God will secretly reward you and the testimony won't be hidden IJN, for your labour of love.

GBU so abundantly!

Open Heavens Devotional.

Friday 9th October, 2015.

STEALING HIS GLORY?

Memorise

For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another.
- Isaiah 48:11.

Read: Acts 12:20-23.

20 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.

21 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.

22 And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.

23 And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.

Message

It is very wrong, and an act of stealing, for a person to take all the credit for a job done by team effort. If you are part of a team that performed a particular feat, it is wrong to relegate others to the background and bring yourself to the fore. It even gets worse when you steal God's glory. Do you know that some people try to steal the show from God? Hear them out during testimony time: they will talk about the problem and lay much emphasis on how much they prayed, fasted or sowed seeds, giving God little or no room in it. Whereas, the emphasis should be on what God did or how God intervened. The truth is, while facing a problem, it is possible to pray even a hundred times and God will not hear you. That God heard or intervened at all is a mark of His mercy. If He chooses not to answer, what can you do? Stop stealing the show, because you are nothing without God!

Some servants of God being used of Him in the miraculous have become so deceived that they now rub shoulders with God. How can a man of God say, "If you are sick, come to me and I will heal you?" Are you now the healer? Can you cure a headache, if God has not chosen to channel His power through you? If there is one thing God is not prepared to share, it is His glory. He made this very clear in Isaiah 42:8:

"I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images."

Anytime you attribute a feat to yourself, your power, wisdom or ability, you steal from God's glory. If you are involved in such, you are courting serious trouble. You need to learn from the shameful demise of Herod in our Bible reading, after He stole God's glory for himself. If God is doing anything through you, it is for the sake of His Name. This He very much said in Isaiah 48:11:

"For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another."

Have you stolen from God's glory? Have you taken credit for any miracle, sign or wonder the Lord has used you to perform? Return it to Him today in humility! Are you ascribing the growth and development of your church to yourself? What could you have done without God's help? Return every glory and credit you have stolen, lest you bring God's judgment on yourself.

Action Point

In every way you have stolen God's glory, restitute now.
______________
I'm sorry for giving you breakfast as lunch...
______________

dan6019:
God will secretly reward you and the testimony won't be hidden IJN, for your labour of love.

GBU so abundantly!

Amen, thanks sir.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Saturday 10th October, 2015.

WHY CHILDREN ARE USEFUL.

Memorise

Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.
- Matthew 18:10.

Read: Matthew 18:1-5

1 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?

2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,

3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

5 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

Message

Children are not just God's property, they are also God's weapons of war. This is why you must be very careful in the way you handle or treat them. Jesus gave us a fascinating revelation about children in Matthew 18:10, where He said:

"Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven."

From this revelation, we understand that every child has at least one angel guiding him or her. Have you seen an angel before? By His grace I have seen them a couple of times and I can say that they can be fearfully huge, particularly some of the mighty angels. If you were to meet one of such angels, the first thing he will likely say to you is "Fear not!" Why? Nobody will see an angel for the first time without being terrified.
Speaking of the size of some of the mighty angels: although one of the world's largest airplanes is an Airbus A380, do you know that one mighty angel can carry this airplane on the palm of his hand? God says that every child has an angel, and every one of such angels has direct access to God. Attaching a powerful angel to a child is what makes children a terrific weapon. If you mess around with a child, you are inviting an angel of God to deal with you.

Moreover, children are weapons in God's hands because we the older ones are so preoccupied with the hustle and bustle of life that our ears have become dull of hearing. When God speaks, we often don't hear, but the ears of children are open to God. They do not worry as we do. In fact, children believe that all they need will be provided for by their parents. So time after time, when God wants to send a message, He could send it through a child. This is one reason why parents must adhere strictly to God's word in raising their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord. A child that is brought up to love and fear the Lord will be a great asset and tool in God's hands. Such a family, as busy as the parents may be, will not lack divine direction, as the children will be able to hear from God. How often does God speak to your children? Are you raising them in the ways of God?

Key Point

God may have been speaking to your godly children. If they have not told you, it could be that you have not created a conducive atmosphere for them to do so.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Sunday 11th October, 2015.

OBEY OR LOSE YOUR CHANCE.

Memorise

While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.
- Hebrews 3:15.

Read: Hebrews 3:13-15.

13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;

15 While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.

Message

Beloved, if God indicates to you His desire to use you in building His kingdom in one capacity or another, do not hesitate, because He may just use someone else if you do. One of my pastors and I once went through an experience relevant to this subject. During the early days of building the Redemption Camp, when things were very rough and tough, I practically lived at the camp, as I tried to ensure that the little we had was efficiently utilised. On a particular day, we were in need of a certain amount. This pastor came to me and we exchanged pleasantries, after which he told me what he came for. I knew that he had the money we required, so after we were done with his purpose for coming, I told him I urgently needed an amount to solve a problem. He said "Okay sir, I will pray about it", and he left. This happened on a Saturday. By Monday, he came back to say he was now ready to give me the money, but I told him the need had been met.
"Daddy, I am not leaving your office until you take the money", he protested.
I then replied him, saying "You said you wanted to go and pray about it. Continue with your prayer. What God wanted done has been done." That day, he resolved that although he had missed out on that opportunity, he would not suffer the same fate again. He decided to stay back at the camp and handed his business over to his wife. He has been of tremendous assistance since then.

When you hear a call to partake in a kingdom project, do not delay unnecessarily, or else, by the time you are ready, the work would have been done without you. When some people make pledges towards the Holy Ghost Congress meetings we hold in December, a lot of them fail to redeem theirs. In spite of this, the Congress still holds, and by the grace of God, we are never in deficit at the end of any Congress. In addition, it is important to know that the Almighty God can transfer wealth from one person to another. In 2 Kings 7:1-11, Samaria was besieged by the Syrian army, to the extent that some women began to eat their children. God declared that the situation would change within 24 hours, and it was so. How? He simply transferred wealth from the Syrians to the children of Israel. If you fail to use your God-given resources for His kingdom, you may be calling for God to transfer them to those who will use them to glorify Him.

Key Point

Some opportunities for outstanding life transformations cannot afford to wait until you are ready.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Monday 12th October, 2015.

CHANGE THROUGH CONTACT.

Memorise

But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
-1 Corinthians 1:24.

Read: 2 Kings 2:19-22.

19 And the men of the city said unto Elisha, Behold, I pray thee, the situation of this city is pleasant, as my lord seeth: but the water is naught, and the ground barren.

20 And he said, Bring me a new cruse, and put salt therein. And they brought it to him.

21 And he went forth unto the spring of the waters, and cast the salt in there, and said, Thus saith the Lord, I have healed these waters; there shall not be from thence any more death or barren land.

22 So the waters were healed unto this day, according to the saying of Elisha which he spake.

Message

A sceptre is the symbol of a king's authority. It carries so much power that a king can send it somewhere as a representation of his physical presence. Where the sceptre of a king is, it means the king is there himself; and only the king's most trusted chamberlains can come in direct contact with the sceptre. These earthy royal traditions mirror some truths in the spiritual realm. In the kingdom of God, when you come in contact with the sceptre of power, not only will your life change, the lives of those connected to you will change also. In Mark 5:35-42, when Jairus contacted the sceptre of the Most High God, which is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, the sorrow he once knew was turned into joy as death gave way to life.
Similarly, in our Bible reading, the city of Jericho which had become accustomed to sorrow, tears, barrenness and death as a result of a curse placed over it a long time ago (Joshua 6:26), suddenly had a reversal when its people contacted God's power through His anointed servant. What is that unpleasant situation in your life today that is causing pain, sorrow, weeping and depression? You shall contact the sceptre of God's power through this devotional, and your situation shall experience a drastic, positive turn in Jesus' Name.

When I joined the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), I felt like a fish out of water, because all my life, if I ever worshipped at all, it was at a cathedral or in a university chapel. I was used to being in places where everything was done decently and orderly. Then I came to RCCG and thought everything was in order until they began to pray. When the minister leading the prayer said, "In the Name of Jesus", the man who sat next to me shouted "Amen" in such high decibels that I felt like running out of the place, but something tied me down. Not long after, I gave my life to Jesus. Soon after, I was taught about the baptism in the Holy Ghost. After this, I was taught about the things of the Spirit; then I started learning about the power of the Most High God, and not long after, that power began to operate through me.
When God's power begins to flow through you, it goes far beyond you. It is for other people: the needy, the sick, the impoverished, those in captivity and everyone who needs a miracle from God. As you surrender to the sceptre of God's power today by giving your life to Him, and by allowing Him to take His place as the Lord of your life, you will be amazed where that contact with His power can take you.

Prayer Point

Lord Jesus, Sceptre of the Most High God, please touch me today and make my life whole.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Tuesday 13th October, 2015.

ELEMENTS PROVIDE SUPPORT.

Memorise

The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
-Psalm 121:6.

Read: Joshua 10:12-14.

12 Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.

13 And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.

14 And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the Lord fought for Israel.

Message

On the 6th of October, we studied some of the markers which indicate that a life is blessed. We gained insight into the fact that when you are blessed, the seasons will cooperate with you to succeed. We also saw that the heavenly bodies provide support to enable a blessed life operate optimally. Today, I want to share with you a few of my personal experiences on this subject matter in order to build up your faith.

Some years ago, we went to Abeokuta (South-West Nigeria) to hold a crusade in front of the Alake's (traditional ruler) palace. Just as I made the altar call to salvation and people began to come out in response to the call, the rains came and those who were coming forward began to return to their seats. So I said, "Hey, rain, stay where you are. You cannot fall now." Immediately, the rain rolled back like a carpet from where we were holding the meeting. By the time we were rounding up the programme on a Monday, the resident pastor came and reminded me to release the rain. I simply told him that after we left, the rain would fall. Thirty minutes after we left the town, the rain fell.

In the same vein, many years ago, I wanted to pray at night and I needed a quiet place, so I went to the main auditorium we had then at the Redemption Camp. At that same time, some other people were there to pray, and they were so loud that I had to leave. I had no better alternative than to take my rechargeable torchlight and head into the bush path. I went farther and farther into the jungle. Initially, my torchlight was well charged and bright. When I got close to the river, I heard a sound and I switched on my torchlight to see what it was, but the light went out. I was suddenly surrounded by darkness and wondered how I would make it through the dark jungle to a place that had some light.
Just then I recalled when I was young, how our teacher taught us that if you suddenly find yourself in darkness, if you close your eyes for a while and reopen them, it won't be as dark as it was before. So I closed my eyes, and by the time I reopened them, there was bright moonlight all over the place where I was. With this light, I easily made my way out of the jungle. But then I recalled that the place was very dark when I first arrived. How did the "moonlight" come about? At that moment, I looked up and discovered that there was no moon! When you are blessed, the sun, the moon and the rain will cooperate with you. Whenever it appears as if any of these elements of nature is about to stand in your way, do not panic. Simply command them to yield, so that God's ultimate purpose will be done.

Action Point

Pray for all missionaries, that God will meet all their needs and protect their families.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Wednesday 14th October, 2015.

THE SUPER NEED.

Memorise

But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
- Luke 10:42.

Read: Luke 10:38-42.

38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.

39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.

40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:

42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Message

When a person chases several rats in different directions, the most likely outcome is that none of those rats will be caught. In life, we are often barraged with so many competing issues at the same time, most of which legitimately deserve our attention. There is therefore the need to become more focused, in order to be effective in our pursuits. In day to day activities of life, we are often torn between wants and needs. Wants can be defined as known valuable things which people desire and would like to own. Needs on the other hand may be known or unknown, liked or disliked, but they satisfy a requirement of life. A sick fellow needs to see a doctor for treatment, whether he likes the idea or not. This is a need. Needs are often very crucial and relate to the necessities of life such as food, transport, clothing and shelter. Sometimes, the way a person goes about satisfying a need can transform that desire to a want and not a need. Take for instance the fellow who requires a car to move from his house to his office every day. Almost any normal car can meet this need; but if the fellow decides to buy a Ferrari to meet this need, the desire for a Ferrari has turned that need into a want.

To become more prudent, you should focus on your needs and down play your wants. If you acquire all the wealth on planet earth, the day you die, you will realise the futility of being unable to take any of it with you. The reality of this fact made Apostle Paul to admonish us that we should imbibe the virtue of contentment (1 Timothy 6:6-. Even among needs, a scale of priorities should be applied. Needs are of varying degrees of importance. In Luke 10:38-42, while visiting two sisters, the Lord plainly told them this:

"But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:42.

He was speaking of a super need. It is good to be nice to people, and it is good to be hospitable; but better than all these is the need to sit at the feet of Jesus, studying, reading, meditating, hearing and memorising His words. The brethren who apply the "No Bible, no breakfast" principle have understood the need to subordinate all other legitimate needs under the super need of all - the Word of God. Are you giving the Word its rightful place in your life? The Word should come first. How much time do you set aside for the Bible daily?

Prayer Point

Father, in whatever situation I find myself, grant me grace to always give You priority.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Thursday 15th October, 2015.

CLAIMING UNCLAIMED HARVESTS.

Memorise

I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.
- John 4:38.

Read: John 4:35-38.

35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.

37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.

38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

Message

Total restoration is possible for those who believe in God. Beyond total restoration, it is equally possible to be a recipient of uncommon restoration. An uncommon restoration occurs in a situation where your progenitors laboured without a harvest, but when you turned up, you received the reward for all their labours. That was the experience of the children of Israel. For 430 years, they laboured for Egypt without pay. The generation of their fathers, grandfathers, great-grandfathers, and others laboured but were not paid; then came the generation that Moses had to lead out of Egypt. The very night they were to go, all the salaries of their fathers, grandfathers, great-grandfathers and so on were delivered to them (Exodus 12:33-36). Have generations before you laboured without pay? Congratulations! You are the one to enter into their harvests! All that your progenitors worked for, but never got, shall be delivered to you in Jesus' Name.

Similarly, in some families, a curse of no reward has been placed on them. Due to this curse, "labour without harvest" has become their household name for successive generations. Is that your situation? Has someone placed a curse of "work without reward" on your lineage? Today, that curse is broken! All the harvests of your ancestors that they could not get shall be delivered to you in Jesus' Name. Moreover, this is also applies to ministers of the gospel. Jesus in John 4:38 says:

"I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours."

Labouring and harvesting are two distinct things. Not everyone who labours receives a commensurate harvest. Within this context, we can safely say that there are three categories of people: those who labour but never enter into their harvests, those who labour and get some or all of their harvest, and those who access the harvest of others, irrespective of whether they laboured for it or not. This explains why some people, including pastors, labour so hard and long at some particular locations without any fruit. After they become discouraged and leave, some others come into the same location and without doing anything much, they begin to reap what they never sowed. You shall not lose your harvest anymore! You shall receive your full harvests and even enter into the unclaimed harvests of others in Jesus Name!

Prayer Point

Father, frustrate every plan to separate me from my harvest, and link me up with the unclaimed harvests of those who have gone ahead of me in my family and in my field of labour.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Friday 16th October, 2015.

MARRIED TO IDOLS?

Memorise

Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone.
- Hosea 4:17.

Read: Deuteronomy 4:15-20.

15 Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire:

16 Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,

17 The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air,

18 The likeness of any thing that creepeth on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth:

19 And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the Lord thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven.

20 But the Lord hath taken you, and brought you forth out of the iron furnace, even out of Egypt, to be unto him a people of inheritance, as ye are this day.


Message

In Genesis 48:13-20, Ephraim experienced a positive switch at the expense of his brother, Manasseh. He was last but became first. He was supposed to get the lesser blessing, but he got the greater portion. From today, you shall experience a positive switch in Jesus' Name. Situations surrounding you shall suddenly change from bad to fair, fair to good, good to better and better to best. You are in for a great surprise this season.

However, looking at the situation of Ephraim down the line, we see that it is one thing to experience a positive switch, and it is another thing to sustain it. After inheriting his elder brother's blessing, and having prospered above him in multiple folds, Ephraim could not manage his blessing. After he experienced unprecedented success, Ephraim neglected God and created idols for himself. Hosea 4:17 says:

"Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone."

This Scripture says he was joined to his idols. In other words, one way to frustrate God's grace upon your life is to join yourself to idols. To "join" is another way of saying "to be married to" something you love so much. What is that idol taking the love, attention, devotion and time meant for God in your life?

The idols could mean real, tangible symbols or items to which you devote your worship, trust and love. Not too long ago, some people were said to have discovered some magical river with healing or miraculous powers, and so many people went there. If you are a true believer in Christ, you can never be found in such a place. An apparition appears on a particular building and people start visiting the place for prayers; they must have thrown away the scripture found in John 4:21. These are all idolatrous practices. Also, the use of talismanic rings and amulets, rosaries, scapulars, coloured candles and religious objects for protection or good luck are all part of idolatry. If you are joined to idols, you cannot remain joined to Jesus Christ; He will simply step out before you merge with idols. What is that idol making you to rubbish God's goodness in your life? For some, it is their spouse. If you love your spouse above God, you are provoking God's jealousy. Eventually, Ephraim became desolate (Hosea 5:9). That is what happens to idolaters. At some point, your idols will desert you. Be wise today!

Action Point

Thank God for the success of our past Holy Ghost Congress meetings, pray that this year's Congress will witness unprecedented manifestations of God's presence.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Saturday 17th October, 2015.

CARRIERS OF BLESSINGS.

Memorise

Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.
- Psalm 127:5.

Read: Genesis 21:1-6.

1 And the Lord visited Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did unto Sarah as he had spoken.

2 For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him.

3 And Abraham called the name of his son that was born unto him, whom Sarah bare to him, Isaac.

4 And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac being eight days old, as God had commanded him.

5 And Abraham was an hundred years old, when his son Isaac was born unto him.

6 And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.

Message

When adults and parents are stained with sin or have become preoccupied with the affairs of life, God may speak to them through their children. This was exactly what happened to Eli (1 Samuel 3:1-10). One reason why children are such powerful weapons in God's hands is their innocence. Because they are not yet accustomed to sin, when they pray, God answers their prayers. Several years ago, when my children were still very young, anytime I needed something from God so desperately, I asked them to pray for me, and I got answers.

Sin separates us from God, so that it becomes difficult for Him to hear us when we call upon Him (Isaiah 59:1-2). Sin can stop the prayers of the elderly, but children on the other hand are innocent. You will notice that when it is time to praise God, they do so without any inhibition. When they dance before God, they are not self-conscious like the adults. They do not care who is looking at them. They dance for God anyhow, and God is glorified. Therefore, when they cry to God, their angels take their prayers right before God, and the answer comes back speedily. Because of this, Psalm 127:5 says the man who has his quiver full of children is happy, blessed, fortunate and to be envied. If you do not have any child yet, the Lord will remember you this season. If you have one or two but you want more, the Lord will answer you speedily!

Moreover, children are carriers of blessings, and they can bring an end to an era of sorrow. Wherever they go, they take blessings along with them. For instance, when Isaac was born, the sorrow in the hearts of his parents was terminated. Also, after Samuel was born, the mouths of mockers who had made life miserable for his mother were shut (1 Samuel 2:1-10). Children can permanently shut the mouth of mockers! Has the absence of children in your home brought you sorrow? That sorrow shall be taken away this season! Have tongues been mocking you all along? The Lord will shock your mockers and silence them permanently this season. Give your life to Christ if you have not already done so, and submit yourself to God. Take time and pleasure in doing the things that make Him happy. Give Him quality praise, thanks and worship always, and He will surprise you.

Prayer Point

Father, by the Blood of Jesus, frustrate every plan of the enemy to initiate our children into satanic cults and associations.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Sunday 18th October, 2015.

WEALTH TRANSFER.

Memorise

A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.
- Proverbs 13:22.

Read: Proverbs 13:21-22.

21 Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.

22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

Message

Because God owns everything on earth, He can give a person power to get wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18). Not only does He give power to get wealth, He also transfers wealth from one person to another. God can transfer wealth from the enemies of His children, to those who will serve Him. He can equally transfer wealth from His children whom He has blessed, who refuse to utilise their blessings for His purpose, to those believers who will use it to glorify Him. If you are stingy, you are not like your Heavenly Father. When I was young, there was a man I knew who was extremely wealthy but extremely miserly. He was so stingy that he could not even trust his wife with housekeeping allowance. When she wanted to go to the market, he would go with her.

After she bargained for meat, he would pay. When she had prepared the soup or stew, he would take a portion for himself and keep it in his bedroom. Whenever he wanted to eat, they would have to come and take the pot of soup or stew from him, and while it was being warmed up, he would stand by and watch. He never took his money to the bank. He had one huge room where his money was kept. By the time he died, his children searched everywhere for the key to that room, but they could not find it. Then the eldest son reasoned that since their father was so miserly, it was possible that he went as far as swallowing the key, so he suggested they turn his corpse upside down and hit his back. As they did so, the key dropped.

"A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just."
Proverbs 13:22.

God is looking for those who will serve Him with whatever He gives to them. God is looking for those who will not give any excuse when the Owner of their wealth needs it for His purpose. Can He entrust you with more of His resources? How have you been giving to the work of God? To what extent have you been cooperating with the King of kings? If you have been blessed, but you cannot spend freely for the kingdom, do remember that the same way God brought the money in, He can take it out. May you not lose your wealth to others in Jesus' Name. Do everything possible to justify why you should remain a custodian of God's blessings.

Key Point

When you faithfully cooperate with God in meeting the needs of His kingdom, He will enlarge your capacity, and make you a greater treasurer of His resources.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Monday 19th October, 2015.

WHEN HELP IS VOLUNTEERED.

Memorise

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
- Luke 12:32.

Read: Esther 5:1-3.

1 Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house.

2 And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre.

3 Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom.

Message

After Esther touched the sceptre of a mere mortal king, death was turned into life for her; how much more will great things happen to those who touch the sceptre of the King of kings. I can assure you that lots of transformational changes await those who can touch the sceptre of the Most High God - the Lord Jesus Christ. I was once invited to a Full Gospel Business Men Fellowship meeting in Port Harcourt (South-South Nigeria). I was asked to speak on "The New Anointing"; so I told them what the anointing can do in the life of a man. At the end of the message, virtually everyone wanted to touch the man of God. I had to be smuggled out of the hall where the meeting held. As we drove off, a very desperate woman ran towards the car with her handkerchief and rubbed it against the car and said, "There is power here now", and she went home. Unknown to her, while she was away, one of her sisters had gone completely insane. It was so serious that it took six men to hold her down. When she got home and saw what was happening, she asked them to make way for her, because she had power in her hands. She simply laid the handkerchief on the girl and she became normal instantly.

In addition, after Esther touched the sceptre, the king asked her, "My queen, what can I do for you?" Normally, when you approach a highly placed individual for a favour, you should be the one to ask for help. But in this case, we see the king volunteering help to Esther. This tells us that when your day of favour dawns, the Almighty God will volunteer to help you. Furthermore, we see that the volunteered assistance was very significant. The king offered to give Esther up to half of his kingdom. If she had asked for it, she would have gotten it.

When your day of favour dawns, God will be ready to grant your request, no matter how big, difficult or how impossible it may sound. This season, the Lord will volunteer to help you. He will give you an open cheque, saying "My child, just ask anything you want and I will do it!" During this season of your favour, your request shall not be grievous to God. Even when you are at a loss over what to ask, the Lord will lead you to ask right by His Spirit.

"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered."
Romans 8:26.

Prayer Point

Father, You know my needs more than I do, please meet all of my needs today.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Tuesday 20th October, 2015.

ANGELS ON ASSIGNMENT.

Memorise

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
- Psalm 91:11.

Read: Daniel 6:19-22.

19 Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions.

20 And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?

21 Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever.

22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.

Message

One of the marks indicating that a life is blessed of God is the receipt of support from heaven. Such support can be manifested as heavenly bodies working to advance the objectives of the blessed. When the wise men from the East were looking for Jesus, and they did not know where He was, it took stars to guide them there (Matthew 2:1-11). If God could use the stars to lead the wise men to Jesus, He can still do so now. The Lord will use the stars to direct your customers, contracts and favours to you this season in Jesus’ Name! The good thing about this is that whenever God decides to use anything to assist or direct you, they will not fail you or stop half way, just as the star successfully led the wise men all the way to Jesus.

Moreover, as the blessed of the Lord, when Heaven supports you, the beings that live in Heaven, such as angels, are also released to advance your cause. For instance, when Elijah was hungry, discouraged and depressed, so much so that he asked God to take his life, it was an angel that God sent to bring him food (1st King 19:4-. Also, in our Bible reading, when the hungry lions were ready to pounce on Daniel as their potential prey, it was an angel that came to seal their mouths for as long as he was in their den. Have you been thrown into the den of spiritual, physical or financial lions? The Lord will send his angel to rescue you from harm’s way in Jesus’ Name! The supporting operation of angels was also manifested when Sennacherib besieged King Hezekiah and his people (2nd Kings 19:32-37)? It was just one angel that God sent to their rescue, and he single-handedly destroyed 185,000 soldiers in just one night. In the Name that is above every other name, both seen and unseen forces of darkness that are mobilised against you and yours from the air, land, sea and under the earth shall be razed down today by an angel of the Lord! In addition, it was an angel that warned Joseph in a dream of Herod’s intention to kill the child Jesus, and the angel told him to escape to Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15). After the death of Herod, an angel also informed him in a dream that it was time to return home, and he directed him on where to go to specifically (Matthew 2:19-22). Angels are always on assignment to help the blessed. If you are blessed of God, you can also send angels on assignment to help your cause. The Holy Spirit revealed this truth about angels in Hebrews 1:14;

“Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”

From today, you shall be a recipient to angelic visitations and guidance in Jesus’ Name.

Action Point

Thank God for the angels on assignment over your life, family and church.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Wednesday 21st October, 2015.

ENVY: NOT COMELY.

Memory Verse: Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
- Psalm 37:1.

Read: Psalm 37:1-2.

1 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.

2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.

Message

One character trait that has led to the destruction of a lot of people is envy. Envy is evil because it demonstrates the absence of love (1Corinthians 13:4). People become envious when another person has what they don’t have, or when a person can do what they can’t do. An envious fellow is one who lives a life of comparison, contrary to what the Scripture says in 2Corinthians 10:12

“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”

An envious fellow compares his progress with that of his contemporaries, and if others are seemingly better-off in any area (e.g. family, children, finances, position, etc), he will be envious. Love does not envy, nor is it puffed up. An envious fellow cannot wish anything good for the person he or she is envious of; neither can he or she seek their good. Anyone you envy, you cannot truly love. Inside the heart of the envious are ill feelings bad wishes and negative thoughts towards the person they envy. An envious fellow is also proud. You cannot be envious and humble at the same time. If you lack love for somebody, particularly a child of God, it is highly doubtful you are even born-again (1John 3:14).

Some Christians not only envy fellow believers, they also envy unbelievers. What an irony! Today’s Bible reading strictly warns us against envying those who should envy us. Anyone who does not truly have Jesus is to be pitied, irrespective of his or her social status, wealth or material possessions. That fellow is just being fattened like a sheep prepared for slaughter. If you envy unbelievers, it shows you do not know who you are in Christ. If you know the eternal judgment that awaits the unbelievers, you will weep for them. if you find yourself envying a sinner as a result of certain difficulties you are going through, it only shows that you do not yet understand the Christian faith that you have signed up to. According to Apostle Paul, envy is a mark of baby Christians (1Corinthians 3:1-3). But why is envy seen in high places today? Why are those who should be devoid of envy still battling with it? In any way you have been a victim of envy, ask for forgiveness and receive grace to overcome it today.

Action Point

Consciously lay aside every form of envy in your heart. You have your own uniqueness and comparative advantage. Take stock of them, and with a thankful heart, praise God for them.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Thursday 22nd October, 2015.

Worship: What State Of Maturity?

Memorise

Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.
- Psalm 113:2.

Read: Psalm 113:1-6 (KJV).

1 Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.

2 Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.

3 From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD'S name is to be praised.

4 The LORD is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens.

5 Who is like unto the LORD our God, who dwelleth on high,

6 Who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth!

Message

It is a great thing for you to seek God, but it is a far greater thing for God to seek you out. From experience, most people only seek God because they are in need, and because they want Him to do something for them. This is self-centredness. God may not seek out such people. Those who God seeks after are the ones who worship Him for who He is. Jesus, at Jacob’s well, revealed the class of people that God seeks out: true worshippers (John 4:23). For God to seek you out, you must be of high value to Him. If you take someone like David as a case study, you will find out that David had resolved to always bless the Lord, whether the going was good or not. Hence, in Psalm 34:1 he said:

“I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”

That is a very hard attitude to adopt and sustain. It is not easy to praise God when it appears the whole world is turning against you. It is not easy to worship God immediately after experiencing the loss of someone or something precious. Why would God seek out someone like David? It is because he always had what God wanted, which is praise and quality worship in his mouth and from his heart, always! This implies that anytime God visited David, He received praises. Can the same be said of you? No wonder God also decided that only goodness and mercy would continually follow David all the days of his life (Psalm 23:6).

In our trip to Israel not too long ago, I told those who travelled with me that there are two categories of worshippers. The first are those who praise God only after something good has happened to them. In other words, such people believe that God should earn their praise and worship. If He has not met their expectations, then there is no need to praise Him. These are baby worshippers. God may never seek such people out for anything. The second category of worshippers is made up of those who worship God even when their miracles have not come. Such people believe that God has already earned the right to be praised and worshipped, because of who He is and for all He has already done. They feel indebted to God; hence, their worship of Him is not conditional. They will praise God in any circumstance. These are adult worshippers. Such people always get more than what they desire from God. They are the ones whom God seeks after. What category do you belong to?

Key Point

The quality of worship you give to God shows the place that God occupies in your life.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Friday 23rd October, 2015.

WISE IN YOUR OWN EYES?

Memorise

Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
- Psalm 3:7.

Read: Psalm 3:5-7.

5 I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.

6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.

7 Arise, O Lord; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.

Message

One character flaw that has worked against many people all through the ages is pride. Unfortunately, many people fail to recognise pride for what it is; rather, they see it as part of self respect. Proverbs 21:4 says pride manifests itself in the carriage of a person and in the state of their heart. Not many proud people realise that they are proud. Psalm 73:6 says pride is like a chain around the neck of the proud. In other words, pride cannot be hidden for too long, just as a necklace is seen by all. That Scripture also says that there is a link between pride and violence. If you are proud, you won't be far from evil, violent actions. God always has problems with His children who are proud, because pride is Satan's necklace. You cannot be a child of God and while dressing yourself, you put on the necklace of your Father's enemy! Immediately any child of God wears Satan's necklace, God keeps His distance from the fellow. Are you proud? Are you wearing Satan's necklace? Put it off now if you want God to relate well with you!

How can you identify the proud? A proud fellow thinks he or she is better, superior, wiser and stronger than other people. It is wrong to think you are wiser or better than others. Why? Wisdom comes from God, and He can give it to whoever He wants. If you misuse the wisdom God has given you, He can take it from you or give it to someone else. Also, if you are wise in the things of the world, you ought to be extremely careful and humble, because some people who are walking about the streets as madmen and women were once very wise. There are PhD holders and professors who have become insane. Do not let your wisdom become your undoing. There is a very thin line between wisdom and folly. No matter what you know, you can never be more knowledgeable than God. 1 Corinthians 1:25 says this about God:

"Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men."

An antidote to pride is having the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 3:7 says:

"Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil."

The more you fear God, the less likely you are to be proud. Ask God to increase His fear in your heart.

Key Point

You cannot put on the robe of righteousness, and thereafter wear Satan's necklace (pride).

Open Heavens Devotional.

Saturday 24th October, 2015.

INSTRUMENTS OF DELIVERANCE.

Memorise

But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.
-Jeremiah 1:7.

Read: Genesis 50:18-20.

18 And his brethren also went and fell down before his face; and they said, Behold, we be thy servants.

19 And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?

20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.


Message

Children are carriers of blessings wherever they go. When Isaac was born, God put paid to the sorrow in the heart of his parents (Genesis 21:6-7). When Samuel was born, the chief mocker of his mother had no choice than to swallow her words (1 Samuel 1:6-7 & 2:1-3). Similarly, when Samson was born, the children of Israel began to receive the deliverance that had eluded them for so long (Judges 13:2-5). This shows that God can send you a child just to deliver you, your family or even your nation from a particular captivity. It is my prayer that from now onwards, you will not just have children, but children who will be instrumental to delivering joy to you in full in Jesus' Name.

In addition, when God wants to preserve a people or a nation, He can send a child. That was the case with Joseph. God did not only use Joseph to preserve his own family, he was also used to preserve other families of the world. Dear parents, do you know that there could be another Joseph in your house? When young Joseph began to have those wonderful dreams, his brothers were angry and envious, but his father simply observed the scenes, analysed the dreams and realised he had a special child in his house - a child of destiny (Genesis 37:3-11). May God open your eyes to see the Joseph in your house!

Also, there may be another Samson in your house. Samson was still young when the Holy Spirit began to move him from time to time (Judges 13:24-25). If his parents were observant, they would have noticed. In one of our meetings, the presence of the Holy Spirit was so strong that the children were baptised with the Holy Ghost. The teachers could not believe what was happening, but when I came to listen to them myself, I knew God was the One at work. There may be a Samson in your house, which is why you need to take extra care in raising your children in the fear of God and obedience to His word. Proverbs 22:6 says you should spend quality time in raising your children up in God's Way. Any child you fail to bring up properly will ultimately cause you sorrow. Are you leaving the training of your children to your house helps and nannies? Take responsibility for your children's upbringing today!

Key Point

If you are prayerful and sensitive enough, you will notice some early signs or traits in your children that can be a lead on what God would have them do on earth.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Sunday 25th October, 2015.

RAISING GODLY CHILDREN.

Memorise

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nature and admonition of the Lord.
- Ephesians 6:4.

Read: Ephesians 6:1-4.

1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

4 And, ye fathers provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Message

When God gives you children, He expects you to raise them in a godly manner. For this season, He sent you this express command in Proverbs 22:6:

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

This passage of Scripture tells us to “train up a child”. In other words, even when God gives you several children, each of them requires personal attention. Every child is different from the other. Never lump children together without making out time to teach, instruct, correct, rebuke, discipline and lead them by example individually. Every child that God gives to you is hungry to take something out of you. Let them take the life of Jesus out of you. Personal attention is very crucial to the development of your children and wards.

Also, carry along with you when you are going for church programmes. There are parents who leave their children at home when they are going to church. When you ask why they do that, they say their children are already youths and should be left to decide things for themselves. That scenario suggests that the parents are carefree. If you fail to bring up your children in the way and admonition of the Lord, you will be courting trouble. Joshua’s resolve in Joshua 24:15 is very important to us here. He said both himself and his household would be devoted to the service of the Lord. In other words, he must have made serving God an attractive thing to his family. There are some pastors’ children whose primary desire is to become pastors; other careers or professions are secondary options to them. Their desire shows that their parents have done a good job on them. But if you are a pastor and your child says the last profession he will ever consider is to be a pastor, check it out, something must have gone wrong in the training of that child. Do you always paint the ministry in bad light to your children? How do you present the Christian faith to your children or wards – as interesting or as a burden? Do you just dole out dos and don’ts to your children, or do you take out time to patiently explain why things should be done the way you want them done, and why certain things should not be done? It is your responsibility to raise your children to fear and love God.

Key Point

While some families are raising leaders and builders of nations, others are raising miscreants and misfits. Everyone will give account of God over how they raised their children.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Tuesday 27th October, 2015.

HE STILL SENDS ANGELS.

Memorise

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
-Hebrews 1:14.

Read: Acts 27:20-25.

Message

When God sends help from Heaven to an individual, He could send an angelic being to rescue the fellow. Often times, such an angel takes up a familiar form while executing the assignment. When this happens, the recipient of that assistance may not recognise the angel for who he is. For instance, many years ago, it was time to build a particular church. Announcements were made for members to gather together on a particular date and volunteer themselves to take part in the work. On the set day, as they gathered in the morning, they prayed to God before commencing the work, asking for strength not to be tired, and that God should send His angels to join them in the work. After the work started, they observed three unknown faces that had joined them in doing the work. Although they noticed that these men did most of the work, none of them dared to ask them who they were.

At the end of that day's work, when they were trying to take stock of the day's activities, they wanted to appreciate everyone, particularly those three unknown people, but they realised that they had disappeared.

Similarly, when I was about six or seven years old, one of my elder sisters got married and went to live with her husband. One day, we met and I asked her where her farm was. "Not very far" she said, as she tried to describe it to me. At that age, I could not determine the meaning of "not very far", so I set out to locate it on a particular day. At a point, I did not know where I was, how to get to her farm or how to get back home. I realised I was lost! In my own little childish way, I looked up to heaven for God's help. By the time I looked down, I saw a little dog which showed a very friendly disposition towards me and was sort of beckoning to me to follow it. So I followed the dog until I got to my sister's farm.
On seeing me, my sister asked, "How did you get here? Who brought you?" "I followed that dog", I replied. "Which dog?" She asked. "That little white dog". Then she said, "There is no dog on this farm." When we went outside their hut, there was no dog anywhere. God sent His angel to rescue me, and the angel took the shape of a dog to accomplish the mission. The Lord will go before you. He will send His angel to lead you on the path to your destiny. May He open your eyes to see the angels He sends your way in Jesus' Name.

Action Point

Whether you see them or not, as long as you are saved, holy and obedient to God, always remember that an angel is around you.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Wednesday 28th October, 2015.

DANGERS OF ENVY (I).

Memorise

A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
- Proverbs 14:30.

Read: Genesis 4:3-8.

3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto theLord.

4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering:

5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.

6 And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?

7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.

Message

From Proverbs 3:31-33 we understand that oppressors should not be envied, because there is a divine curse on their households. If you envy an unbeliever for any reason, you may be attracting the curse on such a fellow to yourself. Furthermore, Psalm 37:1-2 admonishes us to look beyond the material blessings of sinners, as they are heading for a tragic end. Besides not envying sinners, Galatians 5:26 makes it clear that it is equally wrong to envy one another. Envy is dangerous, because it can trigger a chain of negative events in the life of the envious. If there is envy in the heart of a person and it is not dealt with, it can lead to murder, as was the case with Cain. Cain and his younger brother, Abel, offered up sacrifices before God.
While Abel's offering was accepted, Cain's offering was rejected. Instead of going back to God to find out what he did wrong, or going to his brother to find out what he did right, so that he could adjust and offer an acceptable sacrifice, he took the mean option of giving room to envy. He nursed envy in his heart until the day they had a quarrel over some other issue. On this day, he hit his brother so hard that he died. Envy leads to murder. If you are envious, a seed that can grow into murder is already in your heart.

Similarly, in Genesis 37, we see how Joseph's brothers were taken over by envy. They envied him because he was their father's favourite son. This they did instead of finding out what they could do to make them partake of their father's favour. When Joseph had a set of dreams revealing a great future ahead, they envied him the more. Envy made them forget that Joseph was their younger brother and of the same blood with them.
Envy affected their reasoning to a point where they became very irrational. Come to think of it, if their younger brother's dreams of greatness were realised, would it not positively affect their position in several ways? This should have made them encourage him to fulfil his destiny, so that they could become co-beneficiaries. Instead of this, envy poisoned their hearts against their own blood and got them to take up the assignment of killing his dream. Are you envious of anyone? Are you out to kill other people's dreams because if realised, they could become greater than you? It is evil! Repent today!

Key Point

Envy distorts the rational thinking process of the envious and makes such a fellow more subjective than objective.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Thursday 29th October, 2015.

DANGERS OF ENVY (II).

Memorise

And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die.
-Genesis 30:1

Read: Numbers 16:29-35.

29 If these men die the common death of all men, or if they be visited after the visitation of all men; then theLord hath not sent me.

30 But if the Lord make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that appertain unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the Lord.

31 And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all these words, that the ground clave asunder that was under them:

32 And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods.

33 They, and all that appertained to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation.

34 And all Israel that were round about them fled at the cry of them: for they said, Lest the earth swallow us up also.

35 And there came out a fire from the Lord, and consumed the two hundred and fifty men that offered incense.

Message

Envy is a terrible character flaw that everyone who has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour must completely give up. Envy can lead to the murder of the one being envied or the murder of his or her dreams. Many polygamous families are wrapped up in envy. The mark of a place where there is envy is confusion and evil. James 3:16 says:

"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."

As much as it lies within your power, avoid such places, because the Spirit of God will not stay in a place where there is confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). In such places, people go to any extent to discredit, poison, afflict and destroy their own out of envy. If you are driven by envy, you are on a satanic mission: a self-destructive mission that will definitely lead to regret someday. Today, some churches are envy-driven. Do you know that some pastors go to set up their own ministries out of envy? The foundation of such ministries is faulty from the beginning, and if you dare to check, God is completely out of it. Are you driven by envy? What are you doing as a result of envy? Repent and amend your ways today before it is too late.

There is a great price the envious always has to pay. This price could have a physical, emotional and spiritual component. The price for envy can be very costly! You would be amazed at what that tiny envy in your heart towards your neighbour can take out of you. Envy can erode the blessings of the envious. If you do not want to lose your blessings, completely abstain from it. Korah, Dathan and Abiram paid dearly for the envy that led them to rebel against their leader - Moses (Numbers 16:1-3). God publicly set them aside to show everyone that they had done the wrong thing. God, who earlier appointed them as leaders under Moses, openly discredited them. Thereafter, the ground swallowed them up together with their households. Envy made sure their generation was terminated. That envy in your heart can terminate your future generations! Greed and envy are two tools the devil uses to destroy future generations and destinies! Gehazi's greed brought leprosy to his generation (2 Kings 5:27), while the envy of Korah, Dathan and Abiram completely wiped out their generations. Check your heart! That tiny looking seed of envy that appears harmless today can become your greatest undoing. Ask God to help you uproot it now.

Prayer Point

Father, in your mercy, uproot and destroy completely every trace of envy in my heart.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Friday 30th October, 2015.

CHOSEN FOR LAUGHTER.

Memorise

And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.
- Genesis 21:6.

Read: Genesis 21:1-6.

1 And the Lord visited Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did unto Sarah as he had spoken.

2 For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him.

3 And Abraham called the name of his son that was born unto him, whom Sarah bare to him, Isaac.

4 And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac being eight days old, as God had commanded him.

5 And Abraham was an hundred years old, when his son Isaac was born unto him.

6 And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.

Message

We serve a God that fills the mouth of his chosen with laughter. Some chosen of the Lord testified of this in Psalms 126:2 saying:

“Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.”

In Genesis 18:1-14, when the Lord visited Abraham and Sarah and ate in their tent, He promised them that they would have a son in nine months’ time; but Sarah laughed because her husband was over 99 years old and she herself was 90 years old. She thought that this promise was a joke borne out of how much the three august visitors enjoyed the meal that she and Abraham had prepared. God asked why she laughed, but she denied that she laughed. Nine months later, she gave birth to laughter, and she laughed for the rest of her life (Genesis 21:6). Today, God still makes people laugh. When God makes you laugh, your laughter will be sustained. But how can God make you laugh today? God makes you laugh when you receive an unexpected divine visitation. It is one thing for you to pay God a visit, like when you attend a church programme or a special programme like the Holy Ghost Service; but it is another thing for God to visit you. It is a beautiful experience when God visits a congregation or group of people, but it is even lovelier when God picks out an individual in a large congregation for divine visitation. The Lord will single you out for a divine visitation this season in Jesus’ Name.

In John 5:2-9, there was a multitude of sick folks at the pool called Bethesda, but when Jesus visited there, He went straight for the man who had been sick for 38years, healed him and left the place. In like manner, in Mark 10:46-52, Jesus entered Jericho and passed through it looking for whom to visit. He saw none in Jericho, but as He was leaving, in the midst of a crowd, he saw a blind beggar outside the city gate, healed him and continued with His journey. As Jesus healed these people, He introduced laughter into their lives. There was no record that either of them was ever sick again. Whatever criteria He uses to determine candidates for His visitation shall work in your favour today. Out of the crowd of those who need children, the Lord will visit you with yours. Out of the crowd of those who need promotion, the Lord will promote you. Out of the crowd of those who need special anointing, the Lord will visit you specially today. However, flee from sin, and do only what pleases Him. Be faithful in your tithes and offerings, and worship Him.

Prayer Point

Father, I have wept for too long; from now on, introduce laughter into my life and make me laugh forever.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Saturday 31st October, 2015.

BOASTING DISALLOWED.

Memorise

And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
1 Corinthians 8:2.

Read: Psalm 49:6-7.

6 They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;
7 None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:

Message

An individual who believes he or she is wiser than other people is proud. Proverbs 26:12 says:

“Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? There is more hope of a fool than of him.”

It is bad enough to be a fool, but this Scripture tells us that a person who thinks he knows more than every other person is in worse shape. While there may still be a ray of hope left for the fool, the case of the proud is almost completely hopeless. 1st Corinthians 8:2 says:

“And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.”

It is what some people know that makes them proud (1st Corinthians 8:1). The knowledge of God that you have should not generate pride in you but strength (Daniel 11:32). As a husband, if you say you are not proud, why then is it that you don’t entertain the useful suggestions of your wife? As a leader, do you operate with others under you as if you are the custodian of knowledge? If you are not proud, you will be able to learn from your subordinates and even from your children. Believe it or not, there are lots of advice, useful suggestions and other blessings God will be sending to you through your subordinates and those under you; but if you are not ready to humble yourself to receive these, you may likely miss them.

One way of identifying the proud is through their boastings. A proud fellow will not only brag about what he can do, but also about several things he cannot do, all in a bid to make him look bigger than who he really is. As a child of God, you are expected to avoid boasting because of several variables in life are completely out of your control (James 4:14-16). Hence, our Bible reading says even when you are wealthy, never put your trust in your wealth or boast about what you have. Money may buy you a water bed, but it cannot buy you sleep. What is the use of a water bed without the ability to sleep? Also, you may be the richest man in the world, and yet with all your wealth, you cannot by salvation for yourself or for your brother. Money can buy a beautiful wife but not a good name. Do you boast of your accomplishments? You need to be broken. Forget whatever you may have achieved and yield yourself to the hands of the Lord, asking God to mold you as He deems fit.

Key Point

Pride, like smoke, cannot be covered. Before long, it will be seen in the carriage or conduct of its host.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Sunday 1st November, 2015.

CONNECTED TO THE SPIRIT?

Memorise

I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
- John 15:5.

Read: John 15:4-7.

4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.

7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

Message

After Moses experienced the wonders of God in multiple dimensions at the Red Sea, he wrote a song to express his awe of the God of wonders. Here is an excerpt of this song from Exodus 15:11:

"Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?"

From these words, we understand that signs and wonders come under the purview of God. They are God's acts, and they are part of His ministry. Signs and wonders are produced by the power of God. Any sign or wonder that is carried out by any other spirit or power is a fake; otherwise known as an act of magic. Today, magical acts are on the rise in churches, because some leaders want to see the manifestation of signs and wonders at all costs, irrespective of their source. They make a pact with the devil and begin to demonstrate his magical acts. In your local assembly, are you experiencing the signs and wonders of God or satanic magical acts?

Anyone who will be used for signs and wonders must first be connected to the God of signs and wonders. God has the power for genuine signs and wonders, and He is ready to share it with His children who are willing to pay the price of consecration. Elijah declared in 1 Kings 17:1b thus:

"As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word."

He was saying that he was who he was because of his connection to the miracle-working God, specifically God the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the powerhouse of the Godhead. Because Elisha had this understanding, he never asked for the anointing; rather, he asked for a double portion of the Spirit at work in his master (2 Kings 2:9). He knew that the Holy Spirit was behind the anointing, power, signs and miracles that were evident in Elijah's ministry. It is strange to know that some people want the anointing today, but they do not take time to develop their intimacy with the Holy Spirit. Some want power but do not care about the spirit it is coming from. Be very careful! Take note of the fact that it was after the oil touched David's head and the Holy Spirit came upon him that he could kill a bear and a lion with his bare hands. It was after this also that his ordinary stones could bring down Goliath the giant. Get connected to the Holy Spirit today.

Prayer Point

Father, grant me grace that my link with Your Holy Spirit may never be broken.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Monday 2nd November, 2015.

IS YOUR LOVE FOR GOD PROVEN?

Memorise

He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
- 1 John 4:8.

Read: 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Message

If you can prove to God that you truly love Him, you will provoke greater love and great blessings in return. After Paul showed God how much he loved Him, not only did God perform special miracles through him while he was still alive (Acts 19:11), God also showed him the glorious crown awaiting him in Heaven. How great and awesome it is to see the reward reserved for you in Heaven. Some of us desire to have this experience. While this is a good desire, the question is: have you demonstrated your love for God beyond all reasonable doubt? In fact, God made Paul aware of the time he would finish his Christian race; death did not come to him as a surprise. There are so many things that you may not have easy access to as a believer in Christ until you prove to God that you love Him unconditionally, willingly and sacrificially.

Solomon is another person who demonstrated his love for God. He did this by giving a powerful, record-setting offering. This moved God to give him a blank cheque, so that he could ask for whatever he desired. He asked for an understanding heart that would enable him govern God's people successfully. God granted him his request and gave him even much more. In other words, if you can prove your love for God, even when you do not know what to ask for, God will give you what you need and much more.

God loves you and me. He showed this when Jesus died in our place on the cross of Calvary, to save us from the eternal death that awaited us as the just retribution for our sins. Jesus never sinned. He was the only One who lived on earth without sinning, yet He willingly gave up His righteous, spotless and sinless life for us so that we will no longer perish. 1 Peter 3:18 says:

"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:"

If you accept His love today, all your sins will be washed away from the record books by His Blood. You will then become a child of God. But if you reject His love, you may be inviting eternal wrath and damnation to yourself. Give your life to Jesus today. If you are already born-again, ask for grace to love Him more. You can have the best that God has reserved for you by showing Him how much you love Him. Show it through obedience to Him, consecration and sacrificial giving. Let nothing be too much for you to give to God; after all, He gave you all that you have, and He owns the blessings you will yet receive.

Key Point

God establishes your love for Him through the small and big tests you face.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Tuesday 3rd November, 2015.

STEALING BY LIES: NOT ALLOWED.

Memorise

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
- Revelation 21:8.

Read: 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Message

In a particular church, some children and teenagers were asked to contribute some money for a specific purpose to their coordinator. After a while, the money contributed disappeared into thin air, and what was promised was never delivered. That is stealing! Such fraudulent actions can take Heaven away from its perpetrators. If you are guilty of such an act, go back and restitute, even if you have moved from that place to another. Do you know that some people need to restitute some items (for example, church-owned hymn books) and money to the churches they once attended in the past? Wherever you have a restitution to make, go and do so for the sake of making Heaven.

Moreover, stealing comes in different shades. Have you lied while filling your tax forms by declaring less than what you earn? You have defrauded the government. Do you have something that belongs to the government in your custody? Return it! Did you join others to share the proceeds of bribery, illegitimate deals and extortion in your office? Return it! Have you stolen a position from the rightful candidate through lying or mudslinging? Go and restitute your ways. Anything you fraudulently acquired must be returned to the rightful owner.

"The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death." Proverbs 21:6.

As a dealer in used cars, do you tamper with the mileage figures of cars you sell just to deceive potential buyers? Repent. When asked to supply some goods in a contract, do you look for fairly used ones, refurbish them and present them as brand new? Restitute! When you go for a course outside your place of residence, do you lie that you lodged in an expensive hotel, whereas you stayed in a cheaper hotel or even lodged with a friend or relative? Do you falsify figures? Some pastors manipulate attendance to enhance their periodic performance assessment. If you can deceive man, can you deceive God? Even if you succeed with that deception and get what you wanted, does God's silence equal divine approval? Restitution is putting to rest something that is experiencing unrest. Until you restitute a pending matter, there can never be rest, no matter what else is done. God wants you holy. It must be His way and not yours.

Key Point

Every lie told is not gone into oblivion; rather, it is only waiting somewhere to implicate the liar.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Wednesday 4th November, 2015.

FREED BY THE TRUTH?

Memorise

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed
- John 8:36.

Read: John 8:32-36.

32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

33 They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?

34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.

36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

Message

Jesus is the only Way to salvation, and the Truth that sets free. He declared that if He sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36). He also said that one is set free by knowing the truth in Him (John 8:32). I am living proof of the freedom that Jesus gives, and a living witness of what it means to be set free and left free. While in my final year of secondary school in 1960, there was an altercation between my father and some people in our village compound, and it was over me. During a family meeting, in spite of my father's pleas, his adversaries threatened my life. They said, "Is it because of this boy that you are refusing to join us? We will see how old he will grow up to be." When my father returned home and reported this threat to my mother, I ran for my life. For 13 years, I kept running away from home until I met Jesus. When I did, my flight from home stopped. Praise God that the forces of darkness that hitherto put me to flight now take to their heels when they see me, because I now carry the greater One inside of me. Are you passing through a similar experience? Are you afraid of demonic powers? Have you been running from your village or town? Stop running! Confront them with the power in the Name of Jesus!

When you are in Christ and you know your rights and privileges in the kingdom, and you choose to stand on God's Word to activate His promises, no evil power can destroy you. Confront every power opposing you today in the Name of Jesus. For some believers, fear has kept them on the same spot. They fail to recognise that Jesus Christ has liberated them from the bondage of fear. While expounding on what Jesus accomplished through His death, Hebrews 2:15 says:

"And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage."

One of my sons challenged some idol worshippers during their festival. He went to their headquarters to preach to them. Instead of attacking him, they were afraid of what he was carrying inside him. They let him go because they reasoned that for him to be that bold, he must have a power greater than theirs. Of course he knew who he was carrying - the Almighty God! The madman of Gadara had thousands of demons in him, but one command from the Truth set him free. Do you know Jesus enough to be able to withstand the wiles and arrows of darkness by the use of His Name? What truths based on His Word have you been exposed to? Do you stand on them? What efforts have you made to increase your knowledge of the truth?

Action Point

Pray that the leaders of your country will get to know the truth, so that they can govern in the fear of God.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Thursday 5th November, 2015.

HELP FROM UNWILLING HELPERS

Memorise

Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.
- 1 Kings 17:9.

Read: Genesis 32:24-32.

24 And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.

25 And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him.

26 And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.

27 And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob.

28 And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.

29 And Jacob asked him, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, thy name. And he said, Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name? And he blessed him there.

30 And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.

31 And as he passed over Penuel the sun rose upon him, and he halted upon his thigh.

32 Therefore the children of Israel eat not of the sinew which shrank, which is upon the hollow of the thigh, unto this day: because he touched the hollow of Jacob's thigh in the sinew that shrank.

Message

One lesson about the workings and operations of God from today's Bible reading is that prayer compels blessings out of unwilling helpers. There are some people who can help you but who deliberately refuse to do so for one reason or the other. If you fail to pray, you might be denied their help; but if you pray, your prayers can force them to have a change of heart, and move them to help you. Why did Jacob have to wrestle with God? Why did he say he would not let go until his desire was granted? It is because there is the possibility of unwillingness from destiny-helpers. In the Name of Jesus, all destiny-helpers who have refused to help you will have a positive turn-around and render help to you from today.

You need to understand the reasons why a destiny-helper may refuse to help the one he or she has been appointed to help. Many factors may be responsible for this, and one of such factors is sin. The greatest helper of destiny that anyone can have is God. God wants to help you, but sin ties His hands (Isaiah 59:1-2). Some people have maltreated their helpers unknowingly, only to later realise that the person they had treated badly has a significant role to play in their lives. Never oppress anyone, particularly those who appear to be in a disadvantaged position, because you don't know what they will become later. Besides, if you are always antagonising your helpers, others who were meant to help you will soon take their flight from you.

In addition, prayer makes your helpers remember you and review your situation in your favour. Jacob wrestled with God all night, and this moved God to remember his plight and review his situation. This is why God asked Jacob, "What is your name?" From that moment, things changed for Jacob. You may want to ask: "What if Jacob had not prayed?" The answer is that his story would have ended prematurely. Esau, his vengeful brother, who was very militant, would have taken revenge on him. This tells you that if not for the prayers you had prayed, and if not for the intercession of others to God on your behalf, you may not be where you are today. You need to pray so that you can arrive at God's ordained destination ahead of you.

Prayer Point

Father, in Your mercy, reverse today, whatever is making my destiny-helpers withdraw their help from me, in Jesus' Name.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Friday 6th November, 2015.

FINISHING THE RACE.

Memorise

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
- 2 Timothy 4:7.

Read: 2 Timothy 4:6-8.

6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Message

The moment you became born-again, a race was set before you (Hebrews 12:1). This implies that until a person becomes born-again, he or she has no destination to go with God. It is the new birth in Christ Jesus that gives you a destination in God. Are you saved? If you are, there is a divine destination you have been called unto. Religion and being religious can never give you a destination in Christ. If you are born-again, you are going somewhere glorious, prepared for you by the Lord Jesus Christ, both in this world and in the world to come; but if you are not born-again, you are heading nowhere. You shall arrive at your God-given destination in Jesus' Name.

Moreover, it is one thing to start a race and another thing to finish it. While it is a great thing to finish the race, it is more glorious to finish it with joy. The devil will do everything to stop you from starting the race, but when he fails, he will try to hinder you from reaching the finish line. When he sees that he is not able to stop you from finishing the race, he will do everything possible to make you miserable, sad, depressed and unhappy along the way, so that you will end the race with grumbling, regrets, in tears and, if possible, even accusing God. These are all satanic wiles, but by the grace of God, you shall overcome.

One Bible character who was very conscious of the race he was called to run was Paul the apostle. In our Bible reading, towards the end of his race, he looked back and assessed his performance. He assessed himself against the backdrop of the rewards he saw reserved for him in Heaven. Paul knew exactly what he wanted. He had set his goal right from when his race started, and had worked assiduously towards achieving it. In Acts 20:22-24, in spite of the difficult situations he had already gone through for the faith, he acknowledged that several unpleasant events were awaiting him even as he headed for Jerusalem. Nevertheless, he was completely detached from them, because he was totally sold out to the Lord; the devil was therefore not able to get his attention. He had to do all these so that he could finish his race with joy. If you truly want to finish your race with joy, you must die to self. Satan will do everything to get at you, but if you are dead to self, you will not be moved. However, if you allow self to control you, you will take offence and finish in sorrow, and you may even get derailed. Are you ready to pay the price to finish this Christian race with joy?

Prayer Point

Father, help me finish with joy the Christian race set before me.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Saturday 7th November, 2015.

TREADING ON SERPENTS.

Memorise

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.

Read: Luke 10:17-20 (KJV).

17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.

18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.

19 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.

20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

Message

Holiness makes you a weapon that God can use. As long as sin dwells in you, it makes you loathsome to God and unsuitable for His use. Hence, 2 Timothy 2:21 says:

“If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.”

If you truly want God to use you to heal the sick, raise the dead and perform signs and wonders, then you must run far away from sin and live a life of holiness unto God. It is important to note here that if you lay your hands on the sick, nothing will happen unless Jesus the Healer lays His hands on yours. So, it is not your hands doing the healing, but His. If your hands are stained with sin or with blood, Jesus will not lay His hands on yours. How clean are your hands?

Moreover, holiness empowers you to fight on God’s side against devil and his demons. Imagine the same fellow who was a slave of sin and a prisoner to the devil, now confronting him face to face and facing the forces of evil in battle. This is just great! God in Isaiah 41:14-15 said:

“Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel. Behold, I will make thee a new sharp threshing instrument having teeth: thou shalt thresh the mountains, and beat them small, and shalt make the hills as chaff.”

Holiness empowers God’s people to fearlessly confront any satanic agent and to paralyse his or her powers. By holiness, you become strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. It clothes you in God’s armour and protects you from the missiles of the enemy (Ephesians 6:14). Holiness make you stand tall in the midst of opposing forces (John 14:30-31), and positions you in Christ so that satanic force are all kept under your feet (Ephesians 1:20-23). Sin puts the sinner under Satan; this is why he can tread on them at will (Romans 6:16). Holiness reserves that order and places the believer above the devil. No wonder Jesus in Luke 10:19 says:

“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.”

Anytime you dare demons when sin is in your life, you can be sure you will suffer some injuries; but if you are living holy, you can trample them under foot.

Key Point

A person’s lifestyle determines his or her position in the spirit realm. While sin puts you under the devil, holiness puts you above him.

Open Heavens Devotional.

Sunday 8th November, 2015.

BEFORE THE MANIFESTATION OF SIGNS.

Memorise

God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?
- Hebrew 2:4.

Read: Psalm 34:1-3.

1 I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

2 My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.

3 O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.

Message

There are certain criteria God looks out for before choosing a fellow through whom His signs and wonders will be manifested to the world. He saw meekness and humility in Moses. If the Lord will use you to do the greater works He promised (John 14:12), you must be meek and gentle. You must also be humble to the end. Some people start off being humble, and God begins to lift them up; but at some point, they became so full of themselves that they commit the grievous sin of taking or sharing in God’s glory. Because of this, God takes His leave from them. Those who will go far with God must start, continue and end with humility. Take note that when the Lord sent Moses back to Egypt, He did not send him back alone. God instructed him to go with his rod; a rod which God decided to make His own.
Exodus 4:17 says:
“And thou shalt take this rod in thine hand, wherewith thou shalt do signs.”
He obeyed and with that rod, God performed signs and wonders. He never parted with that rod. God may want to take over your rod too. He may want to convert something that is dear to you to His own as an avenue for the performance of signs and wonders. What is most important here is that whatever He asks of you must be done in all humility. When you do this, the signs will follow.

Similarly, if you check closely, you will find out that God chooses worshippers. He chose David; the one who said he would bless the Lord at all times and continually praise Him with his mouth. How committed are you to the worship of God? Some worship Him only when the going is good, but when they go through trying times, they cease to do so. Instead, they begin to grumble, murmur and complain. There is a user of this devotional: God chose you for signs and wonders, and He even started using you in the miraculous until you began to grumble and complain. If you can repent of this and embrace the regular worship of God, appreciating Him for His works in your life, the working of miracles that stopped in your life will begin to flow again. When this happens, testify to God’s glory before the congregation of God’s people. Are you a worshipper? How often do you worship God? Is there quality in your worship? If you will see signs and wonders in your life and ministry, you must be prepared to live a life of quality worship.

Prayer point
Your willingness to obey all of God’s commands is what you need to enter the realm of the miraculous.