A Divine Appointment

Scripture: John 5:4 (NIV)

"For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had."

Devotional:

In John chapter 5, we encounter a remarkable story of healing and restoration. At the pool of Bethesda, a multitude of sick and disabled people gathered, hoping for a miraculous touch from God. Among them was a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years. Little did he know that his encounter with Jesus would change his life forever.

Verse 4 of this passage mentions an angel who would periodically come down and stir the waters of the pool. The belief was that the first person to enter the water after it had been stirred would be healed of their affliction. This created a sense of anticipation and hope among the crowd.

However, the man we meet in this story had been unable to reach the water in time for healing. His physical condition prevented him from being the first to enter. Yet, Jesus, in His infinite compassion, approached the man and asked him a simple yet profound question: "Do you want to get well?" (John 5:6, NIV).

The man's response revealed his longing for healing but also his discouragement. He explained that he had no one to help him into the pool when the water was stirred. Despite his limitations, Jesus spoke life-changing words to him: "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk" (John 5:8, NIV).

In that moment, the man's faith was ignited, and he experienced a miraculous healing. He obeyed Jesus' command, and his paralyzed body was restored. The power of Jesus transcended the need for the stirring of the water; it was a direct encounter with the Son of God that brought about his healing.

Reflection:

This story reminds us that Jesus is the ultimate source of healing and restoration. It is not always about the methods or rituals we may rely on; it is about our faith in Him. Jesus sees beyond our limitations and meets us in our place of need.

Like the man at the pool, we may face challenges that seem insurmountable. We may feel discouraged, overlooked, or forgotten. But let us remember that Jesus is present, ready to extend His healing touch to our lives.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank You for being the source of healing and restoration in our lives. We come before You today, laying down our burdens and limitations at Your feet. We acknowledge that You are greater than any obstacle we face. Help us to have unwavering faith in Your power and provision.

Lord, we pray for those who are in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing. May they encounter Your presence and experience Your touch in their lives. Grant them the strength to rise above their circumstances and walk in the freedom You offer.

We also ask for Your guidance and wisdom as we navigate the challenges of life. Help us to trust in Your timing and to lean on Your understanding. May our hearts be open to Your leading and our ears attentive to Your voice.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Take a moment to reflect on the story of the man at the pool of Bethesda. Consider the areas in your life where you need healing and restoration. Trust in the power of Jesus to bring about transformation and believe that He is working all things together for your good.

The Force of Faith in Dealing with Challenges

Scripture: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." - Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Life is filled with challenges and obstacles that can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and discouraged. In the face of these difficulties, it is essential to understand the force of faith and its power to overcome any challenge we may encounter.

Faith is not merely a religious concept or a blind belief; it is a powerful force that enables us to trust in God's promises and rely on His strength in the midst of trials. It is the unwavering confidence in what we hope for and the assurance of what we do not yet see.

When we face challenges, our natural tendency may be to rely on our own strength or seek solutions in our limited understanding. However, God calls us to a different approach – to exercise faith and trust in Him. Faith allows us to tap into the supernatural power of God, enabling us to overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable.

The force of faith empowers us in several ways when dealing with challenges:

1. Faith shifts our focus: When challenges arise, it is easy to become fixated on the problem itself. However, faith redirects our attention to God, reminding us of His faithfulness, power, and ability to intervene in our circumstances. By fixing our eyes on Him, we gain a fresh perspective and find hope in His promises.

2. Faith activates God's provision: As we exercise faith, we tap into God's abundant provision. Just as a seed has the potential to grow into a mighty tree, our faith has the power to unlock God's resources and blessings. By trusting in His provision, we can experience His supernatural intervention and witness miracles in our lives.

3. Faith strengthens us: Challenges can be draining, both physically and emotionally. However, faith acts as a source of strength and endurance. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that God is with us every step of the way. Through faith, we find the courage to persevere and press on, knowing that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness.

4. Faith produces transformation: Challenges have the potential to refine and shape us into the image of Christ. As we exercise faith, we allow God to work in us, transforming our character and deepening our relationship with Him. Our faith journey through challenges becomes a testimony of God's faithfulness and a source of encouragement to others.

Today, let us embrace the force of faith in dealing with challenges. Let us trust in God's promises, lean on His strength, and rely on His wisdom. As we exercise faith, we will experience His supernatural intervention, witness His provision, and grow in our relationship with Him. Remember, with faith, no challenge is too great to overcome.

The Victory of Faith

Scripture: Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) - "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."

Devotional:

In the journey of life, we often face trials and challenges that can test our faith. It is during these times that we must remember the victory that faith brings. Faith is not just a belief; it is a confident assurance in the promises of God, even when we cannot see the outcome.

The heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews 11 demonstrated unwavering trust in God's faithfulness. They faced impossible situations, yet their faith propelled them forward. They conquered kingdoms, obtained promises, and overcame obstacles because they believed in the power of their invisible God.

Likewise, we are called to walk by faith and not by sight. When we face adversity, doubts may arise, but let us remember that faith is the key to victory. It is through faith that we can experience God's miraculous interventions, receive His healing, and find peace in the midst of chaos.

Today, let us strengthen our faith by meditating on God's promises and testimonies of His faithfulness. Let us declare with boldness that we trust in Him, regardless of the circumstances. As we do so, we can rest assured that our faith will lead us to victory.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for the gift of faith. Help me to trust in You wholeheartedly, even when I cannot see the way ahead. Strengthen my faith, Lord, and remind me of Your past faithfulness. May I walk confidently in Your promises, knowing that You are always with me. Grant me the victory that comes through faith, and may Your name be glorified in every aspect of my life. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Reflection:

How has faith played a role in your life? Share a specific instance where your faith brought you victory or peace in a challenging situation.

THE WAY TO THE PALACE

SCRIPTURE: And he sent,"and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the Lord said, Arise, anoint him": for this is he. 1 Samuel 16:12.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Depression establishes a man in the pit. When you decide to settle for self-pity,"you have settled for the pit of life.

One of the notable kings in Scripture was David. David excelled in many things. Many people excelled majorly in one thing, but David excelled in many things. David excelled as a shepherd, musician, instrumentalist, singer, worshipper, songwriter, inventor of music equipment, hunter, animal killer, military general, war hero, giant killer, leader, people developer and king. Every king in Israel had to refer to him. David excelled to a point where God had to call His Son, His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, the “Son of David, the Root of Jesse.” David excelled as a prophet; he had very unusual prophetic insight. He also excelled as a priest.

David excelled in life despite coming from the background of rejection and hostility. There was nothing about Him that qualified him for anything significant. He was despised by everyone, yet he excelled.

Now, how do you excel from the wilderness of life to the palace like David? How do you move from where you are to the place of authority? I will give you one key":

Refuse to focus on what is against you.

Do not focus on what is against you. What and who is against you cannot stop you if you are not against yourself. Your boss in the office cannot stop you if you are not against yourself,"and if God is not against you.  If you face your distraction, you miss your distinction. Depression establishes a man in the pit. When you decide to settle for self-pity, you have settled for the pit of life. That will not be your portion in Jesus’ Name.

Beloved, make the choice not to be depressed. Make up your mind to rejoice in the Lord always.

REMEMBER THIS": Depression establishes a man in the pit. When you decide to settle for self-pity,"you have settled for the pit of life. 

ASSIGNMENTS":

1. Refuse to live in depression; choose to be joyful at all times.

2. Make the decision to be excellent in all your dealings.

PRAYER: Lord,"I ask for the grace and wisdom to be excellent in all I do. Help me Lord, in Jesus name

ANOINTED TO REIGN

SCRIPTURE: And Zadok the priest took an horn of oil out of the tabernacle,"and anointed Solomon. And they blew the trumpet; and all the people said, God save king Solomon. 1 Kings 1":39

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: When Heaven announces you,"it is better than the publicity of any public relations organization in the world.

The anointing of God is key to reigning in life; the anointing is key to the throne. Solomon was an example of persons who were lifted to the throne by the anointing. 

Solomon was the son of Beersheba, originally the wife of Uriah the Hittite who had an immoral affair with King David. Solomon grew up in an atmosphere of hostility and rejection. No one thought he would be a king. Despite the rejection, God lifted him to the throne by the anointing.

Now, how does the anointing make a person to reign in life?

1. The anointing is a lift that pulls people up. 

The anointing moves you from where you are to where God has created for you. When the anointing comes upon you, you get ushered into a realm that is beyond your wisdom, talent and education. 

2. The anointing secures your position against opposition. 

Every position that is influential must be contestable. And the anointing secures your position against your opposition.

3. The anointing moves you beyond personal limitations and shortcomings to fulfil your destiny. 

The anointing moves you from limitations of your history, limitations of lack of ability or talent, etc. to the place of possibilities. 

4. The anointing empowers human potentials. 

When the anointing comes upon you, your potentials are both unveiled and enhanced. 

5. To be anointed is to be announced.

When Heaven announces you, it is better than the publicity of any public relations organization in the world. For thirty years, no one heard the Voice of Jesus, but when the anointing came upon Him, He manifested the power to raise the dead, heal the sick, the blind and the lame.

Beloved, determine to pay the price to get the anointing of God.

REMEMBER THIS": When Heaven announces you,"it is better than the publicity of any public relations organization in the world.

ASSIGNMENTS":

1. Seek for the anointing of God above anything else

2. Pay any price to get the anointing.

PRAYER: Lord,"let Your Anointing on my life announce me to my generation, in Jesus’ Name.

THE POWER TO TREAD

SCRIPTURE: Behold, "I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy": and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Luke 10:19

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: To be a child of God qualifies and positions you for power. 

It is a fact that whose child you are determines to a reasonable degree, "the privileges you can enjoy in life. For instance, a child in the Royal Family in England is entitled to royal privileges because of who gave birth to him or the family he is born into. He has no worries whatsoever under Heaven just because of where and to whom he was born. But these privileges, however great, are nothing compared to the privilege of being the son of the Most High God. 

Our son-ship in God positions us naturally for supernatural power.  The Most Powerful God cannot have a powerless child. But as many as received him, to them gave he power…(John 1":12).

Whether or not you are using the power is a different matter,"but to be a child of God qualifies and positions you for power. 

Now, one of the powers given by God to His children is the power to tread on snakes and scorpions and over all the powers of the enemy, according to our anchor scripture.

Now, the serpent represents four things":

1. Deception. The serpent deceived Eve. God has given us power over the forces of deception. You are not permitted to be a victim of the devil’s manipulation and deception. 

 

2. Danger. A serpent around is a sign of danger.

 

3. Disease. The sting of a snake represents the impartation of disease which can progress into death in some cases.

 

4. Death. The serpent is a killer. 

The scorpion equals unforeseen danger, "sudden strike and unexpected pain.  

When you understand this, then you will understand that God is saying in essence": I give unto power over deception," danger, disease and premature, untimely death and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Today, I prophesy to you, any of these forces looking for you shall not reach you but bounce back to hell, in Jesus’ Name.

REMEMBER THIS": To be a child of God qualifies and positions you for power. 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Make demands on the power of God at the place of prayer.

2. Flee from every appearance of evil.

PRAYER: Lord, "I thank You for giving me power over the forces of darkness. And by this power, I destroy every power of sickness and death over my life, Lord in Jesus’ Name.

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The Wisdom of God

The definitions of Divine Wisdom

WORD INTEGRITY A PILLAR OF CHARACTER

SCRIPTURE: Follow peace with all men," and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord": Hebrews 12:14

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Your faith can give you victory on earth but it is your character that gives you entrance into eternity.

Character is one of the most important virtues in life as demonstrated in scriptures. Our anchor Scripture tells us that without holiness (Godly character), outdoor"no man can see the Lord. Your faith can give you victory on earth but it is your character that gives you entrance into eternity. Your eternity is at the mercy of your character. Your destiny is also at the mercy of your character because doors can open and close on the basis of character. 

Now, a major pillar of character is word integrity (1 Timothy 4":12). People of character are:

a. People who mean what they say and say what they mean.

b. People who are not given to too much talk. They are people of few words and massive actions (Prov. 17:27-28).

c. People who are not given to lies and falsehood (Psalm 101:7). 

d. People who are not given to slander or character assassination. 

e. People who are not given to filthy or careless communication.

The worth of a man is equal to the worth of his words. So, "people who have a character speak worthy words. 

Beloved, your words matter to God as much as your life (Eph. 4":29). Speak life-giving words," words that minister grace to the hearer. Let people long for communication with you. Let people look forward to what you have to say. 

REMEMBER THIS": Your faith can give you victory on earth but it is your character that gives you entrance into eternity.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Always be careful of what you say because words do not die once spoken.

2. Endeavour to speak positive words of life to yourself and to others.

PRAYER: Lord, "I ask that You transform my life completely. Let the words that come out of my mouth be edifying to both myself and others in Jesus name

FAITH AND THE WORD

Those who put pressure on the Word get treasure from the Word (Luke 5:1-3). You get treasure through pressure

SCRIPTURE: But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach. Romans 10:8.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: You get treasure through pressure. You get revelation by desperation.

The Scripture reveals that faith is essential to the life and existence of the child of God. Faith is the life-wire of the child of God. That is why the just shall live by faith (Habakkuk 2:4). This means, without faith, it is possible for the just to die. So, faith is essential to the life of the just and the Word is essential to faith. 

Now, how does the word influence or affect faith?

The Word of God unveils and reveals the promise of God for the child of God and that impacts faith. 

The Word of God sheds light on your right, and light of right impacts might for fight. Where you lack the light of your right, you lack the might for the fight. 

And how do you access the word?

1. Through a heart of meekness. (Psalm 25:9).

The meek will He guide in judgment and the meek will He teach His way. Meekness is teachability. Meekness is a life that is devoid of arrogance and pride. It is an admission of ignorance so you can be taught. 

2. Through the Ministry of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). 

God reveals things to us by His Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. The Spirit of God makes a person a man or a woman of deep insight.

3. Through the heart of desperation (Hosea 6:3).

You shall know if you follow on to know. Those who put pressure on the Word get treasure from the Word (Luke 5:1-3). You get treasure through pressure; you get revelation by desperation in Jesus Name. 

Beloved, receive the grace and hunger for the Word in order to live in the realm of faith.

REMEMBER THIS: You get treasure through pressure; you get revelation by desperation.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Study the Word diligently and receive it with meekness

2. Refuse to live in fear. Let the Word of God be your source of boldness

PRAYER: Lord, I believe in You, I believe in Your Word. I ask that as I read, study and meditate on Your Word, You will open my eyes to see wonders from Your Word, Lord in Jesus Name.

BLESSED AND PRESERVED

You cannot be a focus of Divine investment and still be a victim of enemy devastation.

SCRIPTURE: Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies. Psalm 112:1,7,8.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: You cannot be a focus of Divine investment and still be a victim of enemy devastation.

It has been established that the Blessing of God is a multi-faceted endowment. The Blessing combines many good things. Let me give you an example: the Blessing of God combines Divine provision with Divine preservation. To be blessed by God is to be preserved by God. To be blessed is to be made by God (Proverbs 10:22).

Now, you cannot be made by God and be unmade by the devil. You cannot be a focus of Divine investment and still be a victim of enemy devastation. Our anchor Scripture makes it clear that the blessed man that fears the Lord cannot be afraid of evil. The Blessing of God is a preserver.

Now, how does the blessing of God preserve? 

Take a look at these four points:

1. The blessing positions the blessed in the place of dominion (Genesis 1:28). 

When a person is blessed, he is not only empowered to be wealthy but also positioned in the place of dominion.

2. The blessing establishes the terror of God around the life of the blessed (Genesis 9:1-2, Genesis 35:5).

The terror of God is around the life of the blessed.

3. The blessing establishes the hedge of Divine protection around the blessed (Job 1:10). 

There is a hedge of Divine protection called the blessing hedge on the blessed. It is an impenetrable hedge around the blessed. This hedge was on the life of Job.

4. The blessing establishes the rebuke of the Lord against the enemy over the life of the blessed (Genesis 31:24). 

When the enemy comes against the blessed person, there is a rebuke hanging and waiting for him (Isaiah 65:8). 

Beloved, I decree the blessing of the Lord upon your life in Jesus Name. I decree that you are preserved from every negative force of darkness, in Jesus Name.

REMEMBER THIS: You cannot be a focus of Divine investment and still be a victim of enemy devastation.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Go through the study again.

2. Determine to be faithful in your covenant practices in order to connect the Blessing of God.

PRAYER: Lord, I ask for the impartation of Your Blessing on my life. Surround me with Your terror against my enemy Lord, in Jesus Name. 

LIFTED TO SHINE BY REDEMPTION

It is the destiny of man to shine through Redemption. Redemption does not just only lift a man up, it lifts him up to shine; it is an elevation unto distinction. 

SCRIPTURE: But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: Ephesians 2:4-6

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: To be a failure is a Kingdom abomination; to be a struggler is inconsistent with Redemption.

A major outcome of Redemption is the elevation of humanity from the fallen state. When Adam rebelled against God in disobedience at creation, humanity crashed from glory to groaning, from authority to captivity, from triumph to travail, from power to pressure and from success to struggles.

But Jesus Christ came to take us from the realm of shame to the realm of glory to sit with Him in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:4-6). It is the destiny of man to shine through Redemption. Redemption does not just only lift a man up, it lifts him up to shine; it is an elevation unto distinction. To shine means to be outstanding; to exist in distinction, prominence and glory. 

To be a failure is a Kingdom abomination; to be a struggler is inconsistent with Redemption.

Now, what does it take to shine in Redemption? I will state two things you can do:

1. Release the light you carry (Luke 9:29).

Release your God-given potential and internal gifting; do not hold them back. As Jesus prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. That is, from inside out.

2. Reflect the light you receive. 

When you come in the vicinity of light carriers, you connect light (Judges 7:17). Take steps after your God-ordained pastor or mentor. The outcome is, people feel something when they come near you. Wherever you are living must be saturated, infiltrated, penetrated, animated and percolated with the power, presence, and anointing of God through valuable spiritual connectivity. 

Today, I decree that as you abide by these instructions, your shining is confirmed, in Jesus’ Name.

REMEMBER THIS: To be a failure is a Kingdom abomination; to be a struggler is inconsistent with redemption.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Determine to be a success in your generation; avoid mediocre existence.

2. Let your lifestyle draw people close to God.

PRAYER: Lord, I thank You for Your Redemption power over my life. Help me to live for You all the days in the name of Jesus

THE ATTITUDE OF INGRATITUDE THE TRAGEDY OF LOT

Anytime you stop thanking God, He stops lifting you.

SCRIPTURE: And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren. Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left. Genesis 13:8-9

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Fruitfulness ends where thankfulness ends because to be thankful is to be fruitful.

One of the most tragic accounts in the Bible is the account of Lot and his family. Lot was Abraham's nephew who Abraham brought up in his house. A time came when there was strife between the herdsmen of Lot and those of Abraham. This led to their parting ways and the eventual crash of Lot's destiny. Lot moved from a very solid destiny to become history. He moved from the realm of fame to the realm of shame; from the realm of popularity to irrelevance and obscurity. Lot was shamefully ordered out of Sodom and Gomorrah without carrying a penny. He lost his wife who became a pillar of salt. Furthermore, he had immoral relationship with his two daughters and that led to the birth of the bastard generations of the Amorites and the Moabites.

Now, one reason for the tragedy of Lot was the attitude of ingratitude. It is that attitude that does not know how to say, “Thank you.” The only appreciation Abraham got from Lot was competition and quarrel.

Beloved, it is only great fools that are not grateful. God did meaningful things in the life of Lot as a result of his connection with Abraham but Lot did not appreciate God for the connection. 

I would like you to take note of these points on gratitude:

a. Where your gratitude stops, there your altitude stops. 

Anytime you stop thanking God, He stops lifting you.

b. Fruitfulness ends where thankfulness end. 

To be thankful is to be fruitful.

My counsel is, make the choice for gratitude. Refuse to be ungrateful to God. Be thankful to God always regardless of the condition you find yourself. 

REMEMBER THIS: Fruitfulness ends where thankfulness ends because to be thankful is to be fruitful.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Always show appreciation to God and to your fellow man for what you have received from them, no matter how little it may look.

2. Do not take anyone God has sent your way for granted; be grateful always.

PRAYER: Lord, I am grateful to You and to the people You brought into my life. Thank You for Who You are and What You are to me. Receive my gratitude, Lord in Jesus Name.

THE DANGERS OF DEPRESSION

Do not allow people to determine your joy because the devil knows that your joy determines your strength, wisdom and the anointing on your life.

SCRIPTURE: Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out. Proverbs 20:5

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The Presence of God is the centre for joy; it is a joy station.

The Word of God reveals that there is a connection between your joy and your wisdom. It is with joy that wisdom is drawn out of a man’s heart (Isaiah 12:3). Wisdom is principally a product of the mind. So, whatever affects the state of the mind affects the flow of wisdom. This is why the negative emotions of depression, fear, doubt and anger affect the productivity of the mind.

Now, one major enemy of joy is DEPRESSION. It is an enemy that must be dealt with knowing fully well that your wisdom is determined by your joy.

Now, what are the dangers of depression?

1. Depression shuts down the mind (Proverbs 5:20). 

Depression makes it impossible for people to access what the mind has to offer in terms of ideas, answers and solutions. The mind functions at its best when it is relaxed in joy.

2. Inspiration is impossible with depression (2 Kings 3:11). The Holy Ghost is the vehicle of joy, so, when the Holy Ghost is absent, inspiration will be lacking.

3. Depression paralyses action.

A depressed person cannot pray or study, thereby depriving himself of wisdom.

Now, the wisdom of God for handling depression is to make the choice for joy. Joy is a choice and not a gift (Habakkuk 3:17, 18). Do not allow people to determine your joy because the devil knows that your joy determines your strength, wisdom and the anointing on your life.

My counsel is, look at your future with excitement (Jeremiah 29:11), and make the choice to rejoice always (Philippians 4:4); make up your mind to fight depression from your life.

REMEMBER THIS: The Presence of God is the centre for joy; it is a joy station.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Fuel your joy by studying the Word, praising and worshipping God.

2. Determine to live a joyful life.

PRAYER: Lord, I thank You for the joy of salvation. I receive the joy of the Lord today and I decree that nothing shall steal my joy, Lord in Jesus Name.

THE BLESSING OF PRAISE

Whenever you open your mouth to praise God, God opens His Mouth to bless you. You do not need to beg God to bless you if you know how to praise Him.

SCRIPTURE: Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee, Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us. God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him. Psalm 67:5-7

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Blessed people praise effortlessly and those who praise effortlessly are unusually blessed.

Our anchor Scripture clearly reveals that praise is a major provoker of the Blessing. Whenever you open your mouth to praise God, God opens His Mouth to bless you. You do not need to beg God to bless you if you know how to praise Him.

We understand that one of the most blessed persons in the Old Testament was King Solomon. He was so blessed that the doors of the house of his horses were made of gold. He was so blessed that in his generation, no one could quantify the gold he had.

Now, one of the secrets of Solomon was the secret of praise. In 1 Kings 4:32, we see that that Solomon was not just a wise man but also a worshipper. He spoke three thousand proverbs and his songs were a thousand and five. As he was singing and worshipping, he was receiving wisdom and his blessing was stabilized by his worship.

Blessed people praise effortlessly and those who praise effortlessly are unusually blessed. So, there is a direct proportionality between praise and the Blessing. The more you praise, the more you are blessed and the more you are blessed, the more you praise.

Now, what is the connection between praise and the Blessing?

Basically, praise will trigger the dimension of blessing that will provoke the reverence and worship of God from the world. Praise will take you to a point where the blessings in your life will move more people to serve God.

Beloved, determine to look for reasons to praise God consistently (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Never focus on what is happening, focus on what is written and your heart shall be filled with praise.

REMEMBER THIS: Blessed people praise effortlessly and those who praise effortlessly are unusually blessed.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Make praise a lifestyle; praise God even when you don't feel like it.

2. Decide to look for reasons to praise God no matter how little it may seem.

PRAYER: Lord, I praise You for Your wondrous works in my life. Receive my praise Lord, in Jesus Name.

SEEDS OF GRATITUDE

It has been established that the only debt man owes God for eternity is the debt of thanksgiving. It is a debt that we can never finish paying. 

SCRIPTURE: Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Psalms 103:1-2.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The more grateful you are, the more you will have things to be grateful for.

It has been established that the only debt man owes God for eternity is the debt of thanksgiving. It is a debt that we can never finish paying. There is no amount of sacrifice you can offer to God that can move Him. Praise is the highest level of gift you can give to God. When you sow the seed of gratitude, there is increase on every side (Psalm 67:3). Praise and thanksgiving are the secrets of deliverance. When we praise God, the earth releases its increase.

Please, note:

1. The attitude of gratitude is the greatest attitude on earth. 

The attitude of gratitude is the secret of greatness both in the earth and in the world to come.

 

2. The more thankful you are, the more you will have what to be thankful for.

Appreciation to God brings multiplication; it is the secret of appreciation in life.

 

Now, what do you show gratitude to God for?

1. Show gratitude for the gift of the people in your life. 

Thank God for sending the right people to your life.

 

2. Show gratitude to God for spiritual provisions.

Show gratitude to God for sending His Son, Jesus Christ to die for our sins.

 

3. Show gratitude to God for physical provisions, privileges and opportunities. 

Show gratitude to God for the gift of life, health and privileges. You know, until a person is grateful, that person's life will remain grounded.

 

4. Show gratitude to God for daily favours and mercies. 

When you are a grateful person, you are literally on the lookout for anything to thank God for. And the more grateful you are, the more you will have things to be grateful for.

 

As you praise God effortlessly from now on, the earth shall release to you all that belongs to you, in Jesus Name.

REMEMBER THIS: The more grateful you are, the more you will have things to be grateful for.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Praise God even when it looks like there is nothing to praise Him for.

2. Make a daily list of the Blessings of God in your life and begin to praise Him for them.

PRAYER: O Lord, thank You for a new mantle of praise and worship upon my life. I praise You now, and I will praise You forever, Lord in Jesus Name.

YOU ARE REACHING FOR YOUR BEST

The deeper your knowledge of God, the higher your quality of life.

SCRIPTURE: I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:7-14

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The deeper your knowledge of God, the higher your quality of life.

One of the most impactful persons in the Bible after Jesus Christ was Paul the Apostle. Paul wrote more than fifty percent of the New Testament Scriptures. It was Paul who brought forth the revelations of redemption and resurrection, even though he was not physically present when Jesus was crucified. Paul revealed to us the nine spiritual gifts. Handkerchiefs and aprons from his body were used to heal the sick. He existed at the highest value of humanity and lived at his best.

Now, how can one live such a valuable life? Let me give you five keys:

1. Cost is the measure of value (1 Corinthians 6:12). Living life at its best comes with a cost. There can be no value without cost; there can be no shining without sacrifice. 

2. The knowledge of God brings value (Philippians 3:10) 

Your level of knowledge determines your rating in life. Every time your qualification changes, your remuneration changes. The deeper your knowledge of God, the higher your quality of life.

3. Discontentment (in mediocrity) is the foundation for distinction (Philippians 3:10) 

Those who refuse to settle down in mediocrity are destined to stand out in life. The rejection of the status-quo is the establishment of progress. 

4. Focusing on the future enhances life's value (Genesis 19:26, Luke 9:62)

A life focused on the past is wasted in the present and useless in the future. Those who live in the past belong only to history. Do not live with your mistakes or failures. Focus on the future, only then can the value of your life be enhanced. 

5. Pressure is the secret of the precious (Philippians 3:14)

To arrive at the precious, you must apply pressure. There is no reach without stretch and no treasure without pressure. 

Today, I decree that you will reach your best in life as you practice the above keys, above in Jesus Name.

REMEMBER THIS: The deeper your knowledge of God, the higher your quality of life.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Value the things of God above every other thing. 

2. Resist the defeatist mentality at all cost; always look into the future with focus. 

PRAYER: Lord, I ask for forgiveness for my past mistakes and failures. I look into the future with hope and focus. Help me to reach where You have destined for me, Lord in Jesus Name.

THE COVENANT-KEEPING GOD

God does not only keep covenant with His immediate covenant partners but also with their succeeding generations. Your covenant with God does not only end with you; it continues with your generation. 

SCRIPTURE: Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; Deuteronomy 7:9

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God is faithful to His promises and committed to His covenant.

It is clear from Scriptures that our God is a covenant-keeping God (Deuteronomy 7:9).

God is faithful to His promises and committed to His covenant (Psalms 89:34-36). God does not only keep covenant with His immediate covenant partners but also with their succeeding generations. Your covenant with God does not only end with you; it continues with your generation. That is the mystery of Israel today; the covenant of God with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob implicated them for generational blessings. Covenant has the power to stand the test of times and seasons.

 

Now, how do you experience the benefits of the covenant?

1. Understand the reliability of the covenant (Deuteronomy 7:9). 

Understand the infallibility, unchangeability or trustability of the covenant-keeping God. The covenant is reliable and the Covenant-Keeper is infallible. God cannot lie. He cannot change, and He cannot fail. 

 

2. Understand your role in the covenant and play that role to the best of your ability (Deuteronomy 7:9).  

If you are expecting the covenant of supernatural supply for example, to be real in your life, then you must play the role of a giver in tithes, offerings and other forms of giving. You must refuse to be a borrower; you must also refuse to be a waster of resources. Also, if you want God to fulfil His part in defending you, your role is to refuse to fear; decide to speak positively and stay in the secret place of the Almighty. 

 

3. Stay at it for as long as it takes to see the desired result (Deuteronomy 7:9). 

Keep doing everything that is expected of you by God for as long as it takes to see desired results. And if you do this, the devil cannot stop you from seeing what God wants you to see.

Today, I decree that the faithfulness of God will be real in your life, in Jesus’ Name.

REMEMBER THIS: God is faithful to His promises and committed to His covenant.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Study the Scriptures and listen to the relevant messages until it is clear to you that the covenant is real and reliable. 

2. From the Scripture, identify the covenant of God for your life and the responsibilities attached and begin to work them until they manifest in your life

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for keeping Your covenant always. Help me to do the responsibilities of the covenant, Lord in Jesus Name. COVENANT-KEEPING GOD*

God does not only keep covenant with His immediate covenant partners but also with their succeeding generations. Your covenant with God does not only end with you; it continues with your generation. 

SCRIPTURE: Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; Deuteronomy 7:9

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God is faithful to His promises and committed to His covenant.

It is clear from Scriptures that our God is a covenant-keeping God (Deuteronomy 7:9).

God is faithful to His promises and committed to His covenant (Psalms 89:34-36). God does not only keep covenant with His immediate covenant partners but also with their succeeding generations. Your covenant with God does not only end with you; it continues with your generation. That is the mystery of Israel today; the covenant of God with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob implicated them for generational blessings. Covenant has the power to stand the test of times and seasons.

 

Now, how do you experience the benefits of the covenant?

1. Understand the reliability of the covenant (Deuteronomy 7:9). 

Understand the infallibility, unchangeability or trustability of the covenant-keeping God. The covenant is reliable and the Covenant-Keeper is infallible. God cannot lie. He cannot change, and He cannot fail. 

 

2. Understand your role in the covenant and play that role to the best of your ability (Deuteronomy 7:9).  

If you are expecting the covenant of supernatural supply for example, to be real in your life, then you must play the role of a giver in tithes, offerings and other forms of giving. You must refuse to be a borrower; you must also refuse to be a waster of resources. Also, if you want God to fulfil His part in defending you, your role is to refuse to fear; decide to speak positively and stay in the secret place of the Almighty. 

 

3. Stay at it for as long as it takes to see the desired result (Deuteronomy 7:9). 

Keep doing everything that is expected of you by God for as long as it takes to see desired results. And if you do this, the devil cannot stop you from seeing what God wants you to see.

Today, I decree that the faithfulness of God will be real in your life, in Jesus Name.

REMEMBER THIS: God is faithful to His promises and committed to His covenant.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Study the Scriptures and listen to the relevant messages until it is clear to you that the covenant is real and reliable. 

2. From the Scripture, identify the covenant of God for your life and the responsibilities attached and begin to work them until they manifest in your life

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for keeping Your covenant always. Help me to do the responsibilities of the covenant, Lord in Jesus Name.

THE ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

The attitude of gratitude is the attitude of great altitude. A person who has an attitude of gratitude will always go high in life.

SCRIPTURE: In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Favour and fortune befriend the grateful.

It is a fact that the attitude of gratitude is one of the winning attitudes of life. It is one of the hallmarks of a life of character and quality. A person of character is a person who is full of gratitude even in little things. The attitude of gratitude is the attitude of great altitude. A person who has an attitude of gratitude will always go high in life.

Unfortunately, the attitude of gratitude is rapidly disappearing in our generation. This is because ingratitude is a sign of the last days in which we are living. Ingratitude happens with increasing pride and fullness of self; and when pride increases, appreciation decreases (2 Timothy 3:1-2). A proud person is one whose life revolves round self; he is full of himself but generally empty. Words like, Thank you, I'm sorry, I'm grateful cannot be found in his vocabulary.

Now, gratitude is necessary because favour and fortune are the portions of the thankful. Gratitude is a magnet of favour and ingratitude is the way of disfavour. Ingratitude will lead to closed doors and missed opportunities.

Beloved, my counsel is: 

1. Be permanently on the lookout for the Goodness of God in your life (Judges 5:11). 

2. Continuously rehearse the righteous Acts of God in your life and in the lives of others (Psalm 103:1-5).

3. Never take the Acts of God in your life for granted (Psalm 103:1-5). 

4. Practice gratitude in your relationship with fellow men. This will confirm the authenticity of your Christianity (Psalm 103:1-5).

Today, I prophesy to you a fresh baptism of a new dimension of gratitude and appreciation; I arrest the spirit of ingratitude out of your life, in Jesus’ Name.

REMEMBER THIS: Favour and fortune befriend the grateful.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Always show gratitude and appreciation to God for the gift of life and for every gift you have received from Him.

2. Identify reasons to be grateful to God every day.

PRAYER: Lord, I am grateful to You for the gift of life and for the gift of salvation. Help me to identify reasons to praise You at all times, Lord in Jesus Name.  

POWER FOR THE NEXT LEVEL

The Voice of God will produce results in your life that would make you the envy of your generation. All you need is one Word from God and your years of toiling would end 

SCRIPTURE: The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty. The voice of the Lord breaketh the cedars; yea, the Lord breaketh the cedars of Lebanon. Psalm 29:4-5

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The Word of God is the Container of the Voice of God.

It is true from Scriptures that the Voice of God is a trigger for a change of level. There is enough Power in God's Voice to change a person’s level. The Voice of God is powerful and that power is the force for change (Psalms 29:4).

Abraham remained stagnated until God spoke to him (Genesis 12:1). He would have remained in that condition and probably died in his father's house, if not for the Voice of God. Isaac was different from all his contemporaries and he became the envy of his generation because he heard God's Voice (Genesis 26:1-12).

The Voice of God will produce results in your life that would make you the envy of your generation. All you need is one Word from God and your years of toiling would end (Luke 5:1-10).

 

Now, who are the people God speaks to?

a. God speaks to those who value His Word.

Those who value God's Word hear God's Voice because the Word of God is the container of the Voice of God (Psalm 29:3). 

 

b. God speaks where He is Lord (Deuteronomy 1:6).

God does not just speak because He is God; He speaks where He is Lord. He is the God of the Universe, yet not everyone hears Him. Lord means Master, direction Giver, Instructor and Owner. God is Who you worship; Lord is Who you obey. His Godship is about your worship, but His Lordship is about your obedience to His instructions.

 

c. God speaks to those who expect to hear.

God speaks where there is expectancy. There is knowledge in stillness and revelation in quietness. (Psalm 46:10).

 

Beloved, I encourage you to move your study of the Word to a higher level, think and meditate on Scriptures, and let your level change for good, in Jesus Name.

REMEMBER THIS: The Word of God is the Container of the Voice of God.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Read and meditate on the Word of God daily

2. As you meditate on God's Word, be expectant to hear from Him. Do not be in a hurry to leave God's Presence.

PRAYER: Lord, I ask that You open my ears to hear Your Voice within the verses of the Scriptures. Help me to be attentive and to act on Your Word, Lord in Jesus Name.

DIVINE PERFECTION

God has all it takes to perfect all that concerns a person. He has all it takes to bring to pass all His promises in your life and make you what He wants you to be.

SCRIPTURE: The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands. Psalm 138:8

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God is a Manufacturer of surprises and He enjoys taking the enemy by surprise

The Scripture makes it clear that our God is a perfect God (Matt. 5:48); and He has all it takes to make man a perfect being. God has all it takes to perfect all that concerns a person. He has all it takes to bring to pass all His promises in your life and make you what He wants you to be.

Now, what does it take for you to see perfection and fulfilment in God? I will give you five points:

 

1. Praise Him for what He has done so far (Psalm 138:1-2).

When you praise God first, He will perfect all that concerns you. Accept your status per time with appreciation as God changes your level.

 

2. Hold on to the Word and Promise of God for your life (1 Thessalonians 5:24). 

Whatever God has promised must come to pass. It is the revelation of His Word to you that provokes His fulfilment of the same.

 

3. Never give up on your expectation. (Galatians 6:9) 

It is never too late with God. God is a Manufacturer of surprises, and He enjoys taking the enemy by surprise.

 

4. Make demands on God's Mercy. 

The Mercy of God is the sponsor of the Acts of God (Psalm 138:3). Every time you apply for mercy, you are applying for perfection and fulfilment.

 

5. Desire the Anointing.

It takes the anointing of God for you to see the fulfilment of God in your life (Acts 10:38).

 

Beloved, God shall perfect all that concerns you. I see God bringing His promises to pass in your life in Jesus Name. 

REMEMBER THIS: God is a Manufacturer of surprises and He enjoys taking the enemy by surprise.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Demand for the Mercy of God at the place of prayer for God to perfect all that concerns You

2. Believe God's promises to you. Do not give up

PRAYER: Lord, I hold on to Your Word. I ask that You perfect everything that concerns me, in Jesus Name.

EXISTING TO EXCEL

God is not excited about mediocrity. It doesn't matter how anointed, prayerful or spiritually committed you are, if you are not excellent, you lose your place of prominence in God. 

SCRIPTURE: Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. Daniel 6:3

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: You cannot rise up to your God-ordained place in destiny without excellence. Excellence is the doorway to prominence; excellence is the pathway to eminence. 

The Scriptures make it clear that God has a vision for the Earth; and this vision of God is the filling of the Earth with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. (Numbers 14:21, Habakkuk 2:14).  God wants the whole Earth to be infiltrated, penetrated, animated and embodied with the knowledge of His glory as the waters cover the sea.  God wants to fill all areas of human endeavour the economic, political, financial, academic, scientific, agricultural, entertainment, media, and medical realms with the knowledge of His glory as the waters cover the sea. 

Now, the question is, how does God fulfil this vision? It is by positioning His people in leadership as stars, pacesetters, history makers, front liners, etc. Beloved, God wants to position you as a front liner and pacesetter in your field like He positioned Daniel in Babylon, David in the palace of king Saul, Joseph in Egypt and Esther in the Persian Empire, so that through you, He would take over the world for Himself.

Now, how does God position people? It is on the frequency of excellence. It was excellence that positioned Daniel, Esther and David on their respective thrones. God is not excited about mediocrity. It doesn't matter how anointed, prayerful or spiritually committed you are, if you are not excellent, you lose your place of prominence in God. You cannot rise up to your God-ordained place in destiny without excellence.  Excellence is the doorway to prominence; excellence is the pathway to eminence. 

What is my counsel? Determine to exist in excellence. 

REMEMBER THIS: You cannot rise up to your God-ordained place in destiny without excellence.  Excellence is the doorway to prominence; excellence is the pathway to eminence. 

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Reject mediocrity and focus on improving yourself at all cost.

2. Endeavour to be the best at what you do.

PRAYER: O Lord, I ask for the impartation of the spirit of excellence. I reject mediocrity and average existence, in Jesus Name.

ACHARACTER PILLAR CALLED FINANCIAL INTEGRITY

Taking what does not belong to you is a symptom of lack of financial integrity.

SCRIPTURE: For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:10

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It is in money matters that a person's true character is confirmed or revealed. 

Financial integrity is a major pillar of character. It is in money matters that a person’s true character is confirmed or revealed. It is possible for someone to pray and fast and not have financial integrity. The truth is, until a man has conquered the love for money, God has not yet prevailed in his life. 

One thing you must trust God to overcome is taking what does not belong to you. Taking what does not belong to you is a symptom of lack of financial integrity.

Now, what are the consequences of taking what does not belong to you? We shall be dealing with four of such consequences:

 

1. Whatever is not yours does not add to your life; it subtracts from your life. 

Adam took the fruit that he was not given, and it subtracted everything from his life he lost the garden (Genesis 3:17-24). 

 

2. Taking what is not yours will cost you both your future and your destiny. 

Gehazi was meant to inherit Elijah’s anointing but he got the leprosy of Naaman instead of the anointing because he took what was not his (2 Kings 5:25-27). 

 

3. Whatever is not yours invites curses into your life. 

Stolen money invites curses into your life. (Zechariah 5:3-4). Stolen or fraudulent money is cursed money.

 

4. Taking what is not yours will cost you your placement in time and in eternity.

Judas lost his place in eternity because he took what did not belong to him (Acts 1:15-20).

 

Beloved, may you not lose your place in eternity like Judas Iscariot. Therefore, make up your mind not to take what does not belong to you.

REMEMBER THIS: It is in money matters that a person's true character is confirmed or revealed.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Look away from what does not belong to you.

2. Be contented with what you have no matter how little it is.

PRAYER: Lord, I ask for the grace to be contented with what I have. Help me not to take what does not belong to me, Lord in Jesus Name.

GOD'S PRESENCE: THE BONDAGE BREAKER

SCRIPTURE: Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The lack of desire for God establishes a person in bondage. 

We live in a world of diverse kinds of bondage and captivity. The devil is doing overtime in establishing many people in captivity because his time is short (Rev. 12:12). But the good news is that every chain is breakable and every form of captivity can be terminated by the Power of God.

Now, one thing that breaks chains and terminates captivity is the Presence of God. Chains and bondages cannot exist in the Presence of God. The chains broke and the prison door opened when Paul and Silas praised the God Who inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3, Acts 16:25-26). The Presence of God is a liberating Presence; where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17).  

Now, in order to be established in the Presence of God for the breaking of bondages, you must do the following:

1. Avoid the life of disobedience

Disobedience to God is an invitation to bondage. When you play with sin and iniquity, you invite bondage into your life. Therefore, avoid the lifestyle of disobedience; embrace obedience to God in order to attract His Presence in your life (Genesis 3:11).

 

2. Avoid Existence Outside of God's Presence

Hiding from God’s Presence like Adam (Gen. 3:8) establishes a person in bondage. Lack of desire for God's Presence establishes a person in bondage. When a child of God does not desire to read his Bible and fellowship with His Maker, he is in a diseased condition. 

 

3.  Avoid the life of cover-up

Adam and Eve sewed fig leaves and covered themselves up when they realised that they were naked as a result of their sin (Genesis 3:7). You cannot cover up your sin and be helped by God.

My counsel is, avoid the life of cover up; be open to God to access His Presence.

REMEMBER THIS: Lack of desire for God establishes a person in bondage.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Avoid the life of sin and disobedience in order to attract the Presence of God.

2. Develop passion for God in order to be established in His Presence.  

3. Avoid the lifestyle of cover-up; open up your life to God in order to access His Presence.

PRAYER: O Lord, I ask for a fresh appetite for Your Word. I desire to fellowship with You more. Help me to live in Your Presence always, Lord in Jesus Name.

ACCESSING THE GLORY THROUGH PRAYER

The degree of your spiritual exercise determines the extent of your spiritual excellence. 

SCRIPTURE: And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. Luke 9:28-29

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: It is those who risk all for God that can rise high in God; it is those who embark on spiritual exercise that can experience spiritual excellence.

The Scripture makes it clear that the place of prayer is the place of the glory; the way of prayer is the glory highway. Jesus encountered God's glory while He prayed. The fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering as He prayed (Luke 9:29).  

Also, when Moses and Elijah prayed, they encountered and connected with irrecoverable glory (Exodus 34:29-30, James 5:17, 2 Kings 2:11).

Now, it is very important to know that dimensions of glory are available for everyone but not accessible by everyone. Jesus had twelve disciples but He took only three (Peter, James and John) to a high mountain to show them His glory because dimensions of glory may be available to all but not accessible to all.

Now, the question is, how do we experience the glory of God through prayer? 

Take note of the following points:

1. Those who are willing to go far with God are those who are qualified to go high in glory. 

It is those who risk all for God that can rise high in God; it is those who embark on spiritual exercise that can experience spiritual excellence. The degree of your spiritual exercise determines the extent of your spiritual excellence. The glory does not belong to valley dwellers who remain in the realm of spiritual indecision (Joel 3:14) but mountain climbers who are willing to go far with God. 

 

2. Those who persist in prayer prevail with God (Luke 9:29). Spiritual endurance is the key to spiritual elevation. Those who seek God's Face experience a change of phase.  Your identity will change when your prayer life changes level.

 

My counsel is, make up your mind to persist with God at the place of prayer so you can experience His glory in your life.

REMEMBER THIS: It is those who risk all for God that can rise high in God; it is those who embark on spiritual exercise that can experience spiritual excellence.

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Be persistent in prayers and in the study of the Word.

2. Go all the way with God; never give up on God.

PRAYER: Father, I ask that You change my identity at the place of prayer. Grant me the grace never to give up on You, Lord, in Jesus Name. 

ACTIVATING THE BLESSING

Wherever you find the Blessing; fruitfulness, multiplication, replenishment, subjugation and dominion must follow. If the overflow is your destination, then, the Blessing is your pathway.

SCRIPTURE: And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. Genesis 1:28

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God only blesses you according to your capacity to bless others. If you desire the Blessing of God, then, be a blessing to both God and man. 

The Blessing of God is a non-contestable secret of the overflow. In Genesis 1:28, God blessed Adam and said to him, because of this Blessing that is on you, be fruitful, multiply, saturate the earth, bring it under control and subdue it (paraphrased). 

This means, wherever you find the Blessing; fruitfulness, multiplication, replenishment, subjugation and dominion must follow. If the overflow is your destination, then, the Blessing is your pathway.

Apart from Adam, God blessed Abraham also. Abraham was so blessed that he became a blessing to his generation; the Blessing landed upon Abraham, upon Isaac and then on Jacob (Gen. 24:1, 35, Gen. 25:5, Gen. 27: 21-29). Abraham, Isaac and Jacob did not end empty-handed in life. 

Beloved, it is an abomination to be empty-handed with the Blessing. It is an abomination to have a dry account, a dry ministry or a dry business with the Blessing. The Blessing is superior to money, properties or human connections (Genesis 26:1-14). 

Now, how is the Blessing activated? 

Let me give you two ways of activating the Blessing:

1. Hearing and doing the Word (Revelation 1:3)

There is blessedness in reading the Word of God. Every time you read the Word of God, ask Him what He wants you to see and do out of Scriptures, and ensure you do it (James 1:25, Deuteronomy 28:1-4). Disobedience to the Word disconnects a person from the Blessing.

 

2. Being a blessing (Genesis 12:2)

To become a blessed person, you must be a blessing to other people. God only blesses you according to your capacity to bless others. If you desire the Blessing of God, then, be a blessing to both God and man.

 

Today, as you make up your mind to obey the Word of God and be a blessing to your generation, I decree that you are blessed in Jesus Name.

REMEMBER THIS: God only blesses you according to your capacity to bless others. If you desire the Blessing of God, then, be a blessing to both God and man.

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Do all you can to connect to the Blessing of God.

2. Be consistent in your covenant practices of tithing and giving.

PRAYER: O Lord, I ask for the grace to obey Your Word and be a blessing to both God and man. Help me to love my neighbour as You have loved me, Lord in Jesus Name.

THE POWER OF PRAISE

You cannot carry praise and come last. Confront every new phase of your life with praise and let God know that you are not ready to come last.

SCRIPTURE: Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass, that the children of Israel asked the Lord, saying, Who shall go up for us against the Canaanites first, to fight against them? And the Lord said, Judah shall go up: behold, I have delivered the land into his hand. Judges 1:1, 2

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: You cannot carry praise and end as a loser.

In the journey of life, people encounter different phases of life and wonder how to approach each phase and come out triumphant. Our anchor Scripture gives us a clue: it says that Judah shall go up first, and Judah means praise. So, in every new phase of your life, let Praise go up first.

Now, our praise will achieve four things at every junction of our lives:

1. Praise is key to existence on the frontline. 

You cannot carry praise and come last. Confront every new phase of your life with praise and let God know that you are not ready to come last.

2. Praise is key to conquest and victory in life.

The children of Israel asked God, Who shall go up for us against the Canaanites first? And God said, Judah. That implies that Judah, which is praise, will be victorious; he will confirm the defeat of the adversary. So, our praise is key to our victory in every new season. You cannot carry praise and end as a loser.

3. Praise is key to possession. 

In our anchor scripture, God says, I have delivered the land into his hand. That is, I have delivered the land into Judah's (Praises) hand. So, the things that belong to us can be delivered into our hands by our praise. You cannot know praise and be empty-handed.

4. Praise is key to a successful beginning.

The children of Israel were wondering how to step into the phase they were entering? And God seemed to have said, offer praise. So, to start well is to start with praise, and to start well is to end well.

I decree the release of the garment of praise on you today in Jesus Name. 

REMEMBER THIS: You cannot carry praise and end as a loser.

ASSIGNMENT(S):

1. Take out time and praise God.

2. Start your day with praise and end your day with praise.

3. Live a life that will cause people to glorify God.

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for Your mercy and love. Be glorified! I will worship You for as long as I live, for there is none like You, Lord, in Jesus Name.

THE NAME OF THE LORD

The Name of the Lord is a place of refuge from evil. It is not just a Name; it is a House, a Tower, which the righteous run into for safety.

SCRIPTURE: The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. Proverbs 18:10

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The Name of the Lord is a place of refuge from evil; it is not just a Name; it is a House.

We live in a world where perpetrators of evil are on rampage. It is obvious to see that as we come to the end of the age, evil multiplies. We live in a world where both the devil and his agents are on a hot chase after souls (1 Peter 5:8).

When the World Health Organization (WHO) was established a little above 70 years ago, the number of incurable diseases on earth could be counted on the fingers of the hand but today, incurable diseases are almost numberless. Today, kidnappings and killings are rampant.

But there is good news, and the good news is that there is a way out. So, take note of the following:

1. We have a Name that is a refuge for the saints. 

The Name of the Lord is a place of refuge from evil. It is not just a Name; it is a House, a Tower, which the righteous run into for safety.

In ancient times, when there was war and there was a strong tower in the city, people would run to the tower for safety and they would be safe. That is what the Name of the Lord is. And no devil is devilish enough to pursue you inside the Name of the Lord. So, the Name is not just a noun; it is a House. It is not just an Identity but a Capacity.

2. There is safety for the righteous in the world of evil. Our anchor scripture did not say everyone runs into and is safe; it says, the righteous run into it.( Proverbs 18:10). So, there is safety for the righteous in the world of evil. As a righteous man or woman, you are not permitted to be a victim like others. No ritual killer is permitted to use your blood for sacrifice; it is an abomination. 

Any witch or agent of darkness who dares you or anyone related to you, their coven and everyone inside it shall be roasted by fire!

REMEMBER THIS: The Name of the Lord is a place of refuge from evil; it is not just a Name; it is a House. 

ASSIGNMENT (S): 

1. Hand over your life to Jesus if you have not done that.

2. Do not rely on your strength, wisdom or strength for safety.

3. Plead the Blood of Jesus on your life daily.

PRAYER: Lord, my life is in Your Hands. Let Your glory be my defence Lord. I refuse to be a victim of satanic wickedness in this generation, Lord in Jesus Name.

THE RIGHT ASSOCIATION – A THERAPY FOR FEAR

Be careful who you call friend.

SCRIPTURE: Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Be careful who you call friend.

I heard this from Dr Paul Enenche, he said "Sometime ago, a military officer was deployed as the commander of 231 tank battalion, I suppose it was an armoured battalion in southern Borno, Nigeria to tackle the Boko Haram terrorists. When he told me about the assignment, I prayed for him and blessed a bottle of anointing oil for him so he could be applying it on himself. This is because it is written, touch not my anointed and do my prophet no harm (Psalms 105:15). 

He left with the anointing oil, and according to him, he used it as his body cream. On the battlefield on one occasion, they were ambushed; bullets were fired at him, and a bullet passed through his camouflage uniform and came out on the other side without passing through his body or hurting him. He also anointed their quarter guard, the armoury, the gate, etc. He said that at one of the times, the terrorists visited their barrack, and saw the barrack as if it was a river; they could not see the barrack so they went back.  At another time, their camp appeared as forest to the terrorists so they went back. 

He said that the terrorists came the third time and were able to see the barrack but not one of them escaped; they were all eliminated and all their equipment and weapons were collected by the soldiers. All these happened by virtue of the commanders association with and connection to the mantle of preservation.

Yesterday, we saw some therapies for fear, and today, we are looking at the right association as another therapy of fear. 

In Acts 4:13, Peter and John manifested a dimension of boldness which was attributed to their association with Jesus, the Lion of the tribe of Judah. They were disciples of Jesus, and their ruggedity was confirmed because of their connection to Him.

Beloved, be careful who you call friend; there are people who have nothing to tell you but disaster, frustration, things that will encourage you in sin and iniquity and fear. Beware!

REMEMBER THIS: Be careful who you call friend.

ASSIGNMENT(S):

1. Examine your friends; is there anyone who is a conductor of fear or sin? Disengage from such a person.

2. Keep the company of the fearless, those whose confidence is in God alone.

3. Remain with God. 

PRAYER: O Lord, let Your fearless Nature in me be activated. Cause me to walk in boldness, audacity and authority, Lord in Jesus Name. 

OUR FEARLESSNESS GODS TOOL FOR OUR DELIVERANCE

Your fearlessness is what rescues you. Your fearlessness commits God to your deliverance; it is a proof of faith in God and anywhere God sees faith He moves.

SCRIPTURE: And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. Philippians 1:28

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Your fearlessness commits God to your deliverance

Sometime ago, a lady testified in church about how she was taken to the camp of ritual killers. But she said that she was not afraid of them; she kept declaring My pastor said, there shall be no loss. And the devil inside the ritual killers became angry, but despite their anger, they could not even scratch her. She was released. 

The truth is, many people have escaped from the den of ritual killers, serial murderers, and some other atmospheres of danger by virtue of their fearlessness.

On our journey of exploring the virtues of fearlessness, we shall be looking at the following today:

1. Fearlessness, boldness and courage guarantee the rescue of the saints.

Your fearlessness is what rescues you. Your fearlessness commits God to your deliverance; it is a proof of faith in God and anywhere God sees faith He moves. A time is going to come very shortly when people with catapults, like David, would bring down people with general purpose machine guns (1 Sam. 17:45-50). If you refuse to fear, your fearlessness becomes a covering.

2. Fearlessness, boldness and courage guarantee victory in battle. That is, if you are fearless, the battle would end in your favour and you become victorious by fearlessness (Joshua 10:24, 25).

Today, I release the mantle of audacity, boldness, and fearlessness upon you. I command fear to die, in Jesus’ Name.

REMEMBER THIS: Your fearlessness commits God to your deliverance.

ASSIGNMENT(S):

1. Praise God whenever the devil tries to send fear signals your way.

2. Hand over every object of worry to God at the place of prayer and ignore them as if they do not exist.

3. Avoid the association of the fearful because fear is transferable.

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for fighting all my battles and handling every issue around my life. I have no cause to be afraid because You are in total control, Lord, in Jesus Name. 

THE VIRTUES OF FEARLESSNESS

Fearlessness is a raw material for strength.

SCRIPTURE: And do not [for a moment] be frightened or intimidated in anything by your opponents and adversaries, for such [constancy and fearlessness] will be a clear sign (proof and seal) to them of [their impending] destruction, but [a sure token and evidence] of your deliverance and salvation, and that from God. Philippians 1:28 (AMP) 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: To be fearless is to keep company with God; to be fearful is to keep company with the devil.

Yesterday, we saw that one of the weapons of the devil against the children of God is the weapon of fear. To be trapped by fear is to be positioned for destruction by the enemy. We also saw the reasons to avoid the trap of fear at all cost.

Beloved, if you are to avoid fear, embrace fearlessness. And today we shall be seeing the virtues of fearlessness.

1. Fearlessness delivers unbeatable strength. 

In Proverbs 28:1, the Bible says, the wicked flee when no man pursues but the righteous are bold as a Lion. 

So, the Lion is bold and fearless. And Proverbs 30:30 tells what that fearlessness offers the lion: A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any battle.So, to be fearless is to be strong. That is a straight line equation: the Lion is bold, and because the Lion is bold, it is strong. It does not turn away from any challenge. So, fearlessness is a raw material for strength.

2. Fearlessness, boldness, courage attracts the Presence of God. 

If you refuse to fear, you will experience God's company (Amos 3:3); He will go with you into battles (1 Chronicles 28:20). The Presence of God is palpable with the fearless. To be fearless is to keep company with God; to be fearful is to keep company with the devil.

3. Fearlessness, boldness or courage guarantees the destruction of the adversary (Philippians 1:28)

Fearlessness confirms the destruction of the adversary.

Receive the baptism of the spirit of fearlessness and courage on your life today, in Jesus Name.

REMEMBER THIS: To be fearless is to keep company with God; to be fearful is to keep company with the devil.

ASSIGNMENT(S):

1. Reject every attempt by the enemy to cast fear upon you.

2. Maintain the atmosphere of God's Presence always.

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the privilege of sitting with You in the heavenly places far above principalities and powers. I fear nothing because You are in charge O! Lord, in Jesus Name.