Rhema for Living Devotional by Ken Macaulay

Saturday, October 1st

You are Blessed with All Spiritual Blessings in Heavenly Places

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ". (Ephesians 1:3).

To be blessed means to be empowered to prosper. It also means to be placed in a privileged position. If you are in Christ, the opening text says that you have been blessed with every spiritual blessings in heavenly places.

It is this spiritual blessings that translates into physical, financial and material prosperity. It certainly will not happen overnight but be rest assured that the good things of this life will not elude you.

In the verses that follows the opening test, Apostle Paul unveiled what these spiritual blessings are. He said that you have been chosen. He added that you have been predestined for a life of glory and have been given a rich inheritance in Christ.

Refuse to allow your present status to make you think otherwise. You are headed for the top life. The storms of life will come but God's ultimate purpose and good plans for your life shall be fulfilled. Walk in the consciousness that you have all of heaven's blessings. Sooner or later, it will manifest for the world to see.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the opportunity to witness this new month. I also thank you for blessing me with all the spiritual blessings I need in Christ. I pray for the full manifestations of these blessings in my job, business, career and every area of my life in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 2nd Peter 1:3-4, 2nd Corinthians 3:21, Ephesians 3:8.

Sunday, October 2nd

Faith Works By Love.

"For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love." (Galatians 5:6).

Thrice in the New Testament, the scripture says that the just shall live by faith - Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11 & Hebrews 10:38. Faith is the only way to appropriate the promises of God in our lives and live a victorious Christian life.

However, there are times it seems our faith is not producing results. You have prayed all you know to pray and confess or declare all you know to declare. But nothing seems to change. Rather, it appears tougher. The first thing to check at this point is your love walk.

Without love, your faith will be made inoperative. This is what is implied in the opening text. For instance, you can't keep grudge in your heart against your fellow brethren and expect answers to your prayers.

This is why our Lord Jesus said, "And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses." (Mark 11:25-26).

So, if you want your faith to produce results, walk in love towards the brethren, help those in need if it's within your power, do the things that pleases God such as winning souls for his kingdom. You will be amazed that some answers to your prayers will show up even before you pray. And as you open your mouth to make declarations, God will back it up and bring what you say to fulfillment.

Prayer: Holy Father, I give you praise and honour for your goodness in my life. I thank you for the nature of love you deposited in my heart. I ask for grace to overcome every temptation that attempts to make me walk out of love so that my faith will not be made ineffective in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Isaiah 58:3-11; 1st Peter 3:7.

Monday, October 3rd.

All Things Are Yours.

"And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." (Romans 8:17).

Our union with Christ has brought us to a position of highest privilege. It is even far higher than the status of a president or an earthly king. One of the privilege we have is access to immeasurable riches in Christ.

The opening text says that we are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. An heir is someone entitled to inherit the property of another especially that of his father. All that our Father in heaven has belongs to us. And we own this rich inheritance jointly with Christ. No wonder, Apostle Paul wrote; "Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours". (1st Corinthians 3:21).

However, the measure of the wealth that is released to you is a function of your spiritual maturity, knowledge of God's word and how you put the principles that governs prosperity to work. Some of these principles include honoring God with your first fruits, paying your tithes, giving quality offerings and reaching out to the poor around you.

No matter how rich an earthly father is, he will not grant his underage children access to his wealth until they come of age. Otherwise, the wealth will destroy them. This is why you are probably not enjoying this wealth yet.

But in the mind of God, he has given you everything you need. However, you must grow up to maturity and right knowledge of God's word to access this wealth. And the truth of God's word that you know and put to work is what will gradually launch you into your rich inheritance in Christ.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for the privilege to be a part of your kingdom with accruable benefits. I pray that you enlighten me with the truth of your word that will gradually release the wealth I have in Christ in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 2nd Peter 1:3-4, John 17:10, Ephesians 3:8.

Tuesday, October 4th.

If God Be For Us.

"What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31).

We live in a world filled with wickedness perpetrated by wicked and unreasonable people. But in Christ, we are under divine cover. No matter what they do, it will never prevail against us.

The scripture says; "Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake." (Isaiah 54:15). Another verse reads; "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD." (Isaiah 54:17).

Little shepherd boy, David defeated the dreaded Goliath because he had a divine backing. The children of Israel never lost a battle whenever God was on their side.

So, don't be afraid of the evil schemes of darkness. They will never prevail against you, your family, ministry and business. Hence, the scripture says; "And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (1st Peter 3:13, Romans 8:37).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for your protection over my life and family. I pray for your continuous deliverance from the hands of wicked and unreasonable people in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Numbers 23:23; 1st John 5:4; 2nd Corinthians 2:14.

Wednesday, October 5th

Stand on God's Word

"God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" (Numbers 21:19).

Christianity is not a bed of roses. The storms of life will come. The wind of adversity will blow. Seemingly hopeless situations come to test your faith. But the faith that is well rooted and grounded in the word of God will always come out victorious.

God's word must be the basis of your faith and the anchor of your soul in stormy weathers. His word does not fail. God told Jeremiah that he watches over his word to perform it - Jeremiah 1:12.

What are you trusting God for? If it's in His word, be rest assured that it will be done. With Him, all things are possible. He can bring you out of that seemingly hopeless situation. He makes a way in the wilderness and causes rivers to flow in the desert.

He parted the red sea and caused the children of Israel to walk on dry ground. That same God is your Father today. He loves you and have a good plan for you. Refuse to allow the circumstances you are faced with to weaken your faith. Put your trust in His word. If he said it, believe it and that settles it.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the good promises in your word. I am fully persuaded that you will do what you said in your word. I put my trust in your word and I know you will not put me to shame in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Isaiah 55:10-11, 1st Peter 1:7.

Thursday, October 6th.

Be Careful For Nothing.

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."(Philippians 4:6).

It is an understatement to say that we are living in a trying period. Just as the scripture says; "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come." (2nd Timothy 3:1). Even our Lord Jesus said; "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33).

Whatever kind of challenges you are faced with, the scripture says that you shouldn't let them trouble you or give you sleepless nights. Besides, getting worried doesn't change anything. Rather, it can affect your health and even block your mind from seeing possible solutions.

Just commit your worries to God in prayer. He knows you by name. According to the scripture, the very hairs of your head are all numbered - Matthew 10:30. "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?" (Romans 8:32).

"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?" (Matthew 6:25-26).

So, cast your worries on God, for he cares for you. "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the opportunity to see another brand new day. I refuse to allow the challenges of my life to overwhelm me. I commit them all to you this day trusting you for the solutions in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 6:24-33; Jeremiah 29:11.

Friday, October 7th.

If You Are Willing and Obedient.

"If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land." (Isaiah 1:19).

There are so many wonderful promises in the Bible that you are supposed to enjoy as a child of God. But there are things you must do to ensure that these promises does not elude you. And two of such things are rendering your services to God willingly and obediently.

For instance, God's word says that we should not forsake the assembly of ourselves together and even tag such attitude sin that could cost you your salvation - Hebrews 10:25-31. Your responsibility is to attend every church services willingly. You also do it obediently by ensuring you don't go late.

When God sees your diligence in this area of commitment, he showers his blessings upon you and lift you to a new level of glory. Hence the scripture says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a REWARDER OF THEM THAT DILIGENTLY SEEK HIM." (Hebrews 11:6).

The same applies to your attitude to giving. You must give willingly and obediently to secure the blessings of God. This is why the scripture says; "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; NOT GRUDGINGLY, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." (2nd Corinthians 9:7).

If you have a calling in ministry, answer that call willingly and fulfill your ministry obediently. If you are in the music department in your church, be consistent in your choir rehearsals. Ensure you don't go late both for rehearsals and church services. Whatever service you are rendering to be Lord, do it willingly and obediently. And the blessings of God will overflow in your life over time to the glory of God.

Prayer: My Father in heaven, have mercy on me in every area of my shortcomings in the manners and ways I render service to you. I am resolved from this day to do serve you willingly and obediently. I thank you for your enabling grace in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 9:16-17, 15:58; Hebrews 6:10-12.

Saturday, October 8th.

Authority In The Name of Jesus.

"Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." (Luke 10:19).

During the earthly ministry of our Lord Jesus, he appointed 70 disciples to go and preach the gospel and to heal the sick. They can back to Jesus with testimony saying; "... Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name."(Luke10:17).

The seventy disciples exercise authority over devils using the name of Jesus. That same authority is available to every child of God today. Jesus has given the church the power of attorney to use his name.

There is power in the name of Jesus. Hence the scripture says; "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:10-11).

The encounter of Peter with the crippled man at the gate called Beautiful is another example of how powerful the name of Jesus is. Peter said; "... Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God." (Acts 3:6-.

You can use the name of Jesus to stop every evil schemes of darkness in your life and family. Demons flee at the mention of Jesus. Satan dreads that name. Prayers offered in the name of Jesus receives answers. Thus, the scripture says; "And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father IN MY NAME, he will give it you." (John 16:23).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the privilege to use the name of Jesus against every evil works of darkness. I therefore command every works of darkness to cease in my life in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Mark 16:17-18; Acts 3:12-16; 1st John 3:23.

Tuesday, October 11th.

You Are An Ambassador For Christ.

An ambassador is an accredited high ranking officer or diplomat sent to a foreign country to represent the interest of his country. As believers, we are ambassadors for Christ on earth. We represent the interest of Christ and God's kingdom on earth.

And the best way to represent the interest of Christ is to preach the gospel to lost souls. Angels are not permitted to preach the gospel. The preaching of the gospel has been committed to our trust. Our Lord Jesus commanded us saying; "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." (Mark 16:15-16).

Whether you are a business man, worker or a student, you must make effort to communicate the gospel of our Lord Jesus to lost souls. This is the primary reason why he saved you and left you here on earth. Any believer who is not involved in the preaching of the gospel is not a worthy ambassador.

As you represent Christ interest on earth, Jesus also represents your interest in heaven. This is why he said; "Whosoever therefore shall CONFESS ME BEFORE MEN, him will I CONFESS ALSO BEFORE MY FATHER which is in heaven." (Matthew 10:32).

So, make up your mind to be a worthy ambassador for Christ. It is one sure way to guarantee answers to your prayers and secure uncommon favour.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for choosing me to represent you here on earth. Have mercy upon me in my shortcomings in communicating the gospel of our Lord Jesus to lost souls. I ask for boldness to preach this gospel to as many as I will have the opportunity to meet in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 12:8; John 15:16.

Wednesday, October 12th

You Are Seated in Heavenly Places in Christ.

"And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 2:6).

There are powers in the realm of the spirit that rules over this physical world. And these powers are in hierarchies. These are the powers or spiritual forces we contend or wrestle with. Thus, the scripture says; "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high." (Ephesians 6:12).

However, the highest seat of power is that of Christ. Jesus is the head of all principalities and powers - Colossians 2:12. He has all powers in heaven and earth - Matthew 28:18. He is seated on right hand of the Father in the heavenly far above all principalities and powers and dominion - Ephesians 1:20-21.

The good news is that we are seated together with him. We share in his authority. In the actual sense, he has transferred his authority to the church. This is why he said, "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover."(Mark 16:17-18).

There is no need to be afraid of evil men who operate with demonic or occultic power. The seat of authority you occupy is far above theirs. They can't hurt you or stop you from achieving your goals and dreams. So, move on in life with the consciousness that you are seated together with Jesus on the right hand of the Father in the heavenly.

Prayer: My Father in heaven, I thank you for lifting me up to seat together with Christ in the heavenly. I therefore put a stop to every works of darkness arrayed against my life and family in the mighty name of Jesus. Their evil schemes will not stand in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study:Hebrews 1:13; Colossians 3:1.

Thursday, October 13th

Fight the Good Fight of Faith

"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." (1st Timothy 6:12).

When the Jews left Egypt for the promised land, God told them he has given them a land that flows with milk and honey. But they didn't just enter the land without resistance. They fought their way through.

In the same way, we have even better promises that are for us today. But you must fight your way through to obtain them. But our fight is a fight of faith. It is not a physical fight.

It is called a good fight of faith because you are already declared the winner even before the fight started. We already know the end from the beginning. Faith is a winner. Hence the scripture says; "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." (1st John 5:4).

You fight this fight by speaking words of faith consistent with God's word and backing it up with corresponding actions. Sometimes, it appears as though you are not winning. Don't bow out. You cannot be defeated. The greater one lives in you. As it is written; "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (Romans 8:37).

Prayer: Holy Father, I thank you for the opportunity to witness another glorious day. I also thank you for always causing me to triumph in my battles. I refuse to be moved by what I see or hear. My victory is guaranteed in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 15:57; 2nd Corinthians 2:14; Romans 16:20.

Friday, October 14th.

Put On The Breastplate of Righteousness.

"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness." (Ephesians 6:14).

The nature of God's righteousness was impacted to our spirit man at new birth. Our Lord Jesus took our sins on the cross and in exchange gave us his righteousness as a gift - 2nd Corinthians 5:21. Thus, Apostle Paul wrote; "For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:17).

This gift of righteousness gives you a right standing with God. It also frees you from every sense of guilt, condemnation and inferiority complex. In addition, it gives you boldness to stand against the devil and his cohorts.

Righteousness is one of the spiritual armour you must put on as a breastplate if you want to win your spiritual warfare. Ironically, some believers are more conscious of sin because of the errors they make from time to time. The fact that you fall into errors doesn't mean you are no longer God's righteousness. What you need to do is to ask for forgiveness and God will cleanse you from all unrighteousness - 1st John 1:9.

Don't let the devil or anyone make you feel guilty or condemned when you fall into errors. But ensure that the errors doesn't become a habit. God's grace is able to give you the ability to conquer the desires of the flesh.

So, if you must win your spiritual battle, you must be righteousness conscious. And because you have a right standing with God, you cannot be defeated. Remember that David was bold enough to face Goliath and defeated him because he was conscious of his covenant of circumcision which gave him right standing with God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the gift of righteousness which I have received in Christ. And because I have a right standing with you, I will win over every evil works of darkness in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Peter 3:12-13; Proverbs 11:6.

Saturday, October 15th

Have The Attitude Of An Athlete.

"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:14).

Every athlete competes for a prize in competitive events. And the desire of every athlete is to win gold in every games or at least be among the top three athletes in an event. In other to achieve this, they go through rigorous training and are very disciplined in certain areas of their lives to stand a chance to win.

Every believer is actually supposed to be involved in a race to win prizes. But most Christians are not even aware they are in a race. God has a reward system and we shall all receive our prizes when we stand before the Judgment seat of Christ.

Athletes in the world compete for a prize that is perishable but we compete for an imperishable crown or prize. So, put in your best in your service to the Lord so you can be among the top prize winners in heaven.

Different areas you must make effort to be outstanding are soul winning, financial partnership in church programmes and projects, ministering to the need of the poor and unflinching commitment in your department or ministry.

If you are a minister, don't be satisfied with your present level of growth. If your membership strength is in hundreds, aim to reach your thousands. If you are in your thousands, aim to get to millions.

No athlete wants to be last in any event. So, don't be among the last in this spiritual race. Press to reach the mark for the prize that is reserved for you in heaven. Your labour in the Lord is not in vain. Just as our Lord Jesus said, "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Revelation 22:12).

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the opportunity given to me to serve in your vineyard. I am resolved to be among the top contenders for the grand prize in my service to you. I therefore discipline myself to give my best in every service I render to you. Strengthen me to accomplish great feat for you in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 9:17; 2nd Corinthians 5:10; Revelation 11:18.

Sunday, October 16th.

Dream Big.

"And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it his brethren, and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more; and, behold, the sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me." (Genesis 37:9).

A dream is a cherished desire. It can also be defined as an ambition in life. It is an inner picture of what you want to become in life. But your dream must be consistent with God's plan for your life if you want it to have a divine backing.

Some dreams come in the form of a vision from God unveiling his plan for your life. This was the kind of dream Joseph had. It was a vision at night. Others come from a burning desire within. And most often than not, it is God that puts that desire in you. This is the kind of dream Moses had. He had a burning desire for the liberation of the children of Israel. And he was eventually the vessel God used to actualize that dream.

You are not ordinary and the ordinary life is not for you. So, learn to dream big. Your dreams will attract opposition and persecution like it happened to Joseph. There will certainly be delays and temporary setbacks. But don't give up.

If God did it for Joseph, he will do it for you. God can even take you beyond your wildest dreams and imaginations. Thus, it is written; "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." (Ephesians 3:20-21).

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for the good plan you have for me. I commit my dreams into your mighty hands. I trust in your grace and mercy to bring them to fruition in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Proverbs 23:18; Philippians 2:13.

Monday, October 17th

The Salvation of Your Soul.

"Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls." (James 1:21).

Man is tripartite in nature. He is a spirit being that has a soul and lives in a physical body. The spirit of man is the real man. It is also referred to as as the inward man - Romans 7:22; 2nd Corinthians 4:16. Another synonym for the word spirit is the inner man - Ephesians 3:16. Sometimes, is simply called the heart. Apostle Peter calls it the hidden man of the heart - 1st Peter 3:4.

The soul consists of your mind, will and emotion. It is with your soul that you can engage in logical reasoning and acquire knowledge. The soul of a man is immortal just like the spirit. The word soul is also used in another context to mean a person. It is not the same as the soul we are discussing in this context.

When you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, it was your spirit that got saved. Nothing happened to your soul and body. It is your responsibility to save your soul. There will be no meaningful transformation in your Christian life if you don't make effort to save your soul.

Three things you must do consistently to save your soul are; renewing your mind with the word of God, bringing your emotions under control and aligning your will with the will of God.

Mind renewal simply means, change the way you think. It means replacing the values of the world with the values of God's word. Don't think the way the people of the world think. Align your thoughts with God's word. This is the only way you can experience true transformation.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the privilege to be called your son. I am resolved from this day henceforth to let the values of your word dominate my mind. I will also align my will with your will and put my emotions under control. I trust that you will supply the grace I need in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 12:2, Matthew 26:39, Ephesians 5:17.

Tuesday, October 18th.

Develop The Winning Mentality.

"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (Romans 8:37).

Champions are not born, they are made. Whether you win or loose in life is a function of choice and not chance. We do know that there are spiritual undertones to every success or failure experiences in life. However, your mindset have greater influence on the direction the pendulum of your life swings to.

In other words, the journey to success or failure in life begins in your mind. You must make up your mind to succeed in spite of the seeming obstacles and oppositions you face.
Einstein, a renowned scientist of blessed memory failed 9,999 times in his attempt to invent an incandescent light bulb. But he didn't quit. He got his breakthrough in just one more attempt. Today, we all are benefiting from that great invention because of a man that had a winning mentality.

Even in ministry, there are trying days. Most of the Pastors of Mega churches you see today had their trying moments. They are where they are today because they have the winning mentality.

So, make up your mind that you will win no matter what. You have all it takes to win. God's ability is at work in you. Say to yourself like Apostle Paul said, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13). Remember, winners don't quit and quitters don't win.

Prayer: Glorious and mighty God, thank you for the victorious life I have in Christ. I commit my life and the works of my hand into your might hands. I know you will cause me to always win in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st John 4:4; 5:4, 1st Corinthians 15:37.

Wednesday, October 19th.

Do Not Be Entangled With The Yoke of Bondage.

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1).

The children of Israel under the Old Covenant were given the Law of Moses to keep. And the terms of the covenant were clearly spelt out. Blessings were promised for those who obeyed the law - Deuteronomy 28:1-14. And curses for those who disobeyed - Deuteronomy 28:15-68. The length of verses containing the curses is about four times that of the blessings.

But the Jews couldn't keep the law because of the weakness of their flesh. The slightest offense provoked the judgment of God and they died in their thousands. It is important to note here that there are over 600 distinct instructions they were supposed to keep. And if you break just one of the law, you have broken all - James 2:10.

This is one of the reasons our Lord Jesus came. He came to deliver the Jews from the curse of the Law - Galatians 3:10-14. He also came to deliver the Gentiles from the condemnation of the Law. The Gentiles were excluded from the law and that amounts to condemnation - Ephesians 2:11-12.

Apostle Paul in his letter to the churches he planted said that no one is justified anymore by the works of the law - Galatians 2:16; 3:11. He stressed that the just shall live by faith. Even circumcision which was the most sacred requirement of the Law was no longer compulsory - Galatians 5:6.

Anyone who attempts to make effort to still keep the Law of Moses puts himself in bondage. If you want to keep the law of Moses, you must keep all otherwise, you will place yourself under the curse of the Law.

You have a new law in Christ which James calls the perfect law of liberty - James 1:25. This new law is hinged on love. When you walk in love, you will fulfill all the righteous requirements of the law. Hence the scripture says, "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law." (Romans 13:10).

Each time you attempt to live by the law of Moses, you frustrate the grace of God and even make yourself a transgressor - Galatians 2:18; 21. So, don't let anyone subject you to dos and don'ts that are based on the law. Remember the scripture says that the letter (Law of Moses) kills but the Spirit (of grace) gives life - 2nd Corinthians 3:6.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for counting me worthy to be a part of your kingdom through the revelation of your grace. I refuse to be entangled by the Law of Moses. I walk in the liberty that I have in Christ. And by this grace, I have the ability to say no to the sinful desires of the flesh in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 7:6; 10:4, Colossians 2:20-22, Acts 15:5-29.

Thursday, October 20th.

Jesus is Your Advocate.

"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." (1st John 2:1).

The Christian call is a call to a holy living. However, because we live in a sinful flesh, we are bound to make mistakes from time to time. But as you grow up in the things of the Spirit, God will supply the grace to minimize your errors and even overcome the sinful habits that easily entangles you.

The errors you make opens up a door for the devil to accuse you before the court of heaven. But, if you have repented of it and have asked for forgiveness, Jesus will show up for you as your advocate. An advocate is a lawyer assigned to defend you when your accuser brings you before a court of competent jurisdiction for judgment.

The Bible calls the devil, the accuser of the brethren which accuses us before God, day and night - Revelation 12:10. When he points your errors to God, Jesus will present his nail pierced hands as an evidence that he shed his blood for you. And his blood speaks mercy. And the case is judged in your favour.

It is important to note here that God does not condemn you when you fall into errors. It is your heart that condemns you - 1st John 3:20-21. But the moment you repent of your errors, you are free from guilt and self condemnation.

As God's children, we should refrain from condemning our fellow brethren when they fall into errors. Don't even spread such news. Doing that is backing up the devil in his ministry of accusation. You are not permitted to condemn God's servants No matter what he has done, God is able to make him stand - Romans 14:4.

So, don't let your heart be filled with guilt and condemnation when you fall into errors. Don't permit anyone to condemn you either. Just repent of your errors and trust that Jesus will stand to defend you when Satan brings your case before God.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the opportunity given to me to make right my wrongs. Lord Jesus, I thank you for always standing for me as my advocate. I ask for grace to minimize my errors and live a life pleasing to you in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st John 1:8-9, Romans 8:34, Hebrews 9:24.

Friday, October 21st.

The Power of the Tongue.

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." (Proverbs 18:21).

It matters what you say with your mouth. Your life will go in the direction of your words. The words you speak will either make you or mar you. So, the destiny of your life, your family, your business and your job is in your mouth.

Man was created in the image of God. We look like God and can function like God. Virtually everything God does is with words. The present world we see today was created through the power of his word. So, you too can create your own world through the words you speak.

Most of the times, it take a process of time before what you are saying comes to manifestation. For instance, in the account of creation, the scripture said; "And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so." (Genesis 1:11).

The passage above gives us an erroneous impression that full grown plants and trees appeared immediately. But another passage revealed that it took a process of time before the plants and trees appeared. "And every plant of the field BEFORE IT WAS IN THE EARTH, and every herb of the field BEFORE IT GREW: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till the ground." (Genesis 2:5).

Words are so powerful that it outlives the one who speaks it. Noah blessed two of his sons, Japheth and Shem and he cursed Canaan - Genesis 9:25-27. Noah is long dead but the words he spoke are still following the generations of his children. This is why Africa is so backward because the descendants of Canaan migrated to Africa. However, those in Christ are free from that curse.

Don't allow the pressure of what you are passing through make you say negative words. Never use words like, 'see me see trouble'. Never say, 'I am broke'. According to the scripture, it says; ".. let the weak say, I am strong." (Joel 3:10). In the same sense, let the poor say, I am rich and let the sick say, I am healed.

So, begin to speak to your future now. Whatever you want to achieve in your life, family, business, career and even in your ministry for those that are called, start saying them now. And Jesus who is the High Priest of your confession will ensure that your words will come to fulfillment in due season.

Prayer: My God and my Lord, I thank you for unveiling the power that is in my tongue to me. I therefore declare that things are working in my favour in the mighty name of Jesus. My destiny helpers are locating me in the mighty name of Jesus. Financial and material favour are coming my way in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Proverbs 6:2; 12:6; 13:2-3, Mark 11:23, Hebrews 13:5-6.

Saturday, October 22nd.

Love Is The Identification Badge Of A True Christian.

"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." (John 13:34-35).

Christianity is a revelation of God's new kind of love. This new kind of love which in the Greek language is known as agape is different from the kind of love demonstrated under the Old Covenant.

The Old Covenant commandment of love says that we should love our neighbours as ourselves - Leviticus 19:18. But the new kind of love our Lord Jesus unveiled says that we should love one another as he loved us. How did Jesus loved us? He laid down his life for us - John 15:12-13.

Put in another way, this new kind of love demands that we should lay down our lives for the brethren - 1st John 3:16. It therefore requires greater sacrifice than the kind of love demonstrated under the Old Testament. The early church demonstrated this love on two recorded occasions when they sold their properties and distributed to those in need - Acts 2:44-47; 4:34-37.

The practice of this new kind of love is what identifies you as a true believer. No matter the divers kinds of tongues that you speak and miracles that you perform, if you don't demonstrate this love, you are nothing before God. In fact, John says that you don't know God - 1st John 4:7-8.

So, make effort to prove the sincerity of your love for the brethren and those in need. Help your brethren in need even to the point of liquidating some of your valuable assets - Luke 12:33. Visit the sick. Clothe the naked. Learn to forgive your brethren and avoid doing things that will hurt or damage the reputation of your fellow brethren.

Remember, our Lord Jesus on the day of judgment will separate the sheep from the goat. And the criteria that determines which of the two categories you will fall into is hinged on how you treated those in various kind of needs - Matthew 25:31-45.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the love you showed to me by the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross of Calvary. I also thank you for depositing this love in my spirit. I am resolved to demonstrate this love to my brethren. And I know that your grace is sufficient for me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 13, 1st John 3:17-18, 1st Thessalonians 4:9.

Sunday, October 23rd.

The Cost and Reward of Discipleship.

"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."(Matthew 16:24).

A disciple is a disciplined follower of his master who yields himself to training until he begins to do what his master does. Our Lord Jesus is our master and we are his disciples. There are however certain criteria that qualifies you to be a true disciple of Jesus.

First, you must deny yourself of things that could stand in your way of serving God faithfully. For instance, the missionaries that brought the gospel to Africa denied themselves of the comfort of their homes and riches they enjoyed to bring the gospel to us. Self denial could also be in the form of setting aside your perceived status or reputation to serve God.

Second, you must take up your cross. The cross is a place of sacrifice. It was on the cross that Jesus sacrificed his life to redeem mankind. You must be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of the gospel. It could be in your time, money or energy. A true disciple of Christ does not serve God at convenience. He is consistent in all church services and programmes and does not go late.

The third cost of a true discipleship is that your loyalty must be to Christ first. Your father, mother, wife, children, friends, your job, business and even your personal agenda should never take the place of God in your life. You should never skip church services or any activity concerning the kingdom work because of your father, mother, friends, business or job.

It should be noted here that the rewards that awaits you in heaven far outweighs the sacrificial services you render to God. Besides, you are guaranteed a hundred fold reward in this life and in the world to come for whatever sacrifice you make for the gospel sake - Mark 10:29-30.

So, put in your very best in your service to God. Don't let your family, friends or anything stand in way of your service to God. Make up your mind that you will never miss any church services again and always be on time. Participate in soul winning activities. Give sacrificially for church projects and programmes. As you willingly deny yourself and take up your cross, God himself will ensure that your reward of service will be evident for all to see.

Prayer: Father in heaven, have mercy on me in areas of my shortcoming in the manner and ways I have been rendering services to you. I will deny myself and take up my cross daily and follow you in the mighty name of Jesus.

Further Study: Luke 14:26-27, Romans 8:18, 1st Corinthians 15:58.

Monday, October 24th.

Be Ready for the Coming of the Lord.

"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: 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." (1st Thessalonians 4:16-17).

It is an understatement to say that the rapture of the church is imminent. The word rapture simply means 'caught up'. Our Lord Jesus is coming back for the church and those who are ready will be caught up to meet him in the air.

This phenomenon of rapture is not the same as the second coming of Christ. The second coming of Christ is when Christ comes visibly back to the earth to fight and defeat the anti Christ after which he will establish his millennium reign on earth. This will take place after the tribulation period Jesus spoke about in the twenty fourth chapter of the book of Matthew.

It is imperative I mention here that not every professing believers in Christ will be raptured. Some will be left behind to go through a great tribulation period. How do we get ourselves ready for the coming of the Lord? Who will be raptured?

First, Christ is coming for a FAITHFUL CHURCH. You must be faithful to whatever is committed to your hands. Those in the habit of missing church services and doing something else at the time they are supposed to be on their duty post stands the risk of being left behind. Thus, the scripture says; "Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord WHEN HE COMETH SHALL FIND SO DOING. " (Matthew 24:45-46).

Five areas you must ensure you are faithful if you don't want to be left behind are; regular church attendance, soul winning, visitation, follow up and commitment to the activity group or department you belong to in your local church. Habitual late coming to church could also ruin your chance of being raptured.

Secondly, Christ is coming for a WATCHFUL CHURCH. You must be watchful like a servant who is expecting his master to return anytime. You should also be watchful to avoid falling into temptation that could lure you away from the ways of God. Avoid malice, strife and bitterness as much as possible. They are traps of the enemy to make you unfit for rapture when it happens.

Lastly, Christ is coming for a SPOTLESS CHURCH. It is true that we make mistakes from time to time. But be quick to repent when you fall into errors. And don't let it be a recurring habit. Otherwise, it could repeat itself on the day of rapture before you have the opportunity to repent. Hence, it is written, "Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and KEEPETH HIS GARMENTS, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame." (Revelation 16:15).

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the living hope I have in Christ. I ask for your mercy and forgiveness in areas I have fallen short of expectations of your righteous demands. I ask for your grace to be faithful, watchful and spotless unto the coming of Christ in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Ephesians 5:26-27, John 14:1-3, 1st Corinthians 15:51-52.

Tuesday, October 25th.

Be Like The Berea Christians.

"These (Berea Christians) were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." (Acts 17:11).

We are living in the last days judging by the fulfillment of so many things the Scripture predicted will happen in these last days. Just as it is written; "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and DOCTRINES OF DEVILS. " (1st Timothy 4:1).

It is therefore not uncommon to hear strange doctrines and practices in some churches that lures people away from the truth of God's word. However, your responsibility is to study the Bible and find out if what you are being taught is consistent with God's word.

This is exactly what the Berea Christians did. After Apostle Paul was through with his teachings, they went back home to study and search the scripture daily if what he taught was in line with God's word. Don't swallow everything you hear from the pulpit hook, line and sinker. Study the Bible diligently under the tutorship of the Holy Spirit. He will guide you into all truth.

Kenneth Hagin of blessed memory in one of the divine encounter he had with Christ received teachings from Jesus which sounded strange to him. He had to ask Jesus to give him scripture references to back up what he just taught. He didn't swallow what Jesus taught him without questioning because it was Jesus. And Jesus politely gave him four references from the scripture to back up what he taught him.

So, don't presume that your Pastor or Prophet knows it all or can't make a mistake. Always cross check what you are being taught by doing a personal study. Remember, your Pastor or Prophet will not be with you to defend you when you stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Like the popular saying goes; 'ignorance of the law will not exonerate you from being punished when you break it.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the opportunity to know the truth of your word. I pray that you grant me an understanding of your word as I study in the mighty name of Jesus. I refuse to be lured away from you the truth of your word by deceitful teachers in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 2nd Timothy 2:15; Ephesians 4:11-15, 2nd Peter 2:1.

Wednesday, October 26th.

Forgive One Another as God Has Forgiven You.

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:32).

Christianity is a revelation of the love and mercy of God. The scripture says; "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, WHILE WE WERE YET SINNERS, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:. Another verse reads; "And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, HAVING FORGIVEN YOU ALL TRESPASSES." (Colossians 2:3).

In our day to day walk even among fellow brethren, people will certainly offend you and you will also offend people. Some people take the offense so far to the extent of leaving the local church they attend. It shouldn't be. As believers in Christ, we are admonished to forgive one another as God has forgiven us for Christ sake.

How did God forgave us? The writer of Hebrews quoting Prophet Jeremiah said; "For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I REMEMBER NO MORE." (Hebrews 8:12). So, when God forgives, he doesn't remember your sins anymore. And the records of your wrong doings before you gave your life to Christ is COMPLETELY WIPED AWAY.

Jesus in one of his parables unveiled the danger of not forgiving your brother. He used an example of a servant who owed the king ten thousand talents. But after much plea, the king forgave him his debt. But when he saw his fellow servant who owed him just hundred pence, he refuse to forgive him and rather threw him into prison. When his lord heard of it he was angry and HANDED HIM OVER TO THE TORMENTORS.

Jesus ended the parable thus; "So LIKEWISE shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye FROM YOUR HEARTS FORGIVE not every one his brother their trespasses." (Matthew 18:35). In other words, you stand the risk of being cast into hell if you refuse to forgive your brother who offended you. Besides, answers to prayers is hindered when you don't forgive. It can also steal your joy. It could further degenerate into hatred, anger and even murder.

So, learn to forgive and forget. And it should be from your heart. To forget doesnt necessarily mean that the offense will be completely erased from your memory. But it does mean that even when you remember, it will not cause you any form of resentment or bitterness if you have truly forgiven him or her.

Prayer: My Father in heaven, I thank you for your mercy that overlook my shortcomings. I forgive everyone who has offended me just the same way you forgave me. I say no to all forms of grudges and malice in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Colossians 3:12-13, Mark 11:25-26.

Thursday, October 27th.

Build Your Life on God's Word.

"Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: FOR IT WAS FOUNDED UPON A ROCK."(Matthew 7:24-25).

Every good product you purchase usually comes with an instruction manual. Instruction manuals guides you on how to properly use and maintain the product. Improper use of a product could cause it to malfunction and could even lead to accidents which in some cases could be fatal.

In the same sense, God who created us gave us his word as our manual for life. His word contains instructions you should obey or live by if you want to successfully withstand the storms of life when they come. The first man, Adam disregarded God's instruction given to him and we all know the consequences which followed.

You must build your life on God's word if you want to get the best out of life and avoid crashing under the weight of the storms of life. The teachings of our Lord Jesus and his Apostles laid the foundation for the New Testament Saints. Hearing and doing God's word lays a good foundation that can stand the storms of life when they come.

The converse is also true. When you hear and don't do God's word, you are likened to a foolish man who builds his house upon a sand. When the flood comes, and the wind blows and beat upon that house, it will fall.
Don't despise or disregard God's word. God's word is our wisdom for life. It contains principles that will make you a principal in life. Do whatever it instructs you to do. Your obedience to God's word must be absolute. Partial obedience is disobedience.

For instance, God's word says that we should not forsake the gathering of the ourselves together. Then, make effort to always be in every church service and programmes. Some people skip certain church services because of how they feel. Don't permit your feelings to rule you. Your loyalty to Christ is to live by his word.
And as you make conscious effort to hear and do his word, the storms of life will come and go and you will still be standing because your life is built on God's word.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for your word which instructs, corrects and inspires me on a daily basis. It will continue to be my instruction manual for life. I build my life on it by doing all it instructs me to do. And I know I will triumph over every storms that comes against me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 4:4, Psalms 19:7-11, 119:105.

Friday, October 28th.

God Will Make a Way.

"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." (1st Corinthians 10:13).

The journey of life is not always a smooth one. You will certainly experience difficult times in the form of one trials or the other. Some of the challenges may look like a seemingly hopeless situation. But there is no such thing as a hopeless situation before God.

God's dealing with the children of Israel unveiled his power and glory. He delivered them from hand of Pharoah, king of Egypt who would not let them go. He parted the red sea and caused them to walk on dry ground. He brought forth water out of the rock. And he fed them with manna from heaven for forty years. If he could do all these for them who had the status of servants how much more we who are sons in the house. Besides, the scripture says that Jesus is the mediator of a BETTER COVENANT established upon BETTER PROMISES - Hebrews 8:6.

Hannah who was called barren, after she had her miracle child described God thus; "He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to SET THEM AMONG PRINCES, and to make them INHERIT THE THRONE OF GLORY: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them." (1st Samuel 2:.

Whatever situation you are faced with right now, God will surely make a way for you. With Him, all things are possible. He knows you by name. Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. If he did it for others, he will do it for you. It may not happen in your own time. But he is never too late.

Just as the scripture says, "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and SHALL HE NOT MAKE IT GOOD?. For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off." (Numbers 23:19, Proverbs 23:18).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I worship you in the beauty of holiness. I give you praise even in the midst of my challenges. I know that you will make a way for me in your infinite mercy. And you alone will receive all the glory in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Jeremiah 32:17, Isaiah 43:19, Hebrews 10:35-36.

Saturday, October 29th.

God Loves a Cheerful Giver

"Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." (2nd Corinthians 9:7).

Giving is one sure way God has ordained to prosper us. There are different kinds of giving. The opening text is often used to encourage brethren to give their best when giving their offerings to God. But the context in which the opening text is written concerns the ministers of God who brought the gospel to them from Jerusalem. Apostle Paul simply referred to them as Saints in 2nd Corinthians 9:1.

It was the culture of the early church to ensure that ministers of God who are involved in missions work receive support from those they preach to. Apostle Paul personally supervised this giving and ensures it is delivered to them in Jerusalem - 1st Corinthians 16:1-3.

However, whether you are giving to support a minister of the gospel or your offering, the same principle applies. First, you must GIVE AS YOU PROPOSED IN YOUR HEART. It means that your offering or giving should be planned. And when you have made up your mind on what to give, don't change it no matter what.

The second principle though not mentioned in the opening text is GIVE ACCORDING TO HOW GOD HAS BLESSED OR PROSPERED YOU - 1st Corinthians 16:2. And the third is GIVE WILLINGLY, not grudgingly or out of compulsion. The fourth is GIVE BOUNTIFULLY if you want to have a bountiful harvest - 2nd Corinthians 9:6.

The fifth is GIVE CHEERFULLY for God loves a cheerful giver. A cheerful giver is also one whose heart is in his giving. It is important to put a little smile on your face when you give to God because you know you are making an investment that will certainly come back to you in multiple proportions. Accompany your giving with some dancing if it is done in church. It is part of expressing your cheerfulness in giving.

Remember, the scripture says; "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work" (Galatians 6:7, 2nd Corinthians 9:.

Prayer: Dear Father, I give you thanks for every opportunity to give my offerings to you and in support of your ministers who you have ordained to feed me with spiritual food. As I do it willingly, bountifully and cheerfully, I trust that you will multiply it back to me so I can have much more to give in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Galatians 6:6-10, Luke 6:38, Philippians 4:15-19.

Sunday, October 30th.

The Golden Rule and Its Applications.

"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets." (Matthew 7:12).

The opening verse is popularly referred to as the golden rule by biblical scholars and church fathers. However, it is usually applied in the negative sense. In other words, most people read the rule this way; 'what you don't want others do unto you, don't do it to them'.
But this is not what the rule says. It did not say don't do. Rather it says, do. So, it should be applied more in a positive sense. What is it that you want people to do to you, begin to make conscious effort to do it to them first.

Do you want people to bless you with money, then begin to look for people to also bless them with money according to how God has prospered you. No matter the level you find yourself, you are still better than hundreds of people around you.

The rule is not limited to finance. It can be applied in virtually every area of our lives. For instance, you want people to visit you, then begin to pay people visit. Do you want people to attend your wedding occasion, then, attend first their weddings. Do you desire they give you good gifts on your wedding day, then, begin to give good gifts to those you attend their weddings.

Likewise, if you do evil to others, others will do evil to you. Hence the scripture says they that kill with the sword shall also die with the sword - Matthew 26:52. And most of times, the harvest of your wrong doings is far worse than the wrong act itself. Hence, Prophet Hosea wrote concerning the children of Israel; "For they have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind..." (Hosea 8:7).

So, be mindful of the things you do to others. It has a way of coming back to you, whether positive or negative. Begin to treat others the way you want to be treated. "Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free." (Ephesians 6:.

Prayer: Merciful and Gracious Father, I thank you for the good plans you have for me. I also thank you for every opportunity to be kind to people. As I make effort to do good to others, according to your word, you will also cause others to do good to me. I pray that I will be a living testimony that your word is indeed true in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 6:38, Revelation 16:6.

Monday, October 31st.

Don't Look Back.

"And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." (Luke 9:62).

The Christian life is a better life and it's a higher life. However, there are temptations and challenges that attempts to lure you to go back to your old way of living in the world. Anyone who yields to such temptation makes himself unfit for the kingdom of God. This is the message our Lord Jesus gave through the parable in the opening text.

When the children of Israel left Egypt to the promised land, the challenges they faced in the wilderness made them suggest to Moses that they should go back to Egypt. And God was grieved with that generation. At the end, they couldn't make it to the promised land. That generation died in the wilderness.

It seems much easier and faster to succeed in the world than in the Christian faith. This is because the people of the world can do anything ranging from lying, cheating, stealing, extortion and even to ritual killing just to make it. But this is at the expense of their souls. Hence our Lord Jesus asked; ".. what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36).

No matter how challenging things might be, don't look back and don't go back to the world. This is why Apostle Peter wrote; "For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire."(2nd Peter 2:21-22).

The challenges you are facing will come and go. You will certainly triumph over them. God is faithful and you will come out of your trials with testimonies. So, don't look back and don't draw back in your commitment to God. His good promises will be fulfilled in your life. Thus, it is written; "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." (Hebrews 10:36).

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for my salvation. I use this opportunity to reaffirm the lordship of Jesus over my life and my commitment to you. No matter what I am faced with, I will never look back or go back to the world. I ask for your enabling grace in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Hebrews 10:35-39, Revelation 2:11; 26-27.

Rhema for Living Devotional - November 2022 by Samson Ken Macaulay.

Tuesday, November 1st

The Blessings of Benevolence.

"... Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies."(Psalms 40:1-2).

Benevolence is an act of kindness or disposition to do good especially to the poor and less privileged. It can be in cash or kind acts. The scripture in several verses and passages admonishes us to show kindness to others especially those of the household of faith.

There are accruable benefits that comes to you when you give to the needy or the poor some of which are listed in the opening text. FIRST, it says that the Lord WILL DELIVER YOU FROM TROUBLE. SECOND, it says that THE LORD WILL PRESERVE YOU. To preserve means to guard you by watching over you or protect you from all forms of evil.

THIRD, it says that THE LORD WILL BLESS YOU. To be blessed means to be empowered to prosper. FOURTH, it added that HE WILL NOT DELIVER YOU UNTO THE WILL OF YOUR ENEMIES . The FIFTH benefit is contained in verse 3 of the same chapter and it says; "The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness" (Psalms 41:3). In other words, you will recover quickly from sickbed.

SIXTH benefit is found in the book of Proverbs which reads; "He that giveth unto the poor SHALL NOT LACK: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse" (Proverbs 28:27).

SEVENTH, the Lord himself becomes the GUARANTOR OF THE POOR when you give to them - Proverbs 19:7. EIGHT and NINTH benefits are found Isaiah 58:8 and it reads; "Then SHALL THY LIGHT BREAK FORTH as the morning, and THINE HEALTH SHALL SPRING FORTH SPEEDILY: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the GLORY OF THE LORD SHALL BE THY REREWARD."

The TENTH is speedy answers to prayers - Isaiah 58:9. ELEVENTH benefit which can be summerized as prosperity says; ".. the LORD SHALL GUIDE THEE CONTINUALLY, and SATISFY THY SOUL IN DROUGHT, and MAKE FAT THY BONES: and thou SHALT BE LIKE A WATERED GARDEN, and LIKE A SPRING OF WATER, whose waters fail not. And the last but not the least is RESTORATION OF WASTED YEARS - Isaiah 58:12.

Celebrate every opportunity to help the poor especially your brethren in need. Don't shy away from ministering to them especially when it is within your ability to do it. And don't be grieved when you render help. Try as much as possible to make budget for the needy from your income. Also remember the widows, fatherless and orphans. As you do, the blessings outlined in this devotional study will pursue and overtake you in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the entrance of your word that illuminates my understanding. I also thank you for every opportunity to give to the poor and needy brethren. As I do, I declare that overflowing blessings will locate me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Deuteronomy 15:7-11, Proverbs 21:13, Matthew 5:42, Galatians 2:10.

Wednesday, November 2nd.

Labour To Enter Into Your Rest.

"Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief." (Hebrews 4:11).

The Christian journey is a journey of faith. And this journey of faith is designed to bring you into the rest that God has provided for you. Rest here implies a state where you begin to enjoy the fullness of the blessings that comes with the gospel of Christ. And these blessings includes living in divine health and walking in prosperity.

The scripture says that the children of Israel who first heard this gospel couldn't enter into the rest of God because of unbelief. They all died in the wilderness.

But God has provided us with the opportunity to enter into his rest. The opening text says that we have to labour to enter into that rest. The labour here is not referring to physical labour but making effort to apply the principles of faith to the word you hear.

Three ways to apply faith to God's word are; first, you must believe what it says. God's word is our legal document upon which our faith is based. His word can be trusted. You can stake your life on God's word. It's able to do what it says it will do. God watches over his word to perform it.

The second effort you must put in to enter into the rest of God is the confession of your faith. By confession of faith, we mean saying the same thing God has said concerning you in his word. If God says that you are healed, believe it and open your mouth to say the same thing. You affirm your belief in God's word with faith filled words that are consistent with the God's word.

The third effort you must make is acting on God's word. Action of faith is sometimes needed to bring you into the rest of God. This is why the scripture says; "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." (James 2:26).

For instance, if you want to prosper, you must pay your tithe diligently, give quality offerings and sow good seeds into people's lives. You may not see the results immediately but if you keep doing the right thing, the results will show over time.

Abraham didn't give up on God even though it took about 25 years before the promise of the child came to pass. Just as the scripture says; "He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform." (Romans 4:20-21).

It doesn't matter where you are now in the journey of life. Labour to enter into the rest God has provided for you. It will certainly take a process of time. But as you make effort to believe God's word, vocalize it and act on it, God will gradually launch you into your glorious inheritance in Christ.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the rest you have provided for me in Christ. I put my trust in your word. I am not moved by what I see or hear. I thank you for I am fully persuaded that you will bring me into the rest you have provided for me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Hebrews 4:1-11; 13:5-6, Romans 4:17-19, Acts 20:32.

Thursday, November 3rd.

The Danger of Pride and The Reward of Humility.

"Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18).
Pride is an unreasonable overestimation of one's own superiority in terms of talents, looks, wealth, importance etc., which manifests itself in the ways we greet others, respond to greetings, look at others, treat others, admit our faults, respond to corrections and submit to constituted authority (civic, domestic and spiritual).

The scripture cautions against pride in several passages of the Bible. It was pride that made Lucifer fell from heaven and became Satan - Ezekiel 28:17. God humbled King Nebuchardnrzzar because of pride. The scripture said, "...he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen [for seven years], and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws."(Daniel 4:33).

Apostle Peter wrote; "Likewise, ye younger, SUBMIT YOURSELVES UNTO THE ELDER. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble." (1st Peter 5:5). James added, "But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. SUBMIT YOURSELVES THEREFORE TO GOD. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:6-7).

In both references just quoted above, emphasis was placed on submission in relationship with pride. A proud person does not submit to constituted authority, whether civic, domestic or spiritual authority. It is dangerous to rebel against God's word. For instance, God's word says that we shouldn't forsake the assembly of ourselves together. But most Christians do it with and expect God to still bless them.

When you consistently exhibit a proud behavior, God himself will permit certain things to happen to you that will humble you like he did to Nebucharnezzar. But you can avoid the trauma of going through all that by clothing yourself with humility. Don't be too big to be corrected. And learn to apologize to others when you know you are wrong.

In addition, don't pretend to be who you are not. And seek help especially from God in the place of prayer when you need one instead of dying in silence. Be humble enough to also learn from others as there is no single man on earth that knows it all.

Remember, our Lord Jesus is an epitome of humility. According to the scripture, even though he was equal with God, he did not brag about it. Rather, he took upon himself our human nature and even became obedient to the death of the cross. In response, God exalted him and gave him a name above every other names - Philippians 2:5-11.

No matter the level of achievement you have in life and ministry, don't let pride creep into your life. Let God alone take all the glory for who you are and whatever you may have achieved. "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."(1st Peter 5:6).

Prayer: Everlasting Father, I give you thanks for an opportunity to witness another day. I also thank you for the admonition of your word concerning pride and humility. I put away every form of pride in my life from this day henceforth. I thank you for your enabling grace in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Proverbs 22:4; 29:23, James 4:10