John 8:36Β» Christ can break chains. Christ can heal wounds. Christ can renew the mind. Christ can restore purity. Christ can strengthen weak places. But you must cooperate with the process of freedom. A WORD TO PARENTS, PASTORS AND CHURCH LEADERS We must stop addressing sexual struggles only with insults and condemnation. Calling everyone possessed without understanding their struggle may create more fear than freedom. We need truth, but truth must be spoken with love. Some people need deliverance. Some need discipleship. Some need accountability. Some need counselling for deep emotional wounds. Some need to break free from pornography. Some need all of the above. The church must become a place where people can seek help without being publicly humiliated. Holiness should be preached, but restoration must also be available. Jesus never lowered God's standard, but He also lifted people who had fallen. PRACTICAL STEPS TOWARD FREEDOM 1. Repent sincerely before God. Do not justify what you know is feeding lust and impurity. 2. Destroy your triggers. Delete pornography and sexually explicit materials. 3. Control your private environment. Avoid situations and times when you are consistently vulnerable. 4. Renew your mind daily with God's Word. 5. Pray before temptation becomes overwhelming. 6. Fast and develop spiritual discipline where appropriate. 7. Exercise self-control in other areas of life. 8. Get a trusted accountability partner. 9. Avoid isolation when you know you are vulnerable. 10. If the struggle feels compulsive or severely distressing, seek appropriate professional support alongside spiritual guidance. 11. Never give up on your journey toward purity. PRAYER FOR FREEDOM Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I come before You with humility and honesty. I acknowledge every habit, lust, fantasy, addiction, and practice that has tried to bring me into bondage. I ask for Your mercy and forgiveness. Lord Jesus, cleanse my heart and renew my mind. Break every ungodly pattern that has gained control over my life. I renounce every connection with pornography, lust, immoral fantasies, and every practice that dishonours You. Holy Spirit, strengthen me where I am weak. Give me the grace to discipline my body, control my thoughts, and flee every appearance of sexual immorality. Let the power of the Holy Spirit break every spiritual oppression and every stronghold operating in my life. I declare that sin shall not have dominion over me. My body belongs to the Lord. My mind belongs to Christ. My future will not be destroyed by a secret habit. I receive grace to walk in purity, discipline, and freedom. I will rise again. I will not be condemned. I will not remain in bondage. Through Jesus Christ, I am empowered to overcome. In Jesus' name, Amen. CONCLUSION Masturbation should neither be surrounded by unnecessary fear nor treated casually when it has become connected to lust, pornography, guilt, compulsive behaviour, or spiritual bondage. Let us demystify the issue. Not every struggle is automatically a demon. Not every demon can be blamed for choices we repeatedly make. But neither should we deny that spiritual warfare can exploit human weaknesses. The answer is a balanced pursuit of freedom through repentance, truth, spiritual discipline, renewal of the mind, accountability, wise boundaries, and the transforming grace of Jesus Christ. You are not beyond redemption. You are not too dirty for grace. You are not too weak for God's strength. And no chain is stronger than the power of Jesus Christ. Your struggle may be private, but your freedom can become your testimony. By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah
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  • PROVERB OF THE DAY

    (Proverbs 20)

    1. Wine is a mocker,
    Strong drink is a brawler,
    And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.

    2. The wrath of a king is like the roaring of a lion;
    Whoever provokes him to anger sins against his own life.

    3. It is honorable for a man to stop striving,
    Since any fool can start a quarrel.

    4. The lazy man will not plow because of winter;
    He will beg during harvest and have nothing.

    5. Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water,
    But a man of understanding will draw it out.

    6. Most men will proclaim each his own goodness,
    But who can find a faithful man?

    7. The righteous
    man walks in his integrity;
    His children are blessed after him.

    8. A king who sits on the throne of judgment
    Scatters all evil with his eyes.

    9. Who can say, “I have made my heart clean,
    I am pure from my sin”?

    10. Diverse weights and diverse measures,
    They are both alike, an abomination to the LORD.

    11. Even a child is known by his deeds,
    Whether what he does is pure and right.

    12. The hearing ear and the seeing eye,
    The LORD has made them both.

    13. Do not love sleep, lest you come to poverty;
    Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with bread.

    14. “It is good for nothing,” cries the buyer;
    But when he has gone his way, then he boasts.

    15. There is gold and a multitude of rubies,
    But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

    16. Take the garment of one who is surety for a stranger,
    And hold it as a pledge when it is for a seductress.

    17. Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,
    But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.

    18. Plans are established by counsel;
    By wise counsel wage war.

    19. He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets;
    Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.

    20. Whoever curses his father or his mother,
    His lamp will be put out in deep darkness.

    21. An inheritance gained hastily at the beginning
    Will not be blessed at the end.

    22. Do not say, “I will recompense evil”;
    Wait for the LORD, and He will save you.

    23. Diverse weights are an abomination to the LORD,
    And dishonest scales are not good.

    24. A man’s steps are of the LORD;
    How then can a man understand his own way?

    25. It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy,
    And afterward to reconsider his vows.

    26. A wise king sifts out the wicked,
    And brings the threshing wheel over them.

    27. The spirit of a man is the lamp of the LORD,
    Searching all the inner depths of his heart.

    28. Mercy and truth preserve the king,
    And by lovingkindness he upholds his throne.

    29. The glory of young men is their strength,
    And the splendor of old men is their gray head.

    30. Blows that hurt cleanse away evil,
    As do stripes the inner depths of the heart.
    PROVERB OF THE DAY (Proverbs 20) 1. Wine is a mocker, Strong drink is a brawler, And whoever is led astray by it is not wise. 2. The wrath of a king is like the roaring of a lion; Whoever provokes him to anger sins against his own life. 3. It is honorable for a man to stop striving, Since any fool can start a quarrel. 4. The lazy man will not plow because of winter; He will beg during harvest and have nothing. 5. Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water, But a man of understanding will draw it out. 6. Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man? 7. The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him. 8. A king who sits on the throne of judgment Scatters all evil with his eyes. 9. Who can say, “I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin”? 10. Diverse weights and diverse measures, They are both alike, an abomination to the LORD. 11. Even a child is known by his deeds, Whether what he does is pure and right. 12. The hearing ear and the seeing eye, The LORD has made them both. 13. Do not love sleep, lest you come to poverty; Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with bread. 14. “It is good for nothing,” cries the buyer; But when he has gone his way, then he boasts. 15. There is gold and a multitude of rubies, But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel. 16. Take the garment of one who is surety for a stranger, And hold it as a pledge when it is for a seductress. 17. Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel. 18. Plans are established by counsel; By wise counsel wage war. 19. He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips. 20. Whoever curses his father or his mother, His lamp will be put out in deep darkness. 21. An inheritance gained hastily at the beginning Will not be blessed at the end. 22. Do not say, “I will recompense evil”; Wait for the LORD, and He will save you. 23. Diverse weights are an abomination to the LORD, And dishonest scales are not good. 24. A man’s steps are of the LORD; How then can a man understand his own way? 25. It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy, And afterward to reconsider his vows. 26. A wise king sifts out the wicked, And brings the threshing wheel over them. 27. The spirit of a man is the lamp of the LORD, Searching all the inner depths of his heart. 28. Mercy and truth preserve the king, And by lovingkindness he upholds his throne. 29. The glory of young men is their strength, And the splendor of old men is their gray head. 30. Blows that hurt cleanse away evil, As do stripes the inner depths of the heart.
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  • THE LAMB WILL OVERCOME THEM

    Revelation 17:14

    "They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and King of kingsβ€”and with him will be his called, chosen, and faithful followers."

    This passage announces Christ's triumph over the powers that oppose God. The outcome of the battle is already certain: the Lamb will win, and those who remain devoted to him will share in his victory.

    You can go through a battle without being destined for defeat. The enemy may resist, circumstances may seem threatening, but the victory already belongs to the Lamb, Jesus Christ. He is not simply the one who fights for you: he is the King of kings, and his reign cannot be overthrown.

    But notice those who are with him: the called, the chosen, and the faithful. Victory is found in closeness to Christ and in faithfulness to the very end. So don't abandon your stand just because the battle is intense. Stay with the Lamb.

    Today, refuse to let your difficulties determine your future. Remain faithful to Jesus the Lamb, even when you don't yet see the outcome. Your struggle is not the final chapter: Jesus is.

    May God keep you faithful in the midst of battles. May He help you to remain with Jesus to the end, with the certainty that He is the King of kings and that His victory is assured in the name of Jesus.

    #VictoryOfTheFaithful🏼
    #SpiritAndLife
    THE LAMB WILL OVERCOME THEM πŸ“– Revelation 17:14 "They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and King of kingsβ€”and with him will be his called, chosen, and faithful followers." This passage announces Christ's triumph over the powers that oppose God. The outcome of the battle is already certain: the Lamb will win, and those who remain devoted to him will share in his victory. You can go through a battle without being destined for defeat. The enemy may resist, circumstances may seem threatening, but the victory already belongs to the Lamb, Jesus Christ. He is not simply the one who fights for you: he is the King of kings, and his reign cannot be overthrown. But notice those who are with him: the called, the chosen, and the faithful. Victory is found in closeness to Christ and in faithfulness to the very end. So don't abandon your stand just because the battle is intense. Stay with the Lamb. Today, refuse to let your difficulties determine your future. Remain faithful to Jesus the Lamb, even when you don't yet see the outcome. Your struggle is not the final chapter: Jesus is. May God keep you faithful in the midst of battles. May He help you to remain with Jesus to the end, with the certainty that He is the King of kings and that His victory is assured in the name of Jesus. #VictoryOfTheFaithfulπŸ™πŸΌ #SpiritAndLifeπŸ”₯
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  • PROVERB OF THE DAY

    (Proverbs 20)

    1. Wine is a mocker,
    Strong drink is a brawler,
    And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.

    2. The wrath of a king is like the roaring of a lion;
    Whoever provokes him to anger sins against his own life.

    3. It is honorable for a man to stop striving,
    Since any fool can start a quarrel.

    4. The lazy man will not plow because of winter;
    He will beg during harvest and have nothing.

    5. Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water,
    But a man of understanding will draw it out.

    6. Most men will proclaim each his own goodness,
    But who can find a faithful man?

    7. The righteous
    man walks in his integrity;
    His children are blessed after him.

    8. A king who sits on the throne of judgment
    Scatters all evil with his eyes.

    9. Who can say, “I have made my heart clean,
    I am pure from my sin”?

    10. Diverse weights and diverse measures,
    They are both alike, an abomination to the LORD.

    11. Even a child is known by his deeds,
    Whether what he does is pure and right.

    12. The hearing ear and the seeing eye,
    The LORD has made them both.

    13. Do not love sleep, lest you come to poverty;
    Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with bread.

    14. “It is good for nothing,” cries the buyer;
    But when he has gone his way, then he boasts.

    15. There is gold and a multitude of rubies,
    But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

    16. Take the garment of one who is surety for a stranger,
    And hold it as a pledge when it is for a seductress.

    17. Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,
    But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.

    18. Plans are established by counsel;
    By wise counsel wage war.

    19. He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets;
    Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.

    20. Whoever curses his father or his mother,
    His lamp will be put out in deep darkness.

    21. An inheritance gained hastily at the beginning
    Will not be blessed at the end.

    22. Do not say, “I will recompense evil”;
    Wait for the LORD, and He will save you.

    23. Diverse weights are an abomination to the LORD,
    And dishonest scales are not good.

    24. A man’s steps are of the LORD;
    How then can a man understand his own way?

    25. It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy,
    And afterward to reconsider his vows.

    26. A wise king sifts out the wicked,
    And brings the threshing wheel over them.

    27. The spirit of a man is the lamp of the LORD,
    Searching all the inner depths of his heart.

    28. Mercy and truth preserve the king,
    And by lovingkindness he upholds his throne.

    29. The glory of young men is their strength,
    And the splendor of old men is their gray head.

    30. Blows that hurt cleanse away evil,
    As do stripes the inner depths of the heart.
    PROVERB OF THE DAY (Proverbs 20) 1. Wine is a mocker, Strong drink is a brawler, And whoever is led astray by it is not wise. 2. The wrath of a king is like the roaring of a lion; Whoever provokes him to anger sins against his own life. 3. It is honorable for a man to stop striving, Since any fool can start a quarrel. 4. The lazy man will not plow because of winter; He will beg during harvest and have nothing. 5. Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water, But a man of understanding will draw it out. 6. Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, But who can find a faithful man? 7. The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him. 8. A king who sits on the throne of judgment Scatters all evil with his eyes. 9. Who can say, “I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin”? 10. Diverse weights and diverse measures, They are both alike, an abomination to the LORD. 11. Even a child is known by his deeds, Whether what he does is pure and right. 12. The hearing ear and the seeing eye, The LORD has made them both. 13. Do not love sleep, lest you come to poverty; Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with bread. 14. “It is good for nothing,” cries the buyer; But when he has gone his way, then he boasts. 15. There is gold and a multitude of rubies, But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel. 16. Take the garment of one who is surety for a stranger, And hold it as a pledge when it is for a seductress. 17. Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel. 18. Plans are established by counsel; By wise counsel wage war. 19. He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips. 20. Whoever curses his father or his mother, His lamp will be put out in deep darkness. 21. An inheritance gained hastily at the beginning Will not be blessed at the end. 22. Do not say, “I will recompense evil”; Wait for the LORD, and He will save you. 23. Diverse weights are an abomination to the LORD, And dishonest scales are not good. 24. A man’s steps are of the LORD; How then can a man understand his own way? 25. It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy, And afterward to reconsider his vows. 26. A wise king sifts out the wicked, And brings the threshing wheel over them. 27. The spirit of a man is the lamp of the LORD, Searching all the inner depths of his heart. 28. Mercy and truth preserve the king, And by lovingkindness he upholds his throne. 29. The glory of young men is their strength, And the splendor of old men is their gray head. 30. Blows that hurt cleanse away evil, As do stripes the inner depths of the heart.
    Like
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  • I included the link to the newest episode of the Kingdom War Room with Dr. Michael Lake, Dr. Mike Spaulding and myself. In this episode, we discuss the dangers of Islam. We highlight the lies which found Islam. We cite examples within the political climate that have begun to support the false, oppressive teachings of Islam. We talk about the imperative for boldness within the church to stand upon the Word of God for discernment.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzA0sfsbCDE
    I included the link to the newest episode of the Kingdom War Room with Dr. Michael Lake, Dr. Mike Spaulding and myself. In this episode, we discuss the dangers of Islam. We highlight the lies which found Islam. We cite examples within the political climate that have begun to support the false, oppressive teachings of Islam. We talk about the imperative for boldness within the church to stand upon the Word of God for discernment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzA0sfsbCDE
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  • OUR VICTORY IS IN CHRIST JESUS BY THE HOLY SPIRIT.

    Check the Link

    https://audiomack.com/terlumun-gospelmaniac/song/war?share-user-id=34040125
    OUR VICTORY IS IN CHRIST JESUS BY THE HOLY SPIRIT. Check the LinkπŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡ https://audiomack.com/terlumun-gospelmaniac/song/war?share-user-id=34040125
    Like
    1
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  • The Christian life is full of wars, but praise be to God through our Lord Jesus Christ, we have the victory.

    Listen to #War Song and be blessed.
    LINK

    https://audiomack.com/terlumun-gospelmaniac/song/war?share-user-id=34040125
    The Christian life is full of wars, but praise be to God through our Lord Jesus Christ, we have the victory. Listen to #War Song and be blessed. LINKπŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡πŸ‘‡ https://audiomack.com/terlumun-gospelmaniac/song/war?share-user-id=34040125
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  • Good morning, brethren.
    1. Morning devotion for today.

    1. MD.i. MORNING TEA
    THE WORD FOR TODAY
    TUESDAY AUGUST 18, 2O26.
    "DR. JAMES DOBSON ON PARENTING (3)"

    β€˜β€¦Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.’ Ephesians 6:4 NIV

    WHEN ASKED, β€˜How do you suggest parents handle their children’s activities on web sites like Facebook and Twitter?’ Dr. Dobson gave this advice: β€˜Parents have to know what technology their kids are using. Sexting is a terrible thing. (β€˜Sexting’ is the new term for children exposing themselves to one another online, thinking they are safe because they are in the sanctuary of their own home.) Pornography is pervasive, and parents need to keep up with changes in technology and protect their kids. That’s a tough assignment, because kids are ahead of them. Parents often have extremely demanding careers and when they come home they have nothing left to give, so the culture will often take your kids to hell.’ One night a father and his daughter were out on a lake when their small boat was caught in a storm. As he rowed, Dad kept saying to his daughter, β€˜Can you see the shore? Can you see the shore?’ After a terrifying hour the little girl pointed over her dad’s shoulder and said, β€˜Yes, I see the light. Mum said if we were out after dark she would hang a light in the window.’ When they finally got home a tearful mother hugged her husband and daughter, and thanked God for their safe return. Looking at her, the little girl said, β€˜Mum, you never had to worry. We steered by your light!’ Parent, your children are being caught in life’s storms. They are rowing in the dark with no sense of direction. Live for God, and give them a light they can steer by!

    Bible In A Year: Gen 6:9 – 8:4, Matt 24:37-51. Courtesy : Grace So Amazing Foundation

    *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. [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY β“‚ANNA*

    TUESDAY, 18TH AUGUST, 2026.

    *THIRSTING AFTER GOD*

    *TEXT:* PSALM 42:1-5.

    1As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
    2Β My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?
    3Β My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God?
    4Β When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday.
    5Β Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.

    *Timeless Truth:*_"O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;"_ Psalm 63:1).

    *INTRODUCTION*

    When a man ceases to experience thirst, he is as good as dead. The same is true in the spiritual. In fact, one of the first experiences of a converted man is thirst for God and spiritual things. Spiritual thirst is a deep longing for God and His presence. Just as the body cannot survive without water, the soul cannot flourish without God. The psalmist expresses an intense desire for the living God despite the pain, tears, discouragement and difficult circumstances surrounding him. His experience teaches us that genuine faith does not mean the absence of trouble; rather, it means learning to seek God even in the midst of trouble. When everything else fails, God remains the only lasting satisfaction for the thirsty soul.

    *1. Thirsting After God Like a Hart*

    a. The psalmist declares, *β€œAs the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.”* A thirsty hart desperately seeks water because its survival depends upon it. Many are thirsty for wealth, pleasure, popularity, power and pride of life among others. The thirst makes them pay a heavy price to get what they are looking for. At times they pay the ultimate price. True thirst will always be demonstrated by desperate seeking for how to satisfy and quench the thirst. In the same vein, many commonly seek God's blessings without seeking for the God of the blessings. The psalmist case was different. *"So panteth my soul after thee"*. Who and what you are passionately and desperately seeking for is a reflection of the state of your heart. In the same manner, the believer should have an earnest and persistent longing for God. The psalmist does not merely desire God's gifts; he desires God Himself.
    b. His greatest hunger is to *β€œappear before God.”* He was thirsty to become closer to God. Jesus also echoed this when He said, *"seek ye first the kingdom of God and its righteousness"*. Our ultimate purpose for seeking God was to see His glory, be conformed to His image and be always ready for the kingdom of God. Jesus further assured that *"all other things shall be added unto you"*. The psalmist demonstrated his thirst for God when he decided, *"early will I seek thee...to see thy power and thy glory as I have seen thee in the sanctuary"* (Psalm 63:1,2). Our spiritual lives become weak when our desire for God is replaced by the pursuit of worldly pleasures, possessions, recognition or human approval. Genuine revival begins when the soul cries out for God's presence, His Word, His holiness and fellowship with Him.

    *Question*

    Is my desire for God as deep and urgent as the thirst of a hart for water?

    *2. Tearful Afflictions Giving Loss of Hope*

    a. Incidentally, the psalmist did not prioritize seeking for heavenly blessings above seeking for God just because everything was going well with him. In fact, the psalmist's circumstances have become so painful that his tears have been his food day and night. He was not finding it rosy in life at that time. One would have expected him, as many worshippers do today, to concentrate on seeking God for release from pains and troubles as priority. Worse still, people around him mockingly asked, directly and indirectly, *β€œWhere is thy God?”.* His memories of former worship and joyful fellowship with God's people intensify his present sorrow. Yet that did not distract his affections towards God.
    b. At times, affliction can attack not only our circumstances, but also our emotions and confidence. Yet the psalmist's tears reveal that God's children may experience seasons of deep discouragement without being abandoned by God. His pain was real, but it did not have the final word. Even when circumstances seem to contradict God's promises, faith must continue to look toward Him. Seeking God and His righteousness, above all else, should not be diminished as a result of our pains, problems, persecutions and poverty among others. Whatever be our situations, the promises of God that *"all other blessings shall be added"* still stand as long as we keep seeking the face and the glory of God to be reflected in our lives above all else. We must have grace to be tougher than our tough challenges. It is our attitude and the content of our prayers in the time of distress and difficulties that reflect the genuineness of our love for God. Jesus Christ, while on the cross and under intense pains, was still consecrated to soulwinning and intercessory prayers for the sinners and the lost. The will of God and the glory of God was His priority. He has given us examples to follow.

    *Question*

    Am I consecrated to seek God and His glory as priority when affliction and tears surround me?

    *3. Trust in Abiding Grace with a Life of Holiness*

    When passing through tough times, we must maintain trust in God's abundant grace and continue to live the life that God approves. There is no challenge we pass through that God has not allowed and if God allowed it, then He will see us through as children. The act of faith is in mocking those challenges and still continues seeking the glory of God and heavenly readiness. We must learn how to feed our frustrations and fruitlessness with the word of hope and promises given by God. The psalmist speaks directly to his troubled soul: *β€œWhy art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God.”* He refuses to surrender permanently to despair. Instead, he deliberately redirects his heart toward God. Trusting God's abiding grace means choosing hope when feelings say there is no hope. It also means continuing to live faithfully, before God while waiting for His intervention. A thirsty soul must not only seek God's presence, but also remain committed to a holy life. God's grace sustains us, restores our joy and enables us to praise Him even before our circumstances change. For a child of God, no bad situation is permanent, but temporary and for a moment. *"weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning"*.

    *Question*

    Am I deliberately trusting God's abiding grace and maintaining a holy life even when my circumstances are discouraging?

    *Prayer Points*

    1.Father, create within me an unquenchable thirst for Your presence and Your Word .
    2.Lord, strengthen me when tears, afflictions and discouragement threaten my faith .
    3.Father, make me tougher than my challenges and keep me on being engaged in Your service .
    4.Lord, visit and help those brethren who are carrying heavy loads and sustain them by Your grace .

    *HYMN:* More of Jesus would I know

    *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* JOB 35-38.
    [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS)

    TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST, 2026```


    *DOUSING DESPONDENCY* πŸ«΅πŸ½πŸ½β€πŸ½β€πŸ½πŸ½β€πŸ½

    ```TEXT:PSALM 42:1-5```

    ```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance" (PSALM 42:5).*_

    *As German bombs fell on England during _World War II,_ the situation became desperate. Hearts were filled with discouragement and thoughts of defeat. Then Winston Churchill's voice echoed over the radio. It inspired the nation and boosted morale among a people on the verge of giving up. On a spiritual level, believers find hope in God too, as they hear the voice that resonates through the pages of His Word. In moments of discouragement, Christians serve as a testimony to those who have never met God or heard His voice.*

    *David exemplifies this in our devotional text as he expresses acute hunger and "thirst for God, the living God". In his hopelessness, he recalled the exhilarating moments he had in God's house and presence. Reminiscences of the voice of joy and praise filled his soul. Awakened by the testimonies of God's faithfulness and the certainty of blessedness that flows from trust in God, he gladly addresses his soul and jerks back from the abyss of despondency.*

    *Are you troubled about any ugly situation or setback? Cheer up and look up! Here are gems and clues for you as a Christian pilgrim, who could, at times, be discouraged and cast down. Don't stay down. David didn't. He queried and counselled his soul. First is to know that neither discouragement nor despondency is a sign of weakness. Elijah is one biblical character who fits this description. After defeating the prophets of Baal, he received a death threat from Jezebel. His hope was shattered, and despondency set in. He wanted to die! The Lord did not rebuke him for his feelings but sent an angel to provide for his physical needs. In our times of discouragement, suicide is no option; it only leads to a more serious, endless and interminable suffering in hell. The present challenge or problem has not diminished God's love for us. He desires to lead us to a place of a renewed vision of His power!*

    *The time to exit the discouragement mode is now! Take the verifiable steps that effectively log you out, which include a deep, interminable longing for God. This is what Isaiah calls "waiting upon the Lord". Second, you will do well to consciously recall and delight in God's past acts of mercy, divine interventions, and faithfulness. Finally, you must deliberately seek the remedy of praise to uplift your downcast, crestfallen, and discouraged heart. Beloved, don't give in to despair! God will certainly lead you in paths of love, light and joy, where you will find new hope.*

    ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*God always opens the window of hope for His own in the darkest of times.*_

    ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *JOB 35-38*

    Dousing Despondency
    https://dailymanna.app//
    *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 1: ALL YOUR ANXIETY; GHS 3: IMPATIENT HEART, BE STILL; GHS 4: LEAVE IT THERE; GHS 5: NEVER GIVE UP; AND GHS 7: TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS*
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    *#DailyManna18thAugust2026*
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    *#CrusadeNuggets*
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    [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*HIGHER EVERYDY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_

    βœπŸ½πŸ»β€ πŸ½πŸ›°

    ```TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *STAND IN CHRIST'S LIBERTY* πŸ«΅πŸ½πŸ½β€πŸ½β€πŸ½πŸ½β€πŸ½πŸ½

    ```TEXT:GALATIANS 5:1-13```

    ``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another" (GALATIANS 5:13).*_

    *The Christian liberty is the freedom Christ has purchased for the children of God through His death on the Cross of Calvary. The devil fights this liberty in diverse ways. When young Christians fail to understand their liberty in Christ, the devil keeps reminding them about their past sins to create major stumbling blocks to their prayers.*

    *It is a common strategy of the devil to manipulate them and push them back into their shells. Once you are born again through genuine repentance, you have the liberty to serve God in truth and in Spirit because God does not give us the spirit of fear but He gives us the Spirit of power and of a sound mind.*

    *When God has forgiven you, you are justified by faith and no longer bound to the yoke of sin. However, this liberty is not a guarantee to continue in sins, believing the erroneous doctrine of eternal security. Apostle Paul warns: "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13).*

    ```QUOTE:``` _*You have the liberty.*_

    ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't use the Christian liberty to sin.*_

    🏽🏽 ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, help me to understand and enjoy my liberty in Christ.*_


    Stand In Christ's Liberty
    https://dailymanna.app//

    *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter*
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    *#CrusadeNuggets*
    https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]
    [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY```

    _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣)*_

    πŸΌπŸΌβ€β€πŸΌβ€πŸΌβ€πŸΌβ€

    ```TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST, 2026```

    *THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS - 3* πŸ«΅πŸ½πŸ½β€πŸ½β€πŸ«·πŸ½πŸ½πŸ½β€πŸ½

    ```MATTHEW 4:8-11```



    ```Key Verse:``` _*"Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve" (Matthew 4:10).*_



    Jesus has power and authority over Satan, and He always uses them at the appropriate time. In this situation, Jesus did not hesitate to command Satan to get behind Him. Satan knew that Jesus is over and above him, yet he tempted Christ to bow down in worship to him. Can the master bow to worship his servant? No! Jesus cannot, will not, and did not bow to Satan.

    As a friend of Jesus, you must know who you are in Christ. You are a joint-heir with Christ. What Jesus has is what you have because of the privilege of sonship. Do not throw your costly apparels (Christian experiences) to the dogs. The things of this world as stated in 1 John 2:15-17 will pass away.

    Let the love of God and the things of eternal value be uppermost in your heart. Do not yield to the enticement and allurement that your friends are using to deceive you. The fashions of the world may look attractive, but they will soon pass away. Do not follow them. Do not seek to please the world. Strive to please only God.

    *Jesus has set the example of refusing to bow to Satan in order to show us that we can be victorious. You can do likewise. Become His friend if you are not, follow Him faithfully and consistently, and He will give you the grace to overcome Satan.*



    ```rayer:``` _*Lord, please help me to obey You only and not yield to pressure to obey, worship or serve Satan.*_ 🏽

    ``` Further Reading:``` *Luke 4:1-13*



    The Temptation Of Jesus - 3
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    2. Morning Prayer for today.

    MP.i. Morning Prayer

    Thou wilt keep Moses Ishaku in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee. ⏀ Isaiah 26:3

    Trust the past to God's mercy, the present to God's love, and the future to God's providence. ⏀ St. Augustine

    Father, days come and go, bringing change and decay, but You remain the same forever. A thousand years in Your sight are like a single day. With You, there is no past or future; all time is present to You. Yet in our small lives, we need daily blessings. The memories of our past sorrows cast shadows on our present, and our fears for the future often cast shadows on our path.

    We are grateful that You see and know everythingβ€”past, present, and futureβ€”and that we can safely leave it all in Your hands. Help us to live faithfully in this little day that is ours, leaving the past and future with You, without worrying. So, we ask for Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, enabling us to be true and faithful in all our duties.

    We ask You, O Lord, to give us the strength and wisdom we need for today’s responsibilities and experiences. Let nothing surprise or dishearten us. Hold our hand through every situation. Give us wisdom to answer every question and make every decision in a way that pleases You. Strengthen us to resist temptation, no matter how subtly it approaches. Increase Your love within us so that we may be patient with everyone we meet, compassionate toward those who are sorrowful, cheerful with those who are discouraged, and helpful to those who are weak.

    Send us out to do Your work so that everything we do today is for You. Breathe upon us as we wait here in Your presence and give us Your blessing as our Father. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

    https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/44/morning

    #taptapstudio
    #youdevotion.
    Good morning, brethren. 1. Morning devotion for today. 1. MD.i. πŸ˜€πŸ’πŸŒΊπŸŽπŸŒΉπŸŽ€ MORNING TEA THE WORD FOR TODAY TUESDAY AUGUST 18, 2O26. "DR. JAMES DOBSON ON PARENTING (3)" β€˜β€¦Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.’ Ephesians 6:4 NIV WHEN ASKED, β€˜How do you suggest parents handle their children’s activities on web sites like Facebook and Twitter?’ Dr. Dobson gave this advice: β€˜Parents have to know what technology their kids are using. Sexting is a terrible thing. (β€˜Sexting’ is the new term for children exposing themselves to one another online, thinking they are safe because they are in the sanctuary of their own home.) Pornography is pervasive, and parents need to keep up with changes in technology and protect their kids. That’s a tough assignment, because kids are ahead of them. Parents often have extremely demanding careers and when they come home they have nothing left to give, so the culture will often take your kids to hell.’ One night a father and his daughter were out on a lake when their small boat was caught in a storm. As he rowed, Dad kept saying to his daughter, β€˜Can you see the shore? Can you see the shore?’ After a terrifying hour the little girl pointed over her dad’s shoulder and said, β€˜Yes, I see the light. Mum said if we were out after dark she would hang a light in the window.’ When they finally got home a tearful mother hugged her husband and daughter, and thanked God for their safe return. Looking at her, the little girl said, β€˜Mum, you never had to worry. We steered by your light!’ Parent, your children are being caught in life’s storms. They are rowing in the dark with no sense of direction. Live for God, and give them a light they can steer by! Bible In A Year: Gen 6:9 – 8:4, Matt 24:37-51. Courtesy : Grace So Amazing Foundation πŸ’πŸŽ€ *To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.*πŸŽ€πŸ’πŸŒΉπŸŒ·. MD.ii. [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: *MEDITATIONS ON DAILY β“‚ANNA* TUESDAY, 18TH AUGUST, 2026. *THIRSTING AFTER GOD* *TEXT:* PSALM 42:1-5. 1As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. 2Β My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? 3Β My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? 4Β When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday. 5Β Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance. *Timeless Truth:*_"O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;"_ Psalm 63:1). *INTRODUCTION* When a man ceases to experience thirst, he is as good as dead. The same is true in the spiritual. In fact, one of the first experiences of a converted man is thirst for God and spiritual things. Spiritual thirst is a deep longing for God and His presence. Just as the body cannot survive without water, the soul cannot flourish without God. The psalmist expresses an intense desire for the living God despite the pain, tears, discouragement and difficult circumstances surrounding him. His experience teaches us that genuine faith does not mean the absence of trouble; rather, it means learning to seek God even in the midst of trouble. When everything else fails, God remains the only lasting satisfaction for the thirsty soul. *1. Thirsting After God Like a Hart* a. The psalmist declares, *β€œAs the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.”* A thirsty hart desperately seeks water because its survival depends upon it. Many are thirsty for wealth, pleasure, popularity, power and pride of life among others. The thirst makes them pay a heavy price to get what they are looking for. At times they pay the ultimate price. True thirst will always be demonstrated by desperate seeking for how to satisfy and quench the thirst. In the same vein, many commonly seek God's blessings without seeking for the God of the blessings. The psalmist case was different. *"So panteth my soul after thee"*. Who and what you are passionately and desperately seeking for is a reflection of the state of your heart. In the same manner, the believer should have an earnest and persistent longing for God. The psalmist does not merely desire God's gifts; he desires God Himself. b. His greatest hunger is to *β€œappear before God.”* He was thirsty to become closer to God. Jesus also echoed this when He said, *"seek ye first the kingdom of God and its righteousness"*. Our ultimate purpose for seeking God was to see His glory, be conformed to His image and be always ready for the kingdom of God. Jesus further assured that *"all other things shall be added unto you"*. The psalmist demonstrated his thirst for God when he decided, *"early will I seek thee...to see thy power and thy glory as I have seen thee in the sanctuary"* (Psalm 63:1,2). Our spiritual lives become weak when our desire for God is replaced by the pursuit of worldly pleasures, possessions, recognition or human approval. Genuine revival begins when the soul cries out for God's presence, His Word, His holiness and fellowship with Him. *Question* Is my desire for God as deep and urgent as the thirst of a hart for water? *2. Tearful Afflictions Giving Loss of Hope* a. Incidentally, the psalmist did not prioritize seeking for heavenly blessings above seeking for God just because everything was going well with him. In fact, the psalmist's circumstances have become so painful that his tears have been his food day and night. He was not finding it rosy in life at that time. One would have expected him, as many worshippers do today, to concentrate on seeking God for release from pains and troubles as priority. Worse still, people around him mockingly asked, directly and indirectly, *β€œWhere is thy God?”.* His memories of former worship and joyful fellowship with God's people intensify his present sorrow. Yet that did not distract his affections towards God. b. At times, affliction can attack not only our circumstances, but also our emotions and confidence. Yet the psalmist's tears reveal that God's children may experience seasons of deep discouragement without being abandoned by God. His pain was real, but it did not have the final word. Even when circumstances seem to contradict God's promises, faith must continue to look toward Him. Seeking God and His righteousness, above all else, should not be diminished as a result of our pains, problems, persecutions and poverty among others. Whatever be our situations, the promises of God that *"all other blessings shall be added"* still stand as long as we keep seeking the face and the glory of God to be reflected in our lives above all else. We must have grace to be tougher than our tough challenges. It is our attitude and the content of our prayers in the time of distress and difficulties that reflect the genuineness of our love for God. Jesus Christ, while on the cross and under intense pains, was still consecrated to soulwinning and intercessory prayers for the sinners and the lost. The will of God and the glory of God was His priority. He has given us examples to follow. *Question* Am I consecrated to seek God and His glory as priority when affliction and tears surround me? *3. Trust in Abiding Grace with a Life of Holiness* When passing through tough times, we must maintain trust in God's abundant grace and continue to live the life that God approves. There is no challenge we pass through that God has not allowed and if God allowed it, then He will see us through as children. The act of faith is in mocking those challenges and still continues seeking the glory of God and heavenly readiness. We must learn how to feed our frustrations and fruitlessness with the word of hope and promises given by God. The psalmist speaks directly to his troubled soul: *β€œWhy art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God.”* He refuses to surrender permanently to despair. Instead, he deliberately redirects his heart toward God. Trusting God's abiding grace means choosing hope when feelings say there is no hope. It also means continuing to live faithfully, before God while waiting for His intervention. A thirsty soul must not only seek God's presence, but also remain committed to a holy life. God's grace sustains us, restores our joy and enables us to praise Him even before our circumstances change. For a child of God, no bad situation is permanent, but temporary and for a moment. *"weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning"*. *Question* Am I deliberately trusting God's abiding grace and maintaining a holy life even when my circumstances are discouraging? *Prayer Points* 1.Father, create within me an unquenchable thirst for Your presence and Your Word πŸ™. 2.Lord, strengthen me when tears, afflictions and discouragement threaten my faith πŸ™. 3.Father, make me tougher than my challenges and keep me on being engaged in Your service πŸ™. 4.Lord, visit and help those brethren who are carrying heavy loads and sustain them by Your grace πŸ™. *HYMN:* More of Jesus would I know *BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* JOB 35-38. [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA - (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS) TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST, 2026``` *DOUSING DESPONDENCY* πŸ““πŸ“–πŸŽšοΈπŸ«΅πŸ½πŸ™‹πŸ½β€β™‚οΈπŸ™‹πŸ½β€β™€οΈπŸ˜©πŸ˜’πŸ˜­πŸ§ŽπŸ½πŸ§ŽπŸ½β€β™€οΈπŸ—£οΈπŸ™πŸ½ πŸ“œπŸ“œ```TEXT:PSALM 42:1-5```πŸ“œπŸ“œ πŸ”‘πŸ“–```KEY VERSE:``` _*"Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance" (PSALM 42:5).*_ *As German bombs fell on England during _World War II,_ the situation became desperate. Hearts were filled with discouragement and thoughts of defeat. Then Winston Churchill's voice echoed over the radio. It inspired the nation and boosted morale among a people on the verge of giving up. On a spiritual level, believers find hope in God too, as they hear the voice that resonates through the pages of His Word. In moments of discouragement, Christians serve as a testimony to those who have never met God or heard His voice.* *David exemplifies this in our devotional text as he expresses acute hunger and "thirst for God, the living God". In his hopelessness, he recalled the exhilarating moments he had in God's house and presence. Reminiscences of the voice of joy and praise filled his soul. Awakened by the testimonies of God's faithfulness and the certainty of blessedness that flows from trust in God, he gladly addresses his soul and jerks back from the abyss of despondency.* *Are you troubled about any ugly situation or setback? Cheer up and look up! Here are gems and clues for you as a Christian pilgrim, who could, at times, be discouraged and cast down. Don't stay down. David didn't. He queried and counselled his soul. First is to know that neither discouragement nor despondency is a sign of weakness. Elijah is one biblical character who fits this description. After defeating the prophets of Baal, he received a death threat from Jezebel. His hope was shattered, and despondency set in. He wanted to die! The Lord did not rebuke him for his feelings but sent an angel to provide for his physical needs. In our times of discouragement, suicide is no option; it only leads to a more serious, endless and interminable suffering in hell. The present challenge or problem has not diminished God's love for us. He desires to lead us to a place of a renewed vision of His power!* *The time to exit the discouragement mode is now! Take the verifiable steps that effectively log you out, which include a deep, interminable longing for God. This is what Isaiah calls "waiting upon the Lord". Second, you will do well to consciously recall and delight in God's past acts of mercy, divine interventions, and faithfulness. Finally, you must deliberately seek the remedy of praise to uplift your downcast, crestfallen, and discouraged heart. Beloved, don't give in to despair! God will certainly lead you in paths of love, light and joy, where you will find new hope.* ✍🏽```THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:``` _*God always opens the window of hope for His own in the darkest of times.*_ πŸ“œπŸ“œ```THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:``` *JOB 35-38*πŸ“œπŸ“œ Dousing Despondency https://dailymanna.app// *RECOMMENDED GOSPEL HYMNS AND SONGS - GHS 1: ALL YOUR ANXIETY; GHS 3: IMPATIENT HEART, BE STILL; GHS 4: LEAVE IT THERE; GHS 5: NEVER GIVE UP; AND GHS 7: TURN YOUR EYES UPON JESUS* *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#DailyManna18thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*HIGHER EVERYDπŸ…°οΈY: (A DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUTHS)*_ βœπŸ½πŸ‘©πŸ»β€πŸ’ΌπŸŒ» πŸ‡πŸ™πŸ½πŸ›°πŸš€πŸ”¬πŸ“š ```TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST, 2026``` *STAND IN CHRIST'S LIBERTY* πŸŽšοΈπŸ““πŸ“–πŸ«΅πŸ½πŸ™‹πŸ½β€β™‚οΈπŸ™‹πŸ½β€β™€οΈπŸ§ŽπŸ½πŸ§ŽπŸ½β€β™€οΈπŸ™πŸ½πŸ™ŒπŸ½ πŸ“œπŸ“œ```TEXT:GALATIANS 5:1-13```πŸ“œπŸ“œ πŸ“–``` MEMORY VERSE:``` _*"For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another" (GALATIANS 5:13).*_ *The Christian liberty is the freedom Christ has purchased for the children of God through His death on the Cross of Calvary. The devil fights this liberty in diverse ways. When young Christians fail to understand their liberty in Christ, the devil keeps reminding them about their past sins to create major stumbling blocks to their prayers.* *It is a common strategy of the devil to manipulate them and push them back into their shells. Once you are born again through genuine repentance, you have the liberty to serve God in truth and in Spirit because God does not give us the spirit of fear but He gives us the Spirit of power and of a sound mind.* *When God has forgiven you, you are justified by faith and no longer bound to the yoke of sin. However, this liberty is not a guarantee to continue in sins, believing the erroneous doctrine of eternal security. Apostle Paul warns: "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13).* πŸ’¬ ```QUOTE:``` _*You have the liberty.*_ πŸ† ```CHALLENGE:``` _*Don't use the Christian liberty to sin.*_ πŸ™πŸ½πŸ™πŸ½ ```PRAYER:``` _*Lord, help me to understand and enjoy my liberty in Christ.*_ Stand In Christ's Liberty https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#HigherEveryday18thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS] [17/08, 9:11 pm] Pastor Attah: ```DEEPER CHRISTIAN LIFE MINISTRY``` _*(SINCERE MILK: Children Daily Devotional Guide 2⃣0⃣2⃣6️⃣)*_ πŸ™‡πŸΌπŸ™‡πŸΌπŸ™‡β€β™€οΈπŸ™‡β€β™€οΈπŸ™‡πŸΌπŸ™‡β€β™€οΈπŸ™‡πŸΌπŸ™‡β€β™€οΈπŸ™‡πŸΌβ€β™‚οΈ ```TUESDAY 18TH AUGUST, 2026``` *THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS - 3* πŸ““πŸ“–πŸŽšοΈπŸ«΅πŸ½πŸ™‹πŸ½β€β™‚οΈπŸ™‹πŸ½β€β™€οΈπŸ‘ΏβŒπŸ«·πŸ½πŸ§ŽπŸ½πŸ§ŽπŸ½β€β™€οΈπŸ™πŸ½ πŸ“œπŸ“œ```MATTHEW 4:8-11```πŸ“œπŸ“œ πŸ•”πŸ“šπŸ–‹οΈπŸš»πŸ˜πŸŽΌπŸ†πŸ‰πŸͺ΄πŸŒˆπŸ’» πŸ”‘πŸ“– ```Key Verse:``` _*"Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve" (Matthew 4:10).*_ πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“–πŸ“– Jesus has power and authority over Satan, and He always uses them at the appropriate time. In this situation, Jesus did not hesitate to command Satan to get behind Him. Satan knew that Jesus is over and above him, yet he tempted Christ to bow down in worship to him. Can the master bow to worship his servant? No! Jesus cannot, will not, and did not bow to Satan. As a friend of Jesus, you must know who you are in Christ. You are a joint-heir with Christ. What Jesus has is what you have because of the privilege of sonship. Do not throw your costly apparels (Christian experiences) to the dogs. The things of this world as stated in 1 John 2:15-17 will pass away. Let the love of God and the things of eternal value be uppermost in your heart. Do not yield to the enticement and allurement that your friends are using to deceive you. The fashions of the world may look attractive, but they will soon pass away. Do not follow them. Do not seek to please the world. Strive to please only God. *Jesus has set the example of refusing to bow to Satan in order to show us that we can be victorious. You can do likewise. Become His friend if you are not, follow Him faithfully and consistently, and He will give you the grace to overcome Satan.* πŸ₯πŸ₯πŸ₯πŸ₯πŸ₯πŸ₯πŸ₯πŸ₯ ```πŸ…ΏοΈrayer:``` _*Lord, please help me to obey You only and not yield to pressure to obey, worship or serve Satan.*_ πŸ™πŸ½ ```πŸ“– Further Reading:``` *Luke 4:1-13* The Temptation Of Jesus - 3 https://dailymanna.app// *TXD [THEXDEVOTIONALS] on Twitter* *#SincereMilk18thAugust2026* *#GCK* *#WorshipNuggets* *#BibleNuggets* *#LeadershipNuggets* *#RevivalNuggets* *#CrusadeNuggets* https://www.youtube.com/[THEXDEVOTIONALS]. 2. Morning Prayer for today. MP.i. Morning Prayer Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee. ⏀ Isaiah 26:3 Trust the past to God's mercy, the present to God's love, and the future to God's providence. ⏀ St. Augustine Father, days come and go, bringing change and decay, but You remain the same forever. A thousand years in Your sight are like a single day. With You, there is no past or future; all time is present to You. Yet in our small lives, we need daily blessings. The memories of our past sorrows cast shadows on our present, and our fears for the future often cast shadows on our path. We are grateful that You see and know everythingβ€”past, present, and futureβ€”and that we can safely leave it all in Your hands. Help us to live faithfully in this little day that is ours, leaving the past and future with You, without worrying. So, we ask for Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, enabling us to be true and faithful in all our duties. We ask You, O Lord, to give us the strength and wisdom we need for today’s responsibilities and experiences. Let nothing surprise or dishearten us. Hold our hand through every situation. Give us wisdom to answer every question and make every decision in a way that pleases You. Strengthen us to resist temptation, no matter how subtly it approaches. Increase Your love within us so that we may be patient with everyone we meet, compassionate toward those who are sorrowful, cheerful with those who are discouraged, and helpful to those who are weak. Send us out to do Your work so that everything we do today is for You. Breathe upon us as we wait here in Your presence and give us Your blessing as our Father. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen. https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/44/morning #taptapstudio #youdevotion.
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  • I think good relationships are built on something very simple:

    You should be able to be yourself around each other.

    Not the polished version.

    Not the version that's trying to impress everyone.

    Just you.

    Someone you can have a serious conversation with, then laugh about something completely stupid five minutes later.

    Someone you can disagree with without turning it into a war.

    Someone who makes life feel a little lighter, not heavier.

    Friendship, love, business relationships... I think the same principle applies.

    Genuine connection is rare.

    When you find it, don't take it for granted.
    I think good relationships are built on something very simple: You should be able to be yourself around each other. Not the polished version. Not the version that's trying to impress everyone. Just you. Someone you can have a serious conversation with, then laugh about something completely stupid five minutes later. Someone you can disagree with without turning it into a war. Someone who makes life feel a little lighter, not heavier. Friendship, love, business relationships... I think the same principle applies. Genuine connection is rare. When you find it, don't take it for granted.
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