*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* TUESDAY, 1ST NOVEMBER, 2022 _*{All Saints’ Day}*_ *THEME:* THE REDEEMED OF THE TRIBULATION

*TEXT:* REVELATIONS 7: 1-4, 9-17

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree.
2. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea,
3. Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.
4. And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.

_*Verses 9-17*_
9. After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
10. And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.
11. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,
12. Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.
13. And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?
14. And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
15. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.
16. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat.
17. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

*MESSAGE:*
In the early years when the Roman Empire persecuted Christians, so many Martyrs died of their faith and as a result, the Church set aside special days to honour them. The Bible does not tell us to pray to the saints (Matt. 6:6) or through the Saints (1 Tim. 2:5), instead, we think of our connectedness to past saints and find inspiration in their stories of God’s faithfulness. All baptised Christians who have died and are now with God in glory are considered Saints. All Saints’ Day is intended to honour the memory of countless unknown and uncanonised saints who have no feast days. This feast is observed to teach us to honour the saints who have triumphed in their race on earth and to imitate their lives. Some saints were witnesses who preached, taught and acted in a Christ-like manner; some were Martyrs, killed specifically because they practised and proclaimed their faith despite opposition.

From our text, this great multitude is probably Christians from all times and places. Long ago, God promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars (Gen. 15:5) and as the sand of the sea (Gen. 32:12). Now we see that promise fulfilled. This is a huge multitude of Triumphant Christians, so large that no one can count it. This great multitude, clothed in white, palms branches in hand, are celebrating the salvation which they have experienced at God’s hand. As we celebrate the All-Saints’ Day today, we believe that one day we will join the saints in heaven to rejoice and worship our God for the salvation given us in Christ Jesus.

*PRAYER:*
Heavenly Father, grant me grace to remain faithful to You and in the end join the Saints above in eternal worship of You, through Jesus Christ our Lord. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"Those who overcome will not be hurt by the second death."_ *Revelation 2:11*

*WELCOME TO THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2022*
This November will favour you. Righteousness, Goodness and Favour shall follow you. All forms of sickness shall be removed from your tent. Good health shall be your portion. You will end this month with great testimonies.
*HAPPY NEW MONTH*



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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* WEDNESDAY, 2ND NOVEMBER, 2022 _*{All Souls’ Day}*_ *THEME:* THE COMFORT OF CHRIST’S COMING

*TEXT:* 1 THESSALONIANS 4:13-18

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

13. But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
14. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
15. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
17. 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.
18. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

*MESSAGE:*

Many times, we have sorrow that our loved ones are not here - we miss them! It is natural to feel grief – Jesus wept at the grave of Lazarus, his friend-but we are not to be sad for them, but encouraged by the hope and promise Jesus gives us of the resurrection to eternal life. St. Paul in our text today, speaks about those who have died in hope, describing them as asleep in Jesus until the general resurrection. He maintains that when Jesus appears again, those who are asleep will rise first and those who are still alive, shall be caught up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.

We must prepare ourselves now through repentance and faith, purifying ourselves by the Body and Blood of Christ that we might draw closer to God and to our faithful departed loved ones. Paul assures the believers that people who die in the Lord will not miss out on that great event. They will have places of honour as the saint’s rise to meet the returning King. Those who died in the Lord are not left out of the party - they will be raised so everyone can celebrate together. The bottom line is simple: “And so we will be with the Lord forever” (v.17). This is our comfort.

*PRAYER:*
Dear Lord, grant us grace to prepare ourselves for Your coming and to be faithful to the end so Your coming will not take us unawares in Jesus name, *Amen.*

.*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I have called you to My eternal glory in Jesus Christ."_ *1 Peter 5:10*

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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* THURSDAY, 3RD NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* LIVING AN UNCOMPROMISING LIFE

*TEXT:* DANIEL 1:1-end

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it.
2. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god.
3. And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes;
4. Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.
5. And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.
6. Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah:
7. Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
8. But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
9. Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs.
10. And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.
11. Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,
12. Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.
13. Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king's meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.
14. So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days.
15. And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king's meat.
16. Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.
17. As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.
18. Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar.
19. And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king.
20. And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.
21. And Daniel continued even unto the first year of king Cyrus.


*MESSAGE:*

As long as we live in the midst of an ungodly world, we will face situations where we have to take a stand. As Christians, we are in the world but not of the world. This means that we need to take a stand for the Lord Jesus Christ, so that we may effectively resist the pressures of the world to compromise our faith and values. To do this, we must have only one faithful guide of what is acceptable and what is not acceptable – The Bible, which is God’s Word. We must have firm convictions from God’s Word and apply these convictions in our daily life. In our text today, we see that Daniel and his three friends had the privilege of eating the best food in Babylon, but they refused. That was a very risky thing to do. They could be expelled from the royal academy or worse, they could be executed for refusing to receive the King’s provisions. God honoured their obedience and their uncompromising stand for Him, and after ten days, they were miraculously healthier and stronger than any other scholars in the royal academy.

Despite what you may face in life that may be similar to that of Daniel, which may pressurise you to conform to idolatrous or sinful practices, and though there may be other Christians around you who have compromised, remember the example of Daniel and his friends in this passage, take a stand for God and He will surely deliver you.

*PRAYER:*
Dear Lord, give me grace to stand for You without compromise despite the pressures around me, through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour, *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I am giving you a kingdom that can never be shaken."_ *Hebrews 12:28*


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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* FRIDAY, 4TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* GOD IS THE REVEALER OF SECRETS

*TEXT:* Daniel 2: 1-24

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him.
2. Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to shew the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king.
3. And the king said unto them, I have dreamed a dream, and my spirit was troubled to know the dream.
4. Then spake the Chaldeans to the king in Syriack, O king, live for ever: tell thy servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation.
5. The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill.
6. But if ye shew the dream, and the interpretation thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honour: therefore shew me the dream, and the interpretation thereof.
7. They answered again and said, Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation of it.
8. The king answered and said, I know of certainty that ye would gain the time, because ye see the thing is gone from me.
9. But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be changed: therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye can shew me the interpretation thereof.
10. The Chaldeans answered before the king, and said, There is not a man upon the earth that can shew the king's matter: therefore there is no king, lord, nor ruler, that asked such things at any magician, or astrologer, or Chaldean.
11. And it is a rare thing that the king requireth, and there is none other that can shew it before the king, except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh.
12. For this cause the king was angry and very furious, and commanded to destroy all the wise men of Babylon.
13. And the decree went forth that the wise men should be slain; and they sought Daniel and his fellows to be slain.
14. Then Daniel answered with counsel and wisdom to Arioch the captain of the king's guard, which was gone forth to slay the wise men of Babylon:
15. He answered and said to Arioch the king's captain, Why is the decree so hasty from the king? Then Arioch made the thing known to Daniel.
16. Then Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would give him time, and that he would shew the king the interpretation.
17. Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions:
18. That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.
19. Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.
20. Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his:
21. And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:
22. He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.
23. I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast now made known unto us the king's matter.
24. Therefore Daniel went in unto Arioch, whom the king had ordained to destroy the wise men of Babylon: he went and said thus unto him; Destroy not the wise men of Babylon: bring me in before the king, and I will shew unto the king the interpretation.

*MESSAGE:*

Consultation of ungodly mediums will not bring solution to troubling situations. King Nebuchadnezzar had a troubling dream and consulted his astrologers, magicians & soothsayers to tell him his dream and its interpretation but they could not. Daniel, a godly man, had the understanding that secret things belong to God, and are revealed to them that fear Him. He asked for time from the king and together with his three Hebrew colleagues, prayed and in Daniel 2:18 -19, God revealed the secret to Daniel and he did not take the glory or make merchandise of it, but gave all the glory to God (Dan. 2:20 -23).

God has not changed. In Jeremiah 33:3, He says, Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. In every sector of human existence, we need not to consult ungodly mediums for solution, but we have to consult God the custodian and revealer of secrets for solutions; and when He answers, we should not take the glory or make merchandise of it, but return it all to Him. We have to continually make ourselves available like Daniel to be used of God to reveal secrets.

*PRAYER:*
My God, make me a vessel that You will use to reveal secrets in Jesus name. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I promise a crown of life to all who love Me despite their trials."_ *James 1:12*


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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* SATURDAY, 5TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* ALWAYS ACKNOWLEDGE GOD

*TEXT:* DANIEL 2: 25-end

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

25. Then Arioch brought in Daniel before the king in haste, and said thus unto him, I have found a man of the captives of Judah, that will make known unto the king the interpretation.
26. The king answered and said to Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, Art thou able to make known unto me the dream which I have seen, and the interpretation thereof?
27. Daniel answered in the presence of the king, and said, The secret which the king hath demanded cannot the wise men, the astrologers, the magicians, the soothsayers, shew unto the king;
28. But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed, are these;
29. As for thee, O king, thy thoughts came into thy mind upon thy bed, what should come to pass hereafter: and he that revealeth secrets maketh known to thee what shall come to pass.
30. But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living, but for their sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thy heart.
31. Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof was terrible.
32. This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass,
33. His legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay.
34. Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces.
35. Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth.
36. This is the dream; and we will tell the interpretation thereof before the king.
37. Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory.
38. And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou art this head of gold.
39. And after thee shall arise another kingdom inferior to thee, and another third kingdom of brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth.
40. And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in pieces and bruise.
41. And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron mixed with miry clay.
42. And as the toes of the feet were part of iron, and part of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong, and partly broken.
43. And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with the seed of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay.
44. And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.
45. Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure.
46. Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odours unto him.
47. The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret.
48. Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon.
49. Then Daniel requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, over the affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel sat in the gate of the king.

*MESSAGE:*

When men acknowledge God in any situation, He makes a difference. In the midst of a situation that was to destroy both the ungodly and godly wise men in Babylon, Daniel acknowledged God to be the revealer of secrets and by God's mercy declared the interpretation of the dream of King Nebuchadnezzar as received from God without perversion (Dan. 2:12, 28). When Daniel made his presentation without arrogance but humility and honesty, Nebuchadnezzar in turn responded by acknowledging Daniel's God (Dan. 2:47) and in his capacity as king, promoted Daniel and his Hebrew colleagues (Daniel 2:48-49).

When God is acknowledged in a life, family, nation or institution, the difference will always manifest. When we are arrogant with the manifestation of God's gifts, blessings and power, it shows that we do not acknowledge God as our source. Daniel acknowledged God in the affairs of a kingdom and God manifested His power. The same is expected of us to acknowledge God in every area of our lives for His might and power to be expressed and for others to acknowledge Him.

*PRAYER:*
Heavenly Father, have mercy on me in any way I have not acknowledged You and help me to always acknowledge You
in Jesus name. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"My love stretches to the heavens and My faithfulness extends above the clouds."_ *Psalm 36:5*



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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* SUNDAY, 6TH NOVEMBER, 2022 _*{Trinity 21}*_ *THEME:* WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT

*TEXT:* 2 CORINTHIANS 5:6-15

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

6. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:
7. (For we walk by faith, not by sight
8. We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
9. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.
10. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
11. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
12. For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.
13. For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.
14. For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
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.

*MESSAGE:*

Faith is essential in our walk with God. In today's reading, Apostle Paul reminded the Corinthian brethren of the need to walk by faith and not by sight which connotes that they should not build their lives around things that do not have eternal significance; but live life day-by-day in light of eternal consequences (2 Cor. 5:8-10). To walk in faith is to desist from pursuing the things the world pursues, and focusing on the unseen realities of the kingdom of God. When we walk by sight, we measure our lives by the standard of the world rather than the standard of God's word.

God expects Christians to have a daily experience of walking by faith and not by sight. This can be achieved when we fear God more than Man, obey the Bible even when it conflicts with man's commands, choose righteousness over sin, no matter what the cost, trust God in every circumstance and believe God rewards those who seek Him, regardless of who says otherwise. The society may live by the philosophy of our time which may be appealing to the sight, but those who walk by faith should be guided by God's word.

*PRAYER:*
O Lord, help me to walk by faith and not by sight in Jesus name. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I have chosen you to be My own precious possession."_ *Deuteronomy 7:6*

*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* MONDAY, 7TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* FAITH AND LOVE IN PERSECUTION

*TEXT:* 2 THESSALONIANS 1: 1-4

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:
2. Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3. We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;
4. So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure:

*MESSAGE:*

In this letter, Apostle Paul, in agreement with Silvanus (Silas) and Timothy, commended the new believers at Thessalonica for their abounding faith, increasing love for the brethren and ability to endure the persecutions and afflictions brought upon them by their unbelieving Jewish neighbours. Recall that this congregation was made up mainly of the Greeks (Gentiles) and a few leading women of the city (Acts 17:2-4). The unbelieving Jews lied and plotted against Paul and Silas (the missionaries) whom they described as _“those who have turned the world upside down.”_ As a result, Paul and Silas were forced to flee the city almost as soon as the Church was planted (Acts 17:6). However, pleasant reports about their abounding faith, labour of love and endurance in the midst of the excruciating persecutions, had caused Apostle Paul to write this second letter to express thanks to God, and to commend them for their faith towards Jesus Christ and their love for the brethren.

The Church today needs men and women of courage who will stand to confront and combat the rot within its fold and the immediate community as it is threatened by hate, ambition and corruption as well as immorality, selfishness, greed, godlessness and other forms of social vices. When Christ shall come, shall He find in us the kind of faith, love and endurance exhibited by the early Thessalonian Church?

*PRAYER:*
Dear Lord, please increase my faith in Your saving grace that I may stand strong in the defence of Your truth, through Jesus Christ our Lord. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I know everything about you and am mindful of all your ways."_ *Psalm 139:1-3*

✝ DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL

Date: 2022-Nov-08

✝� TOPIC: GOD COMFORTS AND RECOMPENSES

✝�TEXT: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10(NKJV)
5. [which is] manifest evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer;
6. since [it is] a righteous thing with God to repay with tribulation those who trouble you,
7. and to [give] you who are troubled rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels,
8. in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9. These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,
10. when He comes, in that Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be admired among all those who believe, because our testimony among you was believed.



✝STUDY:
In yesterday’s reading, Apostle Paul commended the Thessalonian Church for their growth in faith, love for the brethren and resilience against persecutions and afflictions. In today’s reading, he encourages the Church to understand that their travail is a process that leads to their purification and eternal reward. There is a rest with the saints when Christ shall return. He emphasises the direct relationship between glory and affliction, though unpopular. To many Church people today, godliness is a means of averting affliction and persecution! This is not true. In fact, Jesus Christ taught His disciples that all believers shall face persecution (John 15:20; 2 Tim. 3:12) in order to be counted worthy of the Kingdom of God. The purpose of affliction is to fit unholy people for the holy Kingdom of God. It is meant to purify them and refine their faith the way gold is refined through fire (1 Pet. 1:7). Only those who endure to the end shall enjoy the rest promised to believers. God deems it just to repay with tribulation those who afflict believers. Sooner than later, the afflicter (those who do not know God as well as those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ) will surely become the afflicted. They shall have no place in the Kingdom of God. Rejoice therefore, if you are passing through persecutions and afflictions for the sake of Christ, for your reward is great. God’s grace and peace are available for you (John 14:27).

✝️PRAYER
Dear Lord, help me to run this heavenly race with patience and confidence that at the end I will be counted worthy of your Kingdom in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.



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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* THURSDAY, 10TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* DECEPTION ABOUT THE DAY

*TEXT:* 2 THESSALONIANS 2: 1-12

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
2. That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
3. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
4. Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.
5. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?
6. And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.
7. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
8. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:
9. Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
10. And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
11. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
12. That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

*MESSAGE:*

Living in the throes of sustained persecution, believers might reasonably ask, Where is God? When will Jesus help us? The fear mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 suggests that some members of a First-Century Christian community answered these questions by saying that Jesus had already come (and perhaps somehow did not help them, because of neglect or an intent to punish them) or that 'the Day of the Lord' was immediately upon them. The response that 2 Thessalonians 2:3-12 gives - a confusing discourse about the rebellion, mystery of lawlessness, and powerful delusion that must precede Christ's return - may not have soothed readers' anxieties but only redirected them. The passage suggests that conditions will worsen before they improve.

Do you hear the truth of God but continue to harden your heart? Is it possible that the more you hear the gospel, the more your heart hardens? This is the “strong delusion” spoken of here. We are either prepared for the Lamb or for the Beast. The gospel either melts our hearts, grabs us and permeates our living or it doesn’t; there is no middle ground! Many of us grew up in church and have heard this over and over again. But one new thing is that we could be more fit for hell now as we grow in lawlessness in a world that is full of lawlessness. What are you being prepared for? Let us not be ignorant about what is to come! Let us heed the warnings of what is to come and not be given over to pleasure and delight and lawlessness.

*PRAYER:*
Almighty God, help me that I may not be deceived by pleasures and lawlessness of this age. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"My love is patient and kind, and does not keep track of wrongs."_ *1 Corinthians 13:4-5*



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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* FRIDAY, 11TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* STAND FIRM

*TEXT:* 2 THESSALONIANS 2: 13-17

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

13. But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:
14. Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15. Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.
16. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,
17. Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.

*MESSAGE:*

Paul was specific in his thanksgiving to God for the Thessalonians. God loved them and chose the Thessalonians as the first fruits to be saved. God loved and chose them for salvation (2 Thess. 2:13b, c.f. 1Thess 1:6). In his sovereignty, God chooses those He loves and saves them. In light of God’s work in saving them, Paul calls them to stand firm and hold to the traditions that were taught by Paul and his companions (2 Thess. 2:15). This is in contrast to 2 Thessalonians 2:2, where false teaching causes them to be shaken and alarmed; truth is worth standing firm on! Our hope in God’s promise to save and glorify us with Christ is sure because God keeps His promises. This hope is certain, sure and true.

We can rest on it - this comfort and hope comes through grace. We rest on God’s grace towards undeserving sinners. We have comfort even in the attack of lawlessness because God’s grace is behind our salvation. We have sure hope of God completing His salvation because His grace is behind it. If you wondered how you are going to stand firm all the way, remember that it is by God’s grace; we have no hope in ourselves. Don’t think of what you are going to do to stand firm but who are you depending on that you might do so. He will hold us fast.

*PRAYER:*
Lord God, please keep me firm in faith until Christ returns in Jesus' name *Amen*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I am your light and your salvation, the strength of your life."_ *Psalm 27:1*



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✝ DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL

Date: 2022-Nov-12

✝TOPIC: THE LORD’S SPEEDING WORD


✝�TEXT: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5(NKJV)
1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run [swiftly] and be glorified, just as [it is] with you,
2. and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.
3. But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard [you] from the evil one.
4. And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you.
5. Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.


✝STUDY: Paul’s words tear down any veneer of our culture’s hospitality towards God’s word. The fact of the matter is that God’s truths are antithetical at a fundamental level to every strain of popular belief. This helps us to understand why prayer is the most practical course of action in a faithless world - if the world’s biggest problem is their rebellion against God, then it makes all the sense to turn to God for a solution. The primacy of prayer should have nestled quite easily into your minds, but the truth is that prayer is rarely a priority. It is incredible that Paul, in highlighting the urgency of the end times and the warlike nature of a Christian’s life, establishes prayer as the primary means of warfare for the Christian. It is prayer that God’s Word would speed ahead and be honoured the way we have known it to have transformed our lives. Paul concludes this exhortation with a prayer of His own that the Lord would direct their hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ - and it is amazing that He does so (2 Thess. 3:5).

✝️PRAYER :
O Lord, direct our hearts to the love of the gospel of Christ, Amen


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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* SUNDAY, 13TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* ANSWERED PRAYERS

*TEXT:* 1 JOHN 5:13-15

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

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.
14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:
15. And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

*MESSAGE:*

John makes it clear that there must be a connection to the source of answers to prayer and this comes through believing consistently in the name of Jesus. The foundational result is eternally released to those who believe. This channel produces the confidence to ask in prayer correctly. Prayers are heard when they are according to God’s will; again, remaining in Him brings the answer. So, there should be consistency in believing, praying according to God’s will and expecting answers.

Do you wonder why your prayers are not answered? check properly your connection to God and how you ask. Also, your ability to remain in the will of God enables your prayers to be answered. Do not shift from God’s will when you are expecting answers to prayers because the answer may miss you or you may miss the answer. Your prayer can be answered if you are well positioned in Him (Heb. 11:6).

*PRAYER:*
Lord please help me to position myself correctly for answered prayers. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"Come boldly to My throne when you need to find mercy and grace."_ *Hebrews 4:16*


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✝DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL

Date: 2022-Nov-15

✝ TOPIC: A PRAYERFUL SALUTATION!

✝TEXT:2 Thessalonians. 3:16-18(NKJV)
16. Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord [be] with you all.
17. The salutation of Paul with my own hand, which is a sign in every epistle; so I write.
18. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you all. Amen.

✝STUDY: The content of this salutation is an expression of a father who wants his Children to experience God the same way he has experienced Him. Consider the content of the salutation: Peace from God by all means, the Lord be with you, the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you all (2 Thess. 3:16,18).

The peace of God can calm them in the midst of challenges and assure them of the presence of God around them and by supernatural help which comes by grace that can surmount troubles and obtain good result in their endeavours. Paul released a salutation that was capable of bringing all round success. As Christians, what are your prayers for others, especially those who look up to you? How graceful is the greeting that proceeds from your mouth? Your salutation and prayers can attract both the presence and the power of God that can transform the life of a person and reassure them of God’s grace in the midst of their challenges. Be conscious of this.

✝️PRAYER: Lord please help me to be a source of lifting to others through my prayers and salutation. Amen.




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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* WEDNESDAY, 16TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* AT THE ALTAR OF MEN

*TEXT:* DANIEL 3: 1-18

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon.
2. Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
3. Then the princes, the governors, and captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together unto the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up.
4. Then an herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations, and languages,
5. That at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up:
6. And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.
7. Therefore at that time, when all the people heard the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and all kinds of musick, all the people, the nations, and the languages, fell down and worshipped the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up.
8. Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews.
9. They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever.
10. Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image:
11. And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.
12. There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
13. Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king.
14. Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?
15. Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?
16. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.
17. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.
18. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

*MESSAGE:*

Our text today tells the story of Nebuchadnezzar II. It was he who destroyed the temple of Jerusalem and initiated the Babylonian captivity of the Jewish population, and in the exercise of his self-exalted power and authority, he set up an image of gold whose height was sixty cubits and width six cubits, and commanded every nation and people to fall down and worship it. The faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the Living God, was the target of this demonic project. The collective response of these three young men is worthy of emulation. They demonstrated faith and obedience in the service of God regardless of the cost (vv. 16-18).

Do we still have such persons in the Church today - Christians who will not compromise their faith by bowing down to worship at the altar of influential men to gain political power, religious or ecclesiastical position or financial prosperity? May God find you worthy and faithful like these three exemplary Hebrew men as you _“contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints”_ (Jude v.3).

*PRAYER:*
Father, make me the Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego of my generation; one who will never bow down and worship at the altar of men, in Jesus Christ’s name. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I will shower My Spirit and My blessings on your offspring."_ *Isaiah 44:3*




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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* THURSDAY, 17TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* FAITH NEVER FAILS

*TEXT:* DANIEL 3: 19-30

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

19. Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.
20. And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.
21. Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
22. Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
23. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.
24. Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.
25. He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
26. Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire.
27. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.
28. Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.
29. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.
30. Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon.

*MESSAGE:*

King Nebuchadnezzar was terribly angry with Shedrach, Meshach, and Abednego for refusing to worship the gold image he ordered to be set up. Therefore, he ordered that the furnace be heated seven times more than it was usually done and that they should be thrown into the fiery furnace. Because the furnace was exceedingly hot, the flame of the fire killed the men who threw them in.

The three Hebrew Brothers remained resolutely steadfast in their faith in the face of a death sentence. They believed in the LORD and held on to the word of God which says, _“When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you”_ (Isa. 43:2). Their faith worked for them. Beloved, are you facing any life-threatening circumstances? You are not alone. The _“Son of God”_ who was with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego (v.25) in the furnace of fire, is very much with you. If God is for you, who can be against you? (cf Rom. 8:31). Faith never fails, rather it promotes. Have faith in the Living God.

*PRAYER:*
O Lord my God, in Your mercy, increase my faith through Jesus Christ our Lord. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I will comfort you with My everlasting encouragement."_ *2 Thessalonians 2:16-17*




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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* FRIDAY, 18TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* GOD DETESTS THE PROUD

*TEXT:* DANIEL 4: 1-18

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.
2. I thought it good to shew the signs and wonders that the high God hath wrought toward me.
3. How great are his signs! and how mighty are his wonders! his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion is from generation to generation.
4. I Nebuchadnezzar was at rest in mine house, and flourishing in my palace:
5. I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head troubled me.
6. Therefore made I a decree to bring in all the wise men of Babylon before me, that they might make known unto me the interpretation of the dream.
7. Then came in the magicians, the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers: and I told the dream before them; but they did not make known unto me the interpretation thereof.
8. But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name was Belteshazzar, according to the name of my God, and in whom is the spirit of the holy gods: and before him I told the dream, saying,
9. O Belteshazzar, master of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in thee, and no secret troubleth thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the interpretation thereof.
10. Thus were the visions of mine head in my bed; I saw, and behold a tree in the midst of the earth, and the height thereof was great.
11. The tree grew, and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth:
12. The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all: the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof, and all flesh was fed of it.
13. I saw in the visions of my head upon my bed, and, behold, a watcher and an holy one came down from heaven;
14. He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches:
15. Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth:
16. Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.
17. This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.
18. This dream I king Nebuchadnezzar have seen. Now thou, O Belteshazzar, declare the interpretation thereof, forasmuch as all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: but thou art able; for the spirit of the holy gods is in thee.

*MESSAGE:*

The passage before us today gives us a picture of how the Lord revealed to Nebuchadnezzar in his dream the plan to humiliate him and bring him to his knees until he acknowledges the sovereignty of God. The Lord God of all wisdom hid the interpretation of the dream from all magicians and their cohorts but revealed same to Daniel His servant to further prove His supremacy over the gods of darkness. Although the Lord blessed Nebuchadnezzar and endued him with greatness, he revealed his plans to reduce him to an animal and pour contempt on his pride (vv. 4-15).

We are encouraged from the narrative above to cultivate the virtue of humility. All the endowments of individuals, family, Church and nation were given to us by the Lord God Almighty (see Deut. 8:18; Acts 17:28). We must use all that God has given to us to worship Him and like John the Baptist, we must learn to say _“He must increase, but I must decrease”_ (John 3:30).

*PRAYER:*
When I survey the wondrous cross,
On which the prince of glory died.
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"Delight in Me and I will give you the longings of your heart."_ *Psalm 37:4*

*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* SATURDAY, 19TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* PRAYERS UNLOCK DIVINE REVELATION

*TEXT:* DANIEL 9: 1-3, 20-27

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. In the first year of Darius son of Xerxes (a Mede by descent), who was made ruler over the Babylonian kingdom--
2. in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the LORD given to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years.
3. So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes.

_*Verses 20-27*_
20. And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the Lord my God for the holy mountain of my God;
21. Yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the beginning, being caused to fly swiftly, touched me about the time of the evening oblation.
22. And he informed me, and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding.
23. At the beginning of thy supplications the commandment came forth, and I am come to shew thee; for thou art greatly beloved: therefore understand the matter, and consider the vision.
24. Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
25. Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
26. And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
27. And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

*MESSAGE:*

The day's passage gives a clear description of how Daniel accessed the key to divine revelation and wisdom. He fervently sought the face of the Lord in prayers and fasting: _“Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes”_ (v.3 cf vv.21,22).

Our God remains the Omniscient God. None of His Divine attributes will ever diminish. Just as Daniel sought His face in prayers and got an understanding of his time and dispensation, we can also seek His face in the midst of religious crises, political instability, corruption, incessant killings and all kinds of evil and crises we are experiencing in our personal lives, Church and nation. He promises to answer us when we call on Him. Jeremiah 33:3 says, _“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.”_

*PRAYER:*
O Lord grant us the burden to pray until we receive answers in Jesus Christ’s name. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"Just ask and you will receive."_ *Matthew 7:7*



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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* SUNDAY, 20TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *{Trinity 23* _*Sunday Before Advent}*_ *THEME:* CHEER UP, HELP IS ON THE WAY!

*TEXT:* ACTS 9: 32-35

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

32. And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda.
33. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy.
34. And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately.
35. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.

*MESSAGE:*

In our text today, we see Aeneas who was bedridden for eight years and was paralysed. He got healed instantly through the prayer of Peter. Imagine how this man must have felt those eight years of helplessness. This was the case with blind Bartimaeus until he encountered Jesus and was asked to cheer up (Mark 10:46-52). Certainly, Aeneas could not have been a cheerful man during the years of his paralysis. He may not have thought help was on the way either! Observe that it was during Peter’s visit to the saints in Lydda that he found Aeneas and prayed for his healing (vv. 32-34). Notice too that his healing brought salvation to many who were living in that town (v.35).

Beloved, let us not give up when we pass through all kinds of trouble. At God’s own time when we least expect, He will visit us to take away that reproach. Be encouraged because when God attends to that affliction in your life, your testimony will bring hope to others and turn them to Christ. Cheer up! Help is on the way!

*PRAYER:*
Father, I patiently wait for Your divine visitation which is never too late, in Jesus’ name. _*Amen.*_

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I look throughout the earth to strengthen those who belong to me."_ *2 Chronicles 16:9*

*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* MONDAY, 21ST NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* PRAY FOR YOUR LEADERS

*TEXT:* DANIEL 10:1-11:1

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing was true, but the time appointed was long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding of the vision.
2. In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks.
3. I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.
4. And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which is Hiddekel;
5. Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz:
6. His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude.
7. And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves.
8. Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength.
9. Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground.
10. And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands.
11. And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.
12. Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
13. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.
14. Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.
15. And when he had spoken such words unto me, I set my face toward the ground, and I became dumb.
16. And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength.
17. For how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord? for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there breath left in me.
18. Then there came again and touched me one like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me,
19. And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.
20. Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the prince of Grecia shall come.
21. But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.

_*Daniel 11: 1*_
1. Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him.

*MESSAGE:*

The Scripture enjoins us to pray for our leaders (cf 1 Timothy 2:2). In Daniel 10:13, we are told _“the Prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood... (Daniel) twenty-one days”_ in the course of his prayers, until God sent angel Michael to help him. The _“prince”_ referred to here, was an evil angel appointed by Satan to control the Persian Government, of which neither Cyrus, king of Persia (10:1) nor Darius, the Mede (11:1) had any knowledge of, talk less of waging war against him. The prince was charged to supervise the affairs of Persia, influencing its religious, social, and political structures to works of evil. We read in Ephesians 6:12 that there are principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this age, and _“spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”_

Very often, we criticise those in positions of authority, with no thought that they may be working under the influence of evil forces beyond their control. Nigeria, like many nations around the world, is facing terrible times and people tend to heap much of the blame on the leaders. This is why we find protests going on in many countries. Inasmuch as the leaders may have their shortcomings, we must not rule out the fact that no amount of constructive criticism can help them perform better because of demonic influence. Hence, like Daniel, we need to pray for those in positions of authority.

*PRAYER:*
Father, help us to talk less and pray more for our leaders, in Jesus Christ’s name. _*Amen.*_

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I will be your safe place in difficult times."_ *Nahum 1:7*




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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* TUESDAY, 22ND NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* FINISHING WELL

*TEXT:* DANIEL 12

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
2. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
3. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.
4. But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.
5. Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank of the river.
6. And one said to the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?
7. And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished.
8. And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things?
9. And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end.
10. Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.
11. And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety days.
12. Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.
13. But go thou thy way till the end be: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days.

*MESSAGE:*

Professor J. Robert Clinton, author of the book, _The Making of a Leader,_ is quoted to have said: _“Few leaders in the Bible finished well. Of those on which information was available, less than 30% finished well.”_ Daniel was one of the few who finished well. Daniel demonstrated unshakable faith in God, for he was said to be without blemish when he was first introduced in the Book (1:1-7). He manifested this uncompromising faithfulness to the very end. Hence, God promised him: _"But you, go your way till the end; for you shall rest, and will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days"_ (12:13). At death, firstly, Daniel was promised rest from his labour, _“for you shall rest”_ (cf Rev. 14:13); and secondly, he was promised the joyful resurrection _“...and will arise to your inheritance."_ This is a promise that he will have a part in the glorious things that will take place after the Second Coming.

It should be the great care and concern of every one of us to rest from our labour if Christ tarries, and be partakers of the glorious things that will take place after the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. We must heed Christ’s warning, thus: _"Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able"_ (Luke 13:24). Like Daniel let us resolve to finish well.

*PRAYER:*
Father, help me to endure to the end and be saved, through Christ our Lord and Saviour. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I will give you power over the enemy and nothing will hurt you."_ *Luke 10:19*



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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* WEDNESDAY, 23RD NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* THE LORD OF HOSTS

*TEXT:* ZECHARIAH 8:1-13

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

1. Again the word of the LORD of hosts came to me, saying,
2. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I was jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I was jealous for her with great fury.
3. Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain.
4. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; There shall yet old men and old women dwell in the streets of Jerusalem, and every man with his staff in his hand for very age.
5. And the streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in the streets thereof.
6. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If it be marvellous in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these days, should it also be marvellous in mine eyes? saith the LORD of hosts.
7. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will save my people from the east country, and from the west country;
8. And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness.
9. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built.
10. For before these days there was no hire for man, nor any hire for beast; neither was there any peace to him that went out or came in because of the affliction: for I set all men every one against his neighbour.
11. But now I will not be unto the residue of this people as in the former days, saith the LORD of hosts.
12. For the seed shall be prosperous; the vine shall give her fruit, and the ground shall give her increase, and the heavens shall give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these things.
13. And it shall come to pass, that as ye were a curse among the heathen, O house of Judah, and house of Israel; so will I save you, and ye shall be a blessing: fear not, but let your hands be strong.

*MESSAGE:*

Notice the title for God, _“The LORD of hosts”_ occurring several times in today’s text. Some translations of the Bible use _“The LORD of Armies”_ instead, but both expressions mean the same thing. It is the Hebrew - Jehovah Sabaoth, which speaks of God who will always fulfil His purposes, even when the hosts of His earthly people fail. God’s people had just returned from exile in Babylon to Jerusalem, and were faced with the great challenge of rebuilding the temple of God. They needed words of encouragement to help them stand on their feet, that God would strengthen them as they go about rebuilding His temple. This was what informed Zechariah’s choice of this title for God.

The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is also with us today as we battle all manners of afflictions, whether terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, persecution, financial difficulty, sickness, marital problems, unemployment, academic pursuit, and all that cause us sleepless nights. The Lord has promised not to leave us alone. Absolutely nothing is too difficult for Him. His boundless power is there for us in the midst of impossible circumstances. Let us put our trust in Him, for He is the LORD of hosts.

*PRAYER:*
LORD of hosts, fight my battles for me that I may hold my peace, in Jesus Christ’s name. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"If you love Me with all your heart, I will provide all you need."_ *Deuteronomy 11:13-14*

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✝� DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL
Date: 2022-Nov-25

✝� TOPIC: PRODUCTIVITY IN ADVERSITY


✝�TEXT: Philemon 1:8-16(KJV)

8 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,
9 Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.
10 I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
11 Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:
12 Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:
13 Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:
14 But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.
15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;
16 Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?



✝� STUDY: As Christians, the Lord did not promise us a troubled-free life. We are told that adversities are part of life’s package. Apostle Paul was one man who had a fair share of adversity, but his attitude was quite inspiring and exemplary. In verse one, Paul introduced himself as a PRISONER, not of the Roman authority, but of Christ. He further implied in verse 8 that he was Christ’ Representative (Ambassador) to the prison community. It was a positive and bright perspective for productivity. He did not despair, nor feel dejected, helpless or hopeless in his situation. He did not recline to self-pity. But he recognised that Christ was with him. He took every opportunity he had to make the best for his Master. He saw the other prisoners and officials as his audience and continued his evangelistic mission which eventually paid off –”my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains” (v.10). Let us remember that adversity can become an advantage for our advancement if faced with the right attitude.

✝️� PRAYER: Lord, in every circumstance of life, give me the right attitude for maximum benefit .


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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* SATURDAY, 26TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* HOW FAR CAN YOU GO?

*TEXT:* PHILEMON 1: 17-25

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

17. If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.

18. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;

19. I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.

20. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

21. Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

22. But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

23. There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

24. Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

25. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

*MESSAGE:*

In this passage we are challenged by the fatherhood or friendship of Paul with Onesimus, his new convert. After Onesimus’ redemption, Paul participated fully and actively in ensuring his restoration. The manner he reached out to his estranged Master - Philemon - was remarkable. He placed his reputation, his finances, his social capital and spiritual standing at the disposal of Onesimus, in order to effect his restoration. It was done unreservedly and selflessly.

Let us pay attention to verses 17-19. This is the true brotherhood that should exist among believers. We need to help one another go through the full process of restoration, outside salvation. Our friendship or brotherhood should cost us something, beyond lip-service. The blood of Christ shed for us should enable us share ourselves for others.

*PRAYER:*
Lord, use me as a vessel of restoration to others and may my spiritual credibility be worth spending for the Brethren. _*Amen.*_

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I will come to you as certainly as the sun rises and spring rains fall."_ *Hosea 6:3*


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✝� DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL
Date: 2022-Nov-27
Advent Sunday

✝� TOPIC: AN UNENDING DEBT

✝�TEXT: Romans 13:8-14(NKJV)
8. Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
9. For the commandments, "You shall not commit adultery," "You shall not murder," "You shall not steal," "You shall not bear false witness," "You shall not covet," and if [there is] any other commandment, are [all] summed up in this saying, namely, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."
10. Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love [is] the fulfillment of the law.
11. And [do] this, knowing the time, that now [it is] high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation [is] nearer than when we [first] believed.
12. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.
13. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy.
14. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to [fulfill its] lusts.


✝� STUDY: Our elementary principles of financial freedom and fiscal responsibility teach us to refrain from being debtors, and to live within our means. In other words, we are told not to sew our coat according to our size but according to our cloth. As believers, the Scripture also enjoins us to owe no man anything, BUT LOVE. This “love” for one another is the summation of the second part of the commandments. It is on the basis of love for our neighbours that we will refrain from committing adultery, stealing, killing, bearing false witness and coveting what belongs to our others. Therefore, our life with humanity can only be certified by heaven if it is powered by or anchored on love. As we commemorate the coming of our Saviour in this season of Advent, let us be reminded that it was love that brought Him down. And without this love, our reunion with Him in the hereafter will be truncated.

✝️� PRAYER: Lord, make me a dispenser of love; and may I never cease loving.


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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* MONDAY, 28TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* THE KINGDOM OF GOD: THE CHILDREN’S INHERITANCE

*TEXT:* MARK 10: 13-16

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

13. And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.
14. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
15. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
16. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

*MESSAGE:*

Jesus made a very instructive statement when he had to rebuke the disciples who were preventing the children from accessing Him. Apart from informing them of the centrality of children in the kingdom life, He was quick to let them know of the essential attitude for attaining the Kingdom of God. He said such a one must have the disposition of a child – a blind faith and implicit confidence in the Lord! In their simplicity, children accept the things of the kingdom without the usual critical reasoning or the tendency to judge spiritual matters with feeble sense, like adults.

In today’s world, the situation is more pathetic. The supposed increase in knowledge in the world has brought queries and rejection of scriptural and spiritual truths that many had hitherto accepted. There is therefore, no better time to remind ourselves that the things of God are indeed spiritually discerned and it is only by faith like that of a child that we can access and obtain the fullest of the benefits of God’s presence.

*PRAYER:*
Lord, as I grow in age, may I become more and more like a child in my trust in You. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I will give you beauty to replace your ashes."_ *Isaiah 61:3*



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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* TUESDAY, 29TH NOVEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* ARE YOU READY FOR AN ANSWER?

*TEXT:* MARK 10: 17-27

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

17. And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?
18. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.
19. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
20. And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
21. Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
22. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
23. And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
24. And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
25. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
26. And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?
27. And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

*MESSAGE:*

Jesus made a very instructive statement when he had to rebuke the disciples who were preventing the chilAlmost every believer is quite familiar with the story in this passage. Here was a young rich ruler who though wanted to know the cost of having eternal life, was not willing to pay the price. His attachment to the world and its attractions was stronger than whatsoever his desire was to have eternal life. It was a fact that he was inquisitive, but obviously, he was not ready for an answer beyond his thoughts. He did not make up his mind to receive whatever it was Christ was going to tell him. He came in anticipation to hear something that would be convenient for him and not such a _“hard”_ response.

The lesson for us today is that we must be prepared to receive from the Lord whatever He has to say; even if it is to sacrifice _“our Isaac.”_ However it goes, we need not forget that His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

*PRAYER:*
Lord, make me a willing and an obedient vessel for You at all times. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I will be your light and you shall reign with Me forever."_ *Revelation 22:5*



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✝� DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL
Date: 2022-Nov-30
St Andrew’s Day

✝� TOPIC: THE GOOD LAW WITH ITS BAD OUTCOME


✝�TEXT: Romans 10:1-18(NKJV)
1. Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved.
2. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.
3. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God.
4. For Christ [is] the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.
5. For Moses writes about the righteousness which is of the law, "The man who does those things shall live by them."
6. But the righteousness of faith speaks in this way, "Do not say in your heart, 'Who will ascend into heaven?' " (that is, to bring Christ down [from above)]
7. or, " 'Who will descend into the abyss?' " (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).
8. But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith which we preach):
9. that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
10. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
11. For the Scripture says, "Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame."
12. For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him.
13. For "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved."
14. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
15. And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!"
16. But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed our report?"
17. So then faith [comes] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
18. But I say, have they not heard? Yes indeed: "Their sound has gone out to all the earth, And their words to the ends of the world."

✝� STUDY: Apostle Paul was greatly bothered about the spiritual state of his countrymen which he expressed in this passage. It became a source of concern and prayer point for him that they may be saved. Very clearly, we are told how that the Law given to them by God, through Moses, was misinterpreted, to the end that when it needed to be done with, it became their focus and frustration. The Law that was meant to be a guide and a school teacher became their destination and certification. It was so bad that when Jesus, whom the Law and the Prophets talked about was revealed, they did not recognize Him. The moral lesson for us is that we must not lose sight of the purpose of a matter or a thing. We must not idolize our helpers in place of Christ. We must learn to know when an era is over. Let us not go into a self-inflicted ignorance, thereby refusing to see the light. Saint Andrew the apostle whom we commemorate today, is worthy of emulation here. He was the first to follow Jesus, and immediately witnessed to his brother Simon (John 1:40).

✝️� PRAYER: Lord, help me to have a deep concern for the lost and do my utmost for their salvation.

*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* THURSDAY, 1ST DECEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* PUTTING CHRIST FIRST IN EVERYTHING

*TEXT:* MARK 10: 28-31

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

28. Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.
29. 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.
31. But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.

*MESSAGE:*

One very unique thing about Jesus is that He always demands total loyalty from His followers. Other gods could be content with half-loyalties and half-commitments, but not Jesus. He demands absolute loyalty and He does not compete with anyone else or anything else. This means that anyone who truly seeks to be blessed and used by the Lord must first venture out by faith and entrust their lives to follow Christ without holding on to anything else; without divided loyalties.

Those who would follow Christ must first let go of everything else; this is called faith. You cannot hold on to Christ and still hold on to other things and yet expect Christ to entrust the riches of His grace to you. Unfortunately, the reason we fail to follow Christ wholeheartedly is because of fear: We are afraid to trust Him completely; we are afraid of losing favour with men. When we allow the fear of uncertainties to rule our lives, we deny Christ the opportunity to bring His power and blessings to bear upon our lives. Jesus is not asking us here to hate or despise our parents, brothers, sisters, home or land; but He is simply asking us to put Him first in our list of priorities. When we put Jesus first in everything, fear will be defeated and faith will take over.

*PRAYER:*
Lord, I put my life in Your hands and commit to follow You wholeheartedly from today. Let fear be defeated and let faith take over. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"An everlasting city awaits you, for I am not ashamed to be called your God."_ *Hebrews 11:16*

*WELCOME TO THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 2022*
As you journey in the last phase of 2022, long expected miracles shall attend your ways. People around will stir in awe of what God will give in response to your prayers and expectations. In this Month you shall be God's standard for people to emulate.
*HAPPY NEW MONTH*

THE DAILY FOUNTAIN
DAILY DEVOTIONAL OF THE
CHURCH OF NIGERIA (ANGLICAN COMMUNION)
DATE: FRIDAY, DECEMBER 02, 2022
TOPIC: BORROWED LIFE
READ: MARK 12:1-12 (NKJV)

1. Then He began to speak to them in parables: "A man planted a vineyard and set a hedge around [it,] dug [a place for] the wine vat and built a tower. And he leased it to vinedressers and went into a far country.
2. "Now at vintage-time he sent a servant to the vinedressers, that he might receive some of the fruit of the vineyard from the vinedressers.
3. "And they took [him] and beat him and sent [him] away empty-handed.
4. "Again he sent them another servant, and at him they threw stones, wounded [him] in the head, and sent [him] away shamefully treated.
5. "And again he sent another, and him they killed; and many others, beating some and killing some.
6. "Therefore still having one son, his beloved, he also sent him to them last, saying, 'They will respect my son.'
7. "But those vinedressers said among themselves, 'This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.'
8. "So they took him and killed [him] and cast [him] out of the vineyard.
9. "Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the vinedressers, and give the vineyard to others.
10. "Have you not even read this Scripture: 'The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone.
11. This was the LORD's doing, And it is marvelous in our eyes'?"
12. And they sought to lay hands on Him, but feared the multitude, for they knew He had spoken the parable against them. So they left Him and went away.

THE MESSAGE:

The parable of Jesus in today’s passage points us to very vital lessons of eternal value. First, the farmers in the parable were all tenants; none of them owned the vineyard. They were all living on borrowed property in which they became too comfortable, to the point of covetousness which led to bloodshed. They denied the real owner his rightful place in his own property. In the same way, the life we have and all that come with it are not our own by right, but God loaned them to us and He will eventually demand it back. Unfortunately, many have become so comfortable with this borrowed life that they assume it is theirs and they can do with it as they please. Secondly, the owner of this vineyard, not wanting to abandon these wicked tenants to their self-destructive tendencies, sent many messengers to them, some of whom they maltreated and others they killed, including the beloved Son. Therefore, their punishment was justified.

In the same way, many today still end up outside of God’s eternal blessings, not for lack of the message or messengers but for deliberately taking the grace and mercies of God for granted. Today, as you hear His voice, do not harden your heart. Finally, we must learn from this parable that greed is very destructive. This was what destroyed these tenants: The desire to have it all to yourself, including that which belongs to others! Flee from greed!

PRAYER: Lord, I repent of every greed and covetousness.


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*THE DAILY FOUNTAIN DEVOTIONAL.* CHURCH OF NIGERIA _(ANGLICAN COMMUNION)_

*DATE:* SATURDAY, 3RD DECEMBER, 2022 *THEME:* BE CAREFUL HOW YOU TALK

*TEXT:* MARK 12: 13-27

*BIBLE READING* (KJV)

13. And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in his words.
14. And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?
15. Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny, that I may see it.
16. And they brought it. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Caesar's.
17. And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him.
18. Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is no resurrection; and they asked him, saying,
19. Master, Moses wrote unto us, If a man's brother die, and leave his wife behind him, and leave no children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.
20. Now there were seven brethren: and the first took a wife, and dying left no seed.
21. And the second took her, and died, neither left he any seed: and the third likewise.
22. And the seven had her, and left no seed: last of all the woman died also.
23. In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? for the seven had her to wife.
24. And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?
25. For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in heaven.
26. And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?
27. He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living: ye therefore do greatly err.

*MESSAGE:*

Scriptures abound with passages that encourage prudence in our words. For instance, St. James points out the importance of speaking carefully: _“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry”_ (James 1:19). Why is this important? This is because words, once spoken, can either make or mar both the speaker and his hearers. In today’s passage, Jesus’ enemies set a trap for Him, hoping to catch Him in His words. But Jesus responded to the challenge with wisdom and discernment. As a result, His enemies were disgraced.

You must pray for such wisdom and the ability to discern. Not all who listen to you mean well for you. Some only pretend to do so in order to gather arrows with which to destroy you. That is why our speech should always be seasoned with grace (Col. 4:6). Also consider the following scriptures: _“When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise”_ (Prov. 10:19, NIV); _“Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him”_ (Prov. 29:20); _“He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity”_ (Prov. 21:23, NIV). Listen more. Talk wisely and only when necessary.

*PRAYER:*
Lord, help me to be quick to listen and slow to speak. *Amen.*

*QUOTE FOR THE DAY:*
God says

_"I am God and Father of all creation."_ *Ephesians 4:6*



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