Friday, February 9th.
The Parable of A Rich Fool.

"But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?". (Luke 12:20).

The parable of the rich fool was put forth by our Lord Jesus to warn those who prize their personal desires and wealth acquisition above the things of God. The narration goes thus; "The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?". (Luke 12:16-17).

First, the rich man became so wealthy that there was no space to store his goods. Wealth those days were stored in the form of physical produce of agricultural products and ranches for cattle. So, he decided to pull down the store house and build a bigger one that could accommodate his present possessions.

Then, he said to himself, "...Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry".(Luke 12:19). "But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God".(Luke 12:20-21).

The moral lesson from this parable is that you should recognize God as the source of your wealth and put your investment in the things of God. That is why every wise child of God should never joke with his tithe and offerings. Anti tithers stand the risk of having their life cut short like the rich fool. God takes personal responsibility to protect big time givers. If you are a giver, you will never die by. accident, brief or protracted illness. But those who are stingy towards God may not live to their full age.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Heavenly Father, I recognize you as the source of my wealth. In response, I will always give my very best to you in full assurance that it will come back to me in multiple proportion and increase my capacity to give. I therefore declare that I will live long to fulfill your good purpose for my life in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Psalms 41:1-3; Matthew 6:19-20.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 9-10; Romans 1-3.

Saturday, February 10th
The Parable of The Watchful Servants.

"Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them".(Luke 12:37).

This parable of the watchful servants is an admonition for believers to be conscious of the coming of the Lord. Believers who are conscious of the coming of the Lord are likened to watchful servants who sre duty ready to receive their master from the return of a wedding feast.

A duty ready servant even stays awake throughout the night watch so that whenever his master returns, he will open the door immediately. Such a servant with such attitude to work will certainty be rewarded by the master. He will even have the opportunity to seat at meal with the Master and be served by him.

We are living in the days were a large percentage of the church are more conscious of material possession and have almost forgotten about the coming of the Lord to rapture the church. Even most of the minister seldom reminds their flock of the coming of the Lord. They appear to be more concerned about filling up their churches with mixed crowd and the display of their wealth. It is not therefore uncommon to see a few of these ministers show case their Gucci designers wears and even the latest model of a luxury car they just bought.

As much as there is nothing absolutely wrong about being rich, we should not let it distract us from the heavenly goal. We are living in the last seconds of the injury time given to mankind. Our Lord Jesus will come like a thief in the night. Therefore, "Get dressed [always] for service and keep your lamps burning".(Luke 12:35, NET Translation).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear, Lord Jesus, I thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I refuse to be distracted by the cares of this world. I therefore choose to be busy for the kingdom work at all time eagerly anticipating your return. Father, strengthen me continually by your Spirit in my inner man to be busy for you in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 12:40; Romans 12:11.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 11-13; Romans 4-6.

Sunday, February 11th
The Parable of The Unfruitful Fig Tree.

"He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none".(Luke 13:6).

This is a parable that has a twofold application even though it's a parable that actually addressed the state of the nation of Israel. In this parable, God is the owner of the fig tree and Jesus is likened to the Gardner. The fig tree is the nation of Israel.

The opening text says that God sought fruit of the fig tree he planted but found none. "Then said he unto the dresser (Gardner) of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?".(Luke 13:7). The three years represents the first three years of ministry of our Lord Jesus. God sent his Son primarily to the nation of Israel to redeem them from the curse of the Law of Moses and establish a new covenant with them. But after three years, Israel in bold terms rejected Jesus. And God was ready to cut off Israel but for the intervention of Jesus who asked for more time.

The Gardener who represents Jesus in the parable intervened thus, "...Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down".(Luke 13:8-9). After a few more months of Jesus ministry, the Jews didn't show any sign of repentance but rather master minded the crucifixion of Jesus.

The result is Israel as a nation is temporarily cut off and the Gentiles received mercy on account of their disobedience. Hence the Scripture says, "He came unto his own, and his own received him. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name".(John 1:11-12).

However, God hasn't completely forgotten about the nation of Israel as he has reserved a remnant for salvation after he is through with this church age. We will discussion how this parable is also relevant to the present day church tomorrow.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Gracious Father, I thank for for your longsuffering towards us all. I also appreciate the opportunity given to us formerly known as Gentiles to receive salvation. I ask for your grace to continue to run this heavenly race and keep the faith in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Ephesians 2:11-15; Romans 11:15.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 14-15; Romans 7-9.

Monday, February 12th
The Parable of The Unfruitful Fig Tree - 2.

"He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none".(Luke 13:6).

We said yesterday that this parable primarily addressed the state of the nation of Israel. But it also applies to the present day Church. Apostle Paul cautioned the church in this light when he wrote, "For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee".(Romans 11:21).

As a child of God, you should be productive in the house of God. Our Lord Jesus said, " I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit".(John 15:1-2).

Don't be a dysfunctional member of the body of Christ otherwise you stand the risk of being cut off. No employer will retain any staff that is not contributing to the growth of its organization. In the same sense, God himself will cut you off if you attend to kingdom duties with complacency.

It is strange to see quite a few professing believers who have been under the teaching of God's word for a few years still not committed to the things of God. They are usually cold towards the things of God. They always have a thousand and one excuse why they cannot be in a church service. Today, it's their job and another day, it's a family issue. This attitude is a subtle road to hell.

The very moment you gave your life to Jesus, your life is no longer yours. You became a bond servant to Jesus. You are obliged to live the rest of your life to please him and not to your personal pleasure. You must get to the point where you should say, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain".(Philippians 1:21). Remember, we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ to give account of our stewardship. So, make a quality decision to be committed in your local church today. If you are already committed, serve God with zeal and undivided attention. And you will certainly be rewarded and honoured by God.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Ancient of Days, I give you praise for your manifold wisdom. I thank you for the opportunity given to me to be part of your kingdom. I will live the rest of my life to the advancement of your kingdom. Thank you for your enabling grace in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 3:10; 25:30; 2nd Corinthians 5:10-11.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 16-18; Romans 10-12.

Tuesday, February 13th.
The Parable of the Sower.

"And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up".(Matthew 13:3-4).

This is one of the parables our Lord Jesus himself interpreted because of the hidden truths contained therein. In this parable, the sower is the preacher or the teacher of God's word, the seed is the word of God and the different places the seeds fell represents the different ways people usually respond to the word of God they hear. This also depicts the different heart's conditions of men with response to God's word that comes to them.

The first place the seed fell was on the wayside. According to Jesus, these are the ones who hear the word of the kingdom, and don't understand it. Then, the wicked one who is Satan comes and catch away that which was sown in their hearts. Usually, this happens to those who hardly pay attention to God's word while the message is going on. Some of these folks even browse with their phones while service is going on.

Jesus continued his narration, "Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away".(Matthew 13:5-6).

Jesus interpreted this second kind of response thus; "But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended". (Matthew 13:20-21). For instance, a few women have abadoned their commitment because of the persecution they received from their husbands. It shouldn't be. Your loyalty is first to the Lord before your spouse.

If you don't want to find yourself in this two conditions just discussed above, change your attitude towards the word of God. Listen to it with undivided attention. Spend more time in the study of God's word until it takes deep root in your spirit. We will talk about the other two kinds of response or conditions of the heart as contained in the parable tomorrow.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: I thank you heavenly Father for every opportunity to hear your word. I give it undivided attention and refuse to be distracted or compromise my faith in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 10:38-42; Colossians 3:16.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 19-20; Romans 13-16..

Wednesday, February 14th.
The Parable of the Sower - 2.

"And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them: But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold".(Matthew 13:7-.

Today, we will continue with the parable of the sower. We have already dealt with the first two kinds of response people give to the word of God. We said, those who received seeds by the way side are those who hear the word but allow the devil to steal it from them. The second category are those who receive the word on stony places. These are those who buckle under the pressure of persecution because the word is not deeply rooted in them.

The third kind of response comes from those whose seed fell among thorns. According to our Lord Jesus, "He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful".(Matthew 13:22).

The last kind of response are those whose seeds fell on good ground. This is "...he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty".(Matthew 13:23).

So, it's up to you to open your heart and receive God's word with rapt attention. The degree to which you produce result is directly proportional to the kind of attention you give to the word of God. Don't let the challenges of life and the cares of this world affect your commitment to God. Be tough like a soldier. Serve God in season and out of season.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I rejoice at every opportunity to hear your word. I refuse to allow the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches to choke the word I hear in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Timothy 6:7-10; 1st John 2:15-17.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 21-23; 1st Corinthians 1-3.

Thursday, February 15th.
The Parable of Tares among Wheat.

"Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field".(Matthew 13:24).

In this parable, the kingdom of heaven is likened to a man that plants a good seed in his field. "But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also". (Matthew 13:25-26).

His servant was curious as to why there was tares among the wheat. The man answered, "...An enemy hath done this...".(Matthew 13:28). So, the servant suggested they should uproot the tares. But his master replied, "Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn".(Matthew 13:30).

This parable clearly reveals the eternal destiny of both good and evil men. The wheat is the good seed and it represents the righteous. The tares are the wicked and unrighteous people on earth. The enemy is the devil and the harvest is the end of this age and the final judgment of God.

The day of God's wrath is near and as such, all men are enjoined to embrace the gospel of our Lord Jesus. Salvation is a free gift that you receive by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ on Calvary. Those who reject the gospel will be cast into the Lake of fire. Don't listen to the lie of the devil that says hell is not real. Hell is real but it is not God who sends one there. It is your decision that sends you there. Accept Jesus today as your Lord and Personal Saviour if you haven't done so. If you have already received him, then, live a life that is worthy of your calling.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Heavenly father, I thank you for sending Jesus to die for my sins. I reaffirm his Lordship over my life. I ask for your grace to overcome every temptation that could lure me away from the faith in the mighty name of Jesus.

Further Study: Psalms 9:17; Hebrews 9:27.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 24-25; 1st Corinthians 4-6.

Friday, February 16th.
The Parable of Tares among Wheat.

"And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how".(Mark 4:26-27).

Our Lord Jesus here tells us that everything in the kingdom of God revolves around a seed harvest principle. There is a life given principle in every seed that causes it to reproduce after its kind. You don't have to bother how it happens because every seed if sown in the right soil is ordained to grow and reproduce.

Simply put, what you sow is what you reap. Hence the Scripture says, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully".(Galatians 6:6; 2nd Corinthians 9:6).

It's important you make a quality decision to give your best to God at all times. Whatever you give will always come back to you in multiple proportion. Pay your tithe regularly and give quality offerings. Don't allow a few unscrupulous elements who are agents of darkness dissuade you from remitting your tithe. You should even give much more as God would enable you.

Also give to those in need. This was the heart cry of our Lord Jesus. He even wants you to give to the point of liquidating your properties. There is great reward for those who consider the poor. As it is written, "He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse. [For] he that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again".(Proverbs 28:27; 19:17).So, if you want to reap good harvest, begin to sow good seeds into ministry work and into the lives of people.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Gracious Father, I give you the honour and glory due to your name. I thank you for every opportunity to sow my seeds. As I do, I declare that I will receive a multiplied harvest in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 6:38; 2nd Corinthians 9:10.
Daily Scripture Reading: Leviticus 26-27; 1st Corinthians 7-9.

Saturday, February 17th.
The Parable of The Mustard Seed.

"Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field".(Matthew 13:31).

The parable of the mustard seed is a parable our Lord put forth to illustrate another peculiar attribute of the kingdom of heaven. Mustard seeds are the small round seeds of various mustard plants and it's very small in size

According to the opening text, the kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in the field. The narration continues; "Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof".(Matthew 13:32).

The moral lessons is that it doesn't matter how you start in life, if you apply kingdom principles in your business and every affairs of your life,the results you will get over time will be amazing. Put in another way, everything operated by the kingdom principles is ordained to grow. It will now just grow, it will overtake others involved in a similar venture.

The major setback most of God's children suffer in the affairs of their lives is caused by disobedience to laid down principles contained in the word of God. That is why the ungodly appears to be more successful than most Christians. It shouldn't be. God fearing men in the Bible where the most successful and wealthiest people in their days.

Job before his trial was the richest man in the whole of the east. Abraham was very wealthy also. King Solomon's wisdom opened doors of financial favour such that he became the richest king in his generation.

Your union with Christ has placed you in an advantaged position in life. You have what it takes to get to the top. Just live your life by the principles of God's word and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. The mighty power of God will cause whatever you lay your hands to do to prosper beyond your wildest dreams and imaginations. It may start very little like a grain of mustard seed but it will grow to the point where people and even nations will look unto you.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Everlasting Father, I thank you for the privilege to become part of your kingdom. I therefore declare that uncommon favour is at work in my life that will lead me to the peak of my success in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Job 8:7; 1st John 5:4.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 1-3; 1st Corinthians 10-12.


Sunday, February 18th.
The Parable of The Leaven (Yeast).

"Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened".(Matthew 13:33).

This is yet another interesting parable. Here, the kingdom of heaven is likened unto a yeast that is mixed with three large bowl of flour. The yeast grew and caused the bread to rise.

What can we deduce from this parable?First, we need to know what yeast is generally used for? It has physiological properties that has made it useful in making foods, especially bread and other form of snacks. It is also used to brew alcoholic beverages, wine making and ethanol production. In addition, yeast is used in nutritional supplements. It is an excellent source of protein and vitamins.

With these uses in mind, it is not a surprise that the kingdom of heaven is likened to a yeast mixed in bowls of flour. Your union or connection with God through Christ adds lots of values to your life. It transforms the ordinary human life to the supernatural life of God. It changes your mentality. You no longer see yourself as a failure but a success. Your perspective about life changes completely and you begin to look at the future with an optimistic view.

Furthermore, just as the yeast causes the bread to rise, Christ in you will cause you to rise above every challenges of life. It will lift you up to enviable heights where no man can pull you down.

No matter where you are in life right now, the yeast of God in you will cause you to rise. You will not only rise, you will be a positive influence wherever you find yourself. Countless thousands of lives will be impacted through the glory of God they see in your life. So, refuse to live a low life. Let the yeast of God in you bring about changes in your home, place of work and school. "And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee".(Deuteronomy 28:10).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I exalt your holy name. I thank you for the new life I have in Christ. I know it will take me to new levels of glory and impact everyone I have the opportunity to meet in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 8:19; Colossians 1:27.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 4-5; 1st Corinthians 13-16.

Monday, February 19th.
The Parable of The Hidden Treasure.

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field".(Matthew 13:44).

The kingdom of heaven is likened to a hidden treasure that a man found in a field in this parable. In excitement of this discovery, he buys the entire field.

The hidden treasure is the word of God. No wonder Apostle Paul prayed for the church in Ephesus, "That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto [them] the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of [their] understanding being enlightened; that [they] may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints".(Ephesians 1:17-18). And this is a prayer you should pray for yourself on a daily basis.

The greatest hindrance towards achieving your goals and dreams is not the devil. It is ignorance. Hence the Scripture says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge...".(Hosea 4:6). A lot of Christians have been misled to think their breakthrough is in attending a special deliverance service. It is not in any bottle of oil or water either. What you need is right knowledge. Hence our Lord Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free".(John 8:32).

There is however a price to pay for knowledge like the man who bought the field because of the treasure he found. You will have to spend hours studying your Bible. You also have to invest in good books and messages in different formats. Anyone who is ready for knowledge will not skip church services habitually. Whatever you have to do to gain more knowledge is worth it. It is the knowledge of God's word that will launch you into your rich inheritance in Christ.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Glorious Father, I thank you for the revelation knowledge of your word. I pray for deeper insight in the knowledge of your word as I study.your word and listen to messages in the mighty name of Jesus.

Further Study: Proverbs 2:3-5; Acts 20:32.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 6-8; 2nd Corinthians 1-3.

Tuesday, February 20th.
The Parable of The Valuable Pearl..

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it".(Matthew 13:45-46).

This is a parable whose interpretation is subjective. The subject is the valuable pearl. The interpretation alluded to it is dependent on what we think the valuable pearl is. What can however be more valuable that the salvation of man? The Scripture says, "Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you".(1st Peter 1:9-10).

The reference above reveals that even the prophet of old searched diligently for this salvation. Salvation is free but it is not cheap to keep it. There are prizes you must pay to eventually make the kingdom of heaven. This is what the merchant seeking for a goodly pearl did when he found one. He sold all he has just to get the valuable pearl.

Your journey to heaven is worth giving up anything that could stand in your way. Quite a few professing believers want to make heaven but they don't want to give up the pleasures of this world. This is virtually impossible. "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever".(1st John 2:16-17).

Don't neglect your salvation. It is worth giving up everything you can possibly give up. Don't mortgage your salvation for momentary pleasures that this world has to offer. "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?".(Mark 8:36).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Merciful Father, I thank you for the salvation you wrought in me through the sacrificial death of your Son on the cross of Calvary. I therefore give up anything that could hinder my heavenly race. I pray that you strengthen me by your Spirit in my inner man to live a life worthy of my calling in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 16:25; Luke 14:26-27.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 9-10; 2nd Corinthians 4-6.

Wednesday, February 21st.
The Parable of The Fishing Net.

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away".(Matthew 13:47-48).

Man is an eternal being and as such continue to exist even after death. But there are only two possible destination; heaven or hell. This is the moral lesson this parable of the fishing net clearly teaches.

The verse that follows the opening verses reads, "So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth".(Matthew 13:49-50).

The message is very clear. The wicked or the unrighteous will be cast into a furnace of fire. And they will be tormented night and day in the flame of fire. Skeptics don't agree with this teaching as they try to appeal to reasoning rather than scriptures. How can a loving God cast man he created in his own image into a lake of fire is the question often asked by these skeptics.

It is through that God is a God of love but he is also a God of judgment. He was a God of love when he destroyed two cities, Sodom and Gomorrah with brimstone and fire he rained down from heaven. We were not told that the children were spared. He was the God of love when he destroyed the whole world with flood with only eight souls preserved.

Please, don't be deceived by false teachings that attempts to disprove the existence of hell and the destruction of lost souls therein. God has done the needful to save you from the coming wrath through the death of his Son on the cross of Calvary. Your responsibility is to accept Jesus into your heart as your Lord and personal Saviour and live a life worthy of your calling. Serve him with undivided attention and be part of the soul winning task.

Your salvation is not hinged on the local church you attend. It has nothing to do with your baptismal certificate either. It doesn't matter also whether you have been confirmed by your church. If you do all these, you will still end up in that burning flame if you don't have Jesus.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Righteous Father, I am grateful for the new life I have in Christ Jesus. I come against anything that attempts to distract and discourage me from the heavenly race in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 18:9; Revelation 20:11-15.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 11-13; 2nd Corinthians 7-9.

Thursday, February 22nd
The Parable of The Householder.

"Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old".(Matthew 13:52).

This parable likens the scribes who are instructed in the things of the kingdom to householders who out of their rich treasures brings out new and old things.

Who are the scribes? They are teachers of the Law. They are well trained to expound the law to the Jews. In doing that, they had to constantly remind the Jews of things that have been taught over the years and also teach them new things they needed to know. Their treasure house is the store of knowledge contained in study materials like the books of the Bible and historical facts.

In the same sense, Ministers of the Gospel should see themselves like the householder that is charged with the responsibility to take care of those of the household of faith. To do so effectively, he must have a rich resource of revelation knowledge to feed the members of his household. He should not just focus on new revelation, he should from time to time remind them of what they have been taught over time. Repetition is the law of deep and lasting impression. Hence Apostle Paul wrote to the Church in Philippines, "Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe".(Philippians 3:1).

There is a school of thought that asserts that the new and old things brought out from the treasury refers to the old and new testament teachings. I do not agree. I do know that there are wealth of information contained in the old testament that we can draw moral lessons from. However, the new creation in Christ should be rooted and grounded in the teachings of our Lord Jesus and his Apostles. These teachings laid the foundation for the church to live by. Any reference from the old testament that does not agree with what Jesus taught should be discarded.

This is actually where a large percentage of the church has missed it. And this is the major cause of doctrinal differences in the church today. But, if we all stick to the teachings of our Lord Jesus and his Apostles, there will be little or no difference in our doctrines.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: My Father in heaven, I thank you for the revelation of your word that sets us apart from the world. As I submit myself to learning, I declare that every information I receive; both new and old from the rich treasure of the knowledge of your word will set me on the path of success in the mighty name of Jesus.

Further Study: 2nd Peter 1:13; 2nd Corinthians 3:6.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 14-15; 2nd Corinthians 10-13.

Friday, February 23rd.
The Parable of The Lost Sheep.

"How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?".(Matthew 18:12).

The parable of the lost sheep was spoken on two different occasion but in different context. In the context of the opening text, it refers to little children. Our Lord Jesus clearly reveals through this parable that little children can stray away from the path of salvation.

There is the school of thought that believe that all little children will make heaven. It is not true. If it is, this parable will be uncalled for. Not every little child believes in Jesus. So, parents have the responsibility to guide their children in the way of salvation. Hence the Bible says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it".(Proverbs 22:6).

When you see any child going astray from the ways of the Lord, make effort to ensure that child is restored back to the Lord. Don't allow the 'ninety nine' that are still in faith cause you to neglect one child that strayed away.

Every single soul is important to God, including that of children. Hence as our Lord Jesus further narrates, he said, "And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish".(Matthew 18:13-14).

Parents, generally speaking have failed in their responsibility to bring up through children in the ways of the Lord. This is evident in the high crime rate and social vices amongst our youths today. Most of our Churches also neglect the children ministry. In some churches, it is non existence. It also matters the kind of school you send your children to. Also monitor the kind of friends they keep or play with. Our children our the future leaders and ministers of tomorrow.

The final moral lesson we derive from this parable is that we should learn to celebrate any little child that is restored back to the faith. Tomorrow, we will look at the second occasion this parable was spoken.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Heavenly father, I thank you for the opportunity to be involved in training little children in the ways of the Lord. I ask for wisdom to raise the children under my custody in the ways of the Lord. I also pray that you direct me on how best to restore those that have strayed away from the faith in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Matthew 18:6
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 16-18; Galatians 1-3.

Saturday, February 24th.
The Parable of The Lost Sheep - 2.

"What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?".(Luke 15:4).

We discussed the parable of the lost sheep yesterday but in the context of a little child that is strayed away from the faith. Our Lord gave this parable of the lost sheep a second time but this time in a different context.

Here, the lost sheep is a sinner. The narration continues; "And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance"(Luke 15:5-7).

There are so many lost sheep in the body of Christ today that need repentance. It is however our responsibility to follow up on them and ensure they are restored back to the faith. Ironically, some of these lost souls never really get the attention of the local church they attend. One of the reason is lack of effective follow up structure.

The Scripture says, "Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds".(Proverbs 27:23). It's imperative for the church to set up a follow up team that is charged with the responsibility of visitation and follow up. Reports should be submitted and members that are seemingly withdrawn should be given immediate attention.

Sinners that repents whether of strayed sheep or those who just accepted Jesus brings joy in heaven. We should learn to celebrate lost sheep that are restored back to faith. Even new souls won to Christ should be celebrated also. People generally love it when they are appreciated and treated with respect.

No matter how large a church is, no member should be lost in the crowd. People are the focus of ministry. We should therefore be constantly involved in soul winning, follow up and visitation. This is the reason God left you on earth after you got saved. The eternal destiny of countless thousands have been committed to our trust. We should therefore not be disobedient to this kingdom assignment. We will one day give account of our stewardship.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I give you the glory and honour due to your name. As I make effort to seek for the lost sheep in my local church, I pray that they will respond positively and be restored back to the faith in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 19:10; Acts 15:36.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 19-20; Galatians 4-6.


Sunday, February 25th.
The Parable of Selfless Service.

"So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do".(Luke 17:10).

Our Lord Jesus put forth this parable to address our attitude to service. In his narration, he questioned, "But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?".(Luke 17:7-.

He continued, "Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do".(Luke 17:9-10).

In this parable, God can be likened to the Master while we are his servants. Whatever service we render to God should be done without demanding for praise. Rather, we should thank him for the opportunity given to us to serve.

In addition, pleasing God through the service you render should be your primary concern. Don't render service to God because of what you want to gain. There are quite a few people who withdraw their commitment to God either because nobody ever praised their effort or they haven't reaped any personal gains yet. There are even those who expect monetary reward for the service they render unto God.

This is a wrong attitude to service. No matter the effort you put into rendering service to the Lord, see yourself as having done nothing. Strive to do much more for there is always room for improvement. The God that you serve is not unrighteous to forget the services you render to him. Just keep doing what you are supposed to do. God at the right time will open his book of remembrance and reward you accordingly.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I thank you for counting me worthy to serve in your vineyard. I ask for more grace to do much more in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Timothy 1:12; Hebrews 6:10.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 21-23; Ephesians 1-3.

Monday, February 26th.
The Parable of The Unmerciful Servant.

"Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?

This is a parable our Lord Jesus put forth to teach us the need to forgive our brothers. The parable is about a king who took account with his servants. "And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made".(Matthew 18:24-25).

The servants fell down, worshipped him and asked for more time. His master however had mercy on him and forgave his debt. However, when he saw one of his fellow servants "...which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt".(Matthew 18:28-30).

His fellow servant reported him to their lord and when he heard about it, he rebuked him and in anger, delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. "So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses".(Matthew 18:35).

This is a great moral lesson. We should learn to forgive our brethren in just the way God forgave us in Christ Jesus. And it must be from your heart. Don't be in the class of those who say they can forgive but will never forget. God does not keep record of the wrongs we have repented of. So, don't keep reminding yourself of the wrongs done against you. Those who keep grudges stand the risk of losing their salvation. Besides, when you forgive, you also set yourself free from bitterness and internal tensions that tends to steal your peace and joy.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Merciful and gracious Father, I thank you for forgiven me all my trespasses. I hereby forgive all those who trespass against me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 6:14-15; Ephesians 4:31-32.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 24-25; Ephesians 4-6.

Tuesday, February 27th.
The Parable of The Good Samaritan.

"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him".(Luke 10:33-34).

This parable is amongst the most popular of all the parables of Jesus. He gave this parable after a certain lawyer asked him to define who a neighbour is. It's about a traveller who embarked on a journey from Jerusalem to Jericho. He was robbed and severely wounded by thieves on his way leaving him half dead

"And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side".(Luke 10:31-32). This reaction from the Priest betrayed the office he represented. The Levites also did not display care and concern as expected of those who minister in the vineyard of God.

The narration continues; "But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee".(Luke 10:33-35).

At the end of the parable, our Lord Jesus asked, "Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?".(Luke 10:36). The Lawyer responded, "...He that shewed mercy on him...".(Luke 10:37. Then, Jesus told him to go and do likewise.

In life, opportunities come to us on a daily basis to render help to those in need. Don't turn it down if its within your power to help. This is the moral lesson gotten from this parable. If you are a clergy or a worker in God's vineyard, don't betray the trust reposed on you like the Priest and the Levite in this parable. Whatever kindness you can render to those you have the opportunity to meet, please do and God will certainly reward you.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: I thank you heavenly father for every opportunity I have to show kindness to people I meet on a daily basis. I pray for overflow of financial and material blessings in my life so I can be of help to them in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 5:16; Galatians 6:10.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 26-28; Philippians 1-2.


Wednesday, February 28th.
The Parable of A Persistent Friend. .

"I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth".(Luke 11:.

This parable of a persistent friend was put forth by our Lord Jesus to teach us the importance of perseverance in prayers. The narration started with a question, "Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him?".(Luke 11:5-6).

And the friend responded, "....Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.".(Luke 11:7). However, "...Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth".(Luke 11:.

Therefore, "...Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened".(Luke 11:9-10).

Don't give up in the place of prayers whether the request is concerning you or someone else. Pray until something happens. You are ordained to receive answers to your prayers. Even if the manifestation of the answer lingers, don't give up. Delay is not denial. God is faithful and will surely grant the expectations of your heart. "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise".(Hebrews 10::35-36).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I have confidence in you. As such, I will not give up on my expectations for I know I will not be denied in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 18:1-8; Matthew 7:7-11.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 29-30; Philippians 3-4.


Thursday, March 1st.
The Parable of Lowest seat at The Feast.

"When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room".(Luke 14:8-9).

This parable is a moral lesson on humility. Man generally speaking is full of pride. Hence, our Lord Jesus said in the opening text not to sit down at the highest seat when invited to a feast or ceremony. Otherwise, you could be told to leave that seat for a more honourable guest which certainly leads to shame.

Therefore, "...when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted".(Luke 14:10-11).

There is so much pride in the society today even in the church. Many a time, it is because of perceived status. Whoever you are and whatever you may have achieved couldn't have be possible without God. Besides, there is no level you get to that someone else has not attained and even surpass.

Remember, it is pride that brought down Lucifer from a lofty heightand made him the devil we know today. King Nebuchadnezzar was humbled on account of his pride such that he crawled like an animal for seven years in the bush. He also was made to eat grass like a cow. In addition, his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws.

Pride reveals itself even in the way we greet one another. Don't despise anyone. The person you look down on today might be your boss or even your president tomorrow. "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. [For] Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall".(1st Peter 5:6, Proverbs 16:18).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Great and mighty God, I exalt your holy name. I give you glory for what I am today and ever hope to be. I reject any form of pride in my life in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: James 4:6; Proverbs 29::23.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 31-33; Colossians 1-2.


Friday, March 2nd.
The Parable of The Invitation to a Great Feast .

"...A certain man made a great supper, and bade many: And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready".(Luke 14:16-17).

In this parable, our Lord Jesus began to narrate about a certain man that made a great feast and invited many people. And when the meal was ready, he sent his servant to notify them and ask them to come for the supper.

"And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come".(Luke 14:18-20).

So, the servant reported to his master how they all turned down the invitation. "Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind".(Luke 14:21). And the servant did so but informed him that there is still room for more people.

"And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper".(Luke 14:24).

Those originally invited for the great feast can be likened to the nation of Israel who rejected the gospel of our Lord Jesus. The maimed, poor, blind and crippled refers to the Gentiles. These physical conditions couldn't have been taken literally as it is never the will of God that any should be afflicted. However, spirituality speaking, anyone who doesn't know the Lord is blind, poor, maimed and crippled.

The further invitation to the streets and every road until the house is full corresponds to the task of evangelizing the world until everyone hears the Gospel. The rebellious Jews will not be allowed to partake of the feast. In other words, they will not be a part of the kingdom of heaven. Hence the Scripture says, "He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name".(John 1:11-12).

The invitation to become part of God's kingdom is still on. But the door will soon be shut. Receive Jesus now into your heart as your Lord and personal Saviour while you have the opportunity. Thus, it is written, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me".(Revelation 3:20).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for the opportunity given to me to become part of your kingdom. I therefore reaffirm the Lordship of Christ over my life in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 11:28-30; Hebrews 3:14-19.
Daily Scripture Reading: Numbers 34-36; Colossians 3-4.

Saturday, March 3rd.
The Parable of The Cost of Discipleship.

"For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him".(Luke 14:28-29).

Our Lord Jesus put forth this parable to buttress an earlier statement he made on what it cost to follow him. He had said, "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple".(Luke 14:26-27).

It cost to follow Jesus but it cost much more to despise him. The Scripture says, "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution".(2nd Timothy 3:12). The moment you choose to live a life without compromise, you will certainly face persecution. Sometimes, it could even cost you your life but the glory that follows far outweighs the suffering. Hence the Bible says, "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us".(Romans 8:18).

In addition to the persecution you will face, there are certain things you have to deny yourself. For instance, you have to deny yourself the gratification of the flesh. Put in another way, you have to sanctify yourself. You must separate yourself from the world and the evil things they do. "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever".(1st John 2:16-17).

Finally, the loyalty you have for Christ must surpass the loyalty you give to your father, mother, wife, husband or anyone that has a direct influence on your life. You must have an unflinching commitment to Christ in every way possible. You must be consistent in church attendance and be part of a department or activity group in your local church. Be actively involved in soul winning activities. Put your money into the gospel work also. These are the cost of discipleship. But It is worth it. Your labour in the Lord is certainly not in vain.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the opportunity given to me to serve you. I pledge my loyalty to you and to the work of the ministry. I reject every form of compromise that could disqualify me from the kingdom of heaven in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 2nd Timothy 2:12; Matthew 16:24.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 1-2; 1st Thessalonians 1-3.

Sunday, March 4th.
The Parable of The Prodigal Son.

"...A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living".(Luke 15:11-12).

This parable of the Prodigal Son is a about a man that has two sons. The younger of the two also known as the prodigal son because of his wasteful spending demanded of his own share of inheritance. "And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want".(Luke 15:13-14).

The first mistake he made was to live a wasteful life through careless spending. He didn't make any investment and never gave to anyone. Hence no one gave to him - Luke 15:16. In addition, he was forced to take up a job where he fed pigs. He even wished he ate the food that was meant for the pigs.

However, he came to his senses and decided to go back to his father. He didn't mind if he will be treated as one of the hired servant. "And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him".(Luke 15:20). He pled for mercy and immediately, "...the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry".(Luke 15:22-24).

This parable unveils how rich God's mercy and love is even to those that have strayed away from God but are ready to come back. God is rich in mercy and will gladly accept anyone that wants to rededicate his life to him.

There are so many that have gone far from God today. You cannot have a fulfilled life outside Christ. If you have strayed away from God one way or the other, come back to him. It could be in your commitment to him. Remember what you were doing for God that you have forsaken and repent. He loves you and long for your fellowship once more. Return to the Shepherd and Bishop of your soul who alone can fill you with joy and peace that transcend human understanding.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Holy Father, I thank you for your love and mercy. Have mercy on me and forgive me in any area of my walk with you that I am found wanting. I ask for your grace to continue to run the race with patient and full assurance of faith in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Ephesians 2:4-5; Revelation 2:5.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 3-5 1st Thessalonians 3-5.

Monday, March 5th.
The Parable of The Shrewd Steward.

"And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light".(Luke 16:.

"...There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward".(Luke 16:1-2).

"Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed".(Luke 16:3). The steward took advantage of the authority he had and reduced the debts of some of his master's customers so that after his master lays him off, they will receive him into their homes - Luke 16:5-7.

Though the steward was unjust in his dealings, his master commended him for his cleverness. Our Lord Jesus thus said, "...the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light".(Luke 16:. In addition he recommended, "Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations".(Luke 16:9).

This is one parable that our Lord Jesus taught a moral lesson through an ungodly and questionable character. He is not encouraging fraud but unveiled the power of money that can be utilized to make friends. He said these friends will certainly be of help to you if you become bankrupt.

Everlasting habitation here does not refer to heaven but a state of financial rest where your needs are completely met in the homes of these friends you have helped. It is true that not all friends reciprocate the good deeds you do for them but there are those that will certainly pay you back one way or the other. So, be generous with money. Don't hesitate to assist those you can with what God has blessed you with. Whatever good you do will certainly come back to you.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Glorious God, I bless your holy name. I thank you for the wisdom of your word that guides my daily affairs. I ask for this wisdom to guide me on how to use my money to make good friends that could in turn be a blessing to me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Proverbs 19:4; Matthew 7:12.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 6-7. 2nd Thessalonians 1-3..

Tuesday, March 6th.
The Story of The Rich man and Lazarus - 1.

"And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom".(Luke 16:22-23).

The story of the rich man and Lazarus has been erroneously included in the list of parables and we will use this opportunity to prove it's not a parable. We said at the beginning of this series that a parable is a short allegorical story designed to illustrate or teach some truth, religious principle, or moral lesson.

In parables, characters are mentioned in generic terms rather than specific names. In this story however, specific characters were mentioned. One of them is the beggar named Lazarus. The second named character is Abraham. Moses was also mentioned though not involved in the conversation. I believed our Lord knows the name of the rich man but deliberately didn't mention it.

The story started with the mention of the status and lifestyle of the rich man. He was clothed in purple and fine linen and lived in great luxury every day. "A beggar named Lazarus, who was covered with sores, was brought to his gate. He was always trying to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs used to come and lick his sores".(Luke 16:20-21, International Standard Version).

"And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom".(Luke 16:22-23).

This story reveals there is life after death. It also reveals the destination of the wicked and those who reject the gospel of our Lord Jesus. Even if this story is tagged a parable, it doesn't change the truth that it reveals. You give parables with events that could occur in life. For instance, you cannot give a parable of a man walking with his hands because no one walks with his hands.

The rich man pled for mercy seeing Lazarus afar off in Abraham's bosom. What was Abraham's response? Do the Saints still go to Abraham's bosom? What was actually the rich man's offence? We will deal with these and other related questions tomorrow.

Further Study: Psalms 9:17; Matthew 23:33.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 8-10. 1st Timothy 1-3.

Wednesday, March 7th.
The Story of The Rich man and Lazarus - 2.

"And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom".(Luke 16:22-23).

We established the fact yesterday that the story of the rich man and Lazarus is not a parable. The rich man died and found himself in hell. Lazarus died and was carried to Abraham's bosom. The rich man "...cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame".(Luke 16:24).

Abraham responded, "Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence".(Luke 16:25-26).

When the rich man knew nothing could be done about his plea, he made a second plea; "...I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment".(Luke 16:27-28). Abraham said if they don't believe the record of Moses and other Prophets, they will still not believe even if someone rises from the dead.

Abraham was right as there are countless thousands of people that have come back to life and told their experience of hell but most skeptics still don't believe. The rich man went to hell because he didn't have compassion on Lazarus but rather humiliated him. Those who God has blessed but refused to help the poor stand the risk of going to hell.

Abraham's bosom was a compartment underneath the earth close to hell that the departed souls of Saints of old went to. God supernaturally made it a comfortable place of rest unlike hell that was a place of torment. Abraham's bosom no longer exist after Christ rose from the death. The Saints in it rose from the dead after Jesus rose from the dead - Matthew 27:52-53.

Where will you spend eternity? Heaven or hell? The choice is yours. Give your life to Jesus and live for him. "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it".(Matthew 7:13-14).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Holy Father, I thank you for your mercy and grace. I also thank you for given me the opportunity to choose my destiny. I choose life that is in Christ. I ask for your grace to run the heavenly race to the end in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Mark 9:47; Luke 12:5.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 11-12. 1st Timothy 4-6.

Thursday, March 8th.
The Parable of Hired Labourers in the Vineyard.

"So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny".(Matthew 20:8-9).

This parable likens the kingdom of heaven to a householder who went out early in the morning to hire labourers to work in his vineyard. An agreement was reached on how much they will be paid for their work.

More labourers were hired at different hours of the day even till the eleventh hour. However, at the end of their work, they all received the same amount of wages. Those who started very early felt cheated and they made their grievances known. The master of the house replied, "...Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny? Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?".(Matthew 20:13-15).

What moral lesson can we deduce from this parable? The householder represents God or Christ while the labourers are the believers. There is a reward to every believer who is actively involved in the advancement of God's kingdom. Your reward however is not based on how long you have been involved in the kingdom work. It depends on how faithful you are to your giving responsibility for the period you had the opportunity to serve. For instance, someone who just got born again and puts in one day of faithful service before the rapture could be rewarded the same way someone who had been in the service of the Lord for several years.

So, whatever opportunity you have to serve, take advantage of it and put in your very best. Don't allow those that have been there to intimidate you or slow you down. There is room for overtaking. Your convert can be your Pastor tomorrow. Never brag on the length of time you have been involved in service to God. Just as the narration ended, "...the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen".(Matthew 20:16).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I thank you for the opportunity given to me to work in your vineyard. I take advantage of it and serve you without distraction. Thank you for the just reward that awaits me in your kingdom in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 13:30; Revelation 22:12.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 13-15. 2nd Timothy 1-2.

Friday, March 9th.
The Parable of The Persistent Widow and the Crooked Judge.

"...There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary".(Luke 18:2-3).

This parable unveils the reward of persistence as demonstrated in the attitude of the widow woman in the narration. First, widows generally speaking are neglected by the society. Second, she sought justice from an unjust judge which ought to have made it virtually impossible for her to have gotten justice.

She requested for justice as contained in the opening text. But the judge "... would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me".(Luke 18:4--5). Our Lord Jesus concluded, "...Hear what the unjust judge saith. And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? I tell you that he will avenge them speedily...".(Luke 18:6-.

The first moral lesson portend by this parable is that we do not have the moral right to take vengeance on our enemies as it is being done in most of our churches today. Vengeance is the exclusive right of God. So, all the different forms of prayers in most of our churches today targeted on destroying the enemies are not scriptural. They have rather turned the church that is supposed to be a life giver into a murderer.

The use of the scripture verse, "Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live" taken from Exodus 22:18 as a basis for these forms of prayers is totally wrong. The Church is not under the Law of Moses and is therefore not subject to it. Besides, the Law of Moses has been abolished. "..Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord".(Romans 12:19)

You can however ask the Lord to take vengeance on your behalf on anyone that may have mistreated you or oppressing you in one form or the other. But you need to be persistent like the widow woman in this parable if you want justification for your request. If the crooked judge can avenge the widows of her adversary, how much more will God avenge you of wicked and unreasonable men who will not rest day and night until they commit one havoc or the other.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Heavenly Father, I thank you for your protection. I hand over all those whole seek my hurt to your mighty hands. Judge them according to your righteous judgment in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 12:17-21; Revelation 6:10-11.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 16-17. 2nd Timothy 3-4.

Saturday, March 10th.

The Parable of The Boastful Pharisee and the Humble Tax Collector.

"Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican".(Luke 18:10-11).

This parable compares two people; a Pharisee and a publican (tax collector). The opening text unveils the boastful attitude of the Pharisee while praying. In addition, he said, "I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess".(Luke 18:12). But the tax collector "...standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner".(Luke 18:13).

Our Lord Jesus concluded; "I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted".(Luke 18:14).

The moral lesson this parable portends is the danger of pride and the reward of humility. Whatever you are able to accomplish for God is purely the result of God's grace. Hence Apostle Paul said; "...by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me".(1st Corinthians 15:10).

Don't exhibit the 'holier than I' attitude. And don't others who in your opinion may not be living up to the expected standard. "Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand".(Romans 14:4).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I thank you for the work of your grace in my life. As I continue in my Christian walk, I ask for more grace to keep serving you in an acceptable manner in the mighty name of Jesus.Amen.

Further Study: James 4:6; Philippians 2:13.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 18-20. Titus 1-3.

Sunday, March 11th.
The Parable of The 10 Pounds.

"He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come".(Luke 19:12-13).

This parable is similar to the parable of talents narrated by our Lord Jesus documented in the book of Matthew. There are however notable differences in both parables. In the parable of the talent, the money invested was not the same for each servants but in this parable, all the servants received one pound each. The punishment for the unfaithful servants were also slightly different. We will throw more light on this when we discuss the parable of the talents.

The opening text says that a certain nobleman who was about to embark on a journey to receive authority to reigned as a king gave his ten servants ten pounds to trade with. And he charged them to occupy till he comes back.

Back then when the Jews were under the dominion of the Roman Empire, a king cannot assume power unless he travels to Rome to receive a confirmation as a king. Then he can return and take his full authority as a king. So, our Lord Jesus used the procedures the Jews were familiar with in this parable. And he gave this parable on the occasion they thought his kingdom would suddenly appear as he journeyed to Jerusalem - Luke 19:11.

The nobleman certainly represents Jesus in this parable and the far country he planned to travel to before he gave his servants the ten pounds is heaven. It is from heaven he will receive his kingdom and authority to reign as a king over the Jews and the entire world. This will be fulfilled during his second coming. The servants are the faithful followers while the ten pounds are the spiritual gifts and knowledge he gave to the church to do the work of the ministry.

The narration also include a conspiracy against the king. Thus it says, "But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us".(Luke 19:14). His citizens here represents the Jews and their leaders who rejected and conspired against Jesus.

When the nobleman returned having received the kingdom demanded the ten servants to account for the pounds they were given. The first said he gained ten more pounds. The second gained five more while the third did nothing with his money. Then the king ordered, "...Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds".(Luke 19:24).

Every child of God has been given a gift with which he should use to contribute to the advancement of the kingdom. You will be required to give account of that gift when you stand before the judgment seat of Christ Don't be a dysfunctional member of the body of Christ. Take every responsibility given to you serious and ensure you get result. Those who are faithful to their commitment will one day be rewarded but the lazy ones will be punished.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the opportunity to serve you will the investment you have made in my life. I reject every form of lukewarmness and serve you with undivided attention. I know that your grace is sufficient for me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 2nd Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 22:12.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 21-22. Philemon - Hebrews 2.

Monday, March 12th.
The Parable of Two Sons

"But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went".(Matthew 21:28-29).

Our Lord Jesus narrated a parable of two sons of a certain man. He told the first son to go and work in his vineyard but he said initially he will not but afterward went. "And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not".(Matthew 21:30).

Then, Jesus asked; "Whether of them twain did the will of his father?..."..They say unto him, The first. Jesus finally remarkrd; "Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you."(Matthew 21:31).

Our Lord Jesus gave this parable to address the rebellious and unrepentant attitude of the religious Jews. Prior to giving this parable, the chief priests and the elders asked him, "...By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?"(Matthew 21:23). And our Lord Jesus responded, "...I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men?...".(Matthew 21:24-25).

"And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him? But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet. And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things".(Matthew 21:25-27).

The attitude of the son who said I will go but did not is similar to the attitude of some professing believers today. They always have good intentions toward the things of God which they never fulfill. They have been so long in church that they have heard all the messages and nothing moves them. They keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again and expect that their lives will move forward. They are rebellious members who never follow instructions. They skip services for flimsy reasons when they know the implications. They travel without permission and neglect their duty posts. If after a while, nothing seemed to have changed In their lives, they start blaming the devil and even the church.

The Christian life is an upward and forward journey. And the ultimate goal is to make heaven. But it requires you to live a life of obedience and be a believer with integrity. Don't make promises both to God and man only to break them. Don't accept responsibilities you know you will not fulfill. And don't condemn others who in your opinion are not living right. The sinner you see today can be a Saint tomorrow qualified for the kingdom of God.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Holy Father, I thank you for the privilege to be called your son. Have mercy on me in many ways I have not fulfilled my obligations to you. I receive grace to live a life that will bring glory and honour to your name in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 4:2; Hebrews 3:5-6.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 23-25. Hebrews 3-5.

Tuesday, March 13th.
The Parable of Wicked Tenant Farmers.

"Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country".(Matthew 21:33).

This parable is a rebuke on the nation of Israel on how they treated the prophets of God sent to them over the years. And they crowned their evil act by killing Jesus, God's only begotten Son at that time.

The characters unveiled in this parable are the householder who represents God, the vineyard which is the nation of Israel. The major characters are the husbandmen also known as tenant farmers which stands for the religious and political leaders of Israel. They include the chief priests, elders and the scribes. The servants are the prophets of old while the beloved Son is Jesus Christ.

The opening text narrates how the householder gave the vineyard to the tenant farmers to look after till he returns from a far country. The narration continues; "And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it. And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise".(Matthew 21:34-36).

The killing of the servants refers to how most of the prophets of God were killed by the Jews. Hence our Lord Jesus rebuked the Jewish leaders thus; "Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them".(Luke 11:47). Even Apostle Paul quoted Prophet Elijah as saying, "Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life".(Romans 11:3).

Jesus continued with the narration; "But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son. But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance. And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him".(Matthew 21:37-39).

Here, Jesus predicted his death and those that will kill him. Religious leaders are indeed dangerous. Even today, senseless killings still go on amongst certain religious folks. Another form of killing going on today among even some professing believers is gossips and slanders. The moment you don't conform to what they like to do, you become their enemies and subject of discussion. It is worse when you condemn their ungodly acts.

Embrace the Gospel and don't destroy lives either through the use of physical weapons or slanders that defames character. Remember, "For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil".(Ecclesiastes 12:14).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Mighty God, I give you praise for your manifold wisdom. I refrain myself from any act or statement that could bring damage to your servants. I pray for my Pastor and all ministers of the gospel for your strength to carry on even in the midst of crooked and perverse generation in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 23:37; Mark 12:7-8.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 26-27. Hebrews 6-8.

Wednesday, March 14th.
The Parable of Invitation to a Wedding Feast.

"The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come.".(Matthew 22:2-3).

This parable is similar to that of the invitation to a great banquet or feast. A major difference is the addition of a character that didn't put on a wedding garment. The narration began with a certain king's invitation for a marriage he has arranged for his son. And those that were originally invited refused to come.

"Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them".(Matthew 22:4-6).

Let's pause the narration here and analyse this part of the parable first.The king is God and the son the wedding is prepared for is Jesus Christ. The invitation to the wedding feast is the invitation to the kingdom of God. Those originally invited are the Jews but they rejected the gospel. Besides, they killed most of the prophets sent to them.

The narration continues; "But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city".(Matthew 22:7). This talks about God's judgment on the Jews and the beloved city, Jerusalem. This judgment was partly fulfilled in the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Complete judgment will be carried out just before the second coming of Christ.

"Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests".(Matthew 22:8-10).

Tomorrow, we will unveil who the new guest are that the servants sought for in the highways, both good and bad. An interesting guest that didn't have a wedding garment on was seen in the weeding feast. What does the wedding garment represent and what happened to the man without a wedding garment? We will provide answers to these questions tomorrow.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I thank you for your righteous judgment. I pray that more souls will accept the invitation to be part of your kingdom in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Acts 7:51-52; Matthew 27:1.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 28-30. Hebrews 9-11.

Thursday, March 15th.
The Parable of Invitation to a Wedding Feast - 2.

"The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come.".(Matthew 22:2-3).

Yesterday, we identified the characters represented in this parable. We said that the king is God and the beloved Son is Jesus. The servants are the prophets sent to the Jews at different times some of which were killed.

The parable is vividly about Israel rejection of the prophets sent to them and even our Lord Jesus. They were thus judged at different occasions one of which was the destruction of Jerusalem at AD 70. Worse judgment awaits them in future after the revelation of the anti Christ.

When those that were originally invited rejected the invitation, the invitation was extended to people in the highway, the good and the bad. This refers to God's extending his arms of salvation to the Gentiles.

However, during the wedding party, they saw a man without a wedding garment and they wondered how he got in. The wedding garment represents the righteousness of God that can only be gotten by faith in the finished work of Christ. You can't access heaven on the basis of self righteousness. Even today, there are many people that are in Church but are not in Christ. The uninvited guest was cast into the outer darkness. This is the punishment everyone who rejects Christ stands to face.

Submit yourself to the righteousness of God which is in Christ. Self righteousness will not save you. Putting on long skirt is not the ticket to heaven even though every child of God should be decently dressed. All the strict rules and regulations in most of our Churches are not the criteria for heaven. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast".(Ephesians 2:8-9).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Gracious Father, I give you praise for your goodness and wonderful works in my life. I thank you for the free gift of righteousness in Christ Jesus. I am therefore free from every form of condemnation in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Acts 13:46; Romans 11:11.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 31-32; Hebrews 12-13.

Friday, March 16th.
The Parable of The Budding Fig Tree.

"Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors".(Matthew 24:32-33).

The parable of the budding fig tree was put forth by our Lord Jesus on the occasion of answering end time related questions. Prior to the questions the disciples asked Jesus, they The disciples pointed out the building of the Temple to Jesus. Then Jesus remarked, "...See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down".(Matthew 24:2).

Then, the disciples of Jesus asked him; "...Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?".(Matthew 24:3). The questions are three in number. First, they wanted to know when the temple will be destroyed as he predicted. Second, they wanted to know the signs of his second coming. Third, they also wanted to know when this world system would come to an end. The world itself will never come to an end but the present world system would.

Then, our Lord Jesus began to answer the questions but focused on the last two questions. His predition about the destruction of the temple came to fulfillment in AD 70. He said, "...Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows".(Matthew 24:4-.

He continued with specific events that will usher in the great tribulation. These events will precede his second coming and the establishment of God's kingdom. He then put forth the parable as contained in the opening text. Put in another way, when the events unveiled by our Lord Jesus begins to unfold, know that the coming of our Lord is near that will establish the kingdom of God on earth. The Jews which currently rejected Christ as their Messiah will seek for him during the great tribulation.

Many false prophets will take advantage of It and begin to make false predictions about the coming of the Lord. Hence, Jesus said, "Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be".(Matthew 24:26-27). The coming of Jesus is what will terminate the present world system.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Glorious Father, I thank you for the enlightenment of your word even concerning future events. I ask for your grace to live a life worthy of my calling so I can escape the coming tribulation and your coming wrath in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 21:29-31; Romans 5:9.
Daily Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 33-34; James 1-3.

Saturday, March 17th.
The Parable of The Wise and Foolish Virgins.

"Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish".(Matthew 25:1-2).

This parable is among the most popular of all the parables of Jesus. It has however been subjected to different interpretations. We will try as much as possible to unlock the key lessons portend by this parable.

First, it's about ten virgins who were prepared to meet the bridegroom. Virginity is a symbol of purity and spiritually stands for sainthood. Put in another way, they are all born again. The lamps they carry also represent the light of Christ in them. The bridegroom represents Christ whom the saints are looking forward to his coming. Hence the Scripture says that Christ is coming for a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing - Ephesians 5:27.

Five of the virgins where foolish and five were wise. The wise ones had oil in their lamps while the foolish ones didn't. The oil represents the anointing of the Holy Spirit. It takes the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to keep your lamp burning. So those who ignore the need to be baptized with the Holy Spirit are the foolish brethren.

When you are not filled with the Holy Spirit, your lamp can go out. This is the reason so many start the Christian race and draw back at certain point. The narration continues, "And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out".(Matthew 25:6-.

May your light never go out in the name of Jesus. It is the worst thing that could happen to you. The wise virgins responded to the request of the foolish virgins thus; "...Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves".(Matthew 25:9). While they went to look for oil, the bridegroom came and the door was shut. They came back knocking but it was too late.

Serve the Lord in an acceptable manner while you have the opportunity. Receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit if you haven't. Keep your lamp burning. Jesus is coming back. "Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh".(Matthew 25:13).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I thank you for the hope of salvation I have in Christ Jesus. I pray that you continue to strengthen me by the power of the Holy Spirit to keep my lamp burning in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 12:11; Acts 1:8.
Daily Scripture Reading: Joshua 1-3; James 4-5..

Monday, March 19th.
The Parable of The Sheep and Goats - 2.

"When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats".(Matthew 25:31-32).

Yesterday, we discussed who the sheep represents in this parable. They are the believers that walk in love expressed in their care and support for the sick, poor and destitutes. Who then are the goats? We will known from the narration of the remaining part of the parable.

"Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not".(Matthew 25:41-43).

And the 'goats' will respond, "Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?"(Matthew 25:44). Then our Lord Jesus will say, "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal".(Matthew 25:45-46).

The message is clear and the choice is yours. You will fall into one of the categories - a sheep or a goat. The goats are not sensitive to the needs of those around them. They close their ears to the cry of the poor. They are more interested In buying the latest Jeep and Gucci designer wears. They can afford to put their kids in the most expensive school but cannot even buy a note book for the less privilege kids.

Don't ignore the cry of those around you especially the needy brethren. Doing so amounts to ignoring Christ. Besides, there are countless blessings you stand to enjoy when you show care for the needy. To those who minister to the needy, the Scripture says, "...thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward".(Isaiah 58:.

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Lord, I thank you for every opportunity to minister to the needy brethren in my midst. Father, I ask for overflow of blessings so I can reach out to as many as you give me the opportunity to support in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Deuteronomy 15:7-11; James 2:15-16.
Daily Scripture Reading: Joshua 6-8; 1st Peter 4-5.

Tuesday, March 20th.
Some Profound Statements of Jesus - 1.

"Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also".(Matthew 5:38-39).

God's word is an embodiment of truth that we should to live by. However, not every content of the Bible is God's word for us today. The message given to those under the Law is not the same as the message our Lord Jesus brought. If the church can understand this, we will have minimal doctrinal differences amongst us today.

The opening text is one of the statement Jesus made during the delivery of one of his longest recorded sermon in the Bible. He first quoted what was written in the old testament but directed them to act contrary. Under the law, you have the legal right to retaliate any evil done to you. So, if someone blinds your eye, you have the legal right to demand that that person's eye be blinded also. But Jesus taught otherwise. This is why it's important you update your knowledge of God's word consistent with what Jesus taught.

Put in another way, our Lord teaches we should not render evil for evil. Under the new testament, you don't have the moral right to take vengeance on anyone like it's been done in most churches today. Vengeance is the exclusive right of God. Apostle Paul affirmed this truth when he said, "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head".(Romans 12:19-20).

Our Lord Jesus not only taught us a new way of life, he also lived it. No wonder he prayed to God to forgive those who crucified him. Stephen did the same when he was stoned to death. Learn to overlook wrong done to you. The Bible says, "Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing".(1st Peter 3:9).

Prayer and Confession of Faith: Dear Father, I thank you for the new way of life brought by the gospel of our Lord Jesus. I refrain from any form of retaliation by the special grace of God at work in me. Order my steps to the right people and places as I step out today in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 12:17,21; Acts 7:60.
Daily Scripture Reading: Joshua 9-11; 2nd Peter 1-3.