August 22, 2026 (day 234/365)
SATURDAY

GOD'S WORD FOR THE DAY

“Listen to Wise Counsel”

1 Kings 12:7

“If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and answer them and speak good words to them, then they will be your servants forever.”

This is the Word of God. When Rehoboam became king, he was given an important choice. The elders advised him to listen to the people and serve them, but he rejected their counsel and followed the advice of his young companions. His prideful decision divided the kingdom.

Leadership is not about demanding that others serve us; it is about being willing to serve others. We may have authority, knowledge, or position, but we still need humble hearts that listen to wise and godly counsel.

A single proud decision can damage relationships and create consequences that last for years. Therefore, we should not allow pride to silence wise voices around us.

May God give us humble hearts to listen, wisdom to discern good counsel, and servant hearts that seek to bless rather than control others. Amen.

Have a blessed day with the Lord.

-- Pastor Emmanuel Serto

PROVERB OF THE DAY

(Proverbs 21)

1. The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD,
Like the rivers of water;
He turns it wherever He wishes.

2. Every way of a man is right in his own eyes,
But the LORD weighs the hearts.

3. To do righteousness and justice
Is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

4. A haughty look, a proud heart,
And the plowing of the wicked are sin.

5. The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty,
But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.

6. Getting treasures by a lying tongue
Is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death.

7. The violence of the wicked will destroy them,
Because they refuse to do justice.

8. The way of a guilty man is perverse;
But as for the pure, his work is right.

9. Better to dwell in a corner of a housetop,
Than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

10. The soul of the wicked desires evil;
His neighbor finds no favor in his eyes.

11. When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise;
But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

12. The righteous God wisely considers the house of the wicked,
Overthrowing the wicked for their wickedness.

13. Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor
Will also cry himself and not be heard.

14. A gift in secret pacifies anger,
And a bribe behind the back, strong wrath.

15. It is a joy for the just to do justice,
But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.

16. A man who wanders from the way of understanding
Will rest in the assembly of the dead.

17. He who loves pleasure will be a poor man;
He who loves wine and oil will not be rich.

18. The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous,
And the unfaithful for the upright.

19. Better to dwell in the wilderness,
Than with a contentious and angry woman.

20. There is desirable treasure,
And oil in the dwelling of the wise,
But a foolish man squanders it.

21. He who follows righteousness and mercy
Finds life, righteousness, and honor.

22. A wise man
scales the city of the mighty, And brings
down the trusted stronghold.

23. Whoever guards his mouth and tongue
Keeps his soul from troubles.

24. A proud and
haughty man— “Scoffer” is his name;
He acts with arrogant pride.

25. The desire of the lazy man kills him,
For his hands refuse to labor.

26. He covets greedily all day long,
But the righteous gives and does not spare.

27. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination;
How much more when he brings it with wicked intent!

28. A false witness shall perish,
But the man who hears him will speak endlessly.

29. A wicked man hardens his face,
But as for the upright, he establishes his way.

30. There is no wisdom or understanding
Or counsel against the LORD.

31. The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
But deliverance is of the LORD

WHEN GOD WRITES ON THE WALL
A Call to Examine Your Heart Before God

KEY SCRIPTURE
“TEKEL; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting.”
— Daniel 5:27 (KJV)

Thought Of The Day...
There are times when God whispers to our hearts. There are times when He sends warnings through His Word, through circumstances, and through people. And then there are moments when God makes His message so unmistakably clear that it can no longer be ignored.
Daniel 5 gives us one of the most powerful and sobering examples in all of Scripture.
King Belshazzar was surrounded by celebration. The palace was filled with people, food, wine, wealth, music, power, and prestige. To everyone looking from the outside, it appeared that the king had everything under control. But while Belshazzar was celebrating on earth, Heaven was examining his heart.
While people were honoring the king, God was weighing the king.
While Belshazzar was looking at what he possessed, God was looking at what he had become.
Suddenly everything changed.
“In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaister of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.”
— Daniel 5:5 (KJV)
The celebration stopped. The king's confidence disappeared. The man who commanded others suddenly had no control over himself.
Scripture says:
“Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him... and his knees smote one against another.”
— Daniel 5:6 (KJV)
Belshazzar discovered something that we must never forget: when God speaks, earthly power cannot silence Him. When God exposes something, money cannot cover it. When God pronounces judgment, human influence cannot reverse it.
Belshazzar called for the astrologers, Chaldeans, soothsayers, and wise men of Babylon, but none of them could interpret the writing. All the intelligence of Babylon was powerless before a message that came from God.
Eventually Daniel was summoned.
Daniel had lived faithfully before God for years. Kings had changed. Governments had changed. Circumstances had changed. Daniel had grown older, but his commitment to God had remained.
What a testimony!
The queen said concerning Daniel:
“...there is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods... light and understanding and wisdom... was found in him.”
— Daniel 5:11 (KJV)
Daniel had developed a reputation that when everybody else was confused, Daniel knew how to seek God.
May that become our testimony.
When people around us are confused, may they know that we know God. When families experience trouble, may they know there is somebody who knows how to pray. When darkness enters a situation, may our lives carry the light of Christ.
Jesus declared:
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.”
— Matthew 5:14 (KJV)
Belshazzar offered Daniel wealth, clothing, jewelry, and political promotion if he could interpret the message. But Daniel answered:
“Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another...”
— Daniel 5:17 (KJV)
Daniel's integrity was not for sale.
He didn't need the king's money to tell the king God's truth. He wasn't seeking popularity. He wasn't chasing another title. Daniel understood that pleasing God was greater than pleasing people.
That same conviction must live within us.
There will be times when standing upon God's Word will not make us popular. There will be times when truth will challenge people. There will be times when obedience may cost us opportunities, relationships, applause, or acceptance.
But we must be able to say:
“For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men?...”
— Galatians 1:10 (KJV)
Daniel reminded Belshazzar about Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar had once become lifted up in pride, and God humbled him until he understood:
“...that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will.”
— Daniel 5:21 (KJV)
Then Daniel spoke words that should cause every believer to examine his or her heart:
“And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this.”
— Daniel 5:22 (KJV)
Though thou knewest all this.
Belshazzar had been given an example. He knew what pride had done before him, but he refused to learn from it.
There is a dangerous difference between not knowing God's will and knowing God's will but refusing to obey it.
The Bible says:
“Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.”
— James 4:17 (KJV)
God's patience should never be mistaken for God's approval.
Just because judgment has not come does not mean God approves of what we are doing. Sometimes God's delay is actually God's mercy giving us time to repent.
“The Lord is... longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
— 2 Peter 3:9 (KJV)
Belshazzar had also taken the sacred vessels from God's temple and used them during his celebration. He treated what belonged to God as though it were common.
Daniel told him:
“...thou hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven...”
— Daniel 5:23 (KJV)
This should cause us to ask ourselves: Have we become too casual with the things of God?
Have we become casual about prayer?
Casual about worship?
Casual about God's Word?
Casual about holiness?
Casual about our calling?
Casual about the gifts God placed inside us?
Casual about gathering with other believers?
God is loving, gracious, merciful, and compassionate, but He is still holy.
“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.”
— 1 Peter 1:15 (KJV)
Belshazzar praised gods made from silver, gold, brass, iron, wood, and stone. Yet when trouble entered the palace, none of those gods could answer him.
How often do people still place their confidence in things that cannot save them?
Money cannot save the soul.
A career cannot save the soul.
A title cannot save the soul.
Popularity cannot save the soul.
Possessions cannot save the soul.
Human relationships cannot take God's place.
Jesus asked:
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
— Mark 8:36 (KJV)
Then Daniel revealed the handwriting:
“MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN.”
— Daniel 5:25 (KJV)
MENE meant:
“God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it.”
— Daniel 5:26 (KJV)
Belshazzar thought he had more time.
God said his time had been numbered.
That should remind us that every day is a gift from God.
Every morning is mercy.
Every breath is grace.
Every opportunity to pray is precious.
Every opportunity to forgive matters.
Every opportunity to tell someone about Jesus matters.
Every opportunity to obey God matters.
David prayed:
“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”
— Psalm 90:12 (KJV)
Then came TEKEL:
“Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting.”
— Daniel 5:27 (KJV)
What a frightening statement.
Belshazzar had been weighed—not by public opinion, not by his friends, not by his servants, and not by the standards of Babylon.
He had been weighed by God.
People may celebrate what God is correcting.
People may applaud what God is examining.
People may be impressed by our gifts while God is concerned about our character.
People may see our appearance while God sees our hearts.
Scripture declares:
“...for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”
— 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV)
That brings us to a serious question:
If God examined my heart today, what would He find?
Would He find humility or pride?
Would He find obedience or rebellion?
Would He find forgiveness or bitterness?
Would He find love or hatred?
Would He find integrity when nobody is watching?
Would He find genuine faith?
Would He find someone seeking His glory—or someone seeking his or her own?
This is not about earning salvation. We cannot save ourselves through our works.
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works...”
— Ephesians 2:8–9 (KJV)
Our hope is Jesus Christ. But when Christ truly transforms our hearts, our lives should produce evidence of that transformation.
Finally came PERES:
“Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians.”
— Daniel 5:28 (KJV)
Then Scripture delivers the sobering conclusion:
“In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain.”
— Daniel 5:30 (KJV)
That night.
Belshazzar started the evening sitting on a throne and ended it having lost everything.
He thought he had tomorrow.
He didn't.
This is why Scripture says:
“...behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
— 2 Corinthians 6:2 (KJV)
Don't wait for tomorrow to surrender what God is asking for today.
Don't wait until tomorrow to forgive.
Don't wait until tomorrow to repent.
Don't wait until tomorrow to pray.
Don't wait until tomorrow to make things right.
Don't wait until tomorrow to answer God's call.
And above all, don't wait until tomorrow to come to Jesus.
Daniel 5 is not merely about handwriting appearing on a wall. It is about a God who sees beyond appearances and examines the heart.
Belshazzar's kingdom is gone. Babylon's glory faded. Its wealth could not last. Its power could not last. Its king could not last.
But our God remains.
“For I am the LORD, I change not...”
— Malachi 3:6 (KJV)
Before God ever has to write something on the wall, allow Him to write His Word upon your heart.
“Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”
— Psalm 119:11 (KJV)
Let His Word correct you.
Let His Word convict you.
Let His Word humble you.
Let His Word guide you.
Let His Word transform you.
And when God reveals something in your heart that needs to change, don't run from Him.
Run to Him.
Because through Jesus Christ there is forgiveness, mercy, restoration, and new life.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
— 1 John 1:9 (KJV)

PRAYER...
Most Holy and Eternal God, our Father,
We come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, humbled by Your Word and grateful for Your mercy.
Father, search us today.
Your Word declares:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts.”
— Psalm 139:23 (KJV)
Lord, shine Your light into every area of our lives. Reveal anything within us that does not please You.
If pride has entered our hearts, humble us.
If bitterness has entered our hearts, cleanse us.
If unforgiveness has taken root, help us forgive.
If compromise has entered our lives, give us courage to turn away from it.
If we have become casual concerning holy things, restore our reverence for You.
If anything has taken Your rightful place in our hearts, tear down every idol and draw us back to You.
Father, never allow us to become so comfortable with Your blessings that we forget the One who blessed us.
Help us remember that every breath comes from You, every opportunity comes from You, every gift comes from You, and every good thing comes from You.
Your Word says:
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above...”
— James 1:17 (KJV)
Give us the spirit of Daniel.
Give us wisdom when others are confused.
Give us courage when others compromise.
Give us integrity when temptation comes.
Give us faith when circumstances become difficult.
Give us boldness to speak Your truth with love.
May we never sell our convictions for acceptance, promotion, popularity, money, or position.
Father, teach us to number our days.
Help us understand that tomorrow is not promised and today is an opportunity to glorify You.
May our lives bring honor to Jesus Christ.
May our homes glorify You.
May our marriages and families glorify You.
May our ministries glorify You.
May our workplaces glorify You.
May our words glorify You.
May our decisions glorify You.
And when You examine our hearts, may You find people who sincerely love You, trust You, obey You, and desire to walk according to Your Word.
Thank You for Jesus.
Thank You that where we have fallen short, the blood of Jesus still cleanses.
Thank You that repentance is still available.
Thank You that grace is still available.
Thank You that mercy is still available.
Thank You that restoration is still available.
Create within us clean hearts and renew right spirits within us.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.”
— Psalm 51:10 (KJV)
We surrender ourselves completely to You.
In the mighty, matchless, wonderful name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen and Amen!

DECLARATION...
I DECLARE IN THE NAME OF JESUS:
My heart belongs to God!
My life belongs to God!
My family belongs to God!
My gifts belong to God!
My future belongs to God!
My worship belongs to God!
I will not allow pride to rule my heart.
I will not allow the things of this world to become idols in my life.
I will not compromise God's Word for popularity, acceptance, position, possessions, or applause.
Like Daniel, I will walk with an excellent spirit.
I will stand when others compromise.
I will pray when others panic.
I will trust God when others doubt.
I will speak truth with love.
I will honor God publicly and privately.
MENE! I understand that my days are numbered, therefore I will make my days count for the glory of God.
TEKEL! I understand that God examines the heart, therefore I will walk humbly and sincerely before Him.
PERES! I understand that earthly kingdoms, possessions, titles, and accomplishments will pass away, but the Kingdom of God will stand forever.
I declare that God's Word will be written upon my heart.
I will not wait for the handwriting on the wall before I obey God.
TODAY I CHOOSE JESUS!
TODAY I CHOOSE HUMILITY!
TODAY I CHOOSE OBEDIENCE!
TODAY I CHOOSE HOLINESS!
TODAY I CHOOSE FAITH!
TODAY I CHOOSE TO LIVE FOR THE GLORY OF GOD!
“But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”
— Joshua 24:15 (KJV)
This is my declaration, this is my commitment, and this is my prayer—in Jesus' mighty name. Amen and Amen!

TODAY'S KINGDOM INSIGHTS:

SERMON TOPIC:

YOUNG PEOPLE, DON'T WASTE YOUR YOUTH.

Theme:
Your Youth Is a Gift, Not a Season to Throw Away.

«“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…” — Ecclesiastes 12:1 (KJV)»

DON'T WASTE WHAT YOU CANNOT REPLACE

Young person, you can recover lost money. You can replace a broken phone. You can rebuild a failed business. But you cannot recover yesterday.
Youth is one of the greatest gifts God gives a person—and one of the easiest gifts to waste.
You have energy today. You have time today. You have opportunities today. You have the ability to learn, build, serve, dream, pray, create and make a difference.
But the enemy wants you to believe:
«“You are still young. There is plenty of time. Enjoy yourself now. You will become serious with God later.”»
That is a dangerous lie.
The devil does not always destroy young people through terrible sins. Sometimes he destroys them through distraction.
He keeps them busy but unproductive.
Connected to everyone but disconnected from God.
Entertained but empty.
Informed but not transformed.
Chasing popularity while losing purpose.
Young people, don't waste your youth!
Your youth is not merely for having fun. It is preparation for purpose.
1. REMEMBER YOUR CREATOR BEFORE YOU WASTE YOURYEARS
Ecclesiastes 12:1
«“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…”»
Solomon did not say, “Remember your Creator when you become old.”
He said “now.”
God deserves your youthful years—not merely the leftovers of your life.
Many people say:
«“When I get older, I will serve God.”»
But what if God wants to use you now?
David was young when he confronted Goliath.
Samuel was young when God called him.
Josiah was young when he became king and began reforming Israel.
Timothy was young when Paul recognized his spiritual potential.
Your age does not disqualify you from God's purpose.

Deep Insight

Youth is not an excuse for spiritual laziness.
The earlier you surrender your life to God, the more years you can spend fulfilling His purpose.
Don't give God your retirement.
Give Him your strength.
Don't give God your leftovers.
Give Him your first fruits.
2. DON'T ALLOW PLEASURE TO STEAL YOUR PURPOSE
1 John 2:15–17
«“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world…”»
There is nothing wrong with enjoying life.
But there is a difference between enjoying God's blessings and becoming enslaved to worldly pleasures.
Social media can become a distraction.
Entertainment can become an addiction.
Relationships can become an idol.
Money can become a master.
Sexual temptation can destroy destiny.
And the desire to be accepted can cause a young person to compromise convictions.
Ask yourself:
What is consuming most of my time?
Because what controls your time will eventually influence your life.
You cannot spend five hours every day feeding your flesh and expect your spirit to remain strong.
You cannot constantly consume content that weakens your values and expect your character to remain strong.
Be careful what you repeatedly watch, listen to, follow, admire and imitate.
3. USE YOUR YOUTH TO BUILD, NOT JUST TO CONSUME
1 Timothy 4:12
«“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers…”»
Paul did not tell Timothy:
«“Because you are young, wait until you become older.”»
He said:
«“Be an example.”»
Young people should not only be consumers.
Build something.
Learn a skill.
Study the Word.
Develop your character.
Serve in church.
Help people.
Create something useful.
Learn technology.
Develop your gifts.
Start preparing for your future.
Don't spend your entire youth watching other people build their dreams.
Remember this:
Entertainment gives you moments. Development gives you capacity.
Your future will demand skills you must begin developing today.
Your character must grow alongside your career.
Your spiritual life must grow alongside your education.
Your wisdom must grow alongside your influence.
4. CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS CAREFULLY
Proverbs 13:20
«“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”»
Not everybody who laughs with you is helping you.
Not everybody who calls you “brother” or “sister” is taking you toward your destiny.
Some relationships are assignments from God.
Others are distractions from your purpose.
Look at the people closest to you.
Do they encourage you to become better—or pressure you to become worse?
Do they respect your faith?
Do they challenge you to grow?
Can you say “no” around them without losing the friendship?
Can you discuss your dreams with them?
Can they correct you?
Your environment matters.
If you constantly surround yourself with people who celebrate foolishness, eventually foolishness will become normal to you.
Choose friends who can pray with you, grow with you, correct you and walk with you toward God's purpose.
5. DON'T WAIT FOR TOMORROW TO OBEY GOD
Ephesians 5:15–16
«“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”»
Notice the phrase:
“Redeeming the time.”
Time is a currency you cannot save forever.
Every day you receive 24 hours.
You can waste them.
You can invest them.
But you cannot reverse them.
There are young people who are praying for opportunities while wasting the opportunities already in their hands.
Some are waiting for a miracle while refusing to develop discipline.
Some are asking God for greatness while neglecting the small responsibilities He has already given them.
Faith does not cancel responsibility.
Pray—but prepare.
Believe—but build.
Trust God—but discipline yourself.
Ask for opportunities—but develop the capacity to handle them.

BIBLICAL CASE STUDY:

JOSEPH — A YOUNG MAN WHO DID NOT WASTE HIS SEASON

Joseph was young when his life suddenly changed.
He was betrayed by his brothers.
He was sold into slavery.
He was falsely accused.
He was imprisoned.
Yet Joseph did not allow his circumstances to determine his character.
Genesis 39:9
When tempted by Potiphar's wife, Joseph said:
«“How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”»
Joseph understood something powerful:
His future was more valuable than his temporary pleasure.
He could have said:
«“Nobody will know.”»
But Joseph knew that God was watching.
He could have compromised.
He could have become bitter.
He could have wasted his youth in anger.
Instead, he remained faithful.
And eventually, God lifted him from the prison to the palace.

The lesson:

Don't destroy tomorrow because of today's temptation.
That relationship may be temporary.
That pleasure may be temporary.
That opportunity may be temporary.
But the consequences of some decisions can follow you for years.
Young person, protect your future.

DEEP SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS

1. Your youth is a seed season.

What you plant now will influence what you harvest later.
Plant prayer.
Plant discipline.
Plant knowledge.
Plant integrity.
Plant service.
Plant righteousness.
2. Your habits are building your future before you see it.
You may not see the harvest today, but your daily decisions are constructing tomorrow.
3. God is more interested in your character than your popularity.
You may impress thousands of people online and still disappoint God privately.
Character is who you are when nobody is watching.
4. Not every open door is a God-given opportunity.
Some doors are traps disguised as opportunities.
Learn to ask:
«“Lord, is this good for me—or merely attractive to me?”»
5. Your greatest battle may not be against people; it may be against distraction.
A distracted generation can have enormous potential and accomplish very little.
Protect your attention.
What captures your attention repeatedly can eventually shape your direction.

PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Starting today:
1. Give God the first part of your day.
Pray. Read Scripture. Listen for God's direction.
2. Set goals for your life.
Spiritual goals, educational goals, financial goals, relational goals and career goals.
3. Learn valuable skills.
Don't depend only on certificates. Develop practical competence.
4. Control your phone; don't let your phone control you.
5. Choose your friends intentionally.
6. Avoid sexual and moral compromises.
7. Find a mature Christian mentor.
8. Serve somewhere.
Don't just attend church—be useful in God's house.
9. Stop comparing your journey with other people's journeys.
10. Start now.
Don't wait until everything is perfect.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

Take a moment and answer these honestly:
- If I continue living exactly as I am today, where will I be five years from now?
- What am I doing with my time?
- What habit is secretly destroying my potential?
- Who are the people influencing my decisions?
- Am I becoming closer to God or farther from Him?
- What gift has God placed inside me?
- What am I doing to develop that gift?
- What temptation am I repeatedly entertaining?
- What should I stop doing?
- What should I start doing?
- If Jesus returned today, would I be satisfied with how I used my youth?

POWERFUL PRAYER POINTS

1. Prayer for Purpose
Father, open my eyes to understand Your purpose for my life. Help me not to wander through life without direction.
2. Prayer for Wisdom
Lord, give me wisdom to make decisions that will preserve my future and honor You.
3. Prayer Against Distraction
Every distraction assigned to waste my time, weaken my faith and derail my destiny, I reject it in Jesus' name.
4. Prayer for Discipline
Holy Spirit, give me the discipline to do what is right even when nobody is watching.
5. Prayer for Purity
Lord, keep my heart, mind and body pure. Give me strength to overcome every temptation that seeks to destroy my future.
6. Prayer for Good Relationships
Father, connect me with people who will strengthen my faith, sharpen my character and help me fulfill my purpose.
7. Prayer for Courage
Lord, give me courage to stand for truth even when my generation is going in the opposite direction.
8. Prayer for Impact
Father, let my life become a blessing to my generation. May I not pass through this world without making a positive difference.

STRONG CLOSING: DON'T WASTE YOUR YOUTH

Young person, you are not too young for God to use you.
You are not too young to pray.
You are not too young to preach.
You are not too young to serve.
You are not too young to lead.
You are not too young to build.
You are not too young to make a difference.
David had a sling.
Joseph had a dream.
Samuel had a listening ear.
Timothy had youthful strength.
And God used them.
What is in your hands?
What gift is inside you?
What dream has God placed in your heart?
What are you doing with the years God has given you?
Don't wait until you are old before you become serious with God.
Don't spend your best years chasing things that cannot satisfy your soul.
Don't exchange your destiny for temporary pleasure.
Don't allow social media to consume the years that should be building your future.
Don't let fear paralyze you.
Don't let failure define you.
Don't let your past imprison you.
Rise. Pray. Learn. Build. Serve. Grow.
Your youth is not a waiting room.
Your youth is a training ground for destiny.
And when you stand before God one day, may you be able to say:
«“Lord, I did not waste what You gave me.”»

FINAL CHARGE
Young people, don't waste your youth.
Give God your strength.
Give God your gifts.
Give God your dreams.
Give God your time.
Give God your future.
And watch what He can do with a life that is completely surrendered to Him.
Your youth is passing. Your purpose is waiting. Start today.

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PROVERB OF THE DAY

(Proverbs 21)

1. The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD,
Like the rivers of water;
He turns it wherever He wishes.

2. Every way of a man is right in his own eyes,
But the LORD weighs the hearts.

3. To do righteousness and justice
Is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

4. A haughty look, a proud heart,
And the plowing of the wicked are sin.

5. The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty,
But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.

6. Getting treasures by a lying tongue
Is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death.

7. The violence of the wicked will destroy them,
Because they refuse to do justice.

8. The way of a guilty man is perverse;
But as for the pure, his work is right.

9. Better to dwell in a corner of a housetop,
Than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

10. The soul of the wicked desires evil;
His neighbor finds no favor in his eyes.

11. When the scoffer is punished, the simple is made wise;
But when the wise is instructed, he receives knowledge.

12. The righteous God wisely considers the house of the wicked,
Overthrowing the wicked for their wickedness.

13. Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor
Will also cry himself and not be heard.

14. A gift in secret pacifies anger,
And a bribe behind the back, strong wrath.

15. It is a joy for the just to do justice,
But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.

16. A man who wanders from the way of understanding
Will rest in the assembly of the dead.

17. He who loves pleasure will be a poor man;
He who loves wine and oil will not be rich.

18. The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous,
And the unfaithful for the upright.

19. Better to dwell in the wilderness,
Than with a contentious and angry woman.

20. There is desirable treasure,
And oil in the dwelling of the wise,
But a foolish man squanders it.

21. He who follows righteousness and mercy
Finds life, righteousness, and honor.

22. A wise man
scales the city of the mighty, And brings
down the trusted stronghold.

23. Whoever guards his mouth and tongue
Keeps his soul from troubles.

24. A proud and
haughty man— “Scoffer” is his name;
He acts with arrogant pride.

25. The desire of the lazy man kills him,
For his hands refuse to labor.

26. He covets greedily all day long,
But the righteous gives and does not spare.

27. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination;
How much more when he brings it with wicked intent!

28. A false witness shall perish,
But the man who hears him will speak endlessly.

29. A wicked man hardens his face,
But as for the upright, he establishes his way.

30. There is no wisdom or understanding
Or counsel against the LORD.

31. The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
But deliverance is of the LORD

DEMYSTIFYING THE DEMON OF MASTURBATION

By Pastor Jonathan O. Ubah

«“For 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.)” — 2 Corinthians 10:3–4»

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, “There 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:

«“What you are doing is wrong. Come back to God.”»

Condemnation says:

«“You are dirty. You are hopeless. God does not want you anymore.”»

But Romans 8:1 declares:

«“There 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, “Hide from God.”

Grace says, “Run 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:

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

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:

«“Keep 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 “Demon 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:

«“We 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:

«“Flee also youthful lusts...” — 2 Timothy 2:22»

Notice that Paul did not say, “Negotiate with youthful lusts.”

He said, “Flee.”

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:

«“Lord, take away this habit.”»

Also pray:

«“Lord, give me the courage to remove what is feeding this habit.”»

Psalm 101:3 says:

«“I 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 → temptation → fantasy → masturbation → temporary relief → guilt → shame → promise to stop → another trigger → relapse.

The answer is not merely making stronger promises.

Many people have said:

«“This 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:

«“The 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:

«“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection...” — 1 Corinthians 9:27»

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:

«“And 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:

«“Don't tell anyone. They will judge you.”»

But James 5:16 says:

«“Confess 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:

“I 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:

«“I will stop masturbating.”»

Ask yourself:

“What 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:

«“Pastor, I have tried many times and failed.”»

Hear me: Do not surrender to failure.

Proverbs 24:16 says:

«“For 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:

«“Rejoice 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:

«“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” — John 8:36»

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

DAILY LEADERSHIP BOOST (DLB)

THURSDAY, 20 AUGUST 2026

HE IS COMING LIKE A THIEF IN THE NIGHT

“For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2 KJV

Leaders, there is no announcement date on heaven’s calendar.
Jesus is coming like a thief in the night. Sudden. Unexpected. Without warning to the world.

Peter said the day of the Lord will come “as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat.”_ 2 Peter 3:10. That means this world as we know it will end abruptly. And every leader will give account. Romans 14:12 “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”

This truth is not given to scare us. It is given to sober us.
Because when a thief is expected, the wise owner stays awake. Luke 12:39-40 - “And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched... Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.”

The danger for leaders is not unbelief. It is slumber. It is doing Kingdom work with a casual heart. It is building with wood, hay and stubble because we assume we have time. 1 Corinthians 3:13. But the day is approaching like a thief, and it will test every work.

So how do we live when the coming is sudden?

Walk in constant readiness. Not fear, but readiness. Keep short accounts with God. Confess quickly. Forgive quickly. Walk in the light. 1 John 1:7. Let your lamp be full of oil. Matthew 25:4. A thief does not wait for you to get ready. He meets you as you are.

Guard your heart against surprise and sin. The reason people are caught off guard is because they are distracted. Luke 21:34 _“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.”_ Watch what you watch. Watch what you feed on. Watch who you follow. A thief enters through open doors.

Stay faithful in your assignment. The faithful servant is the one found _“so doing”_ when the master returns. Matthew 24:46. Keep preaching. Keep serving. Keep praying. Keep building people. Don’t drop your post because the night is long. The trumpet could sound on an ordinary Thursday.

Leaders, our people are watching us. If we are careless, they will be careless. If we are awake, they will be awake. 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6 “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that day should overtake you as a thief... Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.”

We don’t know the day or the hour. Matthew 24:36. But we do know the Master. And He said He is coming. So we live every day like it could be today.

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafVatb11ulKTDXcjL3X

Prayer For Today
Father, thank You for the warning in Your word. I refuse to be caught sleeping. Wake my spirit. Purify my heart. Help me to walk in readiness every day. Keep me faithful in my assignment, sober in my walk, and passionate for souls. Let the day of the Lord not overtake me as a thief. Prepare me and prepare the people You have given me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today's Declaration
The Lord is coming like a thief in the night and I am ready. I walk in the light. I keep my lamp full. I am faithful in my assignment. I watch and I pray. I will not be overtaken by darkness.

Bible Reading Plan
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Matthew 24:42-51, Luke 12:35-40, 2 Peter 3:8-14, Revelation 16:15, Mark 13:32-37

Today’s Action
Leaders, do a “thief audit” today. Ask: “If Jesus came tonight, what would I regret?” Deal with it now. Repent, reconcile, or reset.
Then check one area of your life or ministry that has become casual. Tighten it. Set the standard again.
Teach your team: We don’t live in fear of His coming. We live in faithfulness because of His coming.
Remember: A thief comes without notice. So we live every day with notice in our spirit.

APPLY THINE HEART UNTO MY KNOWLEDGE

Hear • Understand • Apply

ANCHOR SCRIPTURE

Proverbs 22:17 (KJV) “Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.”

1. LISTEN

Wisdom begins with listening.

A teachable heart grows; a stubborn heart stays stuck.

Listen to God, wise counsel and correction.

2. UNDERSTAND

Don't just hear—seek understanding.

Proverbs 4:7 (KJV) “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”

Ask: What does this mean? How can I use it?

3. APPLY

Knowledge becomes useful when you put it into practice.

Knowledge informs; application transforms.

Don't just know how to forgive—forgive.
Don't just know how to pray—pray.
Don't just read God's Word—live it.

4. KEEP LEARNING

Stay humble and teachable.

Learn from:
1. God's Word
2. Wise people
3. Experience
4. Correction
5. Your mistakes

KEY LESSON

1. Listen carefully.
2. Seek understanding.
3. Apply what you learn.
4. Accept correction.
5. Keep growing.

FINAL CHARGE

Don't become someone who knows much but practises little.

HEAR IT. UNDERSTAND IT. APPLY IT. LIVE IT.

Knowledge in the head is information.
Knowledge in action becomes wisdom.

SHORT PRAYER

Father, give me a teachable heart. Help me to hear Your Word, understand Your wisdom and apply it in my daily life. Give me humility to receive correction and grace to keep growing. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Prepared by Rev. Frank Fabian Aidoo +233544295158

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.

Three Angels Broadcasting Network Devotional.
Habits

By Elena Varnavskaya

August 20th, 2026

“I will set nothing wicked before my eyes.” Psalm 101:3

How, Lord, in our age, is it possible to avoid looking at wicked things when we are assaulted on every side by TV screens, smartphones, and billboards showing images of scantily clad bodies advertising every conceivable product? What do we do with our eyes? Or our children and grandchildren’s eyes? How can we resist wasting precious time on things that don’t make us any better?

Recently, we bought our teenaged granddaughter a smartphone. She was very eager for it because all her peers have had one for a long time. Her mother had wisely delayed the purchase, knowing that her daughter seemed easily influenced by other people’s views; but it wasn’t long before the problems began.

At first, she stayed on the Internet for hours at a time and didn’t even notice it, so we limited her data usage to one hour a day. But this didn’t stop her, as she quickly caught on to using wi-fi signals. Then it wasn’t long before we got a pretty big shock when we checked her text messages and found some pretty vulgar language! We were horrified that, like a sponge, she seemed to absorb everything that was bad! And to make things worse, her sister, who is three years older, never developed these problems. What could we do? How could we teach our child to only look at things that would change her for the better? We took her phone away, but we all knew that this couldn’t solve the problem.

So what can we do to help our children? First, we must understand how we influence them—not only by our words, but by our actions. As one Russian proverb says, “Look at the habits of the parents and you’ll find that the children already have vices.” Only the Lord can help us be rid of our bad habits and acquire good ones in their place.

In his letter to the Romans, the Apostle Paul wrote, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2. As parents, we are responsible to God for our children; but before we can change them, we must change ourselves. We all have many more acquired and inherited habits than our children do, and only the Lord can miraculously change us into His image and likeness.

What hope can we give parents who see their bad habits replicated in their children and grandchildren? We can tell them to trust the Lord, and pray that the transforming power of the Holy Spirit that changed our lives will work on our children’s hearts, too.

God is too wise to fulfill our confused, darkened, and self-serving desires. But He will always fulfill the desires of our transformed, and enlightened hearts. What higher desires can we have than to love God and want communion with Him, to have His will be done in our life, and to have a deeper interaction with His people? Those whom God will take home with Him will want to do His will. They will walk in perfect freedom forever, for there will be nothing in their hearts to give up!