TOPIC: “It Is Written...”!

Tuesday, March 03, 2015

TEXT: MATTHEW 4:1-11

Key Verse: “But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

Ahead of His ministry, Christ embarked on a forty-day fast and was afterwards led into the wilderness, “to be tempted of the devil.” Satan wanted to lure Him into disobeying God. He wanted Jesus to resort to self-will, which would satisfy worldly and not spiritual ends.

Our Lord overcame him as He repeatedly depended on the authority of the Word of God rather than yield to the desires of Satan. Thus, Jesus demonstrated that invincibility comes through the power of the Word and the Holy Spirit. Although Satan also quoted the Word out of context to mislead Jesus, he did not succeed.

That Jesus “was led up of the Spirit... to be tempted of the devil” suggests that even believers who are sound in the faith can experience trials and temptations. This would come through juicy enticements to compromise in the pursuit of our daily bread (Matthew 4:3); through offers of worldly fame and influences (Matthew 4:6); and through suggestions for Christians to go into reckless contests with unbelievers for personal recognition that does not honour God (Matthew 4:6). Jesus, the Word personified, wielded the Sword of the Spirit or the Word effectively to defeat Satan (John 1:1,14; Ephesians 6:17).

Since believers engage in perpetual spiritual warfare with the devil, we must arm ourselves with the Word of God to always overcome him. We must allow the Holy Spirit to teach and guide us in the appropriate application of the Word to be able to say “it is written” more forcefully than Satan. Regular intake and internalization of the Word is key to overcoming satanic onslaught in life and ministry. The Word carries eternal power of the Godhead that Satan cannot withstand. Where the word of a king is (in your heart, life, home, church), there is power.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 CORINTHIANS 10 - 13

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The Word works!

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TOPIC: Peace From God

Wednesday, March 04, 2015
TEXT: PSALM 4:1-8

Key Verse: “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:.

The reign of King Henry IV of England (1367–1413) was an uneasy one. Having usurped the crown, he applied murderous means to consolidate his hold on power. He won his battles but lost his peace. Sweet sleep fled from him. While his poor subjects went to bed in slums, Henry in “Kingly Couch”, was denied repose.

If this King had taken his case to God, he would have learnt the secret of sweet sleep from David, the monarch of Israel. King David was a psalmist who rested in God his Creator each time he was in distress. Trouble seemed to be his companion all his days; his life was always on the line. But he was wise to always run to God for deliverance. He was never disappointed each time he went to God for help. His testimony and confidence was, “I will both lay me down in peace and sleep: for thou, LORD, only maketh me dwell in safety.” The Lord did more for him. In verse 7, he says that while his adversaries were feasting on false joy, the God he trusted “put gladness in my heart more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.”

Why did David enjoy such manifold blessings? Why do those who believe in Jesus Christ today have the “peace that passeth all understanding”? It is simply because the God of peace is faithful to His promises.

God’s promises are very clear and understandable. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength” (Isaiah 26:3,4).

Peace is not free; it comes at a cost. Christ has paid the price for our peace.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 1 - 2

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Worldly peace is elusive; heavenly peace is eternal and attainable

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TOPIC: “If Ye Be Willing …”

"Thursday, March 05, 2015"

*TEXT: ISAIAH 1:16-31*

*"Key Verse: “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land” (Isaiah 1:19)."*
There is only one God. Today’s text  reveals this truth. The one and only God who is Almighty says, “if ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat the good of the land”. Being a God of justice, he balances it up by declaring that, “if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be destroyed with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it”.
This, along with numerous other statements made by God in the Bible, undermine the doctrine of eternal security. It is false to say that once you are saved, you are saved forever, even if you backslide and live in sin. This statement is not supported by Scripture. The security of the believer is conditional. The words “if” and “but” obviously indicate the condition attached to the sustenance of salvation and the possibility of being lost through disobedience, carelessness and negligence.
The heaven-bound Christian who has been saved by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ must be on his guard daily so that doctrinal error that would return him to worldly cravings does not creep into his life and service. Only a thin line exists between the two; crossing it can be effortless and imperceptive.
Korah, Dathan, Abiram, the young prophet , Ananias and Sapphira, Judas Iscariot and Demas were all saved at a time, but they were remiss with what they had and lost out of the heavenly race.
To avoid a similar fate, the genuine believer must be prayerful, consistent in holiness, mindful of Scripture warnings, committed in soul-winning efforts, willing to help the saints, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, succour the widow, among others.
Believers must abide in the Lord and continually avail themselves of the means of grace and spiritual renewal to avoid compromise that can lead to loss of salvation.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 3 - 4*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Obedience is the way to God’s heart."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: This is Your Day!

Friday, March 06, 2015
TEXT: LUKE 4:1-22

Key Verse: “And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son?” (Luke 4:22).

Today may have started for you like every other day. There may not be any sign suggesting that you are about to have any promise of Scripture fulfilled in your life today. One truth that will calm your nerves is this, that “God is a Spirit” (John 4:24). You do not see Him but He is working for your good.

For many years, the children of Israel had read the prophecies concerning the advent of the Messiah in the book of Isaiah and many other prophets. Many had eagerly looked forward to witnessing the fulfilment of it. For many, it appeared that the promise existed only on the pages of Scriptures and might not translate into a real experience.

In the text today however, the age-long promise became fulfilled before their very eyes! The Messiah that was long expected suddenly appeared in their temple.

The Scripture cannot be broken! Everything that God has ever spoken will certainly come to pass. Heaven and earth shall pass away but a jot of God’s word will not pass unfulfilled. What is that promise that you have been holding on to? When you read that promise, does it still appear real to you? Do not lose your faith and hope of its fulfilment because God is able to accomplish whatever He has promised to do.

Apart from the unfailing assurance of the fulfilment of God’s promise in your life, we need to be reminded that the prophecy of Christ’s second coming will soon be fulfilled. Whatever is your pursuit, possession and concern in life should not shift your mind from believing and expecting the coming of the Lord.

To be ready for His coming, you need to make personal preparations. Repentance and restitution, holy living and soul-winning, watchfulness and prayer, among others are essential to making rapture when the Lord returns to take His people to His abode in heaven.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 5 - 6

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The Scriptures cannot be broken!

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Thanks 4 2days msg.

mum2bsoon:
Thanks 4 2days msg.

you are welcome sir/ma ...Its ABC.. Accept Believe and Confirm it.
God bless you

TOPIC: A Sober Reflection

"Saturday, March 07, 2015"

*TEXT: HAGGAI 1:1-15*

**"Key Verse: “Therefore the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit. And I called for a drought upon the land, and upon the mountains, and upon the corn, and upon the new wine, and upon the oil, and upon that which the ground bringeth forth, and upon men, and upon cattle, and upon all the labour of the hands” (Haggai 1:10,11)."**

When something bad happens, we  often look for someone to blame. But when natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, tidal waves, mudslides, droughts and lightning strikes occur we shift the blame on God. Incidentally, the insurance companies call them “acts of God.” The question most often asked after a disaster is, if God loves people, why does He wipe them out? Why would God allow famines like the one in our text?
The fault is not God’s; it is entirely ours. Sin prepares the way for disasters to occur. The remnant of the children of Israel that newly returned from Babylon started off with a great corporate vision of building the temple for the glory of God. But as soon as they achieved a little success, they quickly lost their focus. Sixteen years had passed and nothing had happened. Not so much as even a stone had been set for the temple. They had become so focused on their own personal needs and desires that they completely forgot what God required of them. Consequently, the nation experienced mysterious and continuous food shortages. In spite of their efforts in agriculture, they sowed much but brought in little.
For Israel, it was a time of looking back to reconsider their ways. As we reflect on our past, we will discover that we have failed the Almighty; we will discover that we have worked hard to plant our crops and tend our businesses, to be able to provide food, shelter and clothing for our families but have little or nothing to show for it. This is the time for us to arise and do the work of God.
As the Jews were commanded by God through Haggai the prophet, you need to completely give your life over to doing the work of God. And by so doing, you will begin to experience His abundant blessings upon your life.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 7 - 9*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Don’t hold God responsible for human catastrophes."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: Obey God Rather Than Men

"Sunday, March 08, 2015"

*TEXT: EXODUS 1:15-22*

*"Key Verse: “But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive” (Exodus 1:17)."*
Our text clearly shows that Satan can use anybody and anything to frustrate the plan of God. King Pharaoh of Egypt, who became a wiling instrument in Satan’s hands, had a cruel plan to destroy the children of Israel. He was apparently afraid of the growing number of the Israelites and wanted to checkmate them. One day, he called the Hebrew midwives and instructed them to kill all the Hebrew male children at birth. Were these Hebrew midwives not afraid of God, this order would have been obeyed to the letter. God knew this situation would arise and, therefore, positioned these midwives, who feared Him more than they feared Pharaoh.
When the king of Egypt noticed that the midwives did not obey his command, he called and queried them. The midwives probably thought he would put them to death for disobeying him, but they were not disturbed as they had already chosen to obey God, no matter the circumstances. For their obedience, God blessed them. Pharaoh, getting more frustrated, issued another proclamation to all his people that “every son that is born ye shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive.” He thought this would quickly get rid of the Jews, but God intervened. “Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?”
Satan is always fearful of Christians who make progress in the things of God. He fears that such fervent Christians will snatch many souls from him through evangelism into the kingdom of God. So, he will try to resist by using any means and anybody who is willing to run errand for him against faithful believers. The assurance we have is, God, who positioned the Hebrew midwives to thwart the wicked plot of Pharaoh will definitely position His angels and helpers around His children. So, do not fear those who can only kill the body and not the soul. Fear God who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 10 - 12*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Fear God and obey Him. "*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: A Vision Of Glory

"Monday, March 09, 2015"

*TEXT: ACTS 7:54-56*

*"Key Verse: “And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56)."*
It is better to incur the world’s hatred by testifying against its wickedness than gain its goodwill by going down the stream with it. We can see here the strength of corruption in the persecutors of Stephen. On this scene, men who became incarnate devils were ready to kill.
Stephen testified boldly of Christ before the Sanhedrin, condemning their crucifixion of Him whom God approves. This led to his becoming the first martyr of the Christian church. Here was an instance of the outrage and fury of the persecutors and of the courage and comfort of the persecuted.
He knew his speech would enrage the council. Since he expected no prospect of justice at their hands, he fixed his eyes intently on heaven and sought justification from God. When they were cut to the heart and gnashed upon him with their teeth, ready to kill him, he received a revelation of the glory of Christ. The heavens opened to give him a view of the happiness ahead. God is always with His people in times of hardship, persecution and danger.
We need to depend upon God always. This will help us to fix our gaze on Him while we give appropriate, Spirit-backed answers to everyone who enquires about the reason of the faith of Jesus Christ that we uphold. Compromise during persecution rob believers of the necessary revelation(s) God would have granted to soothe their pain. When men threaten us, we should learn to fix our eyes on Christ the Author and Finisher of our faith.
Stephen served the same God we serve. And He is unchanging. If He saw Stephen through, He will see us through trials. Understand however that God has not appointed every believer to be a martyr; so, you may not die like Stephen. But the ultimate is to make it to heaven irrespective of the opposition and persecution we may suffer in life. His grace will be sufficient for everyone of us in Jesus’ name.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 13 - 14*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Heaven is the sure abode of the triumphant."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
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TOPIC: An Incredible Transformation

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

TEXT: 2 CHRONICLES 12:1-15

Key Verse: “These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks; and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east, and toward the west” (1 Chronicles 12:15).

Sabine Barring-Gould, a pastor in Yorkshire, decided to compose a marching song for children in his Sunday School during a holiday celebration. As the children marched along the dusty road of Yorkshire with their wooden crosses and banners, they sang: “Onward Christian soldiers, Marching as to war, Looking unto Jesus, Who is gone before; Christ, the royal Master, Leads against the foe; Forward into battle, See his banners go”.

Hardly would Barring-Gould and his little “soldiers” have imagined that their marching song, would become one of the sacred hymns of Christians.

The men that defected to David while he was in exile in Ziklag could not be described as professional soldiers, but a 400 ragtag militia comprising the distressed, indebted and discontented people (1 Samuel 22:2). This bunch of “irresponsible” citizens later became the invincible and unconquerable army that God used to do exploits.

The fewness of members of David’s militia reminds of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. Jesus Christ reformed and revolutionized the lives of a handful of people considered to be unlearned, publicans, and winebibbers. These people, anointed with the Holy Spirit of God, turned their world up-side-down with the gospel. The expansion of the kingdom of God continues, and the recruitment into His army is in progress. God is able to transform you from a weak and trembling soul into a strong and intrepid instrument if you surrender unreservedly to Him.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 15 - 18

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Be a soldier for Christ.

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TOPIC: God: Our Defender

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

TEXT: PSALM 48:1-14

Key Verse: “For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death” (Psalm 48:14).

Alan Redpath, evangelist, pastor and a British author, said: “Any battle for victory, power, and deliverance – from ourselves and from sin – which is not based constantly upon the gazing and the beholding of the Lord Jesus, with the heart and life lifted up to Him, is doomed to failure.”

Our text, which is the psalmist’s triumphant song, captures God’s merciful acts of defending His children. Though the psalmist did not pinpoint the exact battle the Lord helped them to conquer, he ascribed the victory to the assistance and enablement they received from God. The passage notes that when the kings of the neighbouring nations attacked Jerusalem, God kept the city and the people that were in it safe. Those kings were frightened by what they saw and they fled.

Apart from explaining what God did and what He could do, the psalmist equally reveals that God, who was delighted in Jerusalem, made effectual provision for its safety because of His perpetual covenant with the children of Zion.

God has placed a high premium on you. Thus, He has concluded that “he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of His eye.” As those kings got frightened and fled, God will cause your enemies to flee from you. Do not fear; only believe, obey and love Him because “when the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.”

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 19 - 21

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God knows how to overcome all your enemies.

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TOPIC: Don’t Get Over-Familiar

Thursday, March 12, 2015

TEXT: LUKE 4:23-32

Key Verse: “And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son?” (Luke 4:22).

People in Christ’s country home couldn’t benefit much from His ministry because of familiarity with His person. They knew so much about Him and His family background that they made the greatest mistake of their lives by looking down on Him and His ministry. While great miracles took place in other places where Jesus went and many lives were saved and transformed, His own people couldn’t benefit much from Him. How damaging over - familiarity can be! However, Jesus did not allow their attitude to affect His ministry.

We do ourselves a lot of harm when we tend to become too familiar with our pastors and leaders that we now look down on them. Our pastors and leaders are humans and not angels. If we, because of what we know about them, their family challenges and personal weaknesses which may not be sin, despise them, we will lose the benefits we ought to derive from them. The Scriptures admonish us to hold them in high esteem and count them worthy of double honour because they minister to us the word of God. We must not engage in uncharitable comments about them nor criticize them harshly. One of the greatest honours we can give to our ministers is to carefully listen to the word of God they teach us and obey.

Ministers too must be careful that they do not conduct themselves in ways that would be demeaning to their calling and ministry. They must equally hold themselves in high esteem and avoid unnecessary familiarity with the people they lead that may make them lose their respect. While Jesus mingled and lived with the people and disciples, He still maintained a life of dignity and honour that commanded the respect of others. Check how you live and conduct yourself with the people you lead. Don’t allow over-familiarity to rubbish your life and ministry.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 22 - 24

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Keep the boundaries of respect and honour for God’s servants.

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TOPIC: Reign Of Peace

Friday, March 13, 2015

TEXT: ISAIAH 2:1-9 Key Verse: “And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Isaiah 2:4).

If God cannot lie and if it is easier for heaven and earth to pass than one tittle of the law (prophecy) to fail (Numbers 23:19; Romans 3:4; Luke 16:7), then believers need not worry when they receive news about global upheavals, insurrections, violence and war. They should seek succour and hope in Scripture prophecy that the time is approaching when these same weapons of mass destruction being used to wreak havoc, kill, maim and desecrate sacred lives will be converted into tools for productive agricultural enterprise (Isaiah 2:4). Governments all over the world try hard to live up to expectation by ensuring there is peace in the society. The League of Nations and its successor, the United Nations also try hard to ensure people live in peace on earth. All their efforts are good but have not achieved lasting peace. Sin, idol worship, worldliness and rejection of God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ all stand in the way of peace. Curiously, proponents of peace also embrace these obstacles to peace. It is obvious peace can only come through Jesus Christ. The urgent need now is for humanity to “go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he (God) will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word from the LORD from Jerusalem” (Isaiah 2:3). This is the kingdom of God Jesus commands us to pray for in Matthew 6:10. Believers must not adopt a defeatist stance in the wake of tidings of wars and disturbances. We should understand that they happen in fulfillment of prophecy. More than that, we should pray to receive the fulfillment of the peace and rest promised those who follow and serve Jesus Christ. BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 25 - 27

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Citizenship of Christ’s kingdom of peace is open to all people. Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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TOPIC: Illuminating The World

Saturday, March 14, 2015

TEXT: NUMBERS 8:1-4

Key Verse: “And Aaron did so; he lighted the lamps thereof over against the candlestick, as the LORD commanded Moses” (Numbers 8:3).

Today’s reading precedes the Lord’s commandment to Moses, His servant, to separate the Levites for special service to Him. The four verses come before those that describe the purification and consecration of the Levites who were appointed to help the priests in the ministry of worship.

This unique call symbolizes the godly separation that ought to characterize the life of a true believer in Christ. People called out of sin must live holy life that reflect the new nature after their encounter with the Lord.

Before service in the Lord’s vineyard, the born-again Christian must renounce his or her old works of darkness. He must identify with Christ, the Light and use his new calling to spread the light all over the world. That is the import of God’s directive: “when thou lightest the lamps the seven lamps shall give light over against the candlestick” (verse 2).

To receive and fulfil this great responsibility as a light-bearer in this dark world, the follower of Christ must trust and obey His commands. The Bible tells us that Aaron did exactly as God charged him concerning the lighting of the lamps and candlesticks. “And Aaron did so” (verse 3). “According unto the pattern which the Lord had showed Moses, so he made the candlesticks” (verse 4).

Faith, obedience, submission and consecration are required in God’s service. The book of Numbers was written to show us the grave consequences of rebellion, unbelief and disobedience; that if unbelief, murmuring and rebellion prevented the old generation of Israelites from making it to the Promised Land, today’s Christians should flee those evils in order to make heaven. “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition...” (1 Corinthians 10:11).

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 28 - 30

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Be a light bearer, not an extinguisher.

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TOPIC: Rewards Beyond Imagination

Sunday, March 15, 2015

TEXT: REVELATIONS 14:1-5

Key Verse: “These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb” (Revelation 14:4).

King David of ancient Israel was a wise man who did not allow the culture of pomp and power of the throne to befuddle his mind. He did not permit the magnificence of office to prevent him from thinking about the eternal future. He offered precious time to deliberate on weighty questions about eternity and where he would spend it.

The king desired to be on God’s side, after earnestly concluding that earthly glory and wealth would not be of any value after death. So, he posed the all-time questions: “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” (Psalm 15:1). “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in his holy place?” (Psalm 24:3).

In both cases the answer is that only “he that walketh uprightly”, “that hath clean hands and a pure heart, who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully… he shall receive the blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation”.

In Revelation 14:1-5, the Bible presents some of those that “hath clean hands and a pure heart” who would abide in heaven. They were not “defiled with women… for they are virgins.” It simply means those that shun sin and refuse to be part of the corrupt world system. They are fully consecrated to holiness and love God. They do not subscribe to the spirit of the Antichrist. They daily look up to the coming of Christ, their Lord.

God is preparing to reward righteous people with eternal habitation in His Kingdom. The redeemed will sing a new song with angels around the throne of God where Christ is seated on His right hand in heaven. The name of the heavenly Father will be written on their foreheads. What a glorious experience. Will you be there?

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 31 - 32

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Heaven is reserved for holy people.

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TOPIC: Eat And Die

Monday, March 16, 2015

TEXT: GENESIS 3:1-13

Key Verse: “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:4,5).

A writer observed that if the modern scientific man were to be Adam, he would not have waited for the serpent’s suggestion: he would have gone straight for the forbidden fruit immediately after God gave the instruction and warning against eating it and turned His back. The reason is, contempt of God and His cause in the world is increasingly staggering.

Adam’s fall was the outcome of disobedience and unbelief in what God told him about the “tree of the knowledge of good and evil”. The instruction was clear that: “...of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden... Thou shall not eat of it”. God warned, “for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shall surely die” (Genesis 2:17). The modern man would have rushed to pluck and take the fruit to the laboratory to verify the toxic content. That is because the natural man depends and operates by his reasoning faculty.

So, when Satan came with some assumptions that appeared reasonable with promise of some social benefits that they would not die but “be as gods”, they embraced it. The strategy of the devil and those who have followed him since Eden has always been to destroy the Christian faith and commitment by introducing doubt about the Word of God through false and misleading assumptions and doctrines. He knows that “without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6).

We are connected to God by faith in His Word. We receive forgiveness, benefits of salvation, assurance of eternity in heaven and all other blessings from God by faith. God does not expect us to listen to any other teaching as Adam and Eve did because it will destroy our faith in Him. The word of God should be sufficient for us who are heaven-bound Christian.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 33 - 35

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God’s word is nutritious.

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TOPIC: Reward That Cannot Be Denied

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

TEXT: 2 SAMUEL 2:1-7

Key Verse: “So David went up thither, and his two wives also, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail Nabal’s wife the Carmelite. And his men that were with him did David bring up, every man with his household: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron” (2 Samuel 2:2,3).

The world is surely a hard road to travel. No wonder the godless are easily swamped and defeated. It’s not so with the godly however, who triumphs over waves of intimidating odds to clinch ultimate victory.

In our text, David received divine authorization to go to Hebron where he was later anointed king over the tribe of Judah, an event that seemed to foretell his coming reign over the whole land of Israel. David, in exile, settled in the cities of Hebron, a land well-watered and renowned for its exquisite green pastures, vines, grains, honey and fruits. It was one of the choicest regions of Canaan. “Eyes hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him” (2 Corinthians 2:9).

David also never forgot to commend the kindness of the people of Jabeshgilead in giving the body of the slain king Saul a proper burial. David’s sense of appreciation is exemplary, even as his reward giving disposition should excite our hope in the promise of eternal reward which Christ has left for those who serve Him faithfully to the end.

No doubt, there are trials, temptations, rejection, persecution and pains that come with living for Christ. Yet, we must serve Him in spite of the odds we may face, following the footsteps of our Lord who was also rejected and despised by kings and rulers of the world. When He returns as King of kings and Lord of lords, He will richly reward us for all we have done for Him, as He promised. “Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me” (Luke 22:28,29).

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 36 - 38

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: A resilient spirit triumphs in the end.

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TOPIC: Flattery Entraps

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

TEXT: LUKE 4:33-44

Key Verse: “And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ” (Luke 4:41).

There are many ways the enemies engage in battle. But the most subtle and deadly is when the foe suddenly becomes a friend and praise singer of his target. The people who often fall prey are those who love the praise of men and want people to massage their egos.

When the devils realized they were no match to the great power and authority of the Lord Jesus in the text, they tried to use the weapon of flattery. They probably must have thought that the Lord would be impressed by their open and public testimony of who He is. But Jesus cannot be bought by this. He rebuked them and cast them out. He was not interested in their cheap and unsolicited publicity. He knew who He was and what His ministry was and so does not need the devil to tell Him that. Not only did He reject the testimonies of the devil, He also did not allow the success of His ministry in one place to make Him lose focus of the bigger and larger picture of His mandate. This was why He had to withdraw to the desert after such a powerful and successful campaign. And when the people came to persuade Him to remain with them, He told them His mandate; “…I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent” (verse 43).

Those who love the praise of men and desire to be known will easily fall for the flatteries of the enemy and lose focus of their calling to win souls. But those who are discerning will discard cheap publicity and continue to win souls. We must follow Christ closely and learn from Him if we want to make a success of our lives and ministry. The breakthrough and success of a moment must not make us lose sight of the bigger picture and vision. We must constantly keep the vision before us and keep pushing forward until we have made full prove of our ministry.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 39 - 42

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Flattery inflates self but deflates virtue.

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TOPIC: Praying And Looking Up

"Thursday, March 19, 2015"

*TEXT: PSALM 5:1-7*
*"Key Verse: “My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up” (Psalm 5:3)."
When an athlete at a school’s sport programme crossed the finish line just ahead of his closest rival, a spectator observed that the winner’s lips were moving through the last couple of laps. He went to find out what the sportsman was saying. “I was praying,” he said. “I was saying pick (my legs)... up, Lord and I’ll put them down.” The man prayed for God’s help and followed up with faith in God for answered prayer.
That was what the Psalmist, David, did in today’s reading. David persisted in prayer with confidence that God would hear him. He determined that he would not live without prayer. Next, he decided that he would offer quality time to God in prayer. If we figure our lives around God, morning prayers will be the natural thing to do. The dawning of each day calls for a fresh start and renewed dedication to God, fellowship with Him and feeding on His word (Psalm 119:147).
Prayer is a two-way affair. When a believer in Christ prays according to the will of God in the name of Jesus, God expects him to exercise faith by “looking up” to receive. God will always play His part by granting our request but requires us to first pray and thereafter obtain the answers through faith.
This relationship however is not for the unsaved. “The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: Thou hatest all workers of iniquities” (verse 5). A beneficial communication with God can only take place when you repent of sin and invite Jesus Christ, the Son of God to come into your life. There is also need to fully dedicate yourself to living for, loving and serving God. Though the initial experience of knowing God is instantaneous, a lifelong fruitful relationship continues as you abide in His word, righteousness and fellowship with His people till the end.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 43 - 45*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God still answers prayers of His children."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: What A Fall!

"Friday, March 20, 2015"

*TEXT: ISAIAH 2:10-22*

*"Key Verse: “Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty” (Isaiah 2:10)."*
Once, a millionaire attended aparty and found himself in the midst of a group of people discussing the subject of prayer. He told them that he did not have to pray to God for anything. “Prayer maybe all right for you,” he said, “but I don’t need it. I worked hard for everything I have. I didn’t ask God for anything!”. Then a university president responded: “Sir, there is one thing you don’t have that you might pray for.” “And what might that be?” asked the man. The educationist replied: “You could pray for humility”.
A grave consequence of human pride since the fall in Eden is that man has separated himself from his Creator, exalting himself in false glory that leads to destruction. Like the millionaire, the entire humanity has lived in the erroneous belief that man does not need God, that we can direct our affairs without God’s guidance. But according to Isaiah, a time of judgment is coming when the haughty men would be brought down. The immediate fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy was the devastation of the individuals and the land they populated. Now there is a larger prophetic perspective: “The day of the LORD” (Isaiah 2:12). At that time, God will hurl down all evil in the earth (Joel 2:31; 1 Thessalonians 5:2; Revelation 4-19).
The present evil system that glorifies pride and rebellion against God’s law of righteousness, holiness and humility shall be destroyed along with those who practise and support them. Only those who meekly submit to obtain the salvation of God through Jesus Christ will be saved from the “wrath to come”.
The wise who do not want to suffer in eternity will “cease from man” (Isaiah 2:22) and his spiritually unprofitable ways and “enter into the rock” (Isaiah 2:10). Jesus Christ is the Rock.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 46 - 48*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God rejects the haughty but gives grace to the humble."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: The Unexpected Challenge

"Saturday, March 21, 2015"

*TEXT: JOHN 2:1,2*

*"Key Verse: “And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage” (John 2:2)."*
We have here the story of Christ’s miraculous turning of water into wine at a marriage in Cana of Galilee. The honour Christ puts on the ordinance of marriage, not only with His presence but with His first miracle, shows the importance of marriage.
Jesus was a principal Guest at this occasion. It is very desirable, when there is a marriage, to have Christ’s presence. That means that we must invite Him through prayer and faith.
The invitation of Christ and His disciples to this marriage is a clear indication of the fact that Jesus cannot come into any life except He is invited. The reason is, He never forces Himself upon anyone.
The provision at the marriage was much but not sufficient. It was eventually exhausted. You need to invite Him if you realise that the wine of your marriage is getting exhausted with the attendant frequent quarrels and lack of love in your family? He has power over all the forces of evil and darkness that threaten marriages. If we expect Christ’s favour, we must establish a relationship with Him and obey His commands.
Christ does not break in forcefully into people’s life and homes. He said, “Behold I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me” (Revelation 3:20). If you make up your mind to invite Him into your troubled life and family, He will be faithful to His promise and come in.
What a privilege to have Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords in you and your family. And when He comes, tell Him all your needs and you are sure the miracle will be there. So, invite the Lord Jesus as your personal Saviour and Lord. He has the capacity to lift you up when you come to your wits’ end.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 49 - 50*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Christ is the solution to every problem."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: Action Of Faith

"Sunday, March 22, 2015"

*TEXT: EXODUS 2:1-10*

*"Key Verse: “And when she could not longer hide him, she took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime and with pitch, and put the child therein; and she laid it in the flags by the river’s brink” (Exodus 2:3)."*
The birth of people who make history is generally not often heralded by a tumultuous welcome. In some instances though, there might be some merrymaking and dancing that a child is born. The pomp and mirth heralding the birth of a child does not always determine the type of life he will lead or his achievements in life.
Baby Moses, at birth, was received with mixed feelings of joy and trepidation. Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, had given orders that male Hebrew children should no longer be allowed to live. By divine intervention, his mother took the risk of preserving him till the baby was finally picked-up and adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter.
Miriam, Moses’ elder sister was readily available to satisfy Pharaoh’s daughter’s quest for a nanny to nurse the baby. She was not afraid to approach the Egyptian princess. And so Moses began, in his true mother’s bosom, his early life in the tradition and beliefs of God’s people before he was brought to Pharaoh’s house.
From the fearless and courageous conduct of Miriam, we should learn to take advantage of God-given opportunities. We should not let fear cause us to miss great opportunities in ministry and our daily life. The almighty God will gladly bring us out of our ‘bulrushes’ even when prevailing circumstances seem impossible, dark and dreary.
God has a desirable destiny in mind for everyone. Salvation through Christ and abiding in Him will bring the full manifestation of that glorious destiny. If you will fully trust God, you will fulfil that destiny, the fearsome challenges of the enemy notwithstanding.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: JEREMIAH 51 - 52*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Be wise to utilize every opportunity."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: Cleansing For Service

Monday, March 23, 2015

TEXT: NUMBERS 8:5-19

Key Verse: “And thus shalt thou do unto them, to cleanse them: Sprinkle water of purifying upon them, and let them shave all their flesh, and let them wash their clothes, and so make themselves clean” (Numbers 8:7).

A through the process of lightingfter putting Moses and Aaron the lamps on the altar, God instructed that they separate the Levites for exclusive service in worship and administration. There had been an external act of putting off darkness by the illumination of the lights. In God’s plan of action, there should also be a follow-up: purification of the vessels for service. There must be the cleansing and separation of the Levites to ensure outward and inward holiness.

It is this total holiness that makes service acceptable to God. You cannot worship God or offer gift to Him in unclean state. You cannot give him blemished offering. Nor can you serve Him in a polluted place. He is holy and He demands holiness all around Him. He demands absolute separation from anything that corrupts.

Numbers 8:7 is unmistakably clear about this: “And thus shall thou do unto them (Levites): sprinkle water of purifying upon them and let them shave all their flesh, and let them wash their clothes, and so make themselves clean.”

Obviously, this foreshadows what Jesus our paschal Lamb came to do for the sinner who repents and asks for pardon. Jesus came to this world several centuries after the separation of the Levites. He came to call us out of the world of darkness and sin. He shed His blood at Calvary to wash us from our sin, prepare us for work in the Lord’s vineyard and take us to the mansions He has gone to prepare for us in heaven.

He demands total commitment, obedience and submission to His doctrine as we shun the world with all its false teachings and practices. Only those who do so will be considered fit for Kingdom service and qualify to enjoy a blissful eternity with God, Christ and all the saints.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: MARK 1 - 3

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Unholy life desecrates God’s altar.

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TOPIC: Success In Evangelism

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

TEXT: MATTHEW 4:1-22

Key Verse: “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17).

In very rapid succession, quite a lot of events take place after the defeat of Satan by our Lord Jesus Christ during the temptation in the wilderness. First, He hears about the imprisonment of John the Baptist. Then, there is the fulfilment of the prophecy in Isaiah 9:1,2 which spoke about Jesus being the Light that would bring succour to a people under the “shadow of death”.

Next the Bible reveals that “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Then the Lord walked by the sea of Galilee where He won the souls of two brothers Simon Peter and Andrew who “Straightway left their nets and followed Him” (verse 20). More evangelism work was to follow as Jesus preached to other fishermen, James and John, the sons of Zebedee. They too “immediately left the ship and their father and followed Him” (verse 22).

These strings of success came after Christ overcame the devil during His temptations. It’s obvious the Christian’s chief foe in evangelism is Satan. And we can overcome him by holy living, faithfulness and obedience to God’s word.

We must be alert to the manifold tricks of the devil as we heed the Lord’s call to evangelize. The accuser of the brethren will seek to throw impediments on our way through seemingly harmless temptations. As he did to our Lord, he will allude to the Scriptures to back his claims. He may sometimes use false brethren and unsuspecting relations and members of the church. We must “be sober and vigilant” putting on “the whole armour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11).

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: MARK 4 - 6

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Only overcomers are fruitful in soul-winning.

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TOPIC: No Help Elsewhere

"Wednesday, March 25, 2015"

*TEXT: PSALM 5:8-12*

*"Key Verse: “But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee” (Psalm 5:11)."*
When a woman came out of the concentration camp in Germany where she experienced some unimaginable acts of wickedness after the Second World War, she concluded: “If you look at the world, you’ll be distressed. If you look within (yourself), you’ll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you’ll be at rest.”
It has been so in all history: man has faltered in error and sin as he rebels against God’s laws and inflicts havoc on nature and fellow human beings. Man has broken away from his Creator and he is now trapped in his own destructive snare, for according to the psalmist, “There is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue” (verse 9).
But man can escape the danger that this route of perdition leads to. He can go the way of King David in verse 8 by asking the Lord to lead him in His righteousness. If he surrenders to the Lord, he will no longer trust himself and the world. He will not idolise the system of this perishing world. For answers to the challenges of life and the pressures beckoning him to sin, he will look up to Jesus the Author and Finisher of the believer’s faith. When he has Christ, he will not follow the multitude to sin.
This is the only way for man to receive God’s mercy. In this age of uncertainties thrown up by different shades of apostasy and godlessness, the wise person would watch his ways and keep his steps from the world and look up to God and His laws only.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: MARK 7 - 10*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Help outside God is passport to perdition."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: As It Was Then

Thursday, March 26, 2015

TEXT: ISAIAH 3:1-12

Key Verse: “Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings” (Isaiah 3:10).

The display of depravity and outright rebellion against God in Jerusalem as depicted by Isaiah in the text is not different from what we are experiencing in our time today. We have injustice, oppression, violence, disrespect to parents, immorality, and total rejection of God’s ways and laws.

We are reliving the days of Sodom and Gomorrah all over again. The marriage bed is not only being defiled, divorce is also becoming the rule rather than the exception. Worse still, “women did change the natural use into that which is against nature. And ...men leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one towards another, men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet” (Romans 1:26,27).

In the days of Isaiah, society was disintegrating as the people suffered because they had rejected God and instituted their own rules of engagement which did not reckon with the prescription handed to them by the prophet of God. Like lost sheep with an uncaring shepherd, all the people and their leaders headed for the same direction that led to perdition. God was not happy with them and He took “Away from Jerusalem and from Judah the stay and staff, the whole stay of bread and the whole stay of water.” Judgment came in the form of famine and loss of good leadership.

But for those who remained faithful to God in the midst of all this backsliding and immoral behaviour, the Lord says “it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings” (Isaiah 3:10).

To the wicked however, God says there will be judgment (Isaiah 3:11). This can only be averted if the sinner repents of his ways and accepts Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: MARK 11 - 13

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Righteousness empowers you to enjoy divine blessings

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TOPIC: A Channel Of Blessing

"Friday, March 27, 2015"*

TEXT: JOHN 2:3-13*

*"Key Verse: “And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine” (John 2:1,3)."*
There are people who never show concern when other people are in pain or in trouble. They go about their own businesses when they should make suggestions or help in other areas that can lift the burden off the shoulders of those in trouble.
Our Lord Jesus encourages believers to be their brother’s keeper. In the parable of the good Samaritan, Jesus had given a perfect illustration of what His true children should be doing in a world full of oppression and troubles. Believers are to make sacrifice for the good of fellow men. In the text, the mother of Jesus was invited to a marriage ceremony on her own merit. Jesus and His disciples were also invited. Mary was not frivolous and chatty in the company of other guests that she did not notice the pain on the faces of the celebrants over a sudden lack. But her close observation revealed to her that all was not well. She stepped into the matter at the nick of time.
There are many lessons from her attitude at the event. We must honour invitations where Christ is glorified. Mary knew that with Christ in attendance, the wedding would be grand. We must be a channel of blessing at all times. Mary pointed the celebrants and guests to her Son who was, and is, capable of saving them the embarrassment. We must also point people to Jesus who alone is able to save their souls, restore their broken marriages, provide for them and solve all problems of life. Again, after telling Jesus about the need of the moment, Mary knew the matter had been resolved without doubt in her mind. Out of this conviction, she instructed the servants “whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.”
Mary’s timely information to Jesus which resulted in quick intervention that saved the day is a lesson for all believers. We must always bear the message of hope about Jesus to those in dire need so as to secure divine intervention.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: MARK 14 - 16*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: A glorious life is one that is a channel of blessing to others."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: Peaceful Co-existence, Please

"Saturday, March 28, 2015"

*TEXT: EXODUS 2:11-22*

*"Key Verse: “And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow?” (Exodus 2:13)."*
The world we live in is replete with discord, disunity and confusion. The beauty of the kingdom of God lies in true fellowship, love and unity which bind all saints together. What the world lacks can be found in the Kingdom.
Today’s text reveals the picture of two Hebrew men who were supposed to be bonded together because they had many things in common. They both shared the same lineage as descendants of Abraham. Unfortunately, they were fighting, forgetting that they were brethren.
From the passage, the fellow who was wrong quarrelled with Moses who came to make peace. It is clearly a sign of guilt to be angry at reproof. Men know not what they do, nor what enemies they are to themselves, when they resist and despise sincere reproof and those who reproof them.
Living peaceably with one another is a major and cardinal pillar in Christendom. The Christian faith is established on the pillar of the unity of the Triune God (1 John 5:7). Man is made to live in harmony with others. Any attempt to work contrary to this divine order will lead to confusion and anarchy. We must endeavour to live with one another peaceably with understanding and love.
Fellowship with one another is an evidence of walking in the light. “But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sins” (1 John 1:7). The Lord expects us to live together in unity as brotherly love continues. The power and glory of God will abide with us as individuals and the church when we remain united and bonded together.
*BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: NEHEMIAH 1 - 4*
*"THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Unity of saints proves and preaches Christ’s love."*
*Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/
*
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TOPIC: Divine Reversals

Sunday, March 29, 2015

TEXT: ESTHER 9:1-11

Key Verse: “Now in the twelfth month, that is, the month Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the king’s commandment and his decree drew near to be put in execution, in the day that the enemies of the Jews hoped to have power over them, (though it was turned to the contrary, that the Jews had rule over them that hated them)” (Esther 9:1).

The Supreme Court is the highest court in a country. Its decision on any matter is final and sets precedent for the lower courts. There are some cases where the Supreme Court overrules itself. Such may happen when another case involving the same constitutional issue as a previous one is reconsidered by the court and seen in a new light either because of changes caused by passage of time or other compelling situations.

At the time of Ahasuerus, king of Persia, the laws of the Medes and Persians were as weighty as the decisions of the Supreme Court and were, indeed, irrevocable. Haman, one of Ahasuerus topmost officials had wickedly and craftily got the king to sign a decree that would authorize the killing of all the Jews in the king’s domain. Haman’s plot was based on the refusal of Mordecai (a Jew) to bow to him. The genocide was scheduled to take place on the 13th day of the 12th month. Before that day, God, in His great providence, caused a reversal of the decree. The irrevocable law of Medes and Persia was revoked. Fear shifted from the Jews to their enemies.

Through Queen Esther’s elaborate arrangement plus the prayer and fasting of the Jews, the king discovered the wicked plot of Haman and ordered his summary execution in the same gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai’s execution. King Ahasuerus also signed a counter decree empowering the Jews to kill their enemies on an appointed date. Till date, the Jews commemorate this event (Purim) annually.

If you are a believer, be rest assured that, “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD...” (Isaiah 54:17). Ours is now a spiritual battle against Satan and his cohorts. God whom we serve is greater than all these evil hosts; He still reverses evil decrees in favour of those that love Him.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: NEHEMIAH 5 - 7

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God has power to overturn evil decrees against you.

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TOPIC: Would You Lend Him Your Boat?

Monday, March 30, 2015
TEXT: LUKE 5:1-11

Key Verse: “And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship” (Luke 5:3).

God had always needed man tocarry out His mission on earth. This does not mean that He couldn’t have been able to carry out His mission without the instrumentality of man. But in His wisdom, He has designed to get man involved.

Jesus in our text needed a platform from which He could preach to the multitudes at the seashore. There were many boats around and He chose to approach Simon’s. Observe that He did not compel him to allow Him use His boat but simply “prayed him.” Had Peter turned Him away, He would have gone elsewhere. But Peter obliged Him. Jesus did not use and abandon Peter. He knew his need, how he had toiled all night and failed. He gave him the miracle of a great catch. The Lord does not use one and abandon him.

Overwhelmed by the blessing of a single moment of service and consecration, Peter took a wise decision for a lifetime of service and commitment. He saw the initial blessing as a tip of the iceberg. If he had given to the Lord a moment of service and got such a huge return, what would a lifetime of surrender bring him? He must have reasoned. So, he gave up all to follow the Lord and we know today that that was the wisest decision.

Today, the Lord is still looking around for “boats” He can use. There are many people out there He needs to reach, to teach and to bless. Would you lend Him your boat, your life, talent, house and possessions? Remember, even though He owns you by right of creation and redemption, He will not compel you; He will only “pray” you. Also remember, He will not use you, walk off and abandon you. So, do not turn Him away. If you turn Him away, He will certainly get another boat but you would have lost a lifetime opportunity. Do let Him use you. You will be glad you did!

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: NEHEMIAH 8 - 10

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Take my life and use it, Lord!

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TOPIC: Urgent Service

Tuesday, March 31, 2015

TEXT: NUMBERS 8:20-26

Key Verse: “And after that went the Levites in to do their service in the tabernacle of the congregation before Aaron, and before his sons: as the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites, so did they unto them” (Numbers 8:22).

God has work for you to do. So urgent is work in the Lord’s vineyard that once you meet up the call-up qualifications, you are required to start doing the work allocated to you immediately. To delay or give excuse when there is call to follow our Lord’s example of sacrificial service can disqualify you.

Jesus said, “No man having put his hands to the plough and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62). The man whom the Lord addressed primarily here wanted to bid farewell to his people at home. To another who thought burying his father was more demanding than the call to service, the Lord corrected him right on the area of setting priorities: “Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:59,60).

Jesus was not doing something strange. He was following the pattern of His Father in the passage we are studying today. Immediately the Levites were purified, they went straight into the business of service to the Lord.

When a person is genuinely born-again, he is instantly qualified to work for God. He is expected to engage selflessly in the urgent service of saving souls. He must be like the Levites after being purified for the work in the tabernacle.

The King’s business is urgent. “Say not ye, there are yet four months, and then cometh the harvest Behold I say unto, lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already for harvest” (John 4:35).

There is shortage of labourers but excess loafers. And the solution is, “Pray ye therefore, the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:38). Stop being a loafer; be a labourer in God’s vineyard. He will reward you more than you expect.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: NEHEMIAH 11 - 13

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The gospel work demands urgency from saints.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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TOPIC: God's Mercy At Work

Wednesday, April 01, 2015
TEXT: GENESIS 3:14-24

Key Verse: “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15).

God is extremely benevolent. It was at the same scene where He made punitive pronouncements on man for his disobedience in heeding Satan’s counsel that the Lord disclosed His plan of redemption from the Fall. He said, “And I will put enmity between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head and thou shall bruise his heel.” That was God’s sentence of judgment on the serpent.

It is a prophecy of the ultimate victory of God over Satan and evil; victory for mankind. This was to happen through spiritual battle between the “Seed” of the woman (the Lord Jesus Christ) and the “seed” of the serpent (Satan and his followers). God’s promise here is that Christ would be born of a woman and would be “bruised” through His crucifixion. But He would rise from the dead to completely destroy Satan, sin and death for the sake of the redemption of the human race.

We are reminded that sin does not go without punishment. We need to depend on God and continue to obey Him since the contrary has its terrible consequences (Genesis 3:16-19). The general picture we are presented in Scripture is that God designed our redemption right from the beginning. The Bible says: “Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways and live? I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves and live ye” (Ezekiel 18:23,32).

The sinner who exhibits godly sorrow, retraces his steps like the prodigal son back to God (Luke 15:11-32) and obtains forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ will not perish. Irrevocable death sentence awaits people who continually reject Christ and die in sin.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: PSALM 1-10

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: God’s punishment for sin on earth is meant to save man from eternal doom.

Higher Everyday for Youths - Link: http://highereveryday.dclmhq.org/

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