*GOOD MORNING PRECIOUS SAINTS GOD’S WORD FOR YOU TODAY *

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST.*

*MAKING PROGRESS FROM GLORY TO GLORY*

*Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before (Philippians 3:13).*

Many people think of progress or success as having an increase in income, getting a promotion at work, buying a new house, etc. But true progress is more than these; it’s the development of your spirit through the Word and the ministry of the Holy Spirit. It’s that excellence which is obvious, first in your inner-man, and which inevitably radiates outwardly. It comes forth from the “you” in you.

When you have this awareness, you won’t be intimidated by the crises or challenges of life. That others are making progress doesn’t mean you’re failing. So, don’t measure your progress or lack of it by the success of others.

True success means living the victorious life through God’s Word, and achieving His desired goals for your life. It’s therefore unwise to measure your success by comparing yourself with someone else, because you may not know God’s plan for that person’s life.

Between you and the Lord, you can know whether you’re successful or not. You can look at your life today and tell whether you’re a success at the current phase of your life, for success is relative and measured at different phases in line with your divine purpose.

The life God has given you is one of everincreasing glory where you heap success upon success. If you’re successful now, He can count on you for more. Therefore, measure and celebrate your success at each point by comparing your performance or accomplishments with the set goals.

You can be a success at a certain level and then the goal broadens, the challenges are increased, but you must win at every level. When you overcome the challenges and attain those new goals, you become a success again at a new and higher level. It goes on that way from glory to glory. That’s God’s plan and idea for your success.

*CONFESSION*

Dear Father, thank you for showing me how to make progress at different levels of life. My gaze is on you only, and my drive and pursuit are on fulfilling your plan and purpose for my life. I refuse to compare myself with others, but measure my success in life with your Word and purpose for my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

*FURTHER STUDY*
Proverbs 4:18; Philippians 3:13-14; Hebrews 12:1-2

*1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
1 Corinthians 7 & Psalms 119:113-176
*2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
Colossians 1:19-29 & Jeremiah 7

*Remain blessed *

*GOOD MORNING PRECIOUS SAINTS GOD’S WORD FOR YOU TODAY *
*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES SATURDAY 23RD AUGUST.*

*FOLLOW GOD’S PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE*

*For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]
(Ephesians 2:10 AMPC).*

It’s important that you reflect on your life and be
sure you’re walking in sync with the Spirit and
following God’s plan for your life. If you give Him your
attention, He’ll guide you aright always. Jesus said of
the Holy Spirit, “...He’ll guide you into all truth” (John
16:13). Trust Him with your life, and He’ll lead and
guide you in God’s perfect will for you.

When you’re walking in God’s plan, everything
you require—within the ambits of His will for you—will
be supplied at the right time. At every milestone in your
journey, whatever you need will be in place, because
you’re on the path that God planned for you. Struggling
would become unnecessary, because you’re on course
and piloted by the Spirit.

Some people pursue ambitions that have no
connection with the purpose of God for their lives.
They’re not yielded to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God doesn’t want you doing something simply
because others are doing it; seek and follow His
guidance. Yield yourself to the Word. His Word is the
true light.

The Psalmist said in Psalm 16:11, “Thou wilt shew
me the path of life…”; how? Through the Word! His
Word is a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your
path (Psalm 119:105). Through His Word, He leads
you in the paths of success, victory, and boundless
joy—those paths He already pre-arranged for you. Your
life shouldn’t be a labyrinth of circumstantial events;
you’re not a child of chance. God prepared for you
before you came, which means predestination is at
work in you.

Never allow the fleeting pleasures of self-centred
ambitions sway you. Don’t be perturbed by any
unfavourable condition in which you may find yourself.
Choose rather to follow and remain in God’s plan for
your life, by serving Him wholeheartedly and living in
His Word, and He’ll guide you to fulfil your destiny
in Him.

*PRAYER*

Dear Father, through your Word and fellowship with
the Spirit, you guide me to fulfil your destin toy for me,
bringing glory to your Name. I’m divinely helped of
the Spirit, to make decisions and take actions which
are in sync with your divine purpose, in Jesus’ Name.
Amen.

*FURTHER STUDY*
Ephesians 1:11-12 AMPC; Romans 8:29-30

*1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
1 Corinthians 8 & Psalms 120-127

*2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
Colossians 2:1-7 & Jeremiah 8


*Remain blessed *

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

*Tuesday, August 25th, 2020*
*Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD*

*ENJOY YOUR LIFE*

*_"Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not hughminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy" (1 Timothy 6:17)._*

You can have and enjoy your best life now. You don't have to wait for the government of your country to set things right and make society conducive before you enjoy your life. Enjoying your life is a choice you have to make for yourself, if you really want to have God's best today and for all time.

Life is a gift, and a calling from God. Everything in life, including the world around you, was created for your benefit. All you need to enjoy life to the full is to be yourself and stay in God's Word. Jesus said, *_"...I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)"_* (John 10:10 AMPC). Think about that!

God has richly given you all things to enjoy. 2 Peter 1:3 says, *_"According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue."_* Enjoy your life to the full; everything you require to that effect has been given to you.

Paul said in 1 Corinthians 3:21, *_"...all things are yours."_* We also read that God has given you richly (not sparsely) *ALL* things to *ENJOY.* What you need is to spend time in the Word, to know what's yours in Christ Jesus, so you can live by His Word and enjoy your life to the full, for His glory.

*|| CONFESSION*
____________________________________________
*I've been called into God's rest. I take charge of my life and enjoy it to the fullest, for Christ has made me a sharer, partner and participator of the divine nature. Therefore, I take advantage of the immense treasures and blessings of the Christ-life. Glory to God!*

*|| FURTHER STUDY:*
____________________________________________

1 Timothy 6:17 NIV *||* *_Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment._* *||*

Matthew 11:28-30 AMPC *||* *_Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.] Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good---not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne._* *||*

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


*|| DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:*
____________________________________________

*1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
1 Corinthians 10:1-13 & Psalms 135-138

*2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
Colossians 2:16-23 & Jeremiah 10-11

*�Leave comments on today's devotional at _www.rhapsodyofrealities.org_*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES*

WEDNESDAY 26

*A HAPPY HEART AND A CHEERFUL MIND*

Pastor Chris

*A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones (Proverbs 17:22 AMPC).*

A disease such as cancer draws its life from depression, bitterness, anger, resentment, malice and sadness. But laughter, which is one of the easiest, quickest and instantly recognizable expressions of joy and cheerfulness, has curative powers. If people who are sick or faced with dire circumstances in their lives would act simply on God’s Word by learning to laugh often, they’ll be amazed at the sudden change.

There’re those who haven’t laughed in a long time. They’ve almost forgotten how to laugh. They look at their lives and conclude there’s nothing to be happy about. In fact, they’d feel guilty if they caught themselves laughing. They believe laughing is for those who aren’t serious about life. Yet, their stiffness hasn’t made life any easier for them.

God wants you to know from His Word that laughter is a healer. Your expression of joy is a good starting point for healing and restoration. Sometimes, when life seems to get tough, learn to pull back and laugh. Have a merry heart and a cheerful mind.

Interestingly, you don’t have to pray to God to give you happiness or cheerfulness; it’s a function of your recreated human spirit. You make yourself joyful with the Word of God. Remember, one of the fruits of your recreated human spirit is joy (Galatians 5:22); you’ve got joy in your spirit; and laughter and cheerfulness are expressions of joy.

*CONFESSION*
Irrespective of the circumstances, I’m full of joy twenty-four hours a day, for the joy of the Lord is my strength! I’ve been brought into a life of rest, with joy unspeakable and full of glory. The Lord continually fills my mouth with laughter and joy in the Holy Ghost! Glory to His Name forever!

*FURTHER STUDY*
Romans 14:17; Psalm 126:2; Galatians 5:22

*1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN*: 1 Corinthians 10:14-11:1 & Psalms 139-141

*2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:* Colossians 3:1-11 & Jeremiah 12

*EXCERPT FROM:* Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional. App=http:///Restorehope

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 27TH AUGUST 2020

PST. CHRIS

GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT

[And it is indeed, a source of immense profit, for] godliness accompanied with contentment (that contentment which is a sense of inward sufficiency) is great and abundant gain (1 Timothy 6:6 AMPC)

The Bible defines contentment for us in our opening verse as “a sense of inward sufficiency”; then it says that “godliness accompanied with contentment is great and abundant gain.” Paul, by the Spirit, further writes, “For we brought nothing into the world, and obviously we cannot take anything out of the world; But if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content (satisfied). But those who crave to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and into many foolish (useless, godless) and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction and miserable perishing” (1 Timothy 6:7-9 AMPC).

This is the ordeal of those who struggle to be rich. But you shouldn’t get into that dilemma as a child of God, because being born again, you’ve entered into a life of contentment. You’ve ceased from your struggles and the glory of God now works within you.

The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 8:9, “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.” And in Proverbs 10:22, it says, “The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.” This is your life as a child of God! God’s inherent blessing in your life is the basis for your riches.

Your prosperity is inherited through the Spirit, because you’re the seed of Abraham. In Christ, you have entered into God’s rest. You no longer worry over your rent and other bills. As Abraham’s seed, you’re ever aglow, full of praise and giving glory to God.

Function from a place of inward sufficiency, and operate from a vantage position of rest and satisfaction, irrespective of circumstances. No matter the situation, be full of joy; continue to praise, serve the Lord, and delight yourself in Him. He’ll create the opportunities for you to keep making progress from glory to glory.

CONFESSION

Dear Lord Jesus, I acknowledge you as the Lord of my life; you’re the Lord over my choices, desires, plans, and purposes. Always and at all times, I function from a place of inward sufficiency, and operate from a vantage position of rest and satisfaction, irrespective of circumstances. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY

Hebrews 4:10
For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his.

2 Corinthians 9:8 AMPC
And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Corinthians 11:2-34 & Psalms 142-145

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Colossians 3:12-25 & Jeremiah 13

*stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 28TH AUGUST 2020

PST. CHRIS

HE BEARS YOU UP.

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

There’re times you may be confronted with so many predicaments that you wonder, “How am I supposed to pray about all of these problems?” The truth is, if you decide to pray about every problem or issues around you one after the other, you may spend eternity on your knees. Moreover, you may not even remember all of them.

But the good news is, God doesn’t expect you to carry your own burden. The Bible says, _*“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you”*_ (1 Peter 5:7). In fact, He doesn’t expect you to pray about your problems, because you don’t even know about all of them. So how do you handle them? It’s part of the reasons He gave you the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit bears you up in the time of weakness or limitation.

When you don’t know what to do, what to pray for or how to go about a certain situation, He steps in. God gave us the Holy Spirit to guide us in all situations of life. When it comes to dealing with everyday problems, the same Holy Spirit stands in the gap (intercedes) for us as read in our theme verse. He takes charge in our behalf.

Be ever conscious and yielded to the ministry of the Holy Spirit in your personal life. Here prays through you with groanings and deep sighs which can’t be uttered in articulate speech, making intercession for you according to the will of God.

This is why it’s important that you pray often in other tongues; it helps you to activate your spirit and give vent to the divine utterances of the Holy Spirit. When you pray through your spirit, you inevitably address every necessary issue in your life that needs attention.

The psalmist remarked, _*“The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me…”*_ (Psalm 138:. As you pray in the Spirit, the Lord would indeed put everything that concerns you into shape, even those things that you’re unaware of. You only need to trust Him with your life, realising that He’s big enough and willing to take care of you. Blessed be His Name forever!

PRAYER

Dear loving Father, thank you for the extraordinary ministry of your Spirit who imparts to me the knowledge of your will concerning issues of importance, and helps me pray aright, causing circumstances to align with your perfect will for me and my loved ones, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

1 Corinthians 14:2
For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.

Romans 8:26
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 8:27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Jude 1:20
But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Corinthians 12 & Psalms 146-150

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Colossians 4:1-9 & Jeremiah 14

*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST 2020

PST. CHRIS

STAY FOCUSED ON THE WORD

"Looking unto Jesus the author and
finisher of our faith…
(Hebrews 12:2)."

The Amplified Classic translation of our opening
verse says, “Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus….” What God is telling you here is simple: stay focused on the Word! Jesus is the incarnate Word; fix your gaze on Him; don’t get
distracted.

Recall the case with Peter and the Master when
they walked on the sea; Peter began to sink when he took his focus off Jesus. If he had kept his gaze on the Master, he wouldn’t have been overwhelmed by the billowing waves and tempest (read Matthew 14:25-31). The same thing happens to many today; when they allow themselves to be overwhelmed by problems and circumstances instead of focussing on the Word of God, they sink even further.

There’s no situation you can’t handle successfully
with the Word of God. Make the Word of God your stay; live in the Word! Learn from Jesus; He lived the Word, even though He is the Word! He was focused, and was never distracted from the Word. He looked at the result of His faith; for the joy that was set before Him He endured the Cross, despising the shame. He didn’t care what people thought about Him; His focus was to carry out the will of the Father.

It should be the same with you. They may call you names because of your devotion and dedication
to the Lord, but don’t let that affect you. If anything, be inspired to love Him more; be challenged to serve Him even more passionately. Don’t be moved by hard times and turbulent circumstances; hold on tight, with your focus on Jesus.

1Timothy 6:12 says, “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life….” Don’t turn away from the Word. Isaiah 26:3 reveals part of the result of keeping your focus on God’s Word; the Lord will keep you in the peace of prosperity: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”


*CONFESSION*

The Word of God is producing results in me by the power of God’s Spirit as I walk in my heritage in Christ! I experience the peace of prosperity because I live in God’s Word! I’m unflustered by tests, trials, and persecutions, because the Word makes me triumphant always. Hallelujah!


*FURTHER STUDY:*

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Isaiah 55:10-11
For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.


*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Corinthians 13 & Proverbs 1-2

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Colossians 4:10-18 & Jeremiah 15

*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONA

MONDAY 31ST AUGUST 2020

PST. CHRIS

IT’S ALL PART OF GOD’S PLAN

Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God—what is good and is pleasing to him and is perfect (Romans 12:2 GNB).

As a Christian, every person who comes into your world has a role to play, whether good or bad. You’ll surely come across different kinds of people in your journey of life. No matter how they relate with you, recognise that God has placed them along your path for your benefit.

It doesn’t make any difference whether they’re helpful or hostile; their relationship with you is part of God’s plan to promote you. Once you understand this, you’ll be happy and grateful to God for anyone who comes into your world. A playwright once said, “All the world is a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their entrances and their exits, and one man in his time plays many parts.”

Your only concern should be to please your heavenly Father. Don’t get concerned about the wrongs done to you; ignore the negative actions, comments or ill-treatments from others. Only respond in love to those who hurt or despitefully use you.

The highest and topmost quality of God’s character is living out His love in you, for the Bible says _*“…the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us” (Romans 5:5). You’re a testimony of the Father’s love, and your life is an outshining of that great love—unconditional and self-giving. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION

It makes no difference how I’m treated by anyone, I respond only in love and kindness, because the love of God has been shed in abundance in my heart by the Holy Spirit. Every day and in all circumstances, I’m living out that love in me that the Name of Jesus may be glorified. Amen

FURTHER STUDY

Matthew 5:43-48
Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Corinthians 15:1-34 & Proverbs 5-7

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Thessalonians 2:1-9 & Jeremiah 17

*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL (DOWNLOAD THE NEW RHAPSODY APP => https:///30XG30w)*

*LIVE FOR CHRIST.*

Tuesday, September 1st.

Pastor Chris

_*I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may Live (Deuteronomy 30:19).*_

There re Christians who are fretful about the rapture, uncertain about their eternal security. The Lord doesn't want us to live in such fear or anxiety. The truth is, eternal security is real for the one who as born again, but it at conditioned on your living the Christ-life, living in His righteousness until the end.

If, for example, someone who as been born again, changes his mind later about following Jesus, such a person is in trouble, because his eternal security with God is in jeopardy. When you're born again, you're born into God's presence; you live in God's presence. He's your Protector. He keeps you, and no one is able to pluck you out of His hand, according to the Scriptures.

However, life is full of choices. You are the one to make a choice to live for Him continually. When God guides us, He presents us with the options, and then He also tells us what to choose. But He doesn't force us in the choices we make, though He lets us understand the consequences of making the wrong choices.

What you must do, therefore, is to live according to His Word. That as the simplest thing ever. When you're born again, living for Christ is the most natural thing to do with your new nature in Christ. Living right is so natural to you that you have to be tempted to do wrong. This is also where the ministry of the Holy Spirit comes in. The Holy Spirit helps you live the Christian life, and with Him in your life, you never have to worry about missing your way.

Moreover, the Bible says Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy (Jude 1:24). As you live for the Lord, serving Him passionately with absolute conviction, He'll fulfil His purpose and ministry in your life


*CONFESSION*

*I live purposefully, fulfilling my ministry and calling in Christ Jesus. I refuse to allow anything take my attention away from the Lord and His eternal Kingdom. I am not slothful in business; I am fervent in spirit, serving the Lord, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I've received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God. Hallelujah!*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *2 Peter 1:5-112* :5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; :6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; :7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. :8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. :9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. :10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: :11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

*2 Corinthians 5:15* And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


*DAILY SCRIPTURE READING*

*1-Year Bible Reading Plan=>* 1 Corinthians15:35-38 Proverbs 7&9

*2-Year Bible Reading Plan=>* 1 Thessalonians 2:10-20 & Jeremiah 18

*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER 2020

PST. CHRIS

YOUR FAITH IS A TOOL

And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him (Luke 8:25).

Jesus was with His disciples in the boat one day, and a tempest arose. The disciples became afraid and the Bible says, “…they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm” (Luke 8:24).

The Master turned to the disciples and asked them a very pertinent question: “Where is your faith?” That’s the big question in life. With your faith, you can do anything; you can move mountains; you can achieve great results. Faith is a tool. Use it. If you’d learn to use your faith, you’ll live triumphantly every day.

Stop crying for help! Use your faith to make your life glorious. With your faith, you can destroy cancer, diabetes or heart trouble. You can change the circumstances of your life! So, build your faith. Make a choice to feed your faith by learning and living on God’s Word.

The Bible is a compendium of divine revelations from God’s Prophets and Apostles; the message has been proven again and again. Irrespective of the issues in your health, family, finances, job, academics, or ministry, you can prevail gloriously by growing your faith in the Word and putting it to work every day. Remember, our faith is the victory that overcomes the world (1 John 5:4).

CONFESSION

With my faith, I consistently frame my life in the path of glory and excellence, living the life of victory, success, joy, health and prosperity which God has ordained for me. I refuse to be disadvantaged or helpless in this life; my faith in the Word is effective and prevailing. Praise God!

FURTHER STUDY

1 John 5:4
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

Hebrews 10:38-39
Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

Matthew 17:20
And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Corinthians 16:1-24 & Proverbs 10-11

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Thessalonians 3:1-13 & Jeremiah 19-20

*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 2020

PST. CHRIS

HAVE A PERSONAL PRAYER CULTURE

Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you (JEREMIAH 29:12).

The Lord called us to pray because He planned to answer. It’s therefore important that you have a plan for prayer. If you don’t have a plan for prayer, you’re most unlikely to pray. There’re lots of activities that could occupy your time and prevent you from praying. You have to make deliberate efforts to have a prayer culture and discipline; you could set an alarm system for reminders. Never be too busy to pray.

Prayer isn’t only when you want something from God. Prayer is that fellowship with the Lord where you talk to and with Him, and you give attention to Him in your spirit, to hear what He has to say to you. Every Christian must have such times.

If you’ve had challenges doing this consistently, you can ask the Lord to guide you in planning your personal prayer schedule. Don’t neglect it. There’re corporate prayer times where you participate in prayer programs and services, maybe in your church or cell group, but that’s different from having your personal prayer schedule.

Someone may say, “Well, I pray once a week, not every day.” No, that’s not good enough. Have a prayer schedule for every day, because it helps you have a spiritual consciousness every day. You may then wonder, “How long should I pray?”

It’s not for anyone to determine for you how long you should pray, but you’ll know if or when you’re not praying enough, because it’s a relationship between you and the Lord. If you think you’re not praying enough, then add more time. The truth is, the more time you spend in prayer, the more helpful it is to you, because apart from the fact that you’re talking to the Lord, there’s the edification of your spirit that you get from praying. Not only that; there’s also the education of your spirit. No one educates you like the Holy Spirit. In that atmosphere of prayer, He teaches you; He brings you information that enlightens and guides you. Glory to God!

PRAYER

Dear Father, I’m grateful for the opportunity of continuous fellowship with you through prayer. I have the discipline of prayer, and even now, I pray for lost souls around the world, that their hearts be open to accept the Gospel of Christ and be saved. Also, I pray for Christians who are sick in their bodies, that great grace be directed toward them for healing, restoration and feeling of wellness, in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org

FURTHER STUDY

LUKE 18:1
And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

JUDE 1:20
But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,

EPHESIANS 6:18
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 1-2:1-4 & Proverbs 12-13

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 & Jeremiah 21

*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY

*Friday, September 4th, 2020*
*Pastor Chris*

*SEE YOURSELF THROUGH THE WORD*

*_"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit" (Romans 8:1)._*

In our opening verse, the Spirit, through the Apostle Paul isn't telling us that there're two groups: those in Christ who walk in the flesh, and those in Christ who aren't walking in the flesh. That's not the essence of His communication; rather, He's holding out a picture of who you really are.

When you study and understand the New Testament, you'd observe what's called the *"Mirror Principle";* God's Word is a mirror. You're what you see in the Word (2 Corinthians 3:18). Therefore, don't read our theme verse and assume you're not free from condemnation or that you're still *"walking in the flesh"* because you err sometimes; no!

Read the 9th verse of the same chapter; it clarifies it by saying, *_"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you..."_* (Romans 8:9). That's God talking! When He describes those in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit, He's referring to you.

Therefore, see yourself through the Word. Now that you're born again, there's no condemnation for you. When you understand this and live accordingly, you'll never again struggle with sinful habits, bad thoughts or works of the flesh. The Bible says, *"Sin shall not have dominion over you"* (Romans 6:14); see yourself thus, for that's how God sees you.

God knows that if you saw yourself the way He sees you, you'd act accordingly. Accept who He's made you---His righteousness in Christ Jesus---and walk in that light. *Glory to God!*

*|| CONFESSION*

*I'm a child of God, with the nature of God in my spirit. I'm justified before God, without guilt, fear, inferiority or condemnation. Sin has no power over me and I can't be entangled by any yoke of bondage. I'm conscious of my nature of righteousness and walk accordingly. Glory to God!*

*|| FURTHER STUDY:*

Romans 6:11-15 *||* *_[11] Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. [12] Let no sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. [13] Neither yield ye your members [as] instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness unto God. [14] For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. [15] What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid._* *||*

Romans 8:2-4 *||* *_[2] For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. [3] For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: [4] That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit._* *||*

Galatians 2:20-21 *_[20] I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. [21] I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness [come] by the law, then Christ is dead in vain._* *||*

*1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
2 Corinthians 2:5- 3:1-6 & Proverbs 14-15

*2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*
1 Thessalonians 4:9-18 & Jeremiah 22

*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER 2020

PST. CHRIS

STAY TRUE TO THE GOSPEL

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair (2 Corinthians 4:.

The Christianity that we have today didn’t come to us on a platter of gold. If you read about Christian martyrs, you’d find that many were killed, beheaded, for their testimony of Christ. On one occasion, over six thousand men were slaughtered for their faith in Jesus Christ, and they were soldiers. They believed the Gospel with all their hearts, and nothing was going to stop them from transferring to the next generation the same faith that they had received.

All the years that you’ve probably had liberty to worship the Lord, to praise Him in the church, attend crusades and participate in life-transforming meetings, that liberty came through the deep struggle, prayers, sweat, tears, blood, faith, determination and passion of other men and women who staked their lives on the Gospel. They weren’t only persecuted, many were buried alive. Some were sawn in two; violently killed, for their faith in Jesus Christ.

Persecution of Christians is still happening in several countries today. Some countries have concentration camps where Christians are subjected to harsh and heinous treatments for their faith in Jesus. A very recent report officially shows that Christians are the most persecuted group in the world.

I’m bringing this to you so you understand that the faith of Jesus Christ that we have, the message of Christ that we’ve believed, is worth everything. In spite of the persecution, those before us maintained their faith and stayed true to the Gospel. It should and must be the same in our day.

No matter what’s happening in your city or nation, stay true to Christ. Don’t vacillate. As read in our theme verse, we don’t give up; we don’t quit. Preach the Word in and out of season. Nothing should be terrifying or intimidating enough to keep you quiet, for greater is He that’s in you than all the adversaries and adversities in the world. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION

Irrespective of the tribulation, distress, persecution or peril in this world, I’m more than a conqueror through Him that loved me—Christ Jesus, my Lord! I’m persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor anything, shall separate me from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus. I remain steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Amen.*

FURTHER STUDY

Romans 8:35-39
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or unclothedness, or peril, or sword?
36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Thessalonians 3:7-8 NLT
So we have been greatly comforted, dear brothers and sisters, in all of our own crushing troubles and suffering, because you have remained strong in your faith.
8 It gives us new life, knowing you remain strong in the Lord.

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 3:7-4:1-18 & Proverbs 16-17

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 & Jeremiah 23

*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL
SUNDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 2020
PST. CHRIS

*THE CHURCH IS GOD'S TREASURE*

"And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18)"

In Matthew 13:44, Jesus said, “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.” Jesus bought the whole field because of the treasure in the field. The treasure is the Church, and the field is the world.

Jesus bought the whole world with the price of His own blood, because of the Church; He gave everything. This tells us what Satan wants. When he creates or inspires crises in the world, his eyes are on God’s children, the Church. His end game is always to go after the Church of Jesus Christ. He’s completely averse to God’s people serving and worshipping God freely. But he’s a failure.

Why is Satan so much against the Church? It’s because the Church—you and I—have what Satan lusted for from the very beginning. He had said, “…I will be like the most High” (Isaiah 14:14), but he couldn’t. Rather, he was kicked out of heaven. Then he found out the Church, which Jesus created, would share God’s Name, share God’s throne—His seat—with Him!

Today, we’re one with God by virtue of Christ’s love. Jesus said, I will build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. That’s a truth that can’t be broken. Hallelujah! There’s no force in the universe that can stand against the Church. Don’t see the Church as a mere organization; it’s the sacred body of Jesus Christ—His pearl of great price.

*CONFESSION*
The Church of Jesus Christ is making impact with great glory, greater ability and unstoppable influence. We’re giving no place to Satan, because greater is He that’s in us than he that’s in the world. And Christians around the world are on the alert to continually neutralise all of Satan’s strategems and manoeuvres against the Church, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

*FURTHER STUDY*
Exodus 19:5
KJV: Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:

Titus 2:14
KJV: Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

1 Peter 2:9
AMP: But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

*1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN*
2 Corinthians 5:1-6:1-2 & Proverbs 18-19

*2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN*
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 & Jeremiah 24

*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2020

PST. CHRIS

THE RAPTURE IS CLOSER THAN EVER

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord (1 THESSALONIANS 4:17)

By the Spirit, the Apostle Paul got the revelation of the rapture of the Church and said, “Behold, I shew you a mystery…” (1 Corinthians 15:51). This is why many don’t understand the Rapture; it’s a mystery; divine revelation. He said, “...We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).

The underlined portion shows how fast the Rapture will happen; it’ll be so fast there’d be no time for those who weren’t prepared, because it’s something for which you should have been prepared all your life.

In our theme verse, we find an expression that’s synonymous with the term, “Rapture”; it’s the phrase, “caught up” which is from the Greek word, “harpazo.” ̄ It means to seize, catch (away, up), pluck, pull, take by force.

At the Rapture, it makes no difference where you are, the power of God will snatch you away from this world. Christians who had died will be resurrected, and together with them, we’ll be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord. What a day that will be!

When is this going to take place? It’s closer than ever; it’s going to be anytime soon. Your responsibility is to be prepared by living your life for the Lord, every day. Keep walking in love, and your faith activated to be caught up to be with the Lord at His appearing.

The Bible says He’s coming for a Church without spot, wrinkle, blemish or any such thing (Ephesians 5:27). Live every day, every moment of your life in His righteousness, producing works and fruits of righteousness.

CONFESSION

The Lord Jesus is coming for a Church without spot, wrinkle, blemish or any such thing, and I’m ready. My faith is activated to be caught up to be with the Lord forever! And while in expectation of this glorious “catching away,” my life and passions are about His Kingdom and its expansion; through me, many more are being enlisted for the Rapture, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the call of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, all the Christians who have died will rise from their graves.
17 Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and remain with him forever.

1 John 2:28
And now, dear children, continue to live in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame.

Matthew 24:27
For as the lightning lights up the entire sky, so it will be when the Son of Man comes.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 6:3-7:1 & Proverbs 20-21

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 & Jeremiah 25

#MONTH OF WISDOM
*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 8TH SEPTEMBER 2020

PST. CHRIS

WE'RE PILGRIMS IN THE EARTH

"If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you (John 15:19)."

In the days of Esther, the Jews had become comfortable in a strange land; a land of their captivity. They enjoyed liberty in the land and were at ease, until Haman, an influential but wicked man in the kingdom (also a friend of the king) sought to exterminate them.

Esther, the queen, who had been completely oblivious of Haman’s hatred and quest to destroy the Jews received a touching message from her uncle, Mordecai, about Haman’s wicked plot. She quickly intervened and called for prayer and fasting across the land (Esther 4:16). Of course, God heard their prayer and delivered them from the hand of wicked Haman.

Sometimes, you can so enjoy liberty on earth that you forget you’re in a “strange land,” a pilgrim in the earth. This has happened to many; they’ve focused on the journey more than the destination. Some Christians have become complacent, carried away and distracted by the things of this world. Yet, Jesus said, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul” (Mark 8:36).

Let your heart be on the Lord; let the weightier matters of the Kingdom inspire you to action. Win souls. Watch and pray as Jesus said to do. Pray for your nation that the Gospel will spread by free course and be embraced.

There’re certain nations where the Gospel thrived years ago, but today those same nations now disallow the preaching of the Gospel, with Christians under so much persecution. What happened? The answer is simple: the Christians in those nations didn’t do what Jesus said to do: “Watch and pray…” (Matthew 26:41).

We must remember our purpose; our reason for being here, and it’s for a time. We’re ambassadors of Christ, sent from the heavenly Kingdom for the salvation of souls in the earth. Therefore, like the Bible says, “…seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:1-2).

CONFESSION:

I’m from above, and I’m conscious of it. Doors of opportunity for ministry are opened around the world, and utterance granted to God’s children to proclaim the Gospel of Christ unhindered, in power and effectiveness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

Acts 26:16; But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

Colossians 4:2-4; Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;(3) Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds4) That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 7:2-16 & Proverbs 22-23

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Thessalonians 2:1-10 & Jeremiah 26

#MONTH OF WISDOM
*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 2020

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

*BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS*

_BUT ALSO [in those days] there arose false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among yourselves, who will subtly and stealthily introduce heretical doctrines (destructive heresies), even denying and disowning the Master Who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction (2 Peter 2:1 AMPC)._

The same way there’re false brethren and false prophets who create problems in the house of God, there’re also false teachers. These are people who arrogate to themselves the teaching ministry, even though they weren’t called to be teachers, thereby exposing themselves to demons, and promoting false doctrines. They indoctrinate with errors, usually inspired by the spirit of deception.

For example, some false teachers teach that the coming of Christ has already taken place, and thus mislead a lot of people. Some others say the Holy Spirit’s ministry ended with the apostles. Some come with dream interpretations, telling people how different sleeping positions affect their dreams, and teach the effects of eating in dreams.

Some go as far as telling you it’s a relative of yours that’s responsible for your life’s problems, and create enmities between relatives. Yet, the Bible says we wrestle not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12). But sadly, some have been deceived by such false teachings.

It readily brings to mind the words of Jesus when He said, “…Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures…” (Matthew 22:29). Know the Word for yourself, and no one will deceive you. Make studying the Scriptures a priority in your life. The Holy Spirit opens your heart to His truths and His will, and you can prove all things (1 Thessalonians 5:21), test every spirit (1 John 4:1) and rightly divide the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

PRAYER:

Precious Father, thank you for your Word by which I navigate my way through life. I am yielded to your Spirit, who is my guarantee of a life of limitless potentials and endless possibilities. I can’t be deceived. I’m fulfilling your destiny for my life, because I’m acquainted with your Word, which is my light and my salvation, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

2 Peter 2:3 MSG; They give the way of truth a bad name. They’re only out for themselves. They’ll say anything, anything , that sounds good to exploit you. They won’t, of course, get by with it. They’ll come to a bad end, for God has never just stood by and let that kind of thing go on.

1 Timothy 4:1-2; Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;(2) Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 8-9 & Proverbs 24-26

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Thessalonians 2:11-17 & Jeremiah 27

#MONTH OF WISDOM
*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER 2020

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

*ADDRESS THEM BY NAME*

_When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him(Mark 9:25)._

If you ever wanted to know how to cast out devils, Jesus demonstrated it clearly in the verse above. He addressed the spirit responsible for the condition. He said, _“…Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.”_ He didn’t just say, “I rebuke you”; He said something that was the rebuke. He addressed the particular devil by name: dumb and deaf spirit. And of course, the devil went out.

It’s not enough to say, “Satan, I bind you.” Satan is a generic name for the devil. What’s the particular devil or demon you’re dealing with at that particular time? You can know by the type of affliction, problem, or else, by the Holy Spirit revealing it to you. In carrying out their work, demons manifest the character of their being, and this can help you identify them and address them appropriately. Through the manifested character of a devil, you can know what his name is, because a name is a description of character. Demons are named according to their character, as seen in the Scriptures.

For example, if you identify an unclean spirit, then you don’t need to be wondering what the name of that demon spirit is. You address him by that name and say, _"You unclean spirit, I command you to come out in the Name of Jesus!”_ No devil can resist when you order them out in the Name of Jesus.

The Bible says, _“…at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth” (Philippians 2:10)_. Mark 6:7 says He gave us power over unclean spirits to cast them out. In Matthew 10:8, He was emphatic when He said, _“Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils….”_ Hallelujah!

PRAYER:

Dear Father, I’m grateful for the authority given me to use the all-powerful Name of Jesus to cast out devils. Satan has no place in my life, or in my home or in the lives of my loved ones. I walk in continuous victory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

_Mark 1:25-26; And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.(26) And when the unclean frit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him._

_Mark 16:17; And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;_

_Luke 10:18-19 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.(19) Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you._

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 10:1-18 & Proverbs 27-28

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Thessalonians 3:1-10 & Jeremiah 28

#MONTH OF WISDOM
*Stay blessed*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

FRIDAY 11 SEPTEMBER

MANIFESTING HIS VIRTUES AND EXCELLENCE

Pastor Chris

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9 AMPC).

As God’s children, we’re called to display the virtues and perfections of Christ; this is our ministry; this is our life. Jesus said, “I am the vine, ye are the branches…” (John 15:5). The branches are the fruit-bearing part of the vine. We bear His fruits, His virtues.

Hatred, bitterness, rage, lying, and the likes aren’t God’s virtues. Therefore, they aren’t part of the makeup or features of your recreated spirit. Rather, you’re to display God’s kindness, love, compassion, patience, meekness, gentleness, wisdom and excellence. Exude excellence in your home, school, place of work, and everywhere. Let it show in everything about you.

Furthermore, display His virtues and perfections through your gracious, soul-lifting and faith-inspiring words, full of life and power, converting the soul.

He’s made us wonders in this world; vessels to show forth His glory and righteousness. Through you, He expresses His love to others, establishing His Kingdom in the hearts of men. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
I live a life of glory, power, success and influence. I’m His workmanship, fashioned in Christ Jesus to display His wonderful deeds, virtues, perfections, excellence and wisdom in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
Ephesians 2:10
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Matthew 5:14-16
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 11:1-15 & Proverbs 29-31

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Thessalonians 3:11-18 & Jeremiah 29

EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

#MONTH OF WISDOM
*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Saturday 12th September, 2020.
Pastor Chris

*||�|| FOCUS ON FULFILLING HIS DREAM |,�|*

*Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 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 (1 John 2:15-16).*

There’s no doubt, the coming of the Lord is nearer than ever. But the Bible says, *“…FOR THAT DAY SHALL NOT COME, EXCEPT THERE COME A FALLING AWAY FIRST, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition”* (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The Amplified Classic puts it thus: *“…for that day will not come except the apostasy comes first [unless the predicted great falling away of those who have professed to be Christians has come], and the man of lawlessness (sin) is revealed, who is the son of doom (of perdition).”*

This means there’d be people who had professed to be Christians, but they’ll fall away from the Faith; there’ll be an apostasy—people giving up their faith in Jesus, by choice. This is already happening, and the major reason is the cares of this world; the deceitfulness of riches, and the lust for other things. So, what’s God looking at, and how should you walk in these last days? What choices should you make?

His counsel is what we read in our opening verse. Stay in Christ! Focus on the things of the Kingdom, and not on the transient pleasures of this world. Colossians 3:1 captures it beautifully. It says, *“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.”*

Focus your energies on fulfilling God’s dream, His vision of Kingdom expansion and world evangelisation. Refuse to be among those clinging to the things of the world, concerned only about their personal gain and comfort. They’ve been conquered by the spirit of the world. Jesus said, *“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”* (Mark 8:36). It’s so important that you live your life established in Christ, deeply rooted and founded in Him. Remain steadfast, unmoveable, doing the work of the Lord with joy. Hallelujah!


*CONFESSION*
*Dear Father, thank you for calling me with a holy calling, and for granting me the inner strength to live for you. I’m deeply rooted and grounded in Christ; I’ve crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts. My only passion is the expansion of your Kingdom, propagating Christ’s love and His salvation to the ends of the earth. Hallelujah!*


*FURTHER STUDY*
*|| Revelation 3:11-13 ||* Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. 12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is] new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my new name. 13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

*|| 1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN ||*
1 Corinthians 11:16-33
Ecclesiastes 1-2

*|| 2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN ||*
1 Timothy 1:1-7
Jeremiah 30

*GOOD MORNING BELOVED.*

*HAVE A GREAT DAY.*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Sunday 13th September, 2020.

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

*PERFECT AND COMPLETE IN HIM*

_Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God (Colossians 4:12)._

In the verse above, the words, “perfect” and “complete” could have been interchangeably used. In other words, in the place of “perfect” above, you could also have “complete,” and vice versa.

“Perfect” here is dealing with standing strong; unmoveable. It also means “mature”; to come to a state of perfection or maturity, to be “full grown.” It’s a place of fullness; fullness of understanding, wisdom and knowledge; fullness of the Spirit. Hallelujah!

Thus, Epaphras, through the Spirit, was praying for the Colossian Christians to come to that place of maturity, standing strong, complete and perfect in Christ. God wants that in your life. He wants you to be a full-grown Christian, mature to do the things of God.

The more mature you are spiritually, the more you can actually fulfil God’s dream for your life. Therefore, set a goal for yourself for spiritual growth. Say to yourself, _“I’m going to grow; I’m going to come to a place of maturity, where I only think spiritual, think mature in Christ, and full of God’s Word”_; and proceed to achieve it.

Ephesians 4:12-13 says God gave ministry gifts to the Church for this purpose: _“…the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”_

If it weren’t possible for us to attain the measure of the fullness of Christ, God wouldn’t tell us to go for it. This is His dream. Therefore, go for it by studying and meditating on the Word voraciously, and yielding yourself to the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

CONFESSION:

In Christ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily, and I’m complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. I live the transcendent life in Christ, stable, unmoveable, and established in the faith as I walk continually in the light of the Word. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:

_Ephesians 4:14-15; That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;(15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:_

_Hebrews 5:14; But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil._

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 12:1-21 & Ecclesiastes 3-5

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 1:8-14 & Jeremiah 31

*GOOD MORNING BELOVED.*

#MONTH OF WISDOM
*HAVE A GREAT DAY*
*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Monday 14th September, 2020.

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

*HE WANTS YOUR HEART*

_My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways (Proverbs 23:26)._

People are the same, irrespective of their condition. That is to say, the poor and the rich, for example, are exactly the same, except there’s a transformation in their hearts. If a man is poor and wicked, he won’t be different when he becomes rich. While poor, he doesn’t have the resources to carry out the wickedness in his heart. So, when he becomes rich, he’s able to prosecute the wickedness in his heart with his resources.

Money amplifies character. People only carry out the good or bad in their hearts, depending on their resources. Jesus said, _“Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt…” (Matthew 12:33)_. This means people aren’t different from how they are inside. So, what does God want? He wants a change in your heart; a transformation inside.

That’s why He sets up His kingdom first in your heart. He puts His love first in your heart. Your heart is where He seeks to work; that’s where all His blessings are. Then from your heart, they can flow out to others. Being born again, you have the life and nature of God in your heart; and now in Christ, you’re a life-giver.

The transformation and glory evident in your soul and body are the result of the impact and influence of the life and nature of God in your spirit. In our theme verse, He says, _“My son, give me thine heart….”_ If you’ve never been born again, this is your moment; give Him your heart. Turn to the Prayer Of Salvation page at the back of this devotional and pray that prayer, from the bottom of your heart.

PRAYER:

Dear Father, thank you for setting up your Kingdom in my heart. With my heart, I envision and apprehend the realities of the Gospel and of our Kingdom-life. I pray for the unsaved around the world, that their hearts be open to receive the Gospel, and be saved; that your power for salvation will mantle their hearts even now, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

_Luke 6:45; A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh._

_Hebrews 10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water._

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 13:1-14 & Ecclesiastes 6-8

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 1:15-20 & Jeremiah 32

*GOOD MORNING� BELOVED*
#MONTH OF WISDOM

*HAVE A BEAUTIFUL ��AND COLOURFUL ❄️� DAY*
*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Tuesday 15th September, 2020.

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

*HE'S WITH YOU AND IN YOU*

_And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you (John 14:16-17)._

The comforting and soul-lifting words above were spoken by Jesus prior to His ascension. He knew the disciples would miss Him; so He said, “Relax! I’m going to the Father, and I’ll ask Him to send you the Holy Spirit (another Comforter). When He comes, He’ll live in your heart, and you won’t have to look for me or feel my absence. Instead of walking in the streets with you, I’ll walk in the streets in you.” Glory to God!

Jesus fulfilled His promise and the Father sent the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost (read Acts 2:1-4). Now that you’re born again, you never have to look for Jesus; you never have to cry, “Lord, where are you?” He’s in you now! That means the presence of God is in your heart! I don’t know what your perception of God and Christianity has been prior to now; but know this, if you’ve received the Holy Spirit, you have God inside you. No wonder John said, _“Ye are of God little children, and have overcome “your adversaries,” because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4)._ Hallelujah!

Irrespective of what you may be facing in your life, there’s a new revelation; it’s the revelation of divinity in you! Paul called it the mystery which was hidden in the past generations, but is now made manifest to God’s saints, which is _“…Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:26-27)._

Adam didn’t know it. Abraham didn’t know it. Isaac didn’t know it. None of the patriarchs of old knew this mystery. This is greater than “Emmanuel” (God with us); this is Heaven in you! The fullness of the Godhead fully tabernacled in you, and expressed through you! Blessed be God forever!

PRAYER:

Dear Father, thank you for the great honour and blessing of having Christ live in me by the Holy Spirit; by virtue of His indwelling and abiding presence, I’m infused with divine energy and supernatural wisdom to do the will of God, and live triumphantly over the devices of the evil one and the corrupting influences in this world. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:

_Acts 2:1-4; And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.(2) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.(3) And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.(4) And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance._

_1 Corinthians 3:16; Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?_

_Acts 17:28; For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring._

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Galatians 1:1-24 & Ecclesiastes 9-12

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 2:1-15 & Jeremiah 33

*GOOD MORNING � BELOVED*
#MONTH OF WISDOM

*HAVE AN AWESOME ❄️�DAY*
*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Friday 18th September, 2020.

*DON’T IGNORE THE URGE TO PRAY*

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

_Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7)._

As a Christian, it’s important that you know how to take the life that God has given you seriously, and how to respond spiritually when certain things happen around you. This is why prayer is important. When we pray, something happens. He never told us to pray in vain. Whenever you have that urge to pray, don’t ignore it.

Everyone who has the Holy Spirit would have the urge to pray from time to time, because He Himself is the Spirit of prayer. He teaches us to pray, and He prays through us. He stirs our hearts to pray and even puts words in our mouths with which to pray. As long as you’re living a Spirit-led life, you’ll always have the urge to pray. Otherwise, how do you resist the devil?

The devil is a spirit being; we don’t resist him with muscles or physical might. We don’t resist him with earthly things; we resist him with our faith. The Bible says resist the devil and he’ll flee (James 4:7); he has no option. He’s terrified of us because of the Name of Jesus.

When you come to understand the enormous power given you to paralyse Satan’s activities—whether in your life, the lives of your loved ones, your city or nation—you’d love to pray! Don’t sit idly by and watch the devil run rampage around you. Pray. Use the Name of Jesus against him.

As you fellowship with God in prayer, the Holy Spirit will show you things to pray about and how to pray. He’ll teach you how to handle matters in the realm of the spirit and prevail. Hallelujah!

PRAYER

Thank you blessed Father, for the privilege of prayer and the blessing of praying in tongues. I’m responsive to the guidance and promptings of the Spirit in ensuring that through prayer, your will is established on earth as it is in Heaven, and your character and personality are manifested through me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org

FURTHER STUDY

_1 Thessalonians 5:17; Pray without ceasing._

_1 Corinthians 14:2; For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries._

_Romans 8:26-27; Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.(27) And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God._

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Galatians 3:15-25 & Songs of Solomon 6-8

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 4:1-8 & Jeremiah 36

*HAVE A BLESSED DAY*
#MONTH OF WISDOM

*Stay blessed*

To all followers of this Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional thread:

For some reasons not yet known, it was not possible to send posts for Wednesday and Thursday on this platform, this message kept coming up at every trial: "You can not do that right now, try again in a few hours."

However it seems to have been sorted out. Still, to be prepared is to consider the past, present and look into the future whilst planning. For this reason, a WHATSAPP group has been created for the same purpose as this thread: "to share God's word daily in little nuggets relevant to renewing your mind with the knowledge of God's will for you, strategizing your day, putting you in-charge thereby giving you the advantage at every turn."

Below is the link, on click you will be taken to the group where God's word will come to you via Rhapsody of Realities daily and on the instant. Thank you so much. You are blessed to be a blessing ... Remember that!
https:///GntmhToqXGl8FPbvqjUXSe

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Saturday 19th September, 2020.

*BE CONSCIOUS OF YOUR LIFE IN CHRIST*

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

_Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17)._

When you read in the verse above, _“…as he is, so are we in this world,”_ it’s not talking about us being like Jesus before He died, but the resurrected Jesus with eternal life. We have the same life with Him now. The Bible says, _“He that hath the Son hath life…” (1 John 5:12)._ If you have Jesus, you have eternal life—the God-life; it’s not the biological life with which you were born of your parents.

That’s why Jesus said, _“…Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3)._ And when He said your biological life can’t see the Kingdom of God, He wasn’t talking about just going to Heaven; He was talking about the reality of the Kingdom of God; the dominion of God in the world; the life and nature of God experienced in this world.

When you’re born again, you experience the kingdom of God now in this life; it becomes your everyday experience; your everyday walk. This is what Christianity is. Christ is literally alive in you; you’re inseparably one with Him. 1 Corinthians 6:17 says, _“But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.”_

Having become so mingled with the Lord in one spirit, how could you be bothered about viruses, bacteria, germs or anything that ravages the world? This is why John wants you to know what you have. He says, _“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life…” (1 John 5:13)._

When you understand who you are in Christ, you’d realise it’s impossible for you to be sick. Once you recognise and become conscious of your life in Him, you have nothing to fear in this world, because you’re indestructible. What a life He’s given us! Hallelujah!

CONFESSION:

I have the wondrous, incorruptible, imperishable, miracle-life of God in me. I’m an associate of the God-kind! The very essence of divinity is at work in me, and that divine life surges through my being, repelling sickness, disease, infirmity, death, poverty, and everything that’s inconsistent with the provisions of the Gospel of Christ. I’m invincible, indestructible and impregnable. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:

_1 John 5:11-13; And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.(12) He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.(13) These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God._

_1 Corinthians 15:47-49; AMPC The first man [was] from out of earth, made of dust (earthly-minded); the second Man [is] the Lord from out of heaven. Gen. 2:7. Now those who are made of the dust are like him who was first made of the dust (earthly-minded); and as is [the Man] from heaven, so also [are those] who are of heaven (heavenly-minded).(49) And just as we have borne the image [of the man] of dust, so shall we and so let us also bear the image [of the Man] of heaven._

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Galatians 3:26-4:1-20 & Isaiah 1-2

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 4:9-16 & Jeremiah 37

*HAVE A GREAT DAY*
#MONTH OF WISDOM

*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Sunday 20th September, 2020.

*PURCHASED BY HIS BLOOD*

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

_For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s (1 Corinthians 6:20)._

In 1 Corinthians 11:25, the Bible records that Jesus took _“…the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.”_ His blood represents His life; He gave His life for us that we may live. It just lets you know how important you are to God. The Bible says we weren’t bought with silver or gold or precious stones but with the blood; the precious blood of Jesus Christ, Son of the living God (1 Peter 1:18-19).

_“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9)._ In your life, the most important thing you should have your mind on is that His blood, which represents His life, is your true value. And because of that blood, you’re protected. You’re God’s property; therefore, you’re not left to the dictates of your adversaries or the dominion of sin.

His blood speaks your righteousness. You’re purified and preserved by His blood. The Bible says, _“Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us” (Hebrews 9:12)._ Thank God for the precious blood of Jesus Christ! Hallelujah!

CONFESSION:

The blood of Jesus gives me remission, justification, redemption, access, fellowship, cleansing and the blessings of the New Testament. I’m born of His Word, a new creation, superior to Satan, the world and its failing systems and elements. Blessed be God!

FURTHER STUDY:

_1 Peter 1:18-19; Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;(19) But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:_

_Hebrews 10:14-20; For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.(15) Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,(16) This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;(17) And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.(18) Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.(19) Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,(20) By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;_

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Galatians 4:21-5:1-15 & Isaiah 3-5

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 5:1-10 & Jeremiah 38

*HAVE A GLORIOUS DAY*
#MONTH OF WISDOM

*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Monday 21st September, 2020.

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD

*YOUR NAME IN THE BOOK OF LIFE*

_And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life…(Revelation 22:19)._

Many have assumed that when someone gives his heart to Christ, that’s when his name is written in the Book of Life. But that isn’t what the Bible teaches. It’s never really about your name being written in the Book of Life; the problem is about being removed from the Book of Life.

In Exodus 32:32, Moses said to God, _“…blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written.”_ Moses knew about the Book of Life; it’s not the book where your name is written when you’re born again, because Moses wasn’t “born again.” So, what’s the Book of Life? It’s the book where God registers everyone who was ever born into this world.

Read our theme verse again; it was a warning to everyone. God’s plan originally was to have every one of us with Him. The Bible says He’s _“…not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9)._ Everlasting fire was never prepared for human beings (Matthew 25:41), but for the devil and his angels. But God gave man the power of choice.

Whoever doesn’t find their names in the Book of Life eventually, have themselves to blame. God’s reply to Moses in Exodus 32:33 that we read earlier was, _“… Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book” (Exodus 32:33)._ What this simply means is that you live your life unto God.

Walk every day in love and in righteousness, and your name will remain in the Book of Life. Live a life that glorifies Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:15 says, _“And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.”_

PRAYER:

Faithful and righteous Father, thank you for the privilege to be a witness of your saving power; I pray for souls around the world today, to receive your Word and be converted. Also, I declare that my works in the Kingdom, and walk with you, are purified by your Spirit, for your glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:

_Isaiah 50:7 TLB; Because the Lord God helps me, I will not be dismayed; therefore, I have set my face like flint to do his will, and I know that I will triumph._

_Mark 10:29-30; And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s,(30) But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life._

_Revelation 3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels._

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Galatians 5:16-26 & Isaiah 6-8

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 5:11-18 & Jeremiah 39

*HAVE A SPLENDID DAY*
#MONTH OF WISDOM

*Stay blessed*

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

Tuesday 22nd September, 2020
Pastor Chris

*ALERT AND SENSITIVE IN THE SPIRIT ALWAYS*

*|�| Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:.|�|*

On a certain day, as Jesus taught in one of the synagogues, He noticed a woman who was bent double; she couldn’t straighten herself. She had been in that condition for eighteen years. Then, Jesus said to her, *“...Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God”* (Luke 13:12-13).

Although the religious leaders present were indignant that Jesus healed the woman on a Sabbath day, the Master’s response revealed something striking. He said, *“...ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?”* (Luke 13:16).

The Master stated clearly that it was Satan who kept the woman in that condition through “a spirit of infirmity.” And as soon as He dealt with the spirit, the woman straightened up; she was made whole by the power of God.

Jesus understood the spirit world. He knew life was spiritual, and demon spirits are real and responsible for a lot of the infirmities that people suffer from. And through the Scriptures and insight He grants us by the Holy Spirit, we understand how to identify Satan and his works.

If you don’t know the Scriptures, you could be a victim of Satan’s devices. Study and meditate on the Word often; speak in tongues every day; be filled with the Spirit, and your spiritual alertness and sensitivity will always be at its peak. There’re spiritual dimensions to life. You need to know what God initiates, and what the devil instigates. The Bible says *“...we are not ignorant of his* (Satan’s) *devices”* (2 Corinthians 2:11).

*CONFESSION*
*By the authority given me in Christ, I keep Satan and his cohorts under my feet! I live in God’s glory, walking in divine health, peace, safety, abundance and joy. I walk in the fullness of the blessings of the Gospel today. Hallelujah!*

*FURTHER STUDY*
*James 4:7*
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

*1 Peter 5:8-9*
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

*1 John 4:4*
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 6:1-18 & Isaiah 9-10

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1 Timothy 5:19-25 & Jeremiah 40

*GOOD MORNING GOD'S DELIGHT*

*ALWAYS WIN.*

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER 2020

PST. CHRIS

LIVING IN CHRIST .

So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, CONTINUE TO LIVE YOUR LIVES IN HIM (Colossians 2:6 NIV).

Before we review Paul’s amazing submission in the verse above, let’s read what he said in the 20th verse: _*“Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances”*_ (Colossians 2:20). Notice his amazing communication; he says the Christian doesn’t live in this world, in this natural plane of life. Where then does the Christian live? He lives in Christ!

Christ is the home and new environment of the one who’s born again. Notice 2 Corinthians 5:17; it says, “If any man BE IN CHRIST…”; Christ is a place. You’re not supposed to be affected, ruled or influenced by the rudiments of this world, because you live in a different environment. In that environment, everything is perfect; there’s no failure, weakness, defeat, sickness, disease, poverty or anything of darkness. We only have God’s glory and righteousness.

Now you can better understand what we read in our opening verse; _“just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, CONTINUE TO LIVE YOUR LIVES IN HIM.”_ Living in Christ is living in the kingdom of heaven in the earth, with absolute mastery over circumstances, shielded, nourished and protected by His divine power. Hallelujah!

PRAYER

Christ is my home; Christ is my life and Christ is my all! In Him I live, and move and have my being. His glory is all I see, have and experience. I’m not subject to circumstances; rather, I reign and manifest the glory and righteousness of Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

Philippians 3:20-21 AMPC
But we are citizens of the state (commonwealth, homeland) which is in heaven, and from it also we earnestly and patiently await [the coming of] the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) [as] Savior, 21 Who will transform and fashion anew the body of our humiliation to conform to and be like the body of His glory and majesty, by exerting that power which enables Him even to subject everything to himself.

Romans 8:1
[There is] therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 1:1-14 & Isaiah 11-12

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 6:1-16 & Jeremiah 41

*An awesome day to you, stay blessed*
#MONTH OF WISDOM

*RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL*

THURSDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER, 2020

PST. CHRIS OYAKHILOME PhD

*YOUR MOMENT TO SHINE*

_Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid (Matthew 5:14)._

This present world is a world in spiritual darkness. It was the same in the days of Jesus. Recall at His arrest, He said, _*“…this is your moment, the time when the power of darkness reigns”*_ (Luke 22:53 NLT). After Jesus ascended to heaven, the world remained in darkness. But you’re the solution to that darkness. We read in our opening verse that you’re the light of the world. You have to shine ever more brightly in these last days, through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Our world isn’t for the devil; it’s for the Lord. He put us here to run this world with His light and righteousness from the realm of the Spirit. As you walk in faith, putting the Word to work and insisting on your divine rights and heritage in Christ, you’re making your light shine.

It doesn’t matter the darkness in the world—the sickness, disease, poverty and insecurity ravaging this world—you’ve been empowered to rule and reign in Christ, through the Word. Others would see you and understand who a true Christian is; they’d see the glory and excellence of Christ in you.

Isaiah 60:1-2 says, _“Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.”_ This is your moment to shine as the light in a dark world by walking in righteousness, prosperity, health, soundness of mind and body as guaranteed in the Word of God.

PRAYER

I’m the light of the world, a city set on a hill to bring illumination to my world. The glory and righteousness of Christ are manifested in and through me; I walk in prosperity and blessings, soundness of mind and body, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
_We trust you have been blessed by this devotional. We invite you to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life by praying thus:_

*_“O Lord God, I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ, Son of the living God. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He’s alive today. I confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life from this day. Through Him and in His Name, I have eternal life; I’m born again. Thank you Lord, for saving my soul! I’m now a child of God. Hallelujah!”_*

Let us know that you made that declaration by sending a mail to info@rhapsodyofrealities.org


FURTHER STUDY

_Isaiah 60:1-3 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. 2 For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. 3 And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising._

_John 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world._

_Philippians 2:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;_

_1 Thessalonians 5:5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness._

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 1:15-2:1-10 & Isaiah 13-14

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 6:17-21 & Jeremiah 42

*A glorious day to you and your loved ones, stay blessed*
#MONTH OF WISDOM